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Off By 2 : Brand Strategy & Business Growth for Founders Who Want More Freedom
Off By 2 : Brand Strategy & Business Growth for Founders Who Want More Freedom episodes
- 106 When Design Clients Are MIA: Tips for Navigating Slow Seasons
No clients? No problem!
Join me as I share invaluable insights and strategies for navigating those challenging times when clients seem to be nowhere in sight. In this episode, I'll guide you through practical steps to not just survive but thrive during these downtimes. You'll learn how to revamp your portfolio to attract new clients, harness the power of social media to stay visible, and get creative with client acquisition strategies. Additionally, I'll share tips on optimizing your business processes for long-term success. By the end of this episode, you'll be equipped with the tools and mindset to conquer slow seasons with confidence and emerge stronger than ever before.
You will learn:
- How to stay motivated and keep going when you don’t have design clients.
- Techniques to refresh and strengthen your design portfolio.
- Strategies for creating engaging content on social media platforms to maintain visibility.
- Creative approaches to finding and acquiring new
clients.- Tips for optimizing your business processes to ensure long-term growth and success.
Grab a cup of coffee and join me!
$12k Client Attraction Masterclass: https://aventiveacademy.com/attract-clients-workshop/
The Wealthy Client Blueprint: https://aventiveacademy.com/wealthy-client/
12-Week Business Program for Designers: https://aventiveacademy.com/profit
The Creative CEO Accelerator: https://aventiveacademy.com/accelerator
22 min - 105 Transforming Leads into High-Quality Design Clients with Josh Hall
Every designer grapples with challenging clients—it's an inevitable part of the journey. We've all been there, facing clients who may not align with our vision or approach. But what defines a "bad" client? Is it the low-paying ones, the ones who seem to micromanage every detail, or perhaps the ones who reach out for minor tweaks at inconvenient times? The truth is, the definition of a bad client varies from person to person. It's a subjective experience and it’s up to you to decide!
In today's episode of The Profitable Graphic Designer Podcast, we’re talking with Josh Hall all about filtering out bad-fit clients and focusing on attracting the dream high-quality clients you want to work with. We’re covering everything from how to structure your contract form, sales funnels, services, networking events, and much more!
PLUS! Josh is proving his framework (usually paid but FREE for my listeners) 😊
Web Design Client Funneling Framework: Use code
“Profitable-Graphic-Designer” at checkout for 100% off :)In this episode you will learn:
- Proven methods for effectively weeding out bad-fit clients before they become a drain on your time and resources
- Innovative contact form ideas designed to capture more leads and, more importantly, high-quality leads that are a perfect fit for your services
- Insights on which social media platforms are currently the most effective for brand, graphic, and web design professionals, with a special emphasis on why LinkedIn stands out
- Actionable tips on positioning yourself as the go-to designer in your niche or industry, establishing credibility, and attracting premium clients who recognize and value your expertise
- Expert networking strategies and little-known tricks for generating a steady stream of referrals and landing lucrative design projects that align with your strengths and interests
Grab a cup of coffee and join us!
About Josh:
Josh is a web design business coach, podcast host and web agency founder based out of Columbus, Ohio. Through his podcast, youtube channel, online courses and web design community Web Designer Pro™, he teaches web designers how to build a web design business that gives them freedom and life they love.
Website: https://joshhall.co
Instagram: https://joshhall.co/instagram
Aventive Academy’s Resources:
$12k Client Attraction Masterclass: https://aventiveacademy.com/attract-clients-workshop/
The Wealthy Client Blueprint: https://aventiveacademy.com/wealthy-client/
12-Week Business Program for Designers: https://aventiveacademy.com/profit
The Creative CEO Accelerator: https://aventiveacademy.com/accelerator
1 hr 1 min - 104 Working With Fortune 500 Companies and Securing $100K Branding Deals With Kyle Courtright
Welcome to another episode of The Profitable Graphic Designer Podcast! In this episode, we're excited to have Kyle Courtright joining us. Kyle, a visionary who rejected the traditional 9-5 grind, has been making waves in the freelancing world. His impressive client roster includes big names such as PayPal, Toyota, Chipotle, Walmart, NVIDIA, NFL, NBA, and the USA Olympics. But that's not all—Kyle also manages two additional companies! One, Logo Wave, is dedicated to recognizing exceptional design work, adding value to organizations and boosting careers. The other is a subscription-based design service. Curious to learn more? Tune in to find out!
In this episode, you will learn:
- How Kyle got these amazing Fortune 500 companies as a graphic designer.
- What platforms he uses to land design clients, and not just any client but high-value and high-paying clients.
- If LinkedIn is worth the effort + a personal story of posting every day for 6 months with no results.
- How he manages to work only 20-30 hours a week while running 3 design companies.
