Woo to the hoo! It is Season 8, my friend! We are kicking off the season with the most frustrating and yet important topic I could ever share with you:
Business models.
I know. I know. You’d probably prefer to talk about anything else. But let me remind you that, whether you like it or not, you’ve already got a business model if you’re bringing in any income from your business.
The question, though, is whether or not it’s working for you.
So, is it? Working for you, I mean? Stay with me, and I’ll show you how to fix the top 6 business model mistakes I see with Creative Entrepreneurs.
In this episode, we are talking about:
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Theme music: “Big Time” by Ikoliks, Artlist.io
Woo to the hoo! Creative Freedom Season 8 launches next week!... and we are kicking things off with the most frustrating yet important topic I could ever share with you! You don't want to miss it, so stay tuned!
Special thanks to our Patrons for your continued support.
"About Damn Time" is a parody of "About Damn Time", originally recorded by Lizzo. Parody lyrics by Lisa Robbin Young.
I've noticed a trend in my email inbox recently...
Even the high-ticket, luxury sellers are seeing belt-tightening behaviors in their audience. One high-end business consultant I know piled on a bunch of bonuses for their intensive, slashed the price by 25%, offered a longer payment plan than normal and still had "ONE SEAT LEFT" for their offer at the cart close deadline. They followed it up the next week with a group version of the same offer - something they've "never done before".
They kept using those words: "I've never done this before."
So no, it's not just you. Selling anything right now is requiring more effort for most folks.
Especially folks who don't have their business model figured out.
A rock-solid business model is essential if you want to achieve your goals and dreams. If you're a creative entrepreneur, you might not be focused on that aspect of your company.
I get it. Many folks are turned off and their eyes start to glaze over when I even mention the words. But it's the crux of how business gets done.
A business model is essentially the plan that outlines how your business will make money. It's the strategy you'll use to attract customers, deliver value, and generate revenue.
Now, you might be thinking, "But I'm a creative entrepreneur, why do I need a business model?"
Well, the truth is, having a solid business model is just as important for creative entrepreneurs as it is for any other business owner. In fact, I would argue that it's even more important.
Simply put, it's the foundation of your business. It's how you make money, who your target customers are, and how you deliver your product or service to them. Here at Creative Freedom HQ, we use a simple "equation" to help you create a business model that works for how you're wired to work:
It's a flexible framework that lets you lean into what matters most to you. It's much easier to navigate than most of the business model design tools out in the world right now.
Without a solid business model, your business is like a ship without a rudder. You may have a great product or service, but if you don't know how to reach your customers and generate revenue, you'll be steering in circles, and getting nowhere fast.
A business model helps you stay focused. When you have a clear understanding of how you're making money and who you're serving, you can concentrate on what matters most - delivering value to your customers, generating revenue, and enjoying the fruits of your labors!
A solid business model also makes it easier to make decisions. You'll know exactly who your target customers are and what they want, so you can create offers that meet their needs without a lot of extra spaghetti throwing!
And perhaps most importantly, a rock-solid business model helps weather the ups and downs of the market. With a clear understanding of your revenue streams and customer base, you'll be able to make informed decisions that keep your business profitable and growing.
That means you'll spend a lot less time scrambling to create revenue during the inevitable belt-tightening periods!
I like to say that if you're making any money in your business, you have a business model. The better question is whether or not it's working for you.
Taylor Swift is not just a talented musician, she's also a savvy businesswoman. She's moved from country to pop music and built a brand around her music. Swift knows her audience, and she adapts her business model to stay ahead of the game.
Business models evolve as you evolve. Take Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson, for example. He's not a wrestler anymore. And he's not just an actor, either. Johnson built a personal brand around his larger-than-life personality. He then parlayed that into physical products like tequila. He's evolved his brand and his business model several times since his wrestling days.
What if you're not famous (yet)? Well, the same principles apply. Whether you're a freelance writer, a graphic designer, or a photographer, having a solid business model is essential if you want to succeed.
A solid business model will help you:
In our Rising Tide Community, we have a workshop that walks you through the process step-by-step. And the best part? Our business model workshop is available on demand, so you can take it at your own pace.
If you're not already a member of the Rising Tide Community, we're currently offering an open house, which means you can try our learning library and connect with other members in the community at no cost. Come play with us!
