Creative Calling Podcast: Recent Episodes
Briana Christine Gibson: Designer, Illustrator, Creative Entrepreneur
Briana Gibson from Briana Christine Designs shares all of her experiences about freelance design and illustration, pursuing a creative business and how to balance it all with this demanding thing called "life" so you can stand out from the competition with your creative business or freelance work. Discover how you can improve your design business so that you can take it to the next level, whether it's generating new clients, creating a new product or skill or building your career from home. Although Briana confesses she is not industry expert, she is committed to learning the everything she can about design and illustration from the leaders in the field. She shares it all right here. Design, illustration, business, networking, marketing yourself on and offline, working with clients, learning leadership, maintaining balance, staying healthy in all aspects of life to help you learn how to remain strong in pursuing your passion.
Every project reaches a point where we feel we are unable to find a solution. These seemingly unsolvable answers become a creative block to our breakthroughs.
This minisode will explain how to tame our "control freak" tendencies that keep us from easily finding the solution.
All activities shared in the minisode series have been taken from the Creative Calling Activity book. Available on Amazon: amzn.to/2t2opu2
In a survey of designers and illustrators working for themselves, the #1 thing they desired most was MORE TIME. There is so much to do in a day, how do you get it all done?
This minisode helped Creative Calling listeners up to 4 hours back in a given day.
All activities shared in the minisode series have been taken from the Creative Calling Activity book. Available on Amazon: amzn.to/2t2opu2
Being professional creative can be misunderstood as only being good at drawing, painting, music making, or whatever your calling might be. However, to be a professional you must be to keep focus in your direction, your business relationships and how you spend your time.The best way I have found to keep this all balanced is through daily meditation.
This minisode will give a unique explanation on how to meditate and break down some of the misconceptions of what mediation is.
All activities shared in the minisode series have been taken from the Creative Calling Activity book. Available on Amazon: amzn.to/2t2opu2
A classic scenario; we bring a project to a trusted friend whose opinion we believe we want. However, when their views oppose what we are looking for we immediately block their feedback.
This minisode addresses a significant question regarding this outcome of events.
All activities shared in the minisode series have been taken from the Creative Calling Activity book. Available on Amazon: amzn.to/2t2opu2
Defining and communicating your expertise can be simple when you take time to reflect what you have heard clients say about your work especially as compared to other creatives. Have they mentioned your quality, your ability to make tight deadlines, your effortless communication style? Perhaps it is something you know you take extra time and care with that bothers you about other creatives.
The point of this minisode is, not to leave that powerful piece of information in the shadows. Bring it to the light and show it for all to see the expert that you are.
All activities shared in the minisode series have been taken from the Creative Calling Activity book. Available on Amazon: amzn.to/2t2opu2
There is something you want today but you feel like you can't have it. Why? What are you waiting for? Once you identify the source of your roadblock and begin the process of debunking your own myth, you begin to open up the door of opportunity to receive what you desire.
This minisode discusses taking calculated risks to obtain better results and keep you from feeling as if you didn't give it your all.
All activities shared in the minisode series have been taken from the Creative Calling Activity book. Available on Amazon: amzn.to/2t2opu2
Each day creative entrepreneurs are faced with challenges we are not sure we are equipped to handle. Whether that's taking on a new project, hiring someone to work with us, or simply writing another clever Facebook status update for our Fan Page.
This minisode involves a personal story of triumph obtaining a new job as a designer when the odds seemed against the circumstances.
All activities shared in the minisode series have been taken from the Creative Calling Activity book. Available on Amazon: amzn.to/2t2opu2
Being aware of who you like to work for and what people you work best bring client longevity and more happiness in your projects.
Topics Covered:
- How to identify your ideal client
- When to redefine who your ideal client is
All activities shared in the minisode series have been taken from the Creative Calling Activity book. Available on Amazon: amzn.to/2t2opu2
By next week I want to start a food blog, submit 50 applications for my dream job, get in shape by walking 5 miles a day and still have time for family watching Netflix every night.
Yikes! Does this sound like you?
Quantity defines your life. Not necessarily always in a good way.
Here's how to take charge of your schedule and find more enjoyment in things you really love.
This was recorded in May immediately after one of my lowest moments in my dance career. After talking to or making calls to several friends I didn't feel any better. Then I tried something I had tried before, and although I laughed almost the entire way through, I was able to bring myself happiness.
The minisode series was inspired by the Creative Calling Activity book. Available on Amazon: amzn.to/2t2opu2
You've listened the interview episode with Michele Arrieta, like 5 times, and now got your Instagram strategy is down pat! Now what? Listen for the answer in this episode.
Want to go back and listen to Michele's episode? Go to: CreativeCallingPodcast.com
All activities shared in the minisode series have been taken from the Creative Calling Activity book. Available on Amazon: amzn.to/2t2opu2
Watch on: https://youtu.be/qq9_RP-4PQE
There are words that are stuck in your head right now that aren't serving you and you can't seem to get them out of your mind.
"You don't deserve to call yourself a professional."
"How do you think you can charge that?"
And I share the worst one at the end of the episode. Listen to find the solution I give in the Creative Calling Activity Book.
This episode is also available on Youtube! Watch my pretty face tell you the things you probably already know but still aren't doing ;)
Watch it: https://youtu.be/WIHqEozAx6s
Episode topics taken from the Creative Calling Activity Book available on Amazon.com: amzn.to/2t2opu2
Music by: Chahn Makes Sounds
Does it seem like you have interested leads but they just won't by today? Listen for the solution inside of this episode that will sure to get your ideas flowing and add the help of some friends :)
Episode topics taken from the Creative Calling Activity Book available on Amazon.com: amzn.to/2t2opu2
Music by: Chahn Makes Sounds
I share my success hiring my new assistant and the impact they have on my business. Listen to the end to hear how you can start developing the qualities of those you look up to most.
All episode topics have been taken from the Creative Calling Activity Book. The best book for Creative Entrepreneurs - Available on Amazon.com: https://amzn.to/2t2opu2
Music by:
Chahn Makes Sounds
My mechanic has a great saying, "If you think it's expensive to hire a good mechanic, just wait until you hire a bad one." Sometimes we can carry this same mentality when it comes to investing it ourselves. Listen to find how I found investing in myself was greater than staying complacent.
All episode topics have been taken from the Creative Calling Activity Book. The best book for Creative Entrepreneurs - Available on Amazon.com: https://amzn.to/2t2opu2
Music by:
Chahn Makes Sounds
In your daydreams you imagine traveling to two different places. Which one do you pick first? What is an easier and more convenient trip comes up? I'll tell you this "secret" to determine where your heart really lies.
Activities taken straight from the Creative Calling Activity Book - Available on Amazon.
Each person who orders a copy of the Creative Calling Activity Book will be announced as the sponsor of the episode - this can include being announced by your first name, business name, or anonymous awesome human being.
Music By:
Chahn Makes Sounds
A great quote from Ghandi says that you can create harmony by aligning your thoughts, your words, and your actions. I admit I'm guilty at being distracted by every piece of beautiful art online. In this episode I give you the cure for this. Also, listen to the end for some tips on how to get everything you need done today with a simple productivity tip.
These ideas have been taken from the Creative Calling Activity Book, designed to guide you in accomplishing your creative goals.
Resources from this episode:
Abbie Nurses' Youtube Channel: www.youtube.com/channel/UCs5tDBhyOKOXRHIxnsNYUhQ
Abbie Nurses' Website: UPROOT.COM.AU
Music By:
Chahn Makes Sounds
Sometimes when we try to dream without limitations, our more practical side can get in the way to keep us from wanting by being "realistic". In this episode I explain how you can keeps both of these "sides" in harmony.
Activities taken straight from the Creative Calling Activity Book.
Music by Chahn Makes Sounds
If you are the kind of person who says, "the best part of my day is when work is over!" - this episode is for you.
For exceptionally positive people like me it's pretty easy to say "I love what I do" whether my day is fairly challenging or full of great things like 1,000 downloads of the podcast last month and seven 5-star reviews for my new book. However, I've noticed that this is not the case for many of my listeners and I wanted to make an episode about this in order to make your day less depressing.
Share this with any friends you may know who had a rough week.
Music by Chahn Makes Sounds
This episode will teach you how to instantly grow your business beyond what you thought imaginable. The list I challenge listeners to create will give you so many creative ideas, you won't know what to do with all of them.
Reviews from the Creative Calling Activity Book
For someone who has read a lot of books about business and self improvement, this is a book that stands out:
- The entire book is infused with beautiful and inspiring artwork.
- The ideas are solid and presented in a simple and doable format.
- It's an action oriented book that encourages you to do things that will inspire success and creativity every day.
I'd encourage artists, writers, and entrepreneurs to pick up this quick study on creativity and success. Anyone who actually "does" this book will benefit. I love it!
Thanks to Chahn Makes Sounds for the Music
To show support give us a heart and share with people you love.
The words you choose to describe yourself can serve as a mirror of how you feel about yourself and give insight to others of what to expect when they interact and work with you. In this episode, I ask a critical question about the words you use to describe yourself. I then go into detail about how the activity, taken from the Creative Calling Activity Book, will help you build your resume, write an exciting About Page description, feel better about the work you do and help you grow both personally and professionally.
To get all of the activities to grow your creative business go to: https://amzn.to/2t2opu2
Chances are if you are listening to a podcast title like Creative Calling, you probably aren't "in it for the money" when it comes to your business or side hustle. However, we can't work for free, so how do we reconcile the amount we should charge our clients without making it about the money? This episode based on the Creative Calling Activity Book will show you how.
Resources from this Episode: Be Your Own Boss: Freelancing Tips and Tricks by Cedric Hohnstadt
Caleb used his book to create a clear vision of his daily life when he begins to work for his dream company, Marvel.
How will you use your book?
Creative Calling Activity Book: See your creative business ideas through with these 50 activities
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You may have forgotten what it’s like to have this highly productive habit. I know I did for many years while working in restaurants! Listen to hear why visually keeping track of your habits can radically change the way you behave. Another tip taken straight from the Creative Calling Activity Book.
Resources from this Episode: http://theshawnstevensonmodel.com
One listener shared with me that the book is a tool for them to collect their thoughts as they go through radical changes in their business as they plan to another country.
How will you use your book?
Creative Calling Activity Book: See your creative business ideas through with these 50 activities
How did I develop my portfolio to establish my style as a illustrator, read 12 books in a year, get in the shape I love and stay on track with my visions of the future? The answer is inside this episode.
The only thing I must say that I don’t like about this recording, is that I talk about this concept like it was something I have only done in the past. The truth is, I still do this, but I’ve adapted my routine to start later due to my later dancing schedule and I work on goals more closely related to working with dancers in every capacity I can find.
In the resources mentioned for this page I share books that I would follow along with to improve my drawing ability as an illustrator.
Resources From This Episode Tuesday Tips by Griz and Norm
Miracle Morning
Force
Figure Drawing For All It’s Worth
Day One App
Creative Calling Activity Book: See your creative business ideas through with these 50 activities
Music By
Listen for ideas to break down your goals into manageable steps. Come away with tools to be seen as an influencer in your creative pursuits in this episode taken from the Creative Calling Activity Book.
These activities were designed to work out your creative muscles with 50 steps to launch your creative ideas and give you confidence. The exercises are comprehensive and will push you in areas of personal growth and productivity as well as creativity. All of the activities are taken from professionals in entrepreneurship, design and animation.
Creative Calling Activity Book: See your creative business ideas through with these 50 activities
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Creative Calling Podcast guest, Julie Broad, is an Amazon Overall #1 Best Selling Author, an International Book Award Winner, and recipient of the Beverly Hills Book Award for Best Sales book. As an entrepreneur and successful real estate investor she was also awarded the Top 20 under 40 Award. Founder of Book Launchers, she started the company to help busy entrepreneurs and professionals build their brand and boost their business by writing, publishing, and selling a top quality book.
Book Launchers helps authors in the United States and Canada write, self-publish, and sell their books. Distribution options include Amazon, Independent Book Stores, Barnes & Noble, and Chapters Indigo.
Book Launchers writing coaches will help you define yourself and your message. Then, you will be fully supported through the phases of self-publishing, from writing to editing, and finally promoting your non-fiction book.
You own 100% of the content, have total creative control, and keep all the royalties. Our publishing team is YOUR publishing team.
Episode Resources https://booklaunchers.com
Episode By Music By
Listen for actionable tactics on reaching out to the clients you really want, how to anticipate gatekeepers and how to save yourself from humiliating experiences. Come away with confidence to get the work you desire in this episode taken from the Creative Calling Activity Book.
A journey of 1,000 miles begins with a single step. This book will give you 50 steps to launch your creative ideas, for those who are serious enough to see their ideas through to completion. The exercises are comprehensive and will push you in areas of personal growth and productivity as well as creativity. All of the activities are taken from professionals in entrepreneurship, design and animation.
Creative Calling Activity Book: See your creative business ideas through with these 50 activities
Resources mentioned in this episode:
Artist’s & Graphic Designer’s Market 2017
Music By
Ideas are great, until they distract you from what you are supposed to be doing in this moment. Listen to this episode of the Creative Calling Activity Book series for tools and techniques you can use to focus your creative energy to the max!
These activities given in this book have been taken from creative professionals previously interview on Creative Calling Podcast in a succinct and beautiful form that is guaranteed to increase your creativity levels, that is, if you are serious enough to complete the book! The Creative Calling Activity Book will put any Creative Entrepreneur to the test. If you are the kind of entrepreneur that gets caught up the details and have lost sight of the vision, these activities are perfect for you!
Creative Calling Activity Book: See your creative business ideas through with these 50 activities
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Having a system for collecting inspiration is a great way to be efficient in your creative process. However, eventually your projects may start to lack innovation. You are creative enough to come up with a new solution but are you looking in the right places? This episode taken from the Creative Calling Activity Book will give you tips on where to start.
