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Blink 3 of 8 - The 5 AM Club
by Robin Sharma
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Creative, Inc. summary
Meg Mateo Ilasco
Joy Deangdeelert Cho
The Ultimate Guide to Running a Successful Freelance Business
22 mins
Brief summary
Creative, Inc. by Meg Mateo Ilasco and Joy Deangdeelert Cho is a practical guide for artists on how to turn their passion into a successful business. It offers advice on branding, marketing, networking, and more.
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Creative, Inc.
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Establish a unique brand that you feel comfortable with.
So you’ve proved that you’re highly adept at your creative skill. Whether you’re an illustrator, graphic designer, writer or photographer, you’ve now decided to go it alone and work as a freelancer. Of course, there’s a lot to think about. So where should you start?
Firstly, creating a strong brand identity will set you apart and help you reach your target audience. Selecting the right company name is hugely important. After all, it’s the first impression potential customers get of your business, and something that will endure as your market grows.
Using your own name is common for solo freelancers. This might cause you problems later down the line if you plan to collaborate, or you share a name with an established brand: Pat Starbucks, Freelance Web Designer, for instance, might face some legal issues if they went eponymous!
So you must check that the name is not already in use. Ideally, your business name will feel right to you and garner positive reactions from others. For example, when Matt, Jenny and Julia of freelance business Also arrived at their name, it caused them to scream with excitement. They loved it, as it didn’t tie them to a particular niche.
The next step is to work on your branding: how will you present your business to the world? Your brand should give a strong impression of your business’s identity. Is it about rustic design or a sleek, polished finish?
Whatever you decide on, always ensure your logo, typeface and business card all carry the same feel. You might even consider hiring a specialist to help create your logo, as the better it is, the more professional you’ll look.
Communication, both visual and verbal, also make a huge difference. The way you advertise, conduct business and interact with clients all contribute to your brand identity. Photographer Thayer Allyson Gowdy recommends having a clear, personal style to inspire the potential clients you want to reach within your target market. A unique brand that reflects your personality will convey a strong message about your business.
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What is Creative, Inc. about?
Creative, Inc. (2010) provides a handy step-by-step guide to setting up and running a freelance business. Clearly structured and packed with tips on everything from advertising and agents to portfolios and pricing, this is an indispensable guide for those considering turning their artistic talents into a freelance career.
Creative, Inc. Review
Creative, Inc. (2010) is a comprehensive guide that offers invaluable advice for creatives looking to turn their passion into a profitable business. Here's why this book is worth reading:
- It provides practical strategies and insider tips from successful creative professionals, giving readers the tools they need to navigate the competitive creative industry.
- Filled with real-life examples and actionable advice, the book offers a step-by-step approach to building a creative career, making it a valuable resource for aspiring creatives.
- With its engaging storytelling and relatable anecdotes, the book manages to make the business side of creativity interesting and accessible, ensuring that it is definitely not boring.
Best quote from Creative, Inc.
You have to be super proactive in this business. Grab your portfolio and get on a plane and go! – Thayer Allyson Gowdy, photographer
—Meg Mateo Ilasco and Joy Deangdeelert Cho
Who should read Creative, Inc.?
- People who want to leverage their creative skills into a freelance business
- Creative freelancers who want to earn more
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Creative, Inc. FAQs
What is the main message of Creative, Inc.?
The main message of Creative, Inc. is how to build a successful creative career in the modern business world.
How long does it take to read Creative, Inc.?
The reading time for Creative, Inc. varies depending on your reading speed. However, you can read the Blinkist summary in just 15 minutes.
Is Creative, Inc. a good book? Is it worth reading?
Creative, Inc. is worth reading as it provides valuable insights and practical advice for creative professionals looking to thrive in their careers.
Who is the author of Creative, Inc.?
The authors of Creative, Inc. are Meg Mateo Ilasco and Joy Deangdeelert Cho.
What to read after Creative, Inc.?
If you're wondering what to read next after Creative, Inc., here are some recommendations we suggest:
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