Regardless of whether you join us or not, it's important to have a rock-solid business model that works for how you're wired to work. Otherwise, you'll be launching, re-launching, and throwing spaghetti on the wall just to hit your income goals. And that's pretty exhausting!
As a solopreneur, you'll wear many hats. From marketing and sales to customer service and admin tasks. It's easy to lose your focus or motivation.. and don't get me started on the household distractions: chores or family that seem to want your attention - or even the latest streaming series (Ted Lasso, anyone?).
I've talked to a LOT of solopreneurs in my time who felt "stuck in a rut", isolated, or unable to take their business "to the next level".
Look, I get it. More often than not, I too have found myself caught up in the day-to-day tasks of running the business. Then, you look up and recognize how far you've come on your own.
Alone.
On one hand, props! It's not easy to build a business. And it's especially challenging doing it by yourself. We Fusion Creatives manage to do a LOT on our own. But that loneliness and sense of disconnection isn't the only problem that comes from trying to do it all on your own.
Take it from someone who knows: it may feel like you're going faster, but at some point, you hit a wall where you're carrying all the things, wearing all the hats, and you just can't add another thing to your plate. What's worse, because you've been trying to manage it all yourself, you may not have built the network and business relationships that could help you take the load off.
Which puts you in a place where it feels like you can't step away from the business - everything is riding on YOU.
Finding a supportive community can be vital to your growth and success. Notice the key word here: supportive. I've been part of too many groups that pretended to be communities. Some were little more than places for people to pitch their shizz and try to turn members into their own customers. Either that or propaganda machines where the host didn't allow ANY promotion except for their own stuff.
Blech.
Some were just not a good fit for who I am and how I show up. One community that provides a TON of value to their clients does almost everything in real time (synchronous connection) in order to get support. They have a "group" forum where you can post questions, but the answer is always "show up live in the chat room and we'll help you!"
I have a full calendar most of the time and I wouldn't have joined if I'd known the only way to really get help was to be on in real time. Why have a forum if you never use it?
Other groups just didn't match the level of growth I was at. I've been online for 30-ish years and an online coach for about 20 of them. When I have a complicated question that needs support, I get a lot of crickets in those groups. But I get to GIVE a lot of help, which also has its place. I've learned to balance that desire to give generously with the genuine need for help that I often come to community for.
I'm not trying to be Debbie Downer here. The right community makes a BIG difference. Running a business can be lonely, and having a supportive community can provide much-needed encouragement and motivation. There's nothing like being in a room with people who understand the challenges you face as a solopreneur. Sharing experiences, offering support and advice, and providing a safe space where you can come out of hiding and be witnessed by others on a similar journey is GOLD!
That kind of recognition, safety, and belonging can help you push through tough times (or just witness the "hard" you're going through for moral support). Celebrating your wins builds your confidence, helps you feel more capable and can be just what you need to re-commit to your Great Work when things have been hard for too long. Not that I speak from experience or anything!
When I'm in the right community for me, I discover new tools and strategies that help me streamline my workflow and save time. I get to learn by watching others: the words to use when I ask for help or hold healthy boundaries, contract examples, lessons learned. That shortens my learning curve and saves me a crap ton of resources I don't have to waste! I've also learned best practices for systems and processes that allowed me to better focus on what I do best.
In short, I become a better business owner and a better human when I'm in the right communities for me.
Being a part of the right community can also help keep you accountable for your goals and progress. Sharing your goals with others and receiving feedback and support can keep you on track and motivated. Cheering others on can inspire you to set and achieve your own goals, too!
And yes, a supportive community can also provide valuable networking opportunities, which can lead to collaborations, referrals, and even new clients. Meeting other entrepreneurs in your industry or related industries can open up new doors for your business.
Some communities can be a great place to learn new skills and gain or deepen your knowledge. Whether it's through workshops, webinars, or simply sharing information and resources, being a part of a community can help you grow and develop as an entrepreneur.
I get it. Being a business owner demands a lot of your time and energy already. So how do we find or create community when we're already strapped for time?
While I've attended a few in-person events and networking-type meetings, I do most of my connecting online. I was on Zoom before Zoom was cool! Before that, it was Skype. Before that, it was teleclasses! I've been around for a WHILE!