These activities have been taken from creative professionals previously interview on Creative Calling Podcast in a succinct and beautiful form that is guaranteed to change the way you run your business, that is, if you are serious enough to complete the book! The Creative Calling Activity Book will put any Creative Entrepreneur to the test. Maybe you just want to tear the pictures out and put them around your office… Hey, whatever gets your butt into gear.
Creative Calling Activity Book: See your creative business ideas through with these 50 activities
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If you listen closely, you’ll understand why Chris and Lindsay are so successful with TheLongHairs.us. They are all about quality and consistency. They don’t just have the fire, they’ve got the work ethic and strategy to keep their community thriving. Find hair ties for guys at the longhairs.us.
The beginning of the Longhairs Community Chris and Lindsay have been working together for many years. They had a lot of success with their agency Round Two and were looking for their next big thing. On their long commute home, as if the heavens opened up, they first conceived the idea of hair ties for guys!
Later, in meeting with a client they were referred to as “the longhairs”, hence, the beginning. After shooting a funny commercial and pitching the idea to several of their friends The Longhairs got their start. Since then, their bread and butter has been 172 weeks of consecutive blog posts related to the process of growing a maintaining long hair for men.
Their posts cover topics ranging from silly things like best movie characters with long hair, to more serious topics like kids with long hair dealing with bullying in school.
Too niche? What is too niche? Chris says, “If you can sell to every single person in your target audience and still not make enough money, you may have too small of a niche.” Lindsay says, although experts may have varying and evolving opinions on what is too niche, he believes and some point, everyone needs a hair tie.
Creating Content for The Longhairs Maintaining quality in content is one of the key pillars of The Longhairs brand that both Chris and Lindsay are dedicated to upholding. When it comes to guest content it is more challenging to maintain this standard. But, with templates, clear instructions and processes has been much easier to oversee.
Notes for Freelance Designers Working for Agencies * Take your time with your work * Sell it to your clients EVERYS SINGLE TIME * Be proud of the work you submit, it shouldn’t be riddled with errors * If it’s spelled out for you and you made a mistake – you’re embarrassing yourself * Showing up on time and doing what you are asked is half the battle * Be able to defend your design, pitch it, reiterate it, how does it solve x for the client?
Break a Guinness World Record On 3-16-19 The Longhairs will attempt to break the Guinness world record for most hair cut at one time. All for the cause of Children with Hair Loss.
As far as maintaining the brand image of The Longhairs after cutting 8 inches of hair. Lindsay comments that the current length of their hair (even sans 8 inches) would still qualify them as Longhairs. However, even if it didn’t, it would produce a whole new opportunity for content and outlook of their audience to be put through the process of the “awkward stage.”
Join the Great Cut Connect with The Longhairs Check out the Men’s Aisle on thelonghairs.us
*Every purchase on thelonghairs.us donates $1 to children with hairloss
Like them on Facebook
Follow them on Instagram
Follow them on Twitter
Subscribe to their Youtube Channel
Episode By Music By
“I really want to sell useless products and services that add no value to my client’s business,” said no decent Creative Entrepreneur. Yet, we still feel scammy when we talk about ourselves. In an activity taken straight from the Creative Calling Activity Book, Briana gives you the blueprint on how to talk about yourself and make a sale feel like a natural conversation.
Only purchase this book if you are super serious about changing the way you run your business. The Creative Calling Activity Book will put any Creative Entrepreneur to the test. Sure it has pretty pictures and inspiring activities, but without your effort, it’s basically useless. Maybe you’re ready to get your mindset into gear, if so, you might be ready to purchase this right now.
Creative Calling Activity Book: See your creative business ideas through with these 50 activities
Music By SaveSave
Pursuing any career is a long journey. Sometimes you win big, sometimes you strike out. World Champion Latin Ballroom dancer, Melissa Dexter, joins me on this episode to discuss how dance can improve your professional and personal life and how you can develop your own champion mindset.
Melissa Dexter’s Key Takeaways Be careful of getting caught up in the small details of your work that may go unnoticed.
Choose a positive mindset everyday.
Ask yourself, “What am I doing right?”
Career veterans, try experimenting with you career in a new light and don’t put pressure on yourself to have it all.
Melissa’s Big Projects Creating a mapped outline of a dance career for new dancers with USA Dance.
Finding the best location to reopen Dancessense Studios.
Raising her son to be a positive influence in the community and in the world.
Connect with Melissa Info@DancessenseStudios.com
Facebook.com/DancessenseStudios
Episode By Music By
Creative Calling Podcast’s first "mini" episode about how to know when to work with your talents and when to spend time doing what you really love. Plus a twist on why what you may “hate” doing might be for good reasons.
Episode by Creative Market – the best place for design resources online
Anna is the epitome of a go-getter types. She created her own solid path from Wall Street to her passion in jewelry making. After making the jump into her full time creative passion she decided to share her journey of how to practically pursue your passion by authoring her own book, Your Creative Career. In this episode we get into what you can expect form this must-have book.
Anna Sabino Key Takeaways She mentions how she was not comfortable making the jump from her wall street job to creative business even when taking the “proper steps”. However, because her designs were selling and people were asking for more and she was able to support herself with her jewelry collection.
We often make EXCUSES to why we can’t achieve what we want because we fear change and the discomfort that it brings. So we postpone our dream job, sometimes INDEFINITELY!!
Coming up with and executing a creative idea without having a marketing plan, or hoping that people will discover it randomly is a risky path to take. Creative Entrepreneurs should be thinking about marketing and distribution while they are creating other products. Ask yourself what is the commercial value of the product? Hobbies are fine as long as you are not looking for profit. Are people willing to pay for what you made? This is the ultimate test! Anna SAW THE SALES and then started her successful ENTREPRENEURIAL path.
Another good thing to remember, keep on testing! Entrepreneurs rarely think of how to run the business for 10 years. Anna is asking creatives to deliver EXCEPTIONAL service and products
Don’t listen to haters. Anna makes a powerful statement about how she isn’t going to let the fact that only 1-2% of author’s get a contract deter her – instead she is going to join the 1%!!
Anna’s Final Thoughts “You will need a lot of strength, but I know you have it in you.”
Connect with Anna AnnaSabino.com
Episode by Creative Market – the best place for design resources online
Summary At age 40 Ralph decided it was time to put aside working on everyone else’s projects and pursue his own. In order to do this he needed to get out of crisis mode – but how? Listen in on this fantastic interview from the creator of SketchWallet.
Your project promo videos are NOT going to be playing at your funeral so consider this – is what you are publishing effective?
Topics Discussed with Ralph Thomas of Sketch Wallet * Why are creatives in a state of crisis mode? * Should creatives take a steady job to avoid crisis mode? * What is a practical first step of getting gout of crisis mode? * How did you know that Sketch Wallet would be successful within 6 months of launching the product? * Where did you get the idea to have a landing page for Sketch Wallet before the Kickstarter campaign? * How do you know if your landing page or website for your project isn’t getting enough traffic or if your idea just isn’t “good”? * How do you know when your project is ready to vamp up? * Do you feel bad when you are out of the Netflix loop? * How do you organize and plan for projects?
Download the episode to hear Ralph’s responses which are absolute gold!
Key Takeaways From Ralph * Work what you give back to the world into your project before you work in what you get out of it. * Research people who have been successful at what you want to accomplish before you start your project idea. * Ask yourself, are you the right person to pull this off? * Your project promo videos are NOT going to be playing at your funeral so consider this – is what you are publishing effective? * Make a list of ideas that won’t work during this season of your business and hold on to it for later.
Links Mentioned Interview with Guy Francis
Jake Parker’s blog
Jared J. Krosczka’s TED Talk
Connect with Ralph SketchWallet.com
Episode by Creative Market – the best place for design resources online
Melanie shares about her side freelancing career after her day-time web design job and gives many practical tools for creatives to use to keep organized.
Questions I ask Melanie.
Download the show to hear Melanie’s process of being a productive creative.
I had no idea that you were a fashion blogger! Although, I shouldn’t be surprised by your adorable outfits. I love meeting multi-faceted creatives that mix two or three of their passions. How long have you been into fashion and how do you find it plays into your style as an illustrator?
What’s “working for you” in the area of illustration and design business lately? For me I’ve been collaborating with more and more entrepreneurs in San Diego and online sharing work. Even though this sometimes means I initially make less, it has also meant I enjoy the process more and the person I collaborate with is more likely to find work with me again in the future.
“You get one elective, what will you pick?” – Melanie Hopper
Can you talk about your children’s book project?
What’s your best time management skill? I love getting inspiration from others about what motivates them and drives them to success.
“Keep a planner, get a big desk calendar with a bunch of post it notes and break big task down into small tasks and divide them over your calendar.” – Melanie Hopper
In the about section of your page you state that you love art and hope to be creating as much artwork as you can. This is something I desire as well, yet somehow even though I want it so much, there are so many times that I put making art to the side. I used to think that this is because I was inefficient with my time or that I didn’t really like art as much as I did in my mind. But the more I’ve taken the time to teach myself the foundations of art and demystify techniques I’ve found it much more enjoyable to make art and I’ve made more time for it. – Have you experienced something like this? Why do you think creatives put off what they think they would love to do?
Episode by Creative Market – the best place for design resources online
Following our desire to become a full-time creative is a dream that can feel overwhelmingly daunting. Casey Robin is very aware of this sensation and joins me to share her tools to overcome these fears.
A Sneak Peek at my Interview with Casey Robin Listen to the full episode to get Casey’s inspiring responses to the following questions.
Your education includes CalArts, the Art Institute, Studio Arts Center International in Italy and the Illustration Academy. What was it like having the opportunity to study at all of those amazing schools?
Do you primarily work in freelance and at conventions? Do you work in other capacities? What is your favorite kind of work to do?
You currently sell the book Curiouser and Curiouser, a collaborative project between you and several artists, showcasing art inspired by Alice in Wonderland. Who was the mastermind behind that project and what has the response of that project been?
I’ve heard there is a rule that 20% of what you do makes up 80% of the income you make. Have you found that this rule to be true in your experience? Between your Etsy store, conventions and other work, what brings in the most income?
What is your favorite work to make?
Connect with Casey Etsy
Casey Robin Art
Blogspot
Episode by Creative Market – the best place for design resources online
Mina is a UI designer and freelance illustrator who “fell” into the industry. She humbly shares her story and gives 5 motivations for artists to keep creating.
5 Reasons to Keep Creating 1. No matter how much technology and analytics you have you are still only viewing something from your computer screen 2. Just because you didn’t get a like doesn’t mean people didn’t like what you made 3. The facebook algorithms could be keeping people from seeing your content – the less likely 4. The first 1,000 followers are the most difficult to gather – be grateful for those who choose to follow you in your early stages 5. The number of likes you receive does not determine your value as an artist or a person
Get this and so much more when you download the full episode.
Connect with Mina Facebook
Minaroy.com
Episode by Creative Market – the best place for design resources online
Ilana is an animator with many talents and a love for coffee. Her instagram feed is a testament to what diligence can accomplish. She answers how to avoid burn out during projects like these.
Ilana’s Conversation Talking Points and Briana’s Responses I believe your Java Doodles feeds is one of the most fantastic social feeds consisting of two of my favorite things, coffee and doodles. Not only do you doodle on cups of coffee but you also make clever cartoons involving coffee cups and pots. What is your inspiration behind this adorable project?
While Ilana was going to school she would go to the coffee shop on campus. After finishing her coffee she experimented drawing on the cups and never stopped. In our conversation, she describes a deeper reason why she loves it so much.
Currently you work at Nickelodeon as a 3D animator, generalist, lighting/render/comp on multiple show properties, products, and digital applications. Custom GIFs, coffee cup art, and social media materials for multiple shows and creators, posted on Nick tumblr, instagram, facebook pages. To me this sounds like you are a creative ninja that pretty much does is it all. Would you consider that an accurate assumption?
She started at Nickelodeon in New York before coming to LA where she learned about the brand and programs that they use. In our conversation, she mentions a interesting variety of work she accomplishes in a given week. Currently, she is working on several TV shows depending on the demand of the studio.
What’s the biggest difference between working at Nickelodeon in LA and Nickelodeon in New York?
Los Angeles as a city has a much slower pace than Manhattan. I went on to share my ULTIMATE vacation idea that Ilana shared an awesome tip to help make it happen.
I saw on your Facebook page that you had the chance to meet Brandon Stanton, the creator of Humans of New York. Who is the most inspiring person you have met and made a java doodle for?
After much searching, Ilana was able to meet Brandon Stanton at a talk at her school RIT. She was granted special access to talk to him where he shared his entire story with her. Needless to say, after how much she expressed excitement over the opportunity to meet Brandon that this was the most inspiring person she was able to make a java doodle for.
I come from a background in branding and one of principles from branding that overlaps with an artist’s portfolio is that everyone should have a consistent theme or medium in which they express themselves. Personally I find myself wanting to experiment with everything. Is it possible that some creatives take longer to find their “thing” than others?
Ilana says it best, download the episode to hear her response.
Slowly I’ve found that I’ve been going back to either the same type of content or style that is nice because I feel it’s nice to have some consistency and I can create work faster. Do you ever get bored with your style?
Burnt out is a better description that boredom since Ilana has to work in such short sprints while working her full time job. I love what she says in our talk about finding rest.
Any questions for me?
Ilana asks if I’m having fun creating my artwork each morning. I mention one of my favorite online courses I was in the middle of completing – Aaron Blaise’s anatomy and Character Design Course.
Bonus Cold Brew Coffee Recipe
Episode by Creative Market – the best place for design resources online
In search to answer the question: Is it possible to have multiple careers of passion? I serendipitously met Bram Cayne who works as a storyboard artist and drummer.