- If SEO is still relevant and what you can do to get in front of potential clients that Google and search for your services.
This episode is super valuable, and I am sure you’ll love it!
About Kyle Courtright:
Kyle Courtright is an award-winning designer, mentor and author specializing in brand design. He's worked with 650+ entities in over a decade including widely recognized brands like PayPal, Toyota, Walmart, Chipotle, Lowe's, NVIDIA and USA Olympics. Kyle is the founder of Logo Wave, a reimagined logo awards platform recognizing and rewarding designers, bringing additional value to their creative services for positive career impact. He's also the founder of Etch, a productized brand design agency with a small but mighty team of ten. He also created the Logo Inspiration Generator Tool and authored The Ultimate Guide to Logo Design, now purchased by designers spanning 6 continents and over 50 countries. He's passionate about helping designers reach their career goals and leveling up their creative craft!etchdesign.co | courtrightdesign.com | logowave.comlinkedin.com/in/kcourtright | x.com/kcourtdesign | x.com/mylogowave
Resources:
$12k Client Attraction Masterclass: https://aventiveacademy.com/attract-clients-workshop/
The Wealthy Client Blueprint: https://aventiveacademy.com/wealthy-client/
12-Week Business Program for Designers: https://aventiveacademy.com/profit
The Creative CEO Accelerator: https://aventiveacademy.com/accelerator
51 min - 103 Marketing Strategies for Design Professionals With Shannon Mattern
Welcome to an insightful episode where I sit down with Shannon Mattern, a seasoned business coach specializing in helping web design entrepreneurs create freedom, flexibility, and financial independence. In our conversation, Shannon shares invaluable insights into the realm of marketing for design professionals. Uncover the key elements of a successful marketing strategy, gain clarity on identifying your unique selling proposition, and explore practical tips for leveraging social media platforms effectively. From content marketing to networking, Shannon sheds light on common misconceptions and provides actionable guidance for design business owners.
You will learn:
- The importance of marketing in attracting the right clients and fostering business growth.
- Strategies for identifying and leveraging your unique selling proposition to stand out in a crowded market.
- Practical tips for effectively showcasing your work and attracting potential clients on platforms like Instagram, Pinterest, and LinkedIn.
- Insights into content marketing strategies tailored to resonate with your target audience and establish authority in your niche.
- Common marketing mistakes to avoid and actionable guidance for refining your marketing efforts.
Tune in!
About Shannon:
Shannon Mattern is a business coach for web designers and host of the Profitable Web Designer Podcast where she shares strategies and advice to help web designers create freedom, flexibility and financial independence.
Website: https://webdesigneracademy.com
Instagram: https://instagram.com/profitablewebdesigner
Web Designer Archetypes Quiz: https://webdesigneracademy.com/quiz
54 min - 102 Running a Small Design Agency with Kristy Campbell (Pink Pony Creative)
Get ready to explore the vibrant world of design entrepreneurship with Kristy Campbell, the innovative force behind Pink Pony Creative. In this episode of The Profitable Graphic Designer Podcast, we uncover Kristy's journey from a solo designer to leading a successful design agency.
Discover the inspiration behind Kristy's 100-day design challenge and the strategies she employed to scale her business. From her unique approach to social media marketing to attracting dream clients, Kristy shares invaluable insights and advice for fellow designers and small business owners aiming to thrive in the industry. Join me as we unravel the secrets to building a thriving design agency, straight from the dynamic mind of Kristy Campbell.
You will learn:
- The story behind Kristy's 100-day design challenge on Instagram and its impact on her journey.
- Strategies for transitioning from a solo designer to leading a successful design agency.
- Insights into effective social media marketing and attracting dream design clients.
- Kristy's approach to managing social media accounts and identifying the most effective platforms.
- Key lessons and advice for aspiring designers and small business owners seeking growth and success in the industry.
Grab a cup of coffee and be ready to take notes!
About Kristy:
Kristy Campbell, founder of Pink Pony Creative and Adobe MAX speaker, is a New Zealand-based Brand Identity and Graphic Designer with over ten years’ of experience in the industry. She expresses herself in daring, vibrant and exciting ways, pushing the boundaries of branding through the combination of loud color, quirky illustrations, and stylized logos. Kristy now undertakes projects for clients worldwide and embraces an ‘anything but boring’ aesthetic in design and business. And with a business name like “Pink Pony”, you know she creates a little differently.
www.pinkponycreative.com
https://www.instagram.com/kristy.thepinkpony/
https://www.tiktok.com/@pinkponycreative
The Social Ponies Podcast
Resources:
$12k Client Attraction Masterclass: https://aventiveacademy.com/attract-clients-workshop/
The Wealthy Client Blueprint: https://aventiveacademy.com/wealthy-client/
12-Week Business Program for Designers: https://aventiveacademy.com/profit
The Creative CEO Accelerator: https://aventiveacademy.com/accelerator
52 min - 101 Getting Design Clients on LinkedIn
I am hosting a FREE masterclass on April 10th on how to get amazing design clients on LinkedIn. If you are a brand, graphic, or web designer, this is for you, and you can register by clicking on this link – aventiveacademy.com/linkedin.