Online communities can be a great option for busy entrepreneurs who don't have a lot of time to attend networking events or meetups in person. My preference is hybrid communities. Where there's a face-to-face, "synchronous" connection opportunity in addition to a group, social media page, or app. I've been able to connect with people all over the world through communities like Polka Dot Powerhouse, LunchClub, and others. Some are more familial or social in nature, while others are great places to connect with other entrepreneurs in your industry or niche. In fact, the lessons I've learned from being in those communities have helped inform how we're building our own Rising Tide community!
Another place to look: join a mastermind. A mastermind is a hand-picked small group of folks with common interests or goals. Often, you'll hear this term used to describe entrepreneurial groups, but it can also be for other goals and pursuits as well (a book club or DND group can also function similar to a mastermind). In the business world, you'll meet regularly to support and hold each other accountable to goals or actions you've committed to achieving before the next meeting. Masterminds often provide a deeper level of connection and support than larger communities. You get to know your fellow masterminders more intimately, learn more about their backstory and context, and develop stronger "know like and trust" when you're interacting more regularly.
Attending industry conferences is another way to meet other entrepreneurs while you learn new skills and/or knowledge. Conferences that are relevant to your industry or niche can connect you within your industry, while conferences that are outside your industry can connect you to collaborative partners, potential affiliates, and even new friends or colleagues. Yes, celebrity conventions (ComicCon, D23 Expo, etc) also count. The point is to go places where there are people you'd like to connect with and learn more about. Community doesn't always have to be about business!
Paid or free? While there are plenty of free communities out there, consider investing in a paid community that provides more value and support. Paid groups often have facilitators that can monitor and moderate conversations, answer questions and provide technical support that's hard to come by in a free community. Paid communities are also incentivized to keep engagement cooking. New content, valuable resources, and meeting new connections make paid communities sometimes more valuable than what you can find for free.
Our Rising Tide community is one example that provides resources, training, coaching and other support for creative entrepreneurs. We just migrated off Facebook (for lots of reasons), and our Open House is on now! The Rising Tide is the best of both worlds: a free level that includes a growing learning library for early stage entrepreneurs, and a paid level that gives more advanced entrepreneurs support for issues that might be more complex. We're an inclusive community - meaning all our members at both levels can interact with each other to develop new connections, make new friendships, and learn from one another.
Regardless of how you choose to build your community, do your due diligence. Not every paid (or free) group is worth your investment of time, energy, or money. Ask for a trial period, whenever possible. Then talk to people who've been there a while and get their take on why they stick around. Take note of their answers and see how it jibes with what you're looking for in a community. If it's not a good fit, don't feel obligated to stick around. Thank you for taking care of yourself!
Ultimately, it's easier when you've got a crew to help row the boat. It may be a little slower going at first, but the rewards are much sweeter when it's a team effort.
Sarah owned a small retail store selling vintage clothing that wasn't growing the way she'd expected. She was working way too hard for far too little, and wasn't clear on how to right the ship. Sarah realized she needed help - and fast.
If you want your business to grow to the point where you're getting a positive return on all your resources (ROR), chances are good you'll need help along the way. Just like Sarah. When I'm working with clients, here are a few places I recommend you look first:
Being proactive and seeking help when needed is crucial to growing and supporting your business. Take the time to analyze your business, seek expert guidance, set clear goals, appreciate your team, and learn from your mistakes. Remember, success doesn't happen overnight, but with hard work, dedication, and the right support, you can achieve your dreams.
For nearly 20 years, I've been leading online workshops, teleclasses, and other digital events both inside and outside my A-Club community. I made the decision years ago to host the community piece on Facebook, while the training content lived inside my website inside our Rising Tide Learning Library.
But the last couple of years have shown that things aren't working. We've seen our clients fleeing Facebook with the quickness and our website has had several content security issues that left me pulling my hair out.
It was *finally* time for a change!
The decision to move was not an easy one. It took a couple of years of testing, trying platforms, and a bunch of bumps in the road to get here. Here, I'm sharing some of my lessons learned and the reasons why we're making these changes, along with what to expect once we fully changeover.
My hope is that this level of transparency helps YOU as you're making decisions about how your business needs to run to work for how you're wired to work.
