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If you have never been self employed before this section is for you. Craft worker is the recognised name for what we
all do. However I think it is more appropriate to recognise yourself
as an 'Artist in Business ' It is a statement which you must take into your
head and firmly establish it there as a fact, You as the artist
are running a business so therefore you are " An artist in
Business "
Labeling yourself as a craft worker gives the wrong impression. Craft work is seen as a cottage Industry, a one man band operation, usually working from home in between running the kids back and forth to School, or perhaps a retired person or simply someone who has too much time on their hands. If this is what you are then that's fine, the problem is that people will label you as not to be taken seriously. Crucial people to your Business will see you as someone they can take advantage of. Such individuals could be large companies, Craft shops, Mail order suppliers, Craft event organisers, Product suppliers, Art galleries Craft galleries, Retail outlets. And lastly but not least Joe Public themselves (Bless Em!!) Why do you do what you do? I know of course that you love what
you do, however there must be a point where you should be paid
an honest amount for your work, and be able to earn money. If
you do what you do to earn money, that makes you a Business. SO YOU'RE IN BUSINESS WORKING FOR YOURSELF. Presentation in business is all important, your business must project a professional image. The Following are 6 steps to change your image from Craft worker to Business professional. STEP 1 Create a Title for your business Try not to rush into this, throw ideas around, find inspiration from people or things you admire, ask your friends and family for their input, It should be something that suits what you do. Example, a greetings card company we met at a show were called "Bug Art" All their card designs featured Bugs. You can use your own name if you are sure it is pleasing to the ear. Be certain that it is a name you are truly happy with. STEP 2 Open a business Bank Account There are four major Banks plus many others to approach, so don't be put off if one or two turn you down. You don't need a Business plan to open a Bank account you just need to arrange an appointment with the banks business adviser and explain what you do, it really should be as simple as that. Ask for a cash card so you can withdraw your funds from cash machines. Opening a business account is free, you will also find that most banks, being that yours is a new business will waive service fees and charges for the first two years. You will find the services that banks offer are quite extensive, you can get lots of free fact sheets about all kind of businesses, telling you all sorts of interesting facts and information. A business account will also open all kinds of doors for you with suppliers, once your bank account is being used regularly your business manager softens greatly and will be very helpful offering overdrafts, loans etc.
Continuous Stationary Invest in professional Stationary from a printing Company. You will need letterheads, compliment slips, business cards and invoices. The stationary should be the same theme throughout, you don't need artwork. All printers can typeset your documents for you, you simply need to tell them what you want on the documents, price wise it can be very reasonable, most printers will do 100 of each quite happily. You must shop around at this point, source between four and five companies, get quotes for the work first. At the same time ask if you can set up an account with them. You can use this as a carrot to dangle, often a company will open the account to get the job. Having an account affords you 30 days credit, useful to help spread costs. It's also worth asking what other services the printer provides, keep this information in mind for later ventures. The reason for professional Stationary is simply to create an image, an image of being a serious business. You'll find when approaching new suppliers, simply sending your inquiry on a letterhead will get you treated differently. If you sell your products to shops and they receive a professional invoice they will see you as a professional business. When sending cheques to suppliers always include a compliments slip or the Supplier may not know from whom the cheque is from. Business cards are so important. You give your card out to your buyers, prospective buyers or prospective suppliers, in fact anyone who you feel may be important to your business. On the whole having relevant stationary for your business is simply a must!
Introducing yourself Learn to introduce yourself in a positive manner. By now you will have created a Company name and image, you should practice introducing yourself and your company in front of the mirror until you become very comfortable in doing so. It may be good to practice shake hands, many people in business like to shake hands at some point in a meeting. On meeting with potential clients, be yourself, try to relax, most importantly your attitude and mannerisms must suit your personality and come across as easy going but professionally confident.
Look the part Present an image that reflects what you do, this may mean clearing out the wardrobe, yet as an artist you must look similar to what you create, this gives an impression that you are totally committed to your work. An artists clothes and image go hand in hand.
You have the power Customers whether it be Joe Public or retailers are under the illusion that they have all the power, the truth is that you are the one with the power! Your work is unique to you, every artist has his/her own style, what you produce is individual and can't be brought except from you. This is why you are the one with the power, as you can say NO to a customer and refuse to sell to that person if your terms are not met. You must believe in what you are doing and be prepared to start saying NO. To both customers and suppliers if you cannot get what you want. Confidence is the greatest power you have, you produce products
that people want to buy, you should be proud of yourself and proud
of your work. Confidence in what you do, and what you are is the
key to being taken seriously.
Running a business You need to consider that running a business in the beginning
is relatively uncomplicated. However as you move on it becomes clear that you must wear many hats to run a business Artist These are all the hats you will be required to wear, and be fully
competent at. As become busier you will find it necessary to delegate some
of these tasks by means of part time workers so that you can get
on with the more important tasks of selling your art and making
money.
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