I’ve made these condensed notes just for you to follow along with my conversation. To get all the good stuff make sure to download the episode.
My Questions for Bram 3:20 min: One of the many possible careers I have considered in my life has been in storyboard art. In my mind it is fantastic because you get to draw everyday, it uses photography principles, you get to work on movies and tv shows and it seems quite glamorous. From your perspective, what is it like being a storyboard artist?
17:58min I noticed that Sheridan is the same school that another guest I will be interviewing had also attended, several years ahead of you, before becoming a storyboard artist as well. Is that a strange coincidence or is it pretty common for Canadian students to study film and animation at Sheridan as a top choice?
20:55 min: Also, both of you use Linkedin as a means of sharing your resume and experience. Have you found this to be a game changer in how you find work? If so, do you believe this is essential for storyboard artists or for all creatives in general?
28:37 min: You mentioned that you started to make a career in storyboard art but in order to get money you became a drummer. Please explain what is it like having two very cool careers. Does one of them typically take up more of your time than the other?
30:57 min: Facebook showed me you were married in 2014. Congrats! When I can, I love to talk about relationships because usually whoever the creative is in the relationship starts out as dependent on the other spouse for emotional and financial support. For me this was one of the biggest challenges I faced in my business last year. Would you mind sharing your experience?
46:25 min: Any questions for me?
Bram’s Responses I love Bram full transparency thought the conversation. He explains that he didn’t go into storyboarding with the idea that he was starting a “glamorous career” and doesn’t view himself as an awesome artist but rather a really great storyteller who expresses his ideas through pictures.
Bram described his career in storyboarding as the equivalent to an architect making a blueprint. My favorite part was when he compared storyboarding to a salesman because essentially he is selling a story. This speaks to the heart of why I LOVE producing this show. As creatives we are ALL sorry tellers in one way or another and we each have a different way of expressing it.
As for his education, Bram believes Sheridan is not just one of the best schools for animation students in general. Their curriculum is comprehensive, allows you to be self guided toward what you love and has great staff and faculty. Most important to Bram was the internship program. I couldn’t agree more about how important internships are in setting yourself up for the “real world”!
Part of this is because a huge part of getting work in the animation industry is who you know. For Bram using Linkedin has been incredibly helpful for this. He has found success reaching out to recruiters with his portfolio in attempt to gain new work.
Download the episode to find out how Bram learned how to write about himself. iTunes | SoundCloud | Libsyn
Bram explains that his two passions are music and art. When he makes more art than music he misses music. When he makes more music than art, he misses art. Personally, I can relate this to my two passions of design and health.
Bram has the opportunity to play shows with his wife since they are both musicians. We discuss how important date nights are during busy seasons to make sure you stay in touch. I also share my response to people who don’t understand how it is that my life doesn’t revolve around my family all the time.
Bram makes a great point that a relationship shouldn’t usurp who you are. He feels you can have a more harmonious relationship when each person is a true individual that partners with another individual as a team.
Small consistent steps over long periods of time in combination with the right people will take you to unbelievable places. How do I know? I had the chance to talk with Jesse Labbe who was a part of one of the most successful Kickstarter campaigns and is working on many other exciting projects.
Inspiration Behind DrawingInspiration.TV Jesse and I jump right in talking about his new online show DrawingInspiration.tv where he interviews inspiring artists that create a buzz.
Jesse’s interview with Jake Parker
See more like this on Drawinginspiration.tv
The More the Merrier Jesse touches on how it’s important to have friends with different strengths so that you can pull off projects like video production.
“You can’t be discovered if you aren’t doing anything worth discovering.”
Jesse also partnered with some great friends to create a board game that raised $355,970 on Kickstarter. Much like how designer’s talk about how print isn’t dead, Jesse believes that tabletop board games will never die because of their tangibility.
This project was Jesse’s favorite game to create. Endangered Orphans, his Kickstarter project he created with his friends, had a very unique campaign where they would “kill two orphans” every time one person backed the game. They set the goal for their campaign at $4,000 assuming they would break $20,000. They fully funded their goal within 6 hours of starting the campaign and reached $355,970.
At around $150,000 they actually had to set anti campaign goals to keep people from funding the game.
Endangered Orphans Kickstarter Campaign
“It’s better to finish 1 phenomenal project than start 50 great ones.”
Jesse believes that something decent is better than nothing, something good is better than something great to start. He encourages others to rough out a game idea first, then start to work on making it pretty.
Not Your Typical Creative Jesse doesn’t ascribe to the typical introverted creative type. He views himself and his friends as very outgoing and loud. I believe we spend a lot of time trying to categorize ourselves that see how we will best fit in the places and communities we want to work. It’s great to know what our strengths are but we don’t have to fit every stereotypical mold in order to work and create in the communities we love. This is something Briana sometimes struggles with as an unusually business minded creative.
Connect with Jesse Facebook
DeviantArt
After working over a decade in animation in multiple roles Mike Morris know what it takes to keep stability and momentum throughout your creative career while still being able to pursue personal projects.
Freelance Work vs Studio Work Studio allows for creative minds to come together solving problems in unique ways better than you could alone. Disney allows you to work any time frame that’s fits with your lifestyle as long as you complete projects by the deadline.
Life Hacks For Artists Lifestyle entrepreneur, Tim Ferris, is widely known for life hacks and learning how to learn quickly by understanding the most essential pieces of a given subject and mastering those. His argument is that once you learn the basics that are 90% of what you need to know, the rest is like icing. I asked Mike what he thought about this subject.
Mike says if you really want to life hack something, make it something you don’t want to do, like chores. Not something you enjoy like art. When you do need to life hack something or do a chore just get to it, do it the best you can and keep going. KEEP GOING!!
The Feeling of Plateauing At Work I love the point he makes about how we are always learning and there aren’t any shortcuts to becoming great, only proficient. A lot of times in a career you can plateau, at which point you will need to move on. This can be manifested in a new position within a company you currently work or in a new company.
Designing for Small Businesses The position that I take where I mention that clients expect me to be a jack-of-all-trades is in the context of instances that I work directly one on one with a small business. In instances where I have sought work online and bid for graphic design specific jobs they have only expected me to know design and they expect me to know it really well.
Mike makes a fantastic point about how restrictions and limitations actually boost creativity more than options and many tools.
Pursuing Personal Projects Wacom Art Tutorials by Mike Morris
Started by Mike as a result of starting the Cintiq Showdown at CTN
Mike says, if you have a personal project you want to see fulfilled get to know and network with the right people that can help you get it done. Be a cool person so you can work together as a team. Make big things happen. Don’t treat people like stepping-stones. Friends may change position over time but if you are ONLY becoming friends with them for where they work – that’s a shallow endeavor. Build relationships with people you jive with.
Managing Friends and Working Relationships I get personal with a relationship that recently dissolved between an artist friend and myself. He encouraged me that some friends are for life and some friends are for a season. As long as you never give up on them, that is what is important.
Mike observantly points out that many of my questions revolve around the absence of time and/or money. I asked him what he believed young professionals should be curious about. His answer was process. He believes that younger artists should know more about production and researching the right ways to do things so they don’t have to fix it in post. Also, he believes they need to really understand their voice. It’s good to have influences like Disney and Anime but it’s not unique. Art Directors are always looking for unique styles that can only be developed by a unique individual.
How To Stand Out to Art Directors His suggestion was to collect inspiration beyond the hyped styles like Disney and Anime. A fantastic point Mike makes is that commercial artist walk the tight rope of needing to fit the mold of the industry yet still bring their own unique voice.
Keeping up a blog is a good way to stand out as well. But it is like full time job – you can say that again! That’s why Mike finds it hard to keep up on the channels on social. He is very thoughtful and methodical so he won’t share something before it’s time. This doesn’t keep him from social media. It just means when he does post, the posts are REALLY GOOD.
How to Study Production How do you study production as a new artist? We suggests you talk to people in the industry or watch some behind the scenes clips from movies.
Learn how to organize your workflow and thought process so you don’t get into a project that you can’t finish. Those projects can feel like wasted time and effort.
Set timeframes for your projects. Show your project to your friends you jive with. Make sure you get your broad strokes before you get into the details. Remember to build the foundation.
I close with Mike by bringing up two different friends with personal projects. One friend talks a lot about his personal comic but has hardly made time to do it (at the time of this recording). Mike’s suggestion is to get to it. It’s great to think about it and make a game plan for it, but eventually it’s got to happen. Then another friend I have wants to make a game project that he doesn’t intend to show anybody else. I share with Mike that to me this seems selfish. Mike’s perspective is that there isn’t anything wrong with a personal project as long as you aren’t trying to get into some type of position with it.
Connect with Mike Facebook
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There are careers that involve creative problem solving and others that manage creative problem solvers. Is it possible to pursue both at the same time? That’s what Jessica Thomas and I discuss in this episode.
Improving Your Skills as an Artist
Stick to one thing you are really passionate about. Get really good, critical feedback about where you can improve and your true passion will show through as you improve.
Finding Online Communities
Jessica has found that being a part of a strong community can help an artist grow in their ability as well. Briana found this to be particularly effective in hand lettering communities online such as:
#sdletters
Sean Wes community
Lettering League
And Character Design groups:
Character Design Challenge
Briana even created her own very close small knit group from the Oatley Academy for digital painting that updates their work once a week.
Connecting to Art Directors as a Freelance Illustrator
Briana uses the book Artists and Graphic Designers Market to find name of Art Directors.
Jessica suggest meeting art directors on social media like Twitter or Linkedin.
Resources from Our Conversation
The Crossroads of Should and Must – By Elle Luna
Big Magic – By Elizabeth Gilbert
TED Talk on working with your strengths instead of your passion – By Mike Rowe
BONUS
Career Aptitude Test
Professional picture book illustrator, Guy Francis spends less time handling business so he can spend more time creating artwork by working with an art rep. Listen to this conversation to hear his experience.
The Business of Illustration The creation process of illustration stays the same across multiple industries, while the business process changes.
Shannon Associates, based in New York, shows Guy’s portfolio to clients, make connections for Guy, who lives in Utah. Art reps handle the business, billing, pricing and legal matters leaving Guy optimal time to focus on his artwork and creating.
Finding the Right Rep For some people the rep doesn’t work out for others because they are more business savvy. Reps can get 25% of your project but you get a lot of value if you are bad at pricing yourself. Some reps will let you keep your own clients.
If Guy finds his own clients he asks them to contact his rep so they can work out the business details.
When you are shopping around for a rep you need to find a good match in order for the relationship to work. Find a rep that represents the artwork that YOU do. As far as portfolios go, build 10-12 strong pieces and present that to your rep in the area that you want to be doing. Different reps have specialties in different areas. Illustration, editorial, advertising, children’s books.
Working with Publishers Publishers will find a story that they love, then they will contact the rep to find an artist that matches the story.
You shouldn’t offer to illustrate for an author who has not submitted their story to a publisher.
Is the job glamorous? You do get to stay home and draw, but sometimes it does require some motivation when there is a lot of work to be done.
Freelance vs Studio? Studio jobs offer you the opportunity to connect with other creative minds which freelance can lack unless you are very intentional. One way to solve this is working from a co working space like Hera Hub.
You have to be driven as a freelancer because no one is telling you what to do.
The Publishing Process Publishers have the power when it comes to marketing, not reps. When it comes to self publishing it can be very difficult unless you have a VERY hot product.
Presenting your book to a school is a good way to sell your books on your own. The publishers will give you an advance based on what they think they will sell. Their first goal is to make that money back.
Currently Guy is working with Scholastic and Harper Collins. For the artist, they tend to jump around publishers more. The chapter books tend to pay more than picture books.
It is good to develop a style that you are reallllyy good at doing, but it is also good to be flexible. In the beginning Guy took on many styles until he found a style that he really liked.
Ultimately you may find yourself developing 2-3 styles you are asked to do frequently. Each one may have a different purposes or require a different length of time to complete.
People are going to like what you do because it’s what YOU do. There’s something for everybody. Children can judge what style they are drawn to from an early age.
Connect with Guy GuyFrancis.com
@kactiguy
BONUS How To Know If A Rep Is Right For You How are your pricing tactics?
If you have found that you struggle to create a price strategy, often times pricing yourself too low, having representation may help you.
How are your connections?
If finding time to market your work and make connections with anyone you can have left you with almost no time to create the work you desire, having representation may help you.
What is your financial standing?
Finding the right match of client to artist may take time. Once a contract is complete your Rep will take what can feel like a large percentage of your total contract. If you plan to use representation as your sole source of income for an extended period of time, it would be wise to evaluate your financial standing.
Ok, so you’ve determined it may be time to research representation. Now, how do you know what questions to ask? Thankfully, picture book illustrator, Guy Francis, has you covered with this list of 10 questions any curious illustrator should ask their potential art rep.
10 Questions You Should Ask Your Rep Before Signing 1. Do your clients need art that matches my style – am I allowed to experiment with new styles? 2. My goal is to… have you helped other artists reach that goal? 3. How do you actively find new clients? 4. How do you handle unpaid invoices? 5. May I keep my personal client list? 6. Do you expect me to pay for listings on any websites or and other marketing fees? 7. How soon can I expect to get paid once the client has paid you? 8. Are you afraid to turn down work that isn’t a good fit? 9. What do you expect from me as the artist? 10. What do the artist you work with like best about working you?
Storyboard artist Jeff Bittle talks with Briana about how he works remotely in his career, how to get into storyboard art and how to express your faith through your work.
Jeff’s First Job as a Storyboard Artist Funbag animation studios
Storyboard Education Jeff went to school at Sheridan after that he was able to break into the industry as a revisionist.
Once he established a good reputation he was able to choose what kinds of projects he liked to work on.
Stylistically storyboard artists aren’t required to stick to any particular style – it does need to match the theme of the project.