A couple of years ago, when I first launched the Cashflow Creator workshop, I ran my own business through the same process I teach my clients. I got clear that things were starting to break down, but I didn't have immediate clarity on how to fix them. The Incubator had become our primary income driver, and that was never supposed to be the plan. It was always meant to be subsidized by the other income of the business.
Then, I had surgery in the summer of 2021... and again in the fall of 2022. There were too many things I wanted to be doing that were getting pushed aside to put out fires. Simply put, I wasn't working for how I was wired to work. I wasn't taking my own advice.
So I sat with my homework from the workshop and re-designed how everything needed to look and flow in order to better fit how I'm wired to work.
I couldn't just change everything overnight. But I was able to map it all out and create a new offer stack that I could star rolling out this year. I shared that map at this year's Customer Journey workshop. One of the first steps was to merge A-Club and the Rising Tide into one program.
We started the community on Facebook because that's where everyone was, quite frankly. Almost every one of my clients was already hanging out there, and the ones who weren't there didn't want the social/community aspect in the first place.
I tried moving us off facebook several times over the years, but everyone wanted to be where they were already at.
That was fine-ish for community connection, but Facebook is a lousy place to host any training. Don't get me wrong - if you're running a short term event, like a challenge, it can still work, but it's not ideal for hosting content on a long-term basis.
Videos got buried in the group feed, nothing was really easy to find, and people outside the community couldn't access the training without being added to the facebook group - which could impact the safety and connectedness of the established group. That forced the decision to host all the training inside my website.
But that came with a different set of issues. One of them was content security. We started with Wishlist Member (cumbersome), and then integrated LearnDash (didn't accept recurring payments). We cobbled together a solution, but over time, it became a challenge to keep updated. The site went down because of a security issue with a plug in, and it's never been the same since.
Another issue was useage. The free library was seeing a little bit of useage - mostly from fans of the show. They were accessing the bonus downloadables from our episodes, and tapping into a little of the free training. But the courses we'd spent so much time creating were not being fully utilized, and sales were not happening as we'd expected.
On one hand, that's not my problem, because people will use what they're going to use, and ignore the rest.
But on the other it IS my problem if clients aren't using the resources effectively and aren't getting the results they want because the content isn't delivered in a format that works for them.
In talking with clients, most wanted real-time help, or the ability to ask questions without having to find a contact form, draft an email, or whatever. Neruodivergent folks will sometimes "forget what they came in here for" and then the question never gets answered.
So, we've found a platform that allows us to have conversations more fluidly, put all the training content in one place, and provide a community of accountability for everyone!
I've seen a lot of communities come and go... heck, I've left a few myself. Especially if I went looking for help and got crickets... or a bunch of sales pitches instead of genuine help for my issue. The other thing I've seen is communities that rely heavily on you being in the room LIVE all the dang time.
The folks I work with often need something more portable and digestable - because we've got shit to do and don't have time to wait around!
That doesn't mean you don't want some community support, it's just that you need it on YOUR terms.
I've got your back!
I'm excited to introduce you to the NEW Rising Tide community!
We've poured countless hours into creating this online space inside Heartbeat, so that you can access everything with ease from any device. It's an on-the-go community of like-minded entrepreneurs, committed to growing their businesses, making a difference in the world, and having fun along the way.
If you're tired of trying to figure out everything on your own and want to be part of a community that not only educates you but also holds you accountable and provides support to help you achieve your business goals, then, the Rising Tide community is for you!
If you've already been part of our free community, you'll know that we've got a free learning library as well as all the bonus downloadables from the Creative Freedom show in there. That's not going away. You can register for the FREE level of our community at any time.
This month, we're ADDING a new tier of paid membership that includes access to all of my digital training programs - including the new Cashflow Creator Workshop we just completed, the Customer Journey and Marketing Plan workshops, content creation sprints, live quarterly planning workshops, and more programs coming later this year, like a comprehensive Sales and Marketing training based on the Fix This Next methodology!
Plus, you'll get to connect with a community of fellow entrepreneurs who share your values and aspirations. You'll have a safe space to ask questions, get feedback, and share your wins and challenges.
No more searching for the latest business growth strategies, no more feeling isolated and alone in your business journey. With the new Rising Tide Community, you'll have on-the-go access to entrepreneurs who share your values and are committed to supporting each other's growth.
This was huge for me. I've been in plenty of online groups and so-called communities over the years where it felt like I was either being pitched every other day and couldn't really get the help I was looking for.