In today’s podcast episode, on The Profitable Graphic Designer podcast, we’re covering why LinkedIn is such a powerful social media platform that not many designers utilize. It’s a B2B platform that has a lot of potential clients. Yet, many designers stay away from it.
My first $10k client came from LinkedIn. And since then, I’ve gotten $15k, $25k, even $29k design clients through this powerful platform. And in today’s podcast episode, I talk more about it. Tune in, and I hope to see you on April 10th at 10 am CST during the free masterclass that will help you get design clients on LinkedIn (recording available).
19 min - 100 Strategies to Grow Your Design Business with Chris Do
It's a milestone worth celebrating! The Profitable Graphic Designer Podcast is proud to announce its 100th episode!
Over the past 100 episodes, we've had the privilege of hosting some of the sharpest minds in the creative industry. Our guests have shared their experiences, tips, and strategies that have empowered designers to run profitable, simple and sustainable design businesses they love!
None of this would have been possible without YOU - our incredible listeners. Your support, feedback, and dedication have fueled our passion to bring you the best of the design & business world.
We've received hundreds of messages from designers around the world who've found inspiration and practical advice through our episodes and I, as your host, want to thank you! 😊 The journey to 100 episodes is just the beginning. We're excited to continue providing you with valuable insights, expert interviews, and a platform to thrive as a creative business owner.
In this podcast episode, we have a fantastic guest, Chris Do, and we’ve touched on many different business topics that will help design business owners improve their business.
Chris Do shared how he started his business, how he got some of the first clients, when he started outsourcing, hiring, and how he grew his business into a successful creative agency in LA. Chris also touched on how you can start getting high-paying clients that you would love to work with!
He also helped us understand why clients choose the designers they choose and how you can position yourself and your business as the best possible option for those dreamy clients. It’s very easy to understand and implement in your business, so I would encourage you to go through it.
And, Chris Do also talked about how you can start creating content that will attract dream design clients. Really, the whole episode is full of value, and I know you will find it super valuable if you are a brand, graphic, or web designer trying to build a sustainable design agency.
Here’s what you will learn:
- Discover the work-life balance of a busy entrepreneur, including hobbies and family time.
- Learn about Chris's journey from a freelance designer to building his agency, Blind.
- Gain expert advice on transitioning from a solo designer to building a team and agency.
- Find out how to overcome the challenge of hiring when you have limited resources.
- Explore effective marketing strategies that work when using social media.
- Delve into the importance of personal branding in the creative business world.
- Get insights into content creation and social media management.
Thank you for being a part of our journey, and enjoy this milestone episode with Chris Do & your host, Kady Sandel.
Resources:
Getting Design Clients on LinkedIn:
https://aventiveacademy.com/linkedin/$12k Client Attraction Masterclass: https://aventiveacademy.com/attract-clients-workshop/
The Wealthy Client Blueprint: https://aventiveacademy.com/wealthy-client/
12-Week Business Program for Designers: https://aventiveacademy.com/make-money
The Creative CEO Accelerator: https://aventiveacademy.com/accelerator
About Chris Do:
Chris Do is a loud introvert, recovering graphic designer, Emmy award winning designer, and founder of the Futur, an online education platform. His mission is to teach 1 billion people how to make a living doing what they love. Think of the Futur as private art school without the crippling debt.Connect with Chris Do:
Website: thefutur.com
Get a copy of his book Pocket Full of Do
Coaching communities:
- Accelerator - For early founders & freelancers seeking a step-by-step blueprint on building a thriving creative business.
- Pro Group – For established creative service providers, coaches and consultants who are ready to scale.
- Brand Lab - For founders ready to create their personal brand, build thought-leadership, and innovate their businesses.
Follow him on:
Twitter
Instagram
Linkedin
TikTok
YouTube (1500+ videos)
Futur Podcast (Top 10 ranked for Marketing)
1 hr 6 min - 99 Booking $32k in a Day as a Brand & Web Designer
This episode means the world to me. I want you to understand that the $32,000 isn't about bragging - it's about showing you what's possible. Trust me, I've been there, starting with those $65 logo gigs on Craigslist. It wasn't a quick journey, and yours won't be either. But let me tell you, it's doable. What used to be a massive accomplishment for me is now just another day in the office, and that's something I'm truly proud of. On this episode of The Profitable Graphic Designer Podcast, I'm thrilled to share how you can start landing those high-paying clients too. From where to find them to understanding exactly what they need, I'm going to spill all the beans.
You will learn:
- Strategies for acquiring high-value ($20k or so) clients, whether through networking events or online platforms.
- The importance of setting the right prices and how to gradually increase them as your business & expertise grow.
- Tips for effective project management, including tools like Trello for internal communication and Notion for client portals.
- How to build a strong reputation that attracts referrals and fosters long-term success.
Resources:
The Wealthy Client Blueprint: https://aventiveacademy.com/wealthy-client/
12-Week Business Program for Designers: https://aventiveacademy.com/make-money
The Creative CEO Accelerator: https://aventiveacademy.com/accelerator
28 min - 98 Steps for Growing into a Small Design Agency
As someone who's been in your shoes, consistently pulling in $5k a month as a freelance graphic designer, I understand the urge to take things to the next level. Let's talk about transforming your solo operation into a small design agency. We're diving into the steps you need to take to make that transition seamlessly. This podcast episode is going to be incredibly valuable for you if you're a brand, graphic, or web designer ready to scale and provide better design services to your clients.
Running a design agency also means you no longer have to do everything alone in your business. If you don’t enjoy communicating with clients, you can hire someone to take over. If web development isn’t your forte, you can outsource it. If you believe you should focus on the vision while someone else handles the day-to-day tasks, you'll have the time to do so. There are many benefits to running an agency versus staying solo. So, let’s chat!
You will learn:
- How to pinpoint your agency's niche and services to attract the perfect clients, leveraging your expertise and passions.
- The ins and outs of crafting a killer brand and online presence that screams professionalism and credibility.
- Proven strategies for expanding your client base beyond your current network, including networking tips and the power of referrals.
- Practical advice on hiring your first employee, from finding the right fit to navigating the legalities.
- My personal insights on effective team management and delegation to keep your agency running smoothly.
- Plus, we'll delve into the importance of cultivating strong client relationships and retention strategies for long-term success.
Grab a cup of coffee and tune in!
Resources:
$12k Client Attraction Masterclass: https://aventiveacademy.com/attract-clients-workshop/
The Wealthy Client Blueprint: https://aventiveacademy.com/wealthy-client/
12-Week Business Program for Designers: https://aventiveacademy.com/make-money
The Creative CEO Accelerator: https://aventiveacademy.com/accelerator
26 min - 97 Building Your Design Agency Dream Team
In this episode of The Profitable Graphic Designer Podcast, we talk about expanding your design business and building your dream team. From feeling swamped with administrative tasks to struggling to attract top-notch clients, we've all been there. If you've heard my other podcast episodes, you'll know that I used to be a solo freelance designer charging $65 for a logo, to building an amazing team and agency, and getting 5-figure clients all the time. So, I'm here to guide you through the process, sharing my own journey and the lessons I've learned along the way. We talk about the perks of growing into an agency, the types of roles you might need (think virtual assistants, extra designers, marketing & sales…), and the flexible hiring options that fit your budget and workload. No need to stress about making the perfect hire – I've got tips for finding the right fit and making the decision with confidence. Plus, ever heard of the floating agency model? It's a game-changer! It’s amazing! So, grab your coffee and tune in 😊
You Will Learn:
- Why transitioning to a design agency model can help
your business and save you time.- How to pinpoint your pain points and figure out which roles will make the biggest impact on your workflow.
- Who exactly I have on my team and who works full-time, part-time, or are contractors in my branding & design agency.
- Tips for hiring - whether you're looking for a virtual assistant or a marketing guru.
- The lowdown on flexible hiring options, from contractors to part-timers, that'll keep your business agile and adaptable.
- The scoop on the floating agency model and how it can revolutionize the way you approach staffing.
Resources:
$12k Client Attraction Masterclass: https://aventiveacademy.com/attract-clients-workshop/
The Wealthy Client Blueprint: https://aventiveacademy.com/wealthy-client/
12-Week Business Program for Designers: https://aventiveacademy.com/make-money
The Creative CEO Accelerator: https://aventiveacademy.com/accelerator
33 min
About Off By 2 : Brand Strategy & Business Growth for Founders Who Want More Freedom
From the publisher's feed
Off By 2 is a business podcast for ambitious founders who want to grow and build a brand people know, but feel overwhelmed by their to-do list, unsure what to focus on, or tired of their business taking up more of their life than they want.
Each episode helps you:
- make more money
- build a strong brand
- make better business decisions
- simplify your business
- get your time back
Expect conversations about business strategy, entrepreneurship, branding, AI, productivity, mindset, and growing a business without the hustle culture.
Hosted by entrepreneur and branding agency owner Kady Sandel
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