Social Presence Jeff’s sole online presence is on Linkedin. You don’t need to be everywhere!
Pro Tips from Jeff Aspects that make a great storyboard artist in Jeff’s opinion are:
- Having a positive attitude
- Delivering on your promises
- Being on time
- Thinking about the next person down the line
- And of course, great drawing skills
How to Express Your Faith in Your Work Express your faith through your own content on your own through comics, insta posts, stories
Blessing others with your talents: teaching, volunteering
Jeff’s favorite Bible verse: Colossians 3:22 – Do everything as unto the Lord
Other Resources Floobynooby.com – The Encyclopedia of Storyboard Art
Jake Parker – The 5 Pillars of Creativity
For drawing digitally Briana loves the Proceate App with the Adonit Jot Touch
Connect with Jeff Connect with Jeff on Linkedin
Whether you went to an art college or a liberal arts college the most important aspect of an illustrator’s education is creating a portfolio in their style. Zach and I get deep about how to find what really inspires us and comments from our former professors we should really ignore.
Zach’s Art Education Options on the East Coast Maryland Institute College of Art (MICA)
Pennsylvania College of Art and Design (PCA&D) – Zach’s Alma Mater
Briana’s Education Options on the West Coast Cal Poly Pomona
California State University San Bernardino – Briana’s Alma Mater
Creatives Who Inspire Us Ian Topmkins
Connect with Zach heffstudios.com
Instagram: @zachheff
Facebook: HeffStudios
Episode Recap Elise and I have a great conversation about what it’s like to freelance for over 6 years, how supportive spouses are key to growth and motivation, our experience selling art on Etsy and Vida and how to make expressive art.
We met at the CTN animation expo as exhibitors. In our conversation we talk about the process of learning digital illustration, where we get our inspiration, what it’s like to work as freelancers and fitting work into future family plans.
For digital painting and drawing on the iPad we love: Procreate paired with either the Apple Pen or the Adonit Jot Touch Stylus
For inspiration we love: Pinterest, especially for visual development and character design artists: Character Design Reference
For selling online we both have stores on: Etsy
Elise also has a fashion store on Vida
Elise shares a strategy for creating unique work: 1. Writing several columns with titles such as “State”, “Animals” or “Careers” 2. Fill in the columns with as many things as you can think of 3. Circle one in each column 4. Create a piece based around those items
Shared from Christy Wright’s 4 people you need in your business: – The Cheerleader – that will cheer you on in low times
– The Creative – that will generate new ideas with limitation
– The Cautious one – that will test the soundness of the creative ideas
– The Connector – that will introduce you to a team that can get the project done
Read more in her post – 4 Friends You Need in Your Business
Our favorite place to learn art on the web: Schoolism – with Bobby Chiu
CreatureArtTeacher.com – with Aaron Blaise
TaughtbyaPro.com – with Tom and Tony Bancroft and others
BONUS Article Ready to open your own Etsy store and get discovered? Elise and I are happy to share this article to get you started.
Getting Found on Etsy
Connect with Elise EliseSketch.com
Elisesketch.Etsy.com
Elise’s Vida Store
Episode Recap: When Dave wanted to move to Utah for his wife’s family he needed to find a way to make his career in animation fit this new place and support his family of 7. Dave noticed a need in the animation industry that wasn’t being met and created a product around that need. With the sell of his first home and some serious persistence he was able to start Anim School.
Starting Anim School – 3D Animation Online Dave left his job at Blue Sky Animation to start an online school. As a first time business owner, Dave felt like he hit every single obstacle he could face. The biggest thing of all, was the website. “For the user they can be so easy, but it’s very complicated to make the user experience seemless”
A New Character Rig Process Dave appreciated having the time to develop his eye for his career before going into business for himself. Having experience in the industry also gave him insight as to where there were needs that were not being met that he could create a business model around. However, that did not make gambling his savings for a family of six any easier to over come fear of investing in a business.
Dave developed a character rig that he offered for free on the site. “I was talked out of it by my colleagues since my character had the potential for being associated with bad animation.” Still, Dave saw the need for this more appealing character rig, created the character and gave it away. Malcolm, the character rig Dave created, has been downloaded over 50,000 times. This has drove lots of traffic to the website and given lots of exposure to Anim School.
Anim School Graduates Find Fantastic Jobs After struggling through the first few years Anim School began to have successful graduatesthat went on to get fantastic jobs in the animation industry. Dave explains that this was a turning point for the school. “We now had a track record of success and credibility.”
Don’t Be Afraid to Start Young Dave believes the idea of creatives becoming entrepreneurs at a young age is compelling because they do not have the responsibilities of marriage and children often. Of course, this usually means you don’t have the funds to build your ideas. He suggests if you are trying to start without a lot of capital up front, use means like Patreon to support your creative works.
How Anim School Builds Their Curriculum Dave explains two parts of the process. One is that the school always has 20-30 professors that are working in the industry, they can help guide the curriculum. The other is that professionals outside the industry are keeping an eye on what’s trending and coming up. Then they keep Dave in the loop so Anim School can account for the future.
Marketing As An Artist Is Necessary Dave and I commiserate about how difficult it can be to produce good work and market it to the right people all by yourself. Anim School employs some of their students to manage their social platforms but it’s something Dave is always keeping an eye on.
Resources from this episode: Anim School
Patreon
Episode by Creative Market – the best place for design resources online
Episode Recap
Emerging Insta famous visual development artist Michele Arrieta shares her top tips on how she has tripled her following on Instagram – Briana comes in to fill in the gaps for small business owners and creativepreneurs.
Instagram is a tool Why are you trying to build a following on Instagram?
- Sell something
- Get feedback from your clients/ fans
- Promote your service?
Knowing what you are using the platform for will determine how you should create your strategy for Instagram.
Content Strategy Ideas Product/Service
- How it’s used
- People using it
- How it’s made
- Where to buy it
- Unique uses
- Promo for sales
Illustration Specific
- Process shots
- Final pieces
- Close up detail
- Tools you use
- Video
Research Best Practices Make sure you research the best way to present a sales promotion on your instagram feed. For Michele, she found the best method was to present a giveaway where she asked her fans to tag a friend in the comments of her pic and randomly select one lucky winner.
Using Process Shots in Your Feed Pros
- Presenting a mini tutorial
- Offering a behind the scenes look
- Helps the community
Cons
- Comments from haters a trolls
- If you never post a finished piece, you may appear as an amateur
Arranging Your Composition It’s VERY important to create your images so that they standout in the newsfeed.
View our FREE Composition Guide to Increase Your Visibility on Instagram
Two Big Composition Takeaways: * If your image had poor lighting it might be hard to see * Use cropping to create more interesting compositions
Writing Your Bio and Name We can’t express enough how much being intentional comes into play in every aspect of tailoring your Instagram – name and bio included. Michele uses her name to show her professionalism and associate the art with her name. Creative Calling Podcast uses the name Creative Entrepreneur to identify itself with a larger group of people who take on that identity rather than a single person.
Picking A Name * When you are choosing a name consider who you are talking to and how they are going to respond to the name you are selecting * Experiment with names to see what gets the most engagement if you feel your numbers are lacking
Writing Your Bio * Tell people your goals and accomplishments * Use emojis sparingly * Have fun with it
Should You Make A Separate Personal Account? We say yes!
Your business Instagram feed is like a portfolio – an employer does not want to see what you had for lunch that day and your fans probably don’t either.
Instagram has a really easy way to switch between two accounts so they isn’t any reason why you couldn’t have two.
Using Hashtags Is there a limit?
Kind of … Instagram only allows 2,200 characters for your caption so you must limit it to that at the minimum. Hashtags are incredibly useful in helping the right audiences find your work so we say use as many as you can that you know are helpful. You can always place your hastags in the comments section.
Should I Put Hashtags in the Comments or Description? If you put your hashtags in the comments and you use Facebook to link to your Instagram – Facebook will not pick up on your hashtags that it uses to help people find your post while searching.
If you do not use Facebook to integrate your campaign, using the comments section to place your hashtags is fine.
Hashtags are important when users are searching Instagram for content. It’s good to make sure that you are using hashtags users you want to find you would actually search. You can research those by looking at hashtags used by other accounts that you might want to mimic.
Choosing “The Right” Hashtags Instagram allows you to see how many people are using the hashtags you are choosing. We like to pick hashtags that are under used 10,000,000 times but over 1,000. In some cases, like #SDLetters it has been used under 1,000 times but Briana likes to use it in her personal account because she knows the kind of people searching that tag will be interested in finding her.
Find someone that has 5-10,00 followers and find out what they are hashtagging because more established account may use only a few hashtags since they do not need help gaining followers. Search those hashtags and find out what hashtags are frequently used with it.
Examples of Thriving Instagram Accounts Pernil
Engagement with Insta Community * Building Instagram friends + Make sure to like and comment on posts from those in your community that you are trying to build up and you wish them success + You don’t have to follow back everyone who follows you – whatever you see in your feed is going to influence what you do so you want to make sure you are following inspirational accounts
Benefits of Fan Art One way to establish your following in the illustration space is to start with fan art. Although it’s not entirely original – you can always put your flare on it and it helps others connect with you.
In business there is a know, like and trust factor when it comes to sales. When you use fan art to build your following you help establish the relationship – the know, like and trust factor – through posts that your audience can relate to.
There is opposition to fan art because art directors want to see your original ideas over fan art. Along with fan art you should create your own original work to go with it.
Consistency To establish a consistent style use one of the following:
- Style
- Topic
- Medium
- 30 Day Challenge
Know what you’re good at and what you like. There is room for experimentation but you may not always get the same engagement with your posts. It may help more people find you.
Be attuned to your posts and how people are responding.
Should you delete posts of past work? Michele has deleted work that has mimicked too closely to another artist since she has established her own style. As for posts that don’t perform well – she leaves those up.
Connecting with Michele @artbyarrieta
FREE Composition Guide to Increase Your Visibility on Instagram
Episode by Creative Market – the best place for design resources online
Episode Recap: You know when a client throws a curve ball at you and leaves you unsure how to respond? This episode will help you overcome this by giving you simple and fun improv techniques by Gary Ware from Breakthrough Play.
Improv rules
- Yes, And
- Listen
- Let yourself fail
- Play the game
Games
Read my lips
One-word-at-a-time
Mash Up
Links Mentioned
Breakthroughplay.com/free-ebook
National Comedy Theater
Tower 33
Choose yourself by James Aldrecher
Steal Like An Artist – Austin Kleon
Episode by Creative Market – the best place for design resources online
Episode Recap Freelancing audio engineer, Amy Dimouro, explains what it’s like to be one of very few women in the audio engineering world. Also, how to tell if a client will call you back for another gig.
What level of technical knowledge do you have to have as an audio engineer? Amy: You can start out with a basic understanding of tools such as Audacity. However, to be a hired on at a recording studio you need experience with Pro Tools and its ins and outs.
How much of that is learning on the job? Amy: As an audio engineer, you have to have a basic understanding of signal flow before you start. Techniques, on the other hand, can be learned in the field. Mostly because you need to EXPERIENCE it.
How do you find clients? Amy: Going to school for an education helps build connections. I found my first gig through the 168 Film festival.
Facebook pages that post job positions: TV and Film Crew availability and Gigs LA (needs an invitation)
Keeping in contact with those you work with on films can help you get repeat work.
What’s the career trajectory for an audio engineer? Amy: If you hustle, it can take you a long way. The key is persistence.
A similar topic was covered in episode 7 with Katie Limburg.
Getting hired as a woman… Amy: This is unusual but it’s not necessarily discriminatory. No matter how far we’ve come in society, boys can still be under the impression that women will be offended by their crude humor when working around them.
Part of the reason is due to the fact that the job is really physical and can seem hard for women who aren’t used to carrying around heavy objects.
Mostly, since most women haven’t tried, it’s more unusual than undoable.
Avoiding Fake Business Meetings… Amy: This is an excuse to ask a female freelancer out on a date without having to ask them out on a date by making it “about business”.
Briana: Even as a married woman I experience this from time to time when I work from coffee shops. Guys in particular will make small talk with me about “graphic design” and their “upcoming logo project”.
Politely decline these types of interactions.
How do you follow up with clients after a project? Amy: I make sure to email them after an appropriate amount of time and see if they were satisfied with my work. If you approach it with humility and the chance to learn then a lot of feelings can be spared.
How to deal with hands off and hands on clients… Amy: Sometimes clients want you to be creative and sometimes they want complete control. You have to know who you are working with and try to fit that. Occasionally, you can ask them which method they prefer but eventually you start to notice what they are like without asking. There are times when clients say “be creative” but they don’t mean entirely, they mean with just the color, or something like that.
Connect with Amy On Facebook
Episode by Creative Market – the best place for design resources online
Episode Recap Six tips for Creatives about cross networking inspired by San Diego Start Up Week. Including: Raising money, selling yourself and making connections.
1. How to test your ideas to see if they work This is important before jumping into an idea, especially if you have a million!
- Focusing on your user and what they need
- Outlining the experience you want them to have
- Building the experience you want them to have
- Testing that experience
San Diego UX Design Meetup
2. Ways to collect feedback about your product or service Getting feedback can be so tough, it takes time away from people that they don’t want to give. Once you do:
- Ask unbiased questions. How good do you feel after listening to the podcast? Vs What are your feelings after listening to this podcast?
- Being clear in your communication about dates, times, timezones
Design for Digital Telepathy
3. Insight on how to raise money for your idea Before you start to raise money you’re going to need to things
- Good relationships
- A very clear idea of what you need the money for, how you are going to use it and of course how it’s going to benefit the person lending it to you.
