Earning by Design: Graphic Design, Freelancing, Business Marketing Strategies 4 The Creatives

Embarking on my own business adventure, I faced the classic conundrum many freelance designers encounter—choosing between the singular "I" or the collective "we" to describe my business and services. In this episode, I share the evolution of my brand, from the solo-run Elyse Designs to Principium Studio, and how this choice impacted not just branding but also client interactions. My personal journey underscores the importance of aligning language with business structure and vision.

Whether you're flying solo or dreaming of an agency, this discussion provides the necessary insights to guide you through the intricacies of self-representation in the graphic design industry.

CONNECT WITH ME!
Website: https://4thecreatives.com
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/4thecreatives
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/4thecreatives/

In this episode of Earning by Design, Lauren delves into crucial questions surrounding the graphic design industry's value and profitability. Joined by her husband and business partner Rodrigo, they explore strategies for graphic designers to enhance their market value and profit beyond basic design skills. From understanding the importance of experience and skill diversification to discussing the effectiveness of advertising for designers, they provide insightful perspectives and practical advice. Furthermore, they dissect high-value problems graphic designers can solve to increase their profitability, offering real-world examples from industries like weddings and real estate. Tune in for a value-packed episode that delves deep into how to elevate your value as a graphic designer.

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Website: https://4thecreatives.com
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/4thecreatives
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/4thecreatives/

In this episode, I had the opportunity to interview a seasoned designer with over 30 years of experience who has turned into a full-time graphic design educator. This educator is helping the next generation of graphic designers gain real-world experience as part of their high school curriculum. David shares wisdom for new and seasoned designers based on his extensive career.
Connect with David:
The Design Rescue Program: https://www.edhsdesignrescue.com/
The Design Rescue YouTube channel: www.YouTube.com/@TheDesignRescueShow 
David Block’s Design Site: https://www.davidblock.net/
More about David:
David is a graphic designer and educator with a career that started in 1991 after discovering his passion for design while working at a mall kiosk. His journey took him from early web design ventures with his father to earning a Bachelor's in Graphic Design from The Art Institute of California - Orange County. David spent significant time at Experian, evolving from a Senior Graphic Designer to an Interactive Art Director, and co-created the Handable Phone Grip, a testament to his interest in functional design.
In 2015, David transitioned to education, teaching Digital Design and Visual Communications at North Orange County ROP, El Dorado High School. He founded the 'Design Rescue Studio,' a program that combines academic learning with real-world projects, and launched 'The Design Rescue Show' on YouTube to extend his educational reach. Currently, he balances teaching with running his freelance design business, continuously learning and adapting to the ever-changing design landscape.



CONNECT WITH ME!
Website: https://4thecreatives.com
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/4thecreatives
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/4thecreatives/

Niching is a very scary subject for many! But in this episode, I break down many different ways you can niche and 5 points you must think with before deciding on the niche you will choose.

Key Highlights:
The Power of Niching: Understand why defining your niche is crucial for effective marketing and attracting the right clients.Building Client Connections: Discover how niching helps create deeper, more meaningful relationships with your audience, enhancing client loyalty.Exploring Niches: A quick tour through various niches, from industry-specific to geographic, highlighting the impact of strategic specialization.Actionable Insights: Learn from the success stories of designers who have found their niche, coupled with practical tips to help you choose yours with confidence.Links from episode:
Lauren Hom: https://www.homsweethom.com/workMina Lima: https://minalima.com/Aaron Draplin: http://www.draplin.com/
CONNECT WITH ME!
Website: https://4thecreatives.com
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/4thecreatives
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/4thecreatives/

In this episode, we talked about the world of freelance design with Jacob Cass, the founder of Just Creative. Jacob, known for his profound impact on the graphic design community, shares his evolution from his first days as an amateur graphic designer to the founder of an award-winning branding and design studio. This episode is a treasure for freelancers to learn about the intricacies of brand building, the strategic use of SEO, AI and mastering digital platforms for business growth.
More about Jacob Cass:
Jacob Cass is a brand designer, strategist, educator, business coach and the founder of JUST Creative, a branding & design consultancy that doubles as an industry-leading blog and community.
Key Accolades:
Certified Brand Master7-Figure BusinessNamed “Top 100 Most Influential Designers” by DesignWeeklyFeatured in Forbes, Entrepreneur, Wall Street Journal & Yahoo!Client Experience: Nike, Disney, Seinfeld, Red Bull, Nintendo, San FranciscoAvid Traveler (88 countries)77 Million visits to JUST Creative WebsiteTEDx SpeakerDesigned the logo for San FranciscoDesigned the logo & branding for Jerry Seinfeld’s show Comedians In Cars Getting CoffeeNamed “Best Branding Coach” by Yahoo! FinanceCo-host of the #1 Branding Podcast in 10 CountriesConnect with Jacob:
Website: https://justcreative.comPodcast: https://justcreative.com/podcastBranding Briefcase Freebie Download: https://brandingbriefcase.com Newsletter: https://brandingbriefcase.com




CONNECT WITH ME!
Website: https://4thecreatives.com
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/4thecreatives
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/4thecreatives/

Instead of talking about going freelance, sometimes it is the right time to transition away from freelance into a full-time in-house or agency role. And for this topic, I brought on my friend Jamie Roberts from Rock That Creative Job, an experienced Creative Career Coach to guide you on this journey with actionable tips that will place you at an advantage in the hiring process.
In this episode we dive into:
How freelancers can effectively highlight their skills and readiness for full-time positions.Vital networking strategies for freelancers seeking full-time employment.Mindset and adjustments required for transitioning to full-time work.How to manage long-term career growth and maintain creative independence in full-time roles.More about Jamie:
Jamie Roberts is an experienced Creative Career Coach with a 20 yr. background as a Sr. Creative Director & Designer, