Welcome to another episode of Two Pixels Off! 🎙 Hosted by Mike Janda and Brad Hussey, this podcast is all about supporting freelancers, creative entrepreneurs, and agencies as they navigate the ups and downs of the industry.

What’s in This Episode?

After last week’s dive into the challenges facing creative agencies (cue the sad trombone 🎺), this episode flips the script to focus on the positives! We’re exploring uplifting trends from the agency world, dissecting how agencies are innovating, and breaking down actionable strategies to stay ahead in 2024 and beyond.

Episode Highlights:

📌 The Good News from the Agency Report:

→ Contractual trends are improving: Longer-term deals are making a comeback, signaling client confidence.

→ Clients are starting to realize the value of professional agencies over DIY platforms like Canva or AI tools.

📌 Innovation is the Name of the Game:

→ Agencies that are willing to experiment are finding success through innovation and adaptability.

→ How tools like Wix Studio and AI are helping agencies do more for less.

📌 Client Relationships Are Evolving:

→ Why trust, communication, and education are the cornerstones of a successful creative business.

→ Building long-term partnerships that are collaborative rather than transactional.

📌 Rethinking Agency Models:

→ The importance of niching down or diversifying services.

→ Stories of agencies pivoting toward vertical niches, like automotive, to stay competitive.

→ The rise of productized services, from fixed-price design packages to “done-in-one-day” workflows.

📌 How to Stay Human in the Age of AI:

→ Why building authentic, human relationships is the ultimate competitive advantage in a world of automated tools.

📌 Key Takeaways for Freelancers & Creative Agencies:

→ Adaptation is survival: Whether it’s trying new tools, redefining services, or focusing on a niche, staying flexible is critical.

→ Be strategic: Agencies that position themselves as indispensable partners are thriving. Show your value by blending tools like AI with your creative expertise.

→ Experiment wisely: Budget time for trial-and-error—test productized services, new tech, or different pricing models to discover what resonates.

→ Client relationships matter: People do business with people they like and trust. Build a positive, proactive rapport.

→ Lean into your strengths: Understand your niche, own it, and let your expertise shine.

As competition rises and AI tools become the norm, standing out requires a mix of creativity, relationship-building, and smart strategy. Whether you're a one-person creative business or running a growing agency, these trends and tips will help you stay ahead of the curve.

🔗 Additional Resources:

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