Not here.
While I can't promise we can answer every question or solve every problem, I can promise that we're here to support and encourage you on your journey. I know how it feels when you post gets crickets, so I'm committed to helping you find answers that actually work for your situation. In my community, I try to know everyone by name, because it's important to me that you feel safe in our space and that you know you belong here.
Our community is designed for interactivity, but you don't have to stay glued to your device - that's not healthy for your business! Chat with other members in real time or as it fits your schedule. Ask questions, get feedback. Show up and shine so we can celebrate you. No judgement, no drama. Just a safe space to practice showing up as the business owner you're becoming and shining like the star you already are!
Be seen. Be supported. Be encouraged.
Here's what you can expect as a member of the paid Rising Tide Community:
Plus, with Lisa's guidance and support, you'll learn how to:
If you're serious about taking your business to the next level, then this is the community for you. Don't wait - join now and start getting the education, accountability, and support you need to grow your business and achieve your goals!
Do you ever feel like you're stuck in a rut with your business? Are you struggling to find new clients or make the income you need to thrive? If so, you're not alone. Many creative entrepreneurs face these challenges, and it can be tough to overcome them especially when you're stuck in a "fixed" mindset.
I've often said that the mindset is more important than the mastery, and research bears this out. You don't need to be perfect and a total genius in order to succeed in business. As a creative entrepreneur, building a successful business is about more than just great ideas. It requires the right mindset - one that is positive, growth-oriented, and resilient in the face of challenges.
Because, hey... stuff happens. Plans go off the rails, and often, your goal isn't always THE goal.
Studies have shown that our thoughts and beliefs can have a profound impact on our success. When we believe in ourselves and our ability to succeed, we are more likely to take risks, persevere through obstacles, and achieve our goals.
On the other hand, a fixed mindset can lead to self-doubt, fear of failure, and a lack of motivation to take risks and try new things. This can ultimately hold a business back from achieving its full potential and reaching new heights.
I've seen this in many of my clients - brilliantly gifted, yet traumatized by old stories and false beliefs that keep them believing they're not good enough to be shine like the star they are.
It breaks my heart... and it doesn't have to be this way.
The Disney movie, Moana, is a great example of a character with a growth mindset. Despite the challenges and obstacles she faces, Moana looks for ways to learn and grow from her experiences. She also seeks out guidance from others and is open to new ideas and perspectives.
When Moana first leaves the island... well, let's just say navigation isn't her strong suit! But, instead of giving up, she seeks out the demigod, Maui for help. Maui initially dismisses her as an inexperienced child, but eventually learns to respect Moana's determination and resourcefulness.
And then there's Te Ka. At first, Moana tries to defeat the monster with brute force, but when she recognizes that the monster is actually Te Fiti (a goddess, NOT a monster!), Moana finds the way to save her island and her people.
So how can we cultivate a positive and growth-oriented mindset? Here are a few tips:
When you're self-aware, you understand your strengths and weaknesses, you know what motivates you, and you're in touch with your values and purpose. That doesn't mean you always get it right, but it means you're learning about yourself in deeper ways. This knowledge helps you make better decisions, take calculated risks, and stay focused on your goals. Recognize when negative thoughts and beliefs are holding you back, and challenge them with positive affirmations and self-talk.
In the Cashflow Creator Workshop series, you'll spend time getting clearer on what's really important to YOU. You'll gain a deeper understanding of yourself, your business, and your goals.
"Failure" is a natural part of the learning process, and can actually be a valuable opportunity for growth and improvement. I believe that failure is not the opposite of success, but rather an essential stepping stone on the journey. By embracing failure and using it to your advantage, you'll be better equipped to build a sustainable and thriving business that can weather any storm.
In our workshop, you'll look at what's been working (and not) in your business, and start to course correct - creating a new vision for your business that works better for how you're uniquely wired to work.
Surrounding yourself with positivity is key to maintaining a growth mindset. I don't mean looking for "yes men" or bring all Pollyanna about tough situations. I mean creating an Environment of Empowerment that builds you up and helps you navigate the "hard" and celebrate your wins along the way.
Seek out supportive friends, mentors, and colleagues who believe in you and your vision. By being intentional about the people and communities we engage with, you can cultivate an environment that supports and uplifts you. There's nothing quite as validating as knowing there are people in the world who have your back!