Mark Suster on Twitter
The importance of the pitch – This is a need that spans multiple industries in this world, as in many, it’s all about how you tell the story
- Have clean visuals
- Get to the point
- Use metrics
4. Begin to understand industry lingo I’ve heard it said explain things without using “jargon”, usually for presentations and such, but I feel that this is so untrue! You need to know the jargon that your audience speaks. For instance:
- Venture capitalist
- Start Up
- MVP
- Co founder
5. Listen to needs and problems others have in regard to design Not just from those who aren’t designer but form those who are
- A place where businesses can learn what type of design their audience expects to see
- How to use the pen tool efficiently
6. Make connections Again this can happen inside and outside of your field. Everyone has something unique to offer and you never know where a conversation will lead.
- Be nice
- Don’t be shy
- Try not to get offended
Main Take away: Think bigger * Make a global impact * Grow your skillset, go outside your field to discover opportunties * Get a team to come along with you
On Friday Startup Week wrapped up with an awesome talk by Jeremiah Gardner.
Find out more about San Diego Startup Week
Episode by Creative Market – the best place for design resources online
Episode Recap Guest and author, Perry Covington, shares his experience publishing his books series, with guest interviewer and aspiring comic writer, Caleb Arnold.
The Creative Writing Process Once Perry has an idea for a book, he likes to outline his books on a big white board and write it out chapter by chapter. Occasionally, he finds that the character drives the story and the story evolves over time.
Creating a Following on Social Perry believes it’s all about the fans. From that angle, it’s really important to have a presence on social media. He started out with nothing but after being published and making sales he has grown. Although he is a published author, it’s on the author to do most of the marketing for their book.
Social Strategy You should know what platforms are being utilized by which demographics. Then tailor your content to match those demographics. For instance, kids are not using Facebook, but they are using Instagram. It’s honestly a trial and error process, according to Perry. The important thing is to know who you are marketing too and stick to the best platform. Otherwise your marketing can consume your life.
Networking Perry prefers face to face networking above any of form of networking. He is attending Nerd Con this year. He loves attending these events to meet the passionate fans, answer questions, receive critique, and sign books. Meeting the fans can help you power through creative block. “It can be intimidating when someone reads your book in front of you because obviously you want them to enjoy it.”
Books to Movies Naturally, Perry prefers books adaptations over movies. However, he recently stopped comparing them side by side and recognizes they are individually great in their own way. Sometimes things need to change for the big screen for a good reason. For instance, Wolverine’s bright yellow costume.
Balancing Life and Work Perry has two daughters, a wife, and a day job on top of writing. His methods involve staying up late and drinking lots of coffee.
Resources from this Episode Think Kings Publishing
Nerd Con
Connect With Perry Facebook.com/ChildofAtlantis
Episode by Creative Market – the best place for design resources online
Episode Recap Avoiding small obstacles can keep us from accomplishing big things – yet we do this all the time don’t we? On this episode Caleb Arnold interviews ME! We talk about adversities and obstacles I’ve faced in my relationships, as a design professional, and the happiest moment of my life.
One of my guests suggested that I, Briana, should be interviewed on the show to talk about how the podcast started and some insights into my work and life.
How I Started Creative Calling Podcast This is a loaded question as I never originally intended to study design in college, but rather illustration. I thought there was probably more money in design and the schools I could afford were not offering illustration as an major. Further along in my career, I realized I was going to need to learn how to market myself because I could tell right away I was not the “pure talent” type of creative. So, I double majored early on in business. So, I left school with lots of education, but none in the career I actually wanted, illustration.
In my last few years at college I became obsessed with consuming podcast content. Friends would often hear me start sentences with, “I was listening to this podcast and..” or “I know a podcast you can listen to about that topic”
After college, I moved to a few hours away to San Diego with my husband where I hesitantly took a part time job in communications for a church. Just a few short months later I left.
I now had lots of free time on my hands and a lot to learn about starting my dream, freelance illustration career. Then, I finally decided to start Creative Calling podcast – formerly the Briana Christine podcast for about 12 episodes. Intending to teach everything I learned about becoming freelance illustrator to those who were interested in the same information.
Since then I have interviewed a few different types of creative entrepreneurs as I believe you can learn a lot from those outside as well as those inside your industry.
Adversity in Producing Creative Calling Podcast My small, but very frustrating obstacles in producing the podcast have been setting up the website, submitting the podcast to iTunes and uploading the podcast artwork. So embarrassing to admit that, but it’s the truth. Personally, I felt like the process wasn’t very user friendly considering it was created by Apple.
Especially, since the other biggest adversity I have faced is others telling me this content either isn’t relevant or that they would never produce a show that hasn’t been 100% developed before launching. Those people made me feel bad and that I was rushing the process.
Since I understand that I need to release my projects before they are complete, I’ve had to learn to ignore these types of comments.
Balancing Roles in Marriage Marriage and moving in with someone requires an adjustment period for every couple. For me, one of the hardest things to adjust to was the way I spent my time. Because my husband and I hadn’t established shared roles in the relationship, I had personally put it on myself to take care of all the household cleaning and cooking. Neither of which I had been doing previously, at least not single handedly, before moving in with him. I had to come to realization I had in fact put these responsibilities on myself. We made time for a conversation about how we should delegate these responsibilities in the future – which is actually something we have to re evaluate every year. From there we were able to make boundaries for personal time, which I used for my design projects.
Ladies, it’s ok if you can’t do everything for your husband. If you are like me, your dad put a lot of pressure on you to be that sort of 50s house wife in marriage.
It was important for Mark and I to be able to find what works best for us and not what had previously worked for our parents.
Adversity with Freelance Clients Early on as a freelancer I would be approached by prospective client’s about projects they had in mind. Because I believed I had better ideas than they did I would try to tell them how I believed their project needed to be completed.
Influences in my life were validating my position that as the professional designer the client was wrong and I was right therefore they should listen to me. I got myself into a lot of trouble – mainly just burning bridges – because I would let my frustration come over me and quit projects.
I soon believed I perhaps was not cut out for design work o that I must not really like it.
It wasn’t until after I got my mind right and learned client relationship techniques that I realized I was just mismanaging the situation. This came through becoming self aware and what it means to be a “professional” – which isn’t too different than being a nice person.
Ultimately I had to realize it wasn’t about me, the project was not mine to take over. I had a voice in the end result, but that was it.
Overcoming the Same Problem Multiple Times Everyone has certain problems that they run into again and again that they will at one time overcome and then fall right back into the habit. To manage these types of adversities it takes very disciplined will power to decide enough is enough and make you mind up about it one way or the other. The last thing you want to do is promise to yourself that you will start or stop doing something only to let yourself down. If you can’t trust in your own promises, who can?
Accomplishing Greatness I share a story about winning a gold medal in high school for winter guard. This accomplishment particularly stands out to me because I remember the amount of passion I had brought with me that season. I was so proud to have my own solo in the show, even if it was only 15 seconds long. Our team practiced for an incredible amount of hours on weeknights and even weekends.
I’m not typically a cryer, but that day I cried tears of happiness from being overjoyed that my hard work and effort had paid off for something I truly desired.
How I translate that to what I do now:
- Have a passion for what you are doing
- Don’t let anyone or anything stop you
- Focus all of your free time on that thing
You could say my current adversity is that I am constantly looking for something that was as fulfilling as that level of happiness. Perhaps I will never find anything quite like it again and I will need to accept that I was blessed enough to experience it once.
Final Words Continue your dream one step at a time until you reach your gold medal :)
Episode by Creative Market – the best place for design resources online
Episode Recap Patrick and I talk about what it’s like to work in the freelance animation industry, his experience networking inside and outside of jobs and self-publishing his illustrated book.
Getting Started in the Industry Patrick attended Rochester Institute of Technology before receiving his first job with Fisher Price. After Fisher Price, he went to work for Disney in digital publishing.
When the digital publishing office changed locations, he had to opportunity to move to Los Angeles. From there Patrick looked for new opportunities with DreamWorks digital publishing where he worked for several months before being one of 500 who were laid off.
That’s when he started a new chapter of his life as a freelancer.
His #1 networking skill Being nice and easy to work with.
“If you’re not good at what you do, be funny! And get a joke book”
Listen to Episode 17 to hear the inspiration behind this.
Is there one thing you would change about your career? Patrick suggests that students consider moving out of state if they are certain of the type of industry they would like to work in and have the opportunity to move where the industry thrives. Your teachers and classmates play a big part in networking after school, so the closer you can be to your industry the better education and opportunity you might have.
Estimating Freelance Projects Deadlines are the number 1 motivator for any artist or designer. Patrick stays extra motivated by utilizing Google Spread Sheets to lay out a project step by step. This helps him estimate a project for clients – a seemingly endless problem for freelancers.
Networking Without Feeling Slimy If you’re not into networking for the sake of networking, Patrick suggests looking up meet ups around your area using social platforms like Facebook or Instagram (we also suggest Meetup.com).
Live in LA? Check out @Sketchparty and Melt-thology
In terms of strategy, Patrick says, there is none, get to know everyone! The people who you are targeting might be targeted by everyone and may be busy. You never know when you are going to make a valuable connection with what some entrepreneurs call the b-list.
Self-Publishing the book You Can’t Be Anything Self publishing, Patrick says, is no easy road, “be ready to work for it if you believe in it”. Creating the book? That way the easy part, he loves drawing and writing. He published the book, You Can’t Be Anything through Amazon publishing and spent $75 to create it. He doesn’t have to keep stock in his house because Amazon publishing prints on demand. When someone buys it, they print it and mail it.
So what’s the hard part? MARKETING. It’s said that on average 10% of your followers will buy a product that you produce. If you have 1000 followers, that’s only 10 people. Patrick’s advice, gain a following before you publish, or have a strong plan set out before you release it.
- Ask local businesses to sell it in their store
- Sell it at conventions
- Share your release date with big influencers in the industry on social
Connect with Patrick PatrickIanMoss.com
@PatrickIanMoss
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In our episode we also reference the beautiful DreamWorks campus.
Episode by Creative Market – the best place for design resources online
This informal episode gives listeners an inside listen to my conversation with Chris before and after our official interview. I occasionally record a little bit before and after my phone call in case great topics get brought up. In this case it had to do with time and spontaneous conversation. Enjoy!
Episode by Creative Market – the best place for design resources online
Episode Recap Freelancing character designer Chris Ayers joins me to share his amazing story of cancer recovery that led to his illustrated series, The Daily Zoo – An Animal A Day to Keep the Doctor at Bay. Plus, he shares important tips for illustrators and designers about networking, sharing your portfolio, and exhibiting. Throughout the show we frequently mention the CTN animation expo that you can learn more about here.
Chris’ Amazing Story After five successful year of living in California pursuing a career in the entertainment industry, Chris was diagnosed with AML – cancer. Upon recovery Chris was ready to get back to normal life. That’s when he started the Daily Zoo – an animal a day to keep the doctor at bay. Since then he has been going strong for 11 years!
Publishing The Daily Zoo Chris went on to publish The Daily Zoo drawings with Design Studio Press in Los Angeles where he was able to reach an even wider audience and inspire many who have gone through cancer as well.
Choosing “Art of” vs “Design” I ask Chris to explain what he believes are the nuances between calling yourself a designer versus an artist. Although he agrees there is a lot of overlap between the two, he wanted people to perceive his work as being intentional and thoughtful; adjectives usually associated with design.
How do you keep a consistent style across mediums? Chris like many artists and designers doesn’t see the cohesiveness of his style as much as others on the outside. He believes even though he has many inspirations, all the drawings are coming from the same mind and that itself brings a level of cohesiveness.
Important tips from Chris: * The main thing Chris says character designers should keep in mind is creating appeal that is appropriate to the type of character you are designing. * “There are no shortcuts… draw, draw, draw… paint, paint, paint… sculpt, sculpt, sculpt”
Keeping work Fresh Chris likes to keep his ideas fresh by working on several projects at a time. That was a relief for me to hear because I also love to work on several projects at a time and I thought perhaps I was distracting myself from main goals too much.
Ultimately, Chris shares that when working for a client, designers are meant to serve them and keep their ideas in mind, even when the project is getting dry or going in a direction they don’t like.
“Have you ever hated your work?” I received this question from Jeanne Bowman.
Chris says he has hated his work at times but through persistence and perseverance, and possibly just taking time to take a break, he can usually overcome that feeling.
How important is a website for an artist? Websites are billboards to most artists and designers. To some, it is the only way they market themselves. I ask Chris if he has seen any increase in traffic to his website since his latest redesign – thinking this may have been the reason for the redesign in the first place.
Chris explains he was transitioning from a website he had previously built with Dreamweaver to using WIX.com. This makes updating the website easier, probably a 1000x easier in my personal experience due to their use of template builders.
Networking For Introverts Networking is a big deal when you are looking for new opportunities in any field. Chris says it’s important for natural introverts to take workshops they provide in school seriously so you can slowly break down your fears.
Once in his first job, Chris did most of his networking internally.
When displaying your portfolio at a networking event, make sure your portfolio matches the company you are applying for. It’s best to research the company you would like to apply for before meeting them so you can present them with just cause why you might be a good fit for them artistically as well as relationally.
Chris’ Character Design Portfolio Tips * Show your best work * Include a variety of work but not for the sake of variety * Follow your heart – don’t include work you know for a fact you wouldn’t like to do
What should potential or first-time exhibitors know? 1. Be an attendee first to see what types of art and goods are being sold 2. Scout for the best exhibit for you 3. Be ok with frustration, it takes time to find a method to exhibiting 4. You will learn what needs to be tweaked with each exhibit 5. It’s good to share a booth with a friend or have a family member help you out so that you aren’t tied to the booth the entire show
What if my artwork doesn’t fit the exhibit? It depends on show-to-show. It could flop, it could succeed. CTNx specifically focuses on animation but the animation world offers a variety of ways you could show off your skills. It’s always good to stand out a little bit in any case.
