If you’ve been in the game for a while, you probably know that there is much that goes into creating a successful creative business. But what if you’re just starting out?
Here is a mixed bag of some tips you might find useful:
- Create something that people really want to buy. Sure, it’s important to create things you love and find appealing, but you should make things that people really want. There has to be a market for what you make in order to turn a profit.
- Create items which you can reproduce. You might be really excited about your one-of-a-kind items and that may be the work that feeds your spirit, but you also want to feed your tummy.
- Overnight success is rare. Work on your business every day and be patient. Everyone has a different definition of success, but they all take time and effort. Remember that your business is a marathon and not a sprint. It may take three to five years for your business to reach the success level you are dreaming of.
- Check your pricing often. As the cost of goods used in your product change and as suppliers change, be sure to re-evaluate your pricing. If the cost of gas goes up and you have to drive several hours for a craft/art show, you’ll want to figure in the extra cost of gasoline into the price of the items you sell. If you have to change a supplier because the old one went out of business or no longer carries the items you need, be sure to re-evaluate your pricing in order to keep your business profitable.
- Find a balance between pride and humility. Be fiercely proud of what you do, what you make and the amount of work and love you put into your products. But by the same token be open to constructive criticism, objective observations and opportunities to learn.
- There is always more to learn, new things to try and mistakes to be made. Be open to those lessons.
- Be friendly and personable but professional. When you’re in public, be sure that you are always appear upbeat and optimistic, even when you don’t feel like it. Even complaining about the weather with one customer after another will make anyone standing in your booth for any length of time begin to think you’re a downer. Never complain about customers in person or online. Ever. Remember to let people see the sunny side of your personality and they will be more inclined to do business with you.
What tips would you add to this list?
By: Vicki O’Dell, The Creative Goddess
Do you love to create? Are you dying to turn your creativity into profits? You've come to the right place! Join our community of creative experts and learn how to sell your designs, how to get published in magazines, books or online, and pick up some great craft fair ideas and tips along the way.
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