Thinking Ahead: Ways to Improve Your Business

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In general, it seems that creative businesses, are doing well. Almost every day, artists and project creators share announcements of commissioned work and new jobs with new clients  on social media. It looks good (and I know from personal experience that it feels good) to be busy.

It’s tempting to not look beyond the work in front of your face. After all, you are probably putting in a full day just keeping up with the work at hand. However, it’s important to remember that while you are up to your eyeballs in work right now, you are also setting the stage for 2015 and even 2016. The decisions you make right now will affect your bottom line and your ability to work later on.

Here are some things to consider:

1. How is your team doing? Are you looking to improve your team? Do you need to change up responsibilities so people are working at the jobs they are best suited for? Is there someone causing drama? Does every employee on your team fit with your vision and goals? When your business is thriving, it is a great time to attract those who would want to take the success even further. You owe it to yourself, your art and your clients improve and grow. Why hang on to people you merely tolerate when you can add more passion, vibrancy and peace to your team?
2. What is your message? Who are you and what do you do? Why? If you are an evolving and growing company, this will be something  you should constantly ask yourself.  Now is the time to turn down business or collaborations that might damage your reputation. It’s easier to say no to the obvious misfits, but it is also important to consider the mediocre opportunities as well. Jettisoning the work that doesn’t fit in with who you are and where you see your business going leaves you open to opportunities that actually do fit in with your values and goals. It’s easier to do this type of culling when business is good. Ask yourself the tough questions and figure out what really fits in with your overall vision.
3. Do you need new equipment or a bigger space? You may not feel that you have the time or energy to consider these questions but if you need to borrow money for these business improvements, the best time to approach the bank is when business is good. You won’t get the same answers from your banker when business is slow.

When business is good, you might not think about these sorts of things. However, taking some time to consider important business questions will help you ensure that business stays strong in the future.

By: Vicki O’Dell, The Creative Goddess

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