If I don’t live near LA should I relocate for work? I received this question from Manny Tamarez.
The east coast has options for work at studios like Blue Sky, advertising agencies and other entertainment companies. If you specifically want to work in character design that can be trickier, because it is a very niche field. In that case, you might want to start out in LA.
Episode by Creative Market – the best place for design resources online
Episode Summary The night that Heber missed out on getting one of Bill Lilly’s calligraphy penholders AGAIN, he was determined to make his own. In the middle of the night Heber started to carve his first penholder using his hands and an X-acto blade. That was the beginning of his business.
Heber’s Background In Calligraphy Heber Miranda is an ergonomic calligraphy pen maker. He shares his process of creating his hand-made product, handling the business side of packaging, customer relations and his impossibly easy marketing technique.
While in school Heber made the switch from architecture to graphic design. He loved the study of graphic design history and wanted to improve his handwriting – so he learned the art of calligraphy.
Along with understanding the history of the letterforms Heber practices the art of calligraphy with different types of pen nibs and holders. The two common types of holders are straight and oblique.
Calligraphy Inspiration Heber gets his inspiration from the world’s two official master penman.
- Jake Weidmann
- Bill Lilly (old school guy, you must contact him through snail mail)
Linda Yoshida is a great calligrapher in the Los Angeles area that frequently teaches workshops.
Nerd Alert The level of detail that Heber uses in his craft have led others to describe his calligraphy pens as being similar in appearance to Harry Potter wands.
Impossibly Easy Marketing It’s incredible that Heber doesn’t even have a website for his penholders. Currently, he only uses a micro site that he gives exclusive access to current customers for customization of their pens. He views the micro site as a beta test for the development of a future site.
“It’s one of those things where if you’re just passionate about something [the business] will come”
It’s ALL About Quality Service It’s undeniable that Heber not only delivers a quality product but top-notch customer service. He talks about working with the customer to design the product that’s right for them in their project needs and their budget. Whether that means emailing the customer up 50 times and sending cast molds back and forth in the mail, Heber will go to any length to ensure customer satisfaction. It’s appreciated because his customers rave about him.
Interestingly, even though Heber studied graphics design, he does not use any of the usual branding elements we would expect to see. No logo, no website, no business cards. He uses more experiential elements to communicate what his brand stands for. The packaging of one of his penholder can take up to 45 minutes to assemble. Once you get it, there is no doubt it was handled with care.
Although Heber enjoys working with his hands, he understands the importance of streamlining with his process with new machinery.
Keeping up with the “difficult customers” is crucial. It’s very important to answer customer questions in general but even more so for high dollar items.
When Business Becomes Purposeful Heber experienced the joy of his business on a whole new level when he found out his ergonomic pens were helping those with arthritis and trigger finger. Those who were told they would never be able to write again, or write for longer than their average 30 minutes, have written to Heber expressing their gratitude for his craft.
San Diego Letters Heber and I connected through a hand-lettering club in the San Diego area appropriately called, San Diego Letters. Follow them on Instagram to get info about the next event.
Connect With Heber @ImHeebs
imheebs@gmail.com
Episode by Creative Market – the best place for design resources online
Episode Recap Web designer and developer Erin E Flynn shares the inspiration of behind her new course Creative Compass. An e-course for freelance web designers who are looking to navigate their way in the business of web design and development.
Biggest struggle in Erin’s Career Stay up on trends in your industry but don’t overwhelm yourself with how much their is to learn.
Decide what is most important to learn by identifying what type of clients you want to work for and learning what type of skills they would need from you. Take time to learn other things after covering the basics.
Erin’s Game Changing Business Lessons 1. Start out trying a little bit of everything to find what you really like and really don’t like. 2. Once you discover what you enjoy most about having your own business eliminate excess services you are providing and focus on the thing you love most.
Inspiration Behind the Unstoppable Crew and Creative Compass Freelance web designers don’t have to have a bad rep. With the proper communication training like letting clients know about the little things going on in the project can make a big difference. Also using language that the client can understand helps a lot instead of design jargon.
Get Erin’s Scripts to Learn What to Say
Wise Words from Erin * We all struggle and nobody has it figured out in the beginning * Get online friends who understand your business and don’t think you’re on Pinterest all day
Join the Unstoppable Crew
Resources mentioned in this episode: * ErinEFlynn.com * Unstoppable Design and Development Crew * Creative Compass E-Course * Red Lemon Club
Episode by Creative Market – the best place for design resources online
Episode Recap Stacy Wakefield has a long standing career in book design and recently became a published author. She primarily freelances from her home in New York. She shares her thoughts on why it might be better to start with a career before becoming a full-time freelancer.
Art School Tips Stacy explains how getting into RISD would have been much more difficult if she hadn’t taken pre college courses in high school.
If your school does not offer the type of study you are looking for consider going abroad for school.
Going to school near where you want to live can be really helpful for networking.
Getting An Art Office Job Working for the Village Voice was great experience before moving on to become the Creative Director for Art Forum. Working in books can be more fulfilling than magazines since you work so hard to put a magazine together and it’s shelf life is short lived.
When you start as an Art Director before freelancing you learn what you need from a freelancer. Also working for a big name can help boost your reputation before you become a freelancer.
Personal Projects If you find that you are struggling to complete personal projects perhaps your former passions are fading away to make room for a new one that you won’t have to “force yourself” to complete. That’s how Stacy discovered her love for writing fiction.
The Sunshine Crust Baking Factory by Stacy Wakefield
Getting Work into Museums & Libraries Stacy created artist’s books that made it into the Museum of Modern Art in New York as well as the Whitney Museum. She explains how an artist book organization called Booklyn would reach out to museums to show work of artists in their community.
Reaching out to museum curators as well as college librarians is a common practice for those in the fine art field to get their work featured.
Los Angeles Art Book Fair
New York Art Book Fair
Resources from this episode: * Gerrit Rietveld Academie * The Village Voice * History of the Artist Book
Episode by Creative Market – the best place for design resources online
Episode Recap It’s no fun feeling nickel and dimed by clients. Instead of quitting, Shannon Mattern turned her freelancing web design business into a successful consulting business with WP-BFF.com. Listen to the secrets of her success that she shares exclusively on this episode.
Inspiration Behind WordPress BFF You only have to experience one client standing over your shoulder, telling you what to do, before getting frustrated when you aren’t creating the exact vision in their head to realize there must be a better way. Shannon solved this by offering video courses to teach non techie people how to do it themselves.
WordPress BFF Courses (The 5 Day Challenge is FREE)
Getting Started in Consulting The key to creating a consulting based business is systemization and being able to share that system.
Shannon suggests keeping track of your client projects using Asana.
Marketing analysis to discover what type of content and products potential clients would want can be done through Facebook groups. Shannon uses her group as an extension of support to her WordPress 5 Day Challenge.
WP BFF Facebook Group
If you can teach someone how you do what you do they will trust you. Then they can refer you to others. Free content is important to building initial trust.
Make a guest blog post like the one I made for Shannon’s site.
5 Steps to Make Your Own Logo for Under $30
Balancing Life and Work Being on the phone and laptop is a constant in Shannon’s life because she loves what she does. It doesn’t feel like work!
She makes time once a week with her husband to go out on a date and put the electronics away.
Shannon’s Biggest Business Lessons 1. Don’t build something you THINK your audience wants – let the idea/product/service reveal itself. 2. Test different price points to see what works for your audience – be willing to adjust. 3. Hire a business coach as soon as possible! Shannon’s business coach is Vicki Fitch 4. Passive income is not quick – you need to nature and serve your community for a long time. 5. Invest in the right things at the right time. Just because you can do it yourself doesn’t always mean you should.
How to Know What Business Coach is Right for You Find a coach that speaks to the goals you want to achieve and not all about making money fast. They should come across as real.
Shannon’s Business Resources * Asana – Project management * Fresh books – Billing & Invoicing * Zapier – Accounting * MailChimp – Email Marketing * Infusionsoft – Robust email marketing * Canva – Basic design tool
Wise Words from Shannon Use Facebook groups to answer people’s questions to build trust, establish relationships, and get your name out there.
Sometimes you need to anticipate what questions the group might have and put them out there is people aren’t asking questions you are familiar with.
Keep the long game mindset – don’t grow resentful.
Resources mentioned in this episode: * WP-BFF.com * WP BFF Facebook Group * Smart Passive Income Community * Smart Passive Income Podcast
Episode by Creative Market – the best place for design resources online
Episode Recap It’s easy to start operating as a freelancer under the table, but at what point do you need to consider operating under an official business structure? We would say the sooner you take yourself and your business more seriously the better. You are a professional when you start operating like one. Dave joins the show to share his insights after 31 years running his own business about what structure is the best to set up and when. You won’t want to miss his tax tips toward the end of the show.
Get Your Questions Answered This episode was inspired by a question from a listener who was curious about how to go about creating her own business structure and when to get a business license.
If you have a question you want answered in the form of a blog or podcast you can let me know by emailing me anytime.
Send me your questions at BrianaChristineT@gmail.com
Common Types of Business Structures Sole Proprietorship
LLC
Corporation
Partnership
S Corporation
Legitimate Expense Examples Never understate your income and keep track of your expenses.
- Gasoline
- Business items
- Software
- Business lunches
Time does not count as an expense.
Evaluating scope of a project * Who is your client, Volvo or the local juice bar? * How will you be creating the final design – default adobe symbols or a custom illustration? * If you are creating a business card – did you clarify how many people you will be designing business cards for?
Delivering Great Work Get as clear as possible about the expectations the client has.
Stay organized with your archiving in case the client needs the resources or assets later on down the road.
Collaborating with other creatives gives you an opportunity to learn about many aspects of the industry.
Dave’s Words of Wisdom Become confident in your value that even though we are doing something artistic that are ARE providing a service that should be compensated. You are at work most of your life – pick something you enjoy.
If you are paid more than $600 make sure to report it.
Save money for taxes – in general understand the mechanics of freelancing.
Resources From This Episode: StudioConover
Alan Spiegel – CPA for creatives
AIGA – A professional graphic design association
Small Business Association
LegalZoom – Set up your business structure the easy way
Kahn Academy
Aquent and Vitamin T – Creative staffing agencies with online design resources
Episode by Creative Market – the best place for design resources online
Episode Recap Angela Noble and her husband Chris are on their way to building the dream life. They have aspirations to work from anywhere with their growing web design business. Angela shares what it’s like to be married to your business partner, how to promote yourself to clients and keep them remembering what you do.
Teaching Yourself Web Design Angela was trained in print design but through practice and teaching herself the basics she learned web design.
Get started with this article
You can hear my confusion over web design and development. Design is pretty part on the front end. Developing is the coding in the back end.
The long answer of web design vs development
Balancing Life and Work Take at least one day at week with your spouse and friends and have a day off.
Ted Talks with Stefan Sagmeister The Power of Time Off
Happiness By Design
7 Rules for Making More Happiness
Angela’s Biggest Business Lessons Creating a good contract and proposal with VERY detailed line items is key.
- Download our FREE Project Quote Template
Referencing past emails for awkward conversations like growing scope creep.
Send a quarterly email to past clients about new work you are doing and case studies or blog posts you have written. Without fail it generates a conversation and sometimes new leads.
Use client questions in basic conversation to get ideas for blog content. Blog writing helps establish you as a thought leader.
Angela’s Tools * Having a structure and routine is very important. Being very goal oriented helps productivity. * Red Booth – Project management * Dropbox.com – File tracking and storage
Resources From This Episode: * Kovalent * Download our FREE Project Quote Template * Intuit * MailChimp – Email marketing
Episode by Creative Market – the best place for design resources online
Episode Recap Caleb Arnold joins me in a casual conversation about current opportunities for emerging designers, classes that are important for student designers to take in college, and what it takes to get a job in the graphic design industry.
Most Important Skills in Design * Communication * Design knowledge * Marketing * Technical knowledge * Customer service * Focus and motivation
You can’t take things personally and you should give the best you can give to your clients. In everything.
Most Important Design College Classes Branding
Business writing
Entrepreneurship
Life hack: If you have any body copy that you are trying to review you can type it into Google translate to have it read it back to you.
Impact of Social Media Face to face interaction is important in school – but social media helps you connect with communities all across the world.
Resources from this episode: The Fresno Drop from 99% Invisible
Creative Pep Talk Podcast
Episode Recap After listening to a money sermon at church about giving money “just because” I got to thinking about how designers often use this same logic while promoting themselves to their perspective employers and clients about their creative value. Listen in to best practices about communicating your value and the service you provide.
Have you ever heard a good “money sermon”? I haven’t yet.
In the sermon this past week our pastor mentioned that is a duty to God that we should not question or need any further explanation to.
I know I have the tendency to come off as the devil’s advocate, however, I do not disagree with that one bit.
Where I got stuck was his main point that he repeated over and over again. That we shouldn’t need any cause, explanation or reason.
That is great – if you don’t have any feelings at all and are kinda like a robot.
Before someone jumps down my neck – hear me out.
The pastor is the shepherd of the people in the church; the leader and the example. Surely he doesn’t give money to the church just because.
He sees what’s going on in the church. He knows the hurt, he knows the need – he experiences what the money is needed for.
As Sunday regular attendees we may experience some of that need but not all of it. We need to know more than the fact that it’s just our duty to be compelled to increase giving.
Main Take Away I don’t believe that showing up and telling people what you do in your business is enough to convince them to pay for your service. Unless your product or service is in high demand you are going to need to convince others why you are worth their time and resources.
People work hard for what they have – they believe they do anyway – so they want to feel like they are getting value.