In the workshop, you'll have the opportunity to connect with other like-minded entrepreneurs who share your values and aspirations. You'll also have access to an experienced mentor (moi!) who can offer guidance and support as you navigate the ups and downs of building a sustainable business. With the support of a positive community, you'll be better equipped to overcome obstacles, celebrate successes, and stay motivated on your entrepreneurial journey.
Instead of dwelling on your weaknesses, identify your unique talents and strengths, and find ways to use them to your advantage. By focusing on your strengths, staying in your zone of genius, and delegating tasks that don't align with you, you'll be able to operate at a higher level more consistently and achieve more in less time.
There are things that only you can do - or that only you can do YOUR way. Lean into that. Our workshop will provide you with tools and strategies to help you identify and embrace your strengths, so you can build a business that's not only profitable but also aligned with your values and passions.
Whether or not you join us in the workshop, by adopting these practices, you can start to shift your mindset from one of self-doubt and fear, to one of confidence and growth.
But I would be remiss if I didn't invite you to get all of this and more at the Cashflow Creator workshop! Our goal is to help you build a sustainable, thriving business that works for how you're wired to work. Don't let self-doubt and fear hold you back any longer! Join us and start cultivating the mindset you need to succeed.
Are you ready to turn the volume on your business up to 11 and ROCK!?
Are you ready to rock your business with better clients, better offers, more money, more impact, and the ability to lead your company with ease?
The Cashflow Creator Workshop is your ticket to making it happen! We started on Monday, but you can still hop in and pick up the recordings for the entire week! Plus, you can work directly with me to get help with your business questions - so that you can have a business that works for how you're wired to work.
I'm not one to go on and on about my workshops, because if you've ever attended, then you already KNOW they're packed with specific how-to help that gets you results before you even leave the event. Here's what Teresa said about our last Cashflow Creator event:
"This workshop is POWERFUL! And Lisa Robbin Young is a MASTER at the concepts and practices she teaches - not to mention a great coach. I got a level of clarity of purpose and strategy for going forward that had been missing for me. And it's a strategy that EXCITES me and had me saying 'YES! That's ME! I can do that!' Thanks Lisa!"
Teresa Romain - Founder of Access Abundance
This workshop is unlike anything you've experienced before. It's not just another "business tips and tricks" seminar. Instead, we focus on unlocking the power of your business model, so you can build a business that works for how you're wired to work.
This workshop is not about boring business models! It's about helping you re-design your business to work for how you're wired to work. We use the Creative Freedom business model equation. This tool makes it easy to re-design your business in a way that aligns with your unique talents, strengths, and values. With the Business Model Equation, you'll be able to:
The Business Model Equation is just one of the tools and strategies you'll apply in the Cashflow Creator Workshop. Over the course of the week, you'll also:
And that's just the beginning!
You'll also have the opportunity to connect with a community of like-minded entrepreneurs who share your values and aspirations and want to celebrate your progress. Plus, there's an experienced mentor (ahem, me!) who can offer guidance and support as you navigate the ups and downs of building a sustainable business.
But time is running out! This is your last chance to join the Cashflow Creator Workshop! Don't miss out on this unique opportunity to unlock the power of your business model and take your business to the next level... whatever that looks like for YOU.
So, what are you waiting for? Sign up now and let's get started!
As I mentioned in a separate post, your team is the backbone of your business. They can make or break your success. While finding the right people is key, don't forget to focus on nurturing your team's collective output too. From innovation to customer experience, their productivity affects everything. Want to inspire your team to greatness? Here's how:
It's not enough for your team to just show up to work. They need to feel connected to the mission and values of your company. Recognizing staff for their hard work can build a sense of pride in the job. Companies like Challenge Coins Ltd can help you celebrate individual achievements or company milestones with custom coins. Supporting causes they care about (outside your company) can also boost morale and reduce staff turnover. Some companies even make it part of their pay structure.
Fear of judgment and failure can hold your team back. And don't get me started on what micro-aggressions or bullying can do to the safety of a work environment! Building a psychologically safe working environment is crucial to unlocking your team's full potential. There are tools to promote psychological safety and to encourage collaboration. When your team feels safe, they're more likely to take calculated risks, and be willing to create "happy accidents" that lead to creative gains for the company. Safety to take risks and learn from mistakes cultivates more innovative and effective problem-solvers.