Providing Value * If you give you clients your full effort, they will give you all of theirs. They will feel good about paying you and might even refer you to a friend. * Make your product or service quantifiable to the client. Ie: My website designs increase conversion rates by 50%. The main thing is that you are focusing on serving your client’s needs. * When you give your client status updates on their project the more professional you look. They feel like you are keeping them in the loop and are considerate of their thoughts, opinions and timeframe. * Communicate what you are providing in the most tangible way possible. Ie: Showing a mock-up on your website of a full stationery set with brand identity. This helps the client visualize what they will be receiving from you and what problem you are solving.
People want to feel like they are purchasing something because they want to. They don’t want to be sold to.
Resources From this Episode How to Win Friends and Influence People
Episode Recap In episode 14 I revealed my bad habit of nearly constant negative mental chatter. It is normal to talk to ourselves all day long and, unfortunately, this negativity is all to common. Often it is tainted with guilt about our past or anxiety about our future. This negativity can destroy any seed of hope that we may otherwise have in striving for our dreams. This episode breaks down actionable steps to create positive self-talk so you can become more successful.
Prequel Episodes Fighting the Resistance and Procrastination
Overcoming Self-Doubt
Recognizing negative self-talk * Negative self talk is anything that is destructive or keeping you from the task at hand. Ie: improving design abilities * Be constructive in your self-talk and not demeaning
Rewording it * Recognize that you might not be where you want BUT don’t indulge in the notion that you actually suck. * When you make a mistake remind yourself why you were attempting the task in the first place. * Honestly evaluate what you can do to improve you performance the next time you perform the same task. * If you find that you say something negative about yourself out of second nature. IMMEDIATELY stop and reword the statement in your mind to be positive.
Making positive self-talk a habit You have the tools, go do it! Don’t stop.
Episode Recap In this episode Briana gets vulnerable with a story about her personal life and her struggles overcoming her own self-doubt even when it looked like she was succeeding. It’s a powerful testament to discovering the value of one positive comment.
Tyler Phillips suggested the book Drawn to Life by Walt Stanchfield to me. I was most interested in learning drawing techniques by Disney masters but I noticed Walt started the book with the headline “Enthusiasm”. You see aside from teaching drawing he would teach “positive thinking nature”. Quoted from page 3, “Your mental and emotional processes are you.”
Make it a habit to mindfully be kind to yourself.
When you hate yourself it is hard to show love to others. When I was in the process of getting married I attended several personal counseling sessions to overcome my self identified anger problem.
My therapist indicated to me that this might not really be the problem. That I was in fact a good person with good qualities and I was only letting my emotions take me on “the low road”. This literally almost made me cry – I was so happy to hear that someone actually believed that about me. That I WAS good – not a bad person pretending to be good.
He said that I needed to start to pay attention to myself and notice my feelings, as they would arise inside of me. Not to judge them, but just notice how they made me feel, what body positions I would take when I would “become angry”.
I took this concept of not judging my feelings as they arose inside of me and instead of asking myself “why do you have to act selfish?” – I would say “this action causes me to feel selfish but I am a good person and I can choose a different path”. Just like Joel said. “I am a good person.”
It really doesn’t make sense to people when I was an honor roll student, I was a respected employee at a local restaurant, I was engaged to an awesome man… How could I have not known I was “good”?
There are some of you who know exactly what I’m talking about.
Those were all things that I was on the outside. On the inside I told myself was a student who took the most shortcuts as possible and only had good grades by luck or lazy teachers who didn’t actually want to grade my papers. Only the teachers who failed me knew the true me.
I never did get marriage counseling with my husband from Kaiser and my meetings with Joel were few. It certainly hasn’t happened over night but since that time I have feverishly sought knowledge on how to improve my self-talk. Around this past year 2015 I noticed a change in myself. I’m not sure when it happened. But I noticed that when I decide to pursue something now I don’t wonder if I can do but whether I want to. When I do pursue something and succeed I notice I give myself credit and I am confident to take on another task.
I may not know you, but I believe YOU ARE GOOD too.
Now that you know that I want to know – what will you accomplish next?
Resources in this Episode Episode 11 – From Graphic Design to Animation with Tyler Phillips
Drawn to Life
Episode Recap Steven Pressfield’s novel is a great read – short, sweet and kicks you in the butt to take action. I share my thoughts on the book’s beginning and how it can apply to designers as the overcome procrastination.
This book seriously came at the most perfect time. Resistance was getting the best of me.
I took time to listen to others stories hoping to gain some stroke of inspiration. I heard a story from Ellen MacArthur who has sailed around the world the fastest. And she did it at my age – 25.
Those stories are the worst aren’t they? Our brain starts to attack us – “This person is clearly way more successful than I’ll ever be. I haven’t done anything THAT extraordinary yet.”
Now I have this wonderful book by Steven Pressfield to help me find that discernment in fulfilling my calling. I’m sure by the time I get to the end I will have a much clearer understanding of not only how to recognize these demons trying to keep me from fulfilling this calling but how to overcome them.
Steven calls this, the Resistance.
Episode Resources The War of Art: Break Through the Blocks and Win Your Inner Creative Battles
The Secret
Episode Recap Robert and his friend Rowley started their own media company together and now work full time doing work they love. Robert shares how they made the decision to become business partners and what it’s like to work for yourself.
Business Partners 101 Partner with someone you connect with. If you get excited about the same things and have common interest you might have a good match.
Create a shared identity with shared values.
Make time to experiment with your business partner on creative projects outside of client work.
Wise words from Robert * If you truly believe you aren’t going to fail, then you won’t fail * Focus on each task and complete it before moving to the next task * Be conscious of the clients project budget and timeframe * Get your pre production in order * You must engage with your social media audience * Persistence is key
Resources from this Episode Rowlbertos Media
Morning Loud Speaker Show
Episode Recap Tyler now works at Dreamworks animation but he originally received his degree in graphic design. He shares his journey to Dreamworks as well as provides tips for aspiring animators on what they should include in their demo reel.
How did you choose the Design School you went to? Like many of us, Tyler couldn’t afford a full 4 years a design school. So, he started out at a junior college called Palomar College and graduated with his Associates in Graphic Design. Then he transferred to Platt College where he received his Bachelors in Mixed Media.
After Platt, Tyler was experimenting online to develop the animation skills he learned while at Platt.
After College Randomly, Tyler was asked to move to the Czech Republic to work on an animation. After the film lost funding and Tyler was placed in a new company as a compositor, he was ready to move on.
He asked himself, “What do I really want to do with my life?”
Back to Square One That’s when he decided to give character animation a shot. He dedicated A LOT of time to learning this new skill. He explains this was very frustrating after having already finished his education and feeling back at “square one”.
He joined the 11 Second Club to improve his animation techniques.
Then he discovered Animation Mentor, already feeling done with school, he decided taking a few classes on this platform would help his networking opportunities and give him invaluable feedback on his demo reel.
Winning the Career Lottery One year after perfecting his demo reel, one of Tyler’s animation mentors referred him for a job at Blue Sky studio.
What A Demo Reel Needs * The best clips you have * Animate an acting shot * Good body mechanics * Dialogue from movie, without copying the acting * Be original, don’t copy previous animations * Specialize, don’t have too much variety
When applying for an animation job, especially in gaming, it’s better to work faster to show you can work at production speed.
The Dream Call After working at Blue Sky and Sony Games he applied for Dreamworks and got a call to work on How to Train Your Dragon.
Is It Easy to Get Labelled For A Certain Skill? Yes, you can start to becoming known as the drama guy or the comedy guy.
Where Do Graphic Design and Animation Overlap? Similar concepts that relate between the two subjects are:
- Composition
- Silhouettes
- Appeal
- Color
- Direction of the eye
What To Do If You Feel Like You Studied the “Wrong” Subject Do something. You don’t have to do, follow your muse. Tyler started with illustration, then graphic design, the computer motion graphics, then finally found his true love of character animation.
“[Finding the right career for you] is a discovery process. If you don’t know what to do, do something that you think would be fun and go from there.”
For Students Think Animation Could Be Your Thing? * Start with the 12 principles of animation * Visit AnimationTipsandTricks.com * Read The Illusion of Life * Read The Animator’s Survival Kit
What Programs Does the Industry Use? Maya
How Long Does Your Demo Reel Have to Be? At least 30 seconds
Do You Need to Go to A Big Art School to Get A Job in the Industry? No, it’s based off of your demo reel. Some, but very few, animators are self-taught. For instance, Victor Navone.
Episode Recap Cedric had worked as a successful studio owner for over 15 years. His client list is one to be envied with names like Hasbro and Disney. He shares his advice to aspiring freelancers on the show as well as how to start a successful kickstarter.
Episode interview style borrowed from an episode of The Creative Pep Talk Podcast
Want to learn to be your own boss? Take Cedric’s incredibly valuable course! Freelancing Tips and Tricks: Be Your Own Boss Course
offered by TaugthbyaPro.com
Wise words from Cedric:
“If you want good clients, build a reputation for being reliable, professional and easy to work with. That’s the same importance is not more important than your portfolio.”
Becoming a Freelancer The path to freelancing certainly wasn’t a straight shot. It took a few years of working side part time jobs before going full time into freelance. Even then, Cedric needed a bit more time before he felt stable. He says, he’s always doing something to promote himself in some way.
How to Stand Out as a Freelancer * Staying up on the trends and utilizing those platforms * Cold calls * Social networking (on and offline) * Postcards * Have a market that you focus on * Keep an attitude of serving the client
Just starting out? * Prepare for the long haul! * Learn everything you can about business and promoting yourself * You have to be a self starter, motivated and enjoy working long hours alone
Horizontal vs Vertical Marketing Horizontal Marketing Go in all directions and see who needs help. Once you find something say, “I’ll do that”. You get more work that way and you get variety. The downside is that the budgets for clients are smaller and the clients aren’t as good. The big clients don’t notice you.
Vertical Marketing Put your finger on the map and say, “I’m going to plant my flag here”. Just do this one thing and do it REALLY WELL. The downside is you don’t get a lot work or variety. The good thing is people will pay you more, the bigger clients notice you and you will be known as an expert.
Passive Income Aside from Cedric’s Be Your Own Boss course he also makes a little bit of passive income from
The Pose Drawing Sparkbook – A successful kickstarter campaign
Want to learn how to make passive income in more ways than you can imagine? Listen to Pat Flynn’s Smart Passive Income Podcast.
Getting Ideas for Kickstarter Write down at least one idea everyday. Once you get a good list, send it off your favorites to some friends you trust and get feedback on any improvements you might need to make. After you have some good ideas it can take quite a bit of time to develop the product. Cedric says the hours can end up being like a full time job. So, be prepared to work.
Social Media for Creatives Cedric forces himself to sketch everyday. He says it’s like being an athlete. You go to the gym whether or not you are inspired to. It’s very important to keep yourself inspired.
Work Life Balance Sudden projects can get in the way of life but family is a priority. When things are going smoothly, Cedric will make time for his family, time to go to the gym and personal time. It’s a constant juggling act.
Approaching Your Idols at Events It’s important to try to be casual. Maybe make a list of questions you can ask when introducing yourself. Talk about the other person a lot, they will think you are a great conversationalist!
Connect with Cedric CedricStudio.com
Cedric on Facebook
Cedric on Instagram
Episode Recap: Before graduating Curtis balanced a part time job, marriage and still created awesome school projects. During his summer and spring “breaks” he would take awesome internships creating designs for digital theater displays. Upon graduation he was offered a job at our professor’s studio which many of us envied. Curtis talks about what it takes to be so awesome!
Improving Brain Efficiency Curtis is an expert at balancing work, school and relationships and still manages to create great work. He says his “secret” is following through on deadlines and not waiting to start projects. It help improve your brain time efficiently because you don’t have to wonder if you are doing the right thing at the right time. It’s hour by hour time management.
“Artists and dreamers wait around for inspiration and the rest of us just get to work.” – Curtis’ Senior Seminar
The other significant thing Curtis points out is getting your ideas out of your head and into the world as much as possible. “If you are waiting for some sort of inspiration to hit you before you start working, you are already too late in most cases. …[even if you only have 5 minutes] it’s the process that leads to inspiration. You won’t conjure anything out of thin air…”
When Distraction Happens When a designer wants to try 50 iterations of something that’s where they can loose time. Although this can serve as self exploration there is a time and a place for everything. In order to make a deadline a designer should use their time similar to the way an artists uses time to draw a live figure. Figure out the time requirement and use the time to decide which lines are most important to draw first.
Learning by Observation One of the best things about working at an agency where you are surrounded by talented people is that you can see the way your co workers solve problems. When you have that chance to observe others it’s like a little piece gets added to your own repertoire for the decision making process.
Something that is different than one would experience in school is that you are met with real hard deadlines for clients that are counting on you. These situations force you to build trust in your co workers and their abilities to make decisions with their strengths. When you are able to trust them you can finish the project more efficiently.
Disagreement over solutions is a natural part of the process and you want that level of interaction and back and forth. Because as an individual designer you are not going to be able to think of everything. It’s critical to have someone be able to tell you “No” and why.
Relating Education and Past Jobs to Design Work Before working at Green Acres Design as a project manager, Curtis worked in account management for an IT services company. Learning how to schedule things, talk to clients, manage teams and deadlines… all of those skills came into play into his new role.
As far as college education Curtis used the projects to solve problems based on the design briefs and professor’s direction rather than from his own personal inclinations. This way he was able to create his best work and allow himself the opportunity to experience the design world as it is in most cases.
As designers we should be aiming to improve communication problems – not creating a commentary for the world as fine artists do. Studio art can influence design but you need to consider the right solution for the client.
Unique Internships Lead to Unique Opportunities One of the things I always wondered in high school is, what exactly to designers DO? The more I travel along this road the more I find that there are SO many opportunities. Curtis found a unique internship designing digital stage setting for the Pasadena Playhouse. Working within this new context with a new medium helped Curtis expand his abilities to solve design problems.
“Getting you hands dirty in everything” helps you be able to direct the overall design process rather than one little aspect of it. The director has to keep in mind the audience and the story that’s being told at all times. Then the solutions will become obvious.
It’s valuable to try new things even if you aren’t planning to make a career out if it. It’s a hard lesson to learn but very valuable. There is value in knowing your strengths as well because you want to be able to communicate when you can complete a project within your skill set and charge appropriately.
“A lot of growth comes from trying to do something you’re not sure you can do.”
When you are trying new things you may discover something that you want to develop as a specialty for the future.
Getting “Stuck” in A Specialty I expressed my fear of getting “stuck” in a specialty as a designer to Curtis. He then gave a great analogy about Saul Bass who although did many things was mostly know for animated movie sequences. He makes a great point that although you may be known for one thing, you are rarely stuck or confined by that thing permanently.
One of Curtis’ other specialities is being attuned to the design field and the latest happenings. I reference a great blog post written by Curtis: Logo Larceny. In this post Curtis shares his experience submitting a drawing for his school’s mascot – only to loose to another kid who traced the familiar Gonzaga University mascot.
In retrospect Curtis is interested in how this mascot has actually been copied many times, he says, as a testament that someone was able to figure out exactly what a school’s bulldog mascot should look like. Therefore, it is worth copying.
This conversation reminded me of a book I had read called The StoryBoard Artist, where the author explains that he traced for most of his childhood before attempting to draw a free handed figure. He believed tracing helped his proportions as a free handed drawing artist.
Most art schools would never tell you to learn by tracing but it seems the brain and hand learn better that way.
Finding Inspiration Staying attuned to life is important. Curtis finds that many things are analogous. What works in graphic design often works in music, in relationships, and life in general. It’s also about allowing yourself to live in the world and in the moment.
Final Words When it comes to hard skills like your knowledge of Photoshop, your design concepts, or any other hard skills – your employer is going to be interviewing people with all of those same hard skills. So, it’s important to know yourself – what do you bring to the table. You should know if you are any good at working with others. Do you show interest in helping the business with things other than what you are tasked with on Monday morning? It’s the humanist skills that are understated most times.
Connect with Curtis http://www.curtisbaileydesign.com
Episode Recap: Becky Nelson is an award winning package designer in San Diego. After working with Suja she was able to take her status as an independent designer and grow to her own agency, BexBrands, that she runs with her husband.
The Start of BexBrands
Becky Nelson of BexBrands focuses on package design but it wasn’t always. While working with one of her restaurant clients they decided to start bottling juice. This eventually became Suja juice.
Before Suja and clients that would follow, Becky was freelancing for other agencies. Soon clients started coming to her directly. Her boyfriend, now husband, was doing similar type work and together they partnered to double their clientele. Becky suggests that you if you are not the type of creative that would not be comfortable handling budgets, timelines, client management and rent, you might better off with a partnership.
BexBrands (at the time of this recording) has one full time employee and hires her other freelancers on a per project basis that they believe are best suited for the job. If they are looking for a particular style, they look for a designer with that style.
Getting to the Top of Google
In order to climb the ranks in Google to be #2 Becky admits this is partially due to the design. She says the main reason is that her posts contain wordier content about her process to help boost Google rankings and searchability. Most competitor websites keep their copy short.
Her number one recommendation for solo freelancers is to go in depth with your process and keep your blog content up to date.
BexBrands enters Design USA’s competitions each year. After several years of entering and winning awards they were chosen to be featured as one of 2015’s People to Watch.
Working with your life partner and dog can make establishing boundaries tricky but they are able to set goals together and work on them simultaneously. Ultimately Becky loves what she does.
The Business of Design
Becky believes her best asset is considering her clients and what is best for them rather than the technical act of designing. She is also very picky about who she chooses as her clients because she wants to make sure they have the best fit. She tries to partner with those who only approve the best type of work.
BexBrands promotes itself by keeping their blog up to date and entering design competitions (The Dieline & Packaging of the World). Entering and winning design awards can really boost your SEO. It also helps aid the fear of nervous clients who are afraid to take a chance on a designer – awards can assure them.
Her most exciting project has been Suja since their brand has grown so much.
Gaining Inspiration
BexBrands tries to pull her inspiration from real life, movies and reading before going to Pinterest. She has taken different classes to expand her knowledge of different mediums like Chinese brush painting.
Three pieces of advice for new freelancers:
- Be choosy about your clients
- Stay on top of projects and deadlines
- Do the best work that you can
Working with Staffing Agencies
Becky had a lot of success working with staffing agencies when she was first starting as a freelancer – Briana on the other hand hasn’t had as much luck. If you do decide to go this route one option is Vitamin T. By going this way you pretty much have to take any work you can get at first. The temp agencies will take a big percentage.
Episode Recap: Katie Limburg works remotely for a company on the east coast while raising her daughter and how to stay passionate throughout your career – especially at home.
Getting the Job
Trying to find a job in the 2008 economy proved to be difficult in Ohio, her home state. After moving to Baltimore and taking a once a week unpaid internship with a local magazine Katie made a connection that led her to Louis Berger.
While she was in college she met her husband and his job led him to San Diego – where we met. Her company let her keep her position and work remotely 4 hours a week after she had her newborn baby. Eventually she worked up to 10 hours, then 30 hours, then the position became full time again.
Working from Home
Setting time and physical boundaries are really important. Work is divided in shifts throughout the day. Before her daughter wakes up for breakfast. After a nanny comes in the afternoon. If there is any left over, Katie will work after dinner.
To gain the opportunity to work from home you have to really build relationships and trust with those you work with. Suggesting that a company will not need to pay for a space for you to work is a good way to start a conversation for someone trying to work from home.
Selling Points for Creative Freelancers and Solopreneurs
Value points a single graphic designer or other creative types brings to a company are:
- Low overhead
- Quick quote time
- More time to dedicate to a single client
Education
Katie obtained a liberal arts education over a technical, specialized degree in design. She feels this has helped her understand how the company she works for operates and brings her greater perspective of how to see the company as a whole instead of solely from a design perspective. I mention one of my favorite podcasts Design Matters where one of the guests share that they wish they had gone to school for anything BUT design so they could have a better perspective on the world and therefore be a better designer. Ultimately, it comes down to passion when keeping a design career.
Tips for Keeping Your Inspiration Fresh
- Learn new things daily – Snapple Facts
- Take an Indian philosophy class
- Travel often and take pictures of unusual things
- Practice a new language – Duolingo
- Keeping in touch with creative friends
Staying Passionate
- Find projects that keep you excited within a company
- Keep side projects
- Volunteer your free time
- Design for good
Final Words from Katie
“Don’t become a designasaur – stay current”
Have patience and humility with your clients since you have the luxury of working from home.
Connecting with Katie
behance.net/cmykate
@klimburg
Episode Recap: James Phillips talks about how he combined his natural talents in web design and marketing with his passion of snowboarding to seek out and obtain his job at Active Ride Shop. After receiving his Bachelors degree in Web Design and Marketing and working with a food distributor for 4 years developing and honing his skill he was ready for the next step.
Using LinkedIn to Find a Job
Did you know that LinkedIn post open job positions for all types of work?
You can use LinkedIn to participate in groups, just like in Facebook, but for professionals. These platforms are used to establish expertise and publicize industry events. That’s how James learned about the position at Active Ride Shop.
Do your research on a company before applying for any job. Make sure you know WHY you want to work for them.
Pursuing Your Passion
There’s a lot of talk about having a “calling” around here. That can mean something you pursue on the side, part time or full time. For James, he wanted to merge what he was good at with what he loved while he was at a stable job. Once he found a great lead that matched, he took the opportunity.
Working As A Web Analyst and Marketing Strategist
Although James went to school for design, the amount of time he actually spends designing at this point in his career is practically zero. However, he does use a lot of what he learned in managing the designers that work for him.
In order to make an impact at the company you work for currently you have to be a team player. It’s important to be in tune as a team. It’s never up to just one person.
Asking important questions in communication is also crucial.
Education Prep
School is fundamental in learning theory, but James describes it as a meal that you only get to read about. Once you step foot in the industry, it’s a whole new experience. Although you may have learned a process in school, it’s important to understand there is a reason why companies operate the way they do. “Respect that process”, James encourages designers.
Communicating Professionally
I personally have had the problem of being accused of being mean and unprofessional in my early years with client relations. I ask James how he handles people who disagree with his direction:
- It’s different in each situation, know the person
- Be reserved, don’t speak quickly
- Compliment where they have done right
- Be constructive and clear
- Don’t hold back communicating
- Give them an opportunity to present their case
- “Help me help you”
Networking Resources
Meetups for Designers
AIGA – Professional Graphic Design Association
Ad 2 National – Professional Advertising Association
Team Management Resources
Basecamp
Dropbox
Final Words
Don’t get settled in one spot. Keep your mind open.
Connect with James
Legendary-Fish.com
@legendary_fish_
Episode Recap: Passion is important but paying the bills is imperative. Get actionable tips to take action in making your place in the design marketplace so you can start making money.
Getting Your Family On Board First
If you are working while saving money for your passion, this makes things a little easier. If you are NOT currently working and are trying to build your business from the ground up, it is wise to have a discussion with your spouse about setting a budget or a specific timeframe for when you need to start making income before you have to get a day job or part time job to supplement income.
These are NOT easy discussions and you may have to have them a few times. Show how your goals in your business can help you obtain goals in your marriage. IE: Saving for vacation or serving the community.
Find Someone Who Has Obtained Your Goal Before
Find someone that works in a field that is related to yours or someone who has already achieved something you want to do. Reach out to them and share what you are most struggling with. Their time is precious, so try to only ask one question at a time.
Share That You Are Available
If you are transitioning from one job to another, it’s ok to let people know you are in transition. Everyone goes through transition phases. If you are too prideful to let people know, you might be missing out on opportunities for work or clients.
Be Positive – Don’t Sound Desperate
Good: “I’m independent but I’m looking for more opportunities.” “I love what I do and I’m looking to grow.”
Bad: “Are you looking to hire someone? Let me tell you 20 things I specialize in…”
You attract what you put out. Act confident.
Act Even When It Feels Pointless
How do you know if you are working on the right things each day to bring in income and build business? You don’t always know but you can evaluate what you’re doing and ask yourself, “Is this giving me any return?” If it’s not, adjust. If you feel like the work you are putting in is harder than it should be, perhaps you underestimated the work it takes to get to where you are trying to go. Persistence is key.
Exodus 14:13-15 Moses tell his people, “Don’t worry God will save you!” God replies, What are you waiting for? Get moving a divide the sea!
Feeling Lost? – Ask Yourself These:
- What is my goal for my job and career?
- Is this action in line with my goal and how is it bringing me closer to my goal?
- Do I need to focus on this right now?
- Can I save this task for a later time?
- Is there something more important I should be doing?
- Am I letting distractions getting in the way?
- Can I afford this – does it fit my budget?
When you can evaluate and redirect your energy, you show competency in your business.
Quotes
- “If opportunity doesn’t knock, build a door.”
- Proverbs 16:26: It is good for workers to have an appetite, an empty stomach drives them on.
- “You don’t find your place in design, you make your place” – Matt Creative Priority
- Proverbs 22:29: “Do you see any truly competent workers, they will serve kings”
Call to Action
Follow up with people you have been in contact with
How can we determine if our habits as designers are helping us move forward or holding us back? Model those who have succeeded in your chosen career. For me this is graphic design. "More enjoyable is more employable"
Here are some habits collected from professional designers:
- Push your designs to areas of discomfort
- Constantly experiment with new techniques without aiming for on specific style
- Gather ideas from life
- Look for opportunities to impact communities
- Treat clients and associates well
- Teach
Here are tips not to do:
- Don't ignore critiques from mentors
- Design for the sole purpose of selling
- Mistreat clients or co workers
- Quit
Ideas collected from:
http://www.sagmeisterwalsh.com/answers/
Tangents:
Your habits as a wife are important too. It's important to be intentional and not act entitled toward your spouse.
Summary: Networking and marketing yourself and your brand to new people is a constant effort when you are a creative entrepreneur. However, introductions - especially if you are an introvert - can feel pretty awkward. This episode will look at how to gain confidence overall so you can feel confident at your next networking event. A look at Walt Disney's life.
Quotes:
- Confidence is the ability to trust that you will succeed
- You are your habits
Goals help us measure our success - when we know our end goal in a conversation we can eliminate awkward feelings.
When you pursue 1 thing in your free time with everything you have you can obtain mastery and show off your ability to everyone's enjoyment.
The hardest thing about sticking to one thing is fear of missing out on other "better things" and losing sight of your goals when things get hard.
Endurance
- "Be like a postage stamp - stick to one thing until you get there"
- Romans 5:35 Endurance helps us build strength of character
- "Endurance leads to perfection or mastery"
- Revelation 1:9 Endurance needs friendship
Perservance
- "Sorrow is better than laughter because it has a refining influence on us"
Books and Movies that inspired this show:
- The ONE Thing: The Surprisingly Simple Truth Behind Extraordinary Results
- War Room
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An introduction of what this podcast is about and what inspired me to create it. What you can expect to hear:
- Experience from my life as a freelancer, as a wife and as a creative person
- Questions from friends seeking advice from me
- Advice I receive from friends
- Any cool and inspiring information I get from books and videos
- Interviews of amazing people
5:17 Start of the episode #1 Thing Clients Want Good Customer Service through:
- Good Communication
- Punctuality
- Bringing them THEIR vision
- Showing them they are the most important
Touching on being nice to people in general and always representing your brand in a good way. Ideas that inspired this podcast:
- People Over Profit: Break the System, Live with Purpose, Be More Successful
- The 4-Hour Workweek: Escape 9-5, Live Anywhere, and Join the New Rich
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