Healthy and happy employees are more productive. So invest in their wellness by offering gym memberships, incorporating screen breaks into their day, and promoting hydration. First aid and mental health resources in the workplace can also make a big difference. Plus, team-building sessions and away days can create better working relationships, which reduces stress and fosters positivity.
Your team needs the right tools to do their job well. If you're slow to adopt new technologies, your team's productivity will suffer. Automated tools can keep things running smoothly and increase engagement by providing employees with the resources they need to succeed. Recording employee progress and rewarding them for their hard work can also be motivating. Gamification, combined with recognition rewards can be a big motivator for some team members!
Remember, your team's collective output is essential to your success. So invest in them, celebrate their achievements, and watch your business thrive! With these tips, you can build a kickass team that delivers stellar results.
When you're in the early stages of building a stand-out business, there are lots of moving parts and pieces to keep things running smoothly. There are also a lot of things that seem important, but are just distractions.
So where do you need to focus right from the start?
The things that will move the needle the most.
Easier said than done, right? Because those things can look different for each business. But let's look at the most common things you need to be thinking about right from the start to ensure you're on the path to success.
Your brand is the heart and soul of your business, and it's what sets you apart from the crowd. So, take the time to craft a brand that reflects your unique personality and style. Remember, a strong brand will attract the right customers and help you stand out in the marketplace.
A strong brand isn't about flashy websites or spending a lot of dough to "look good". Your brand is your business's identity and how you want to be perceived by the world. It's the story that lives in the hearts of your Raving Fans when you're not actively marketing to them. Take the time to think about how you want your business to come across and create messaging and marketing that reflects that. The stronger your brand is, the better your chances of success.
With a strong brand, your business becomes memorable - even when you're NOT marketing!
Next, seek out good advice. As a creative entrepreneur, you might feel like you can do everything on your own, but the truth is, everyone needs help. Surround yourself with people who have been there and done that, and learn from their experience. Trust me, it'll save you time and energy in the long run.
The right people - including legal experts, consultants, and those who are experts in your specific industry can be invaluable sources of support, encouragement, and insight. And they don't need to be on call 24/7 to be good for you. Expert guidance, that's focused on helping you reach your goals and dreams, will help you have a much higher chance of success and shorten your learning curve..
Building a business can be overwhelming, and you don't have to do it all alone. Seek out mentors, coaches, and experts who can guide you along the way.
When you look at the successes and failures of previous business owners, so much of it comes down to the people they had access to when they started out. In essence, you are in a much better position, with a much higher chance of success, if you are able to get in touch with the right people at the start. Consult legal experts (like Manfred Sternberg & Associates, or other legal consultants) and those who are experts in the needs of your specific industry.
Of course, we can't forget about the moolah! Cash flow is the lifeblood of your business. If you're self-funding everything, that means you carry all the risk and financial burden. That may or may not be a problem for you, but it's important to know what you're really dealing with when it comes to the "money stuff" in your business.
Look for sources of funding that align with your values and goals. Maybe that's crowd sourcing or finding a lender through Kiva. Or maybe it's your own credit card. Been there. Done that! The key is to have a secure source of funding that will give you the financial stability you need to grow and thrive.
Seek funding you can rely on before you think you'll need it. Because often, when you finally need it, you may have a hard time getting it!
Last but certainly not least, you need to build the best damn team ever! If cash flow is the lifeblood, then your team is the backbone of your business. Who you surround yourself with is arguably the most important factor of all. When you have a team you love (that loves you right back), you'll have a much better chance of success.
Take your time to find the right people for your team. Be willing to let people go that don't fit your team culture (and do it FAST!). This includes contractors, part timers, and anyone else supporting you and your business. The people you surround yourself with are crucial to your business's success. That means your advisors AND your team support! Develop a rock-solid recruitment process that helps you find the right people who share your vision and passion. With a strong team, you can tackle anything that comes your way.
So, there you have it - the four things you need at the start of your business: a strong brand, good advice, secure funding, and the best team you can afford. Remember, building a successful business takes time. It can be challenging, requires effort, and dedication, but with these four elements in place, you'll be on your way to creating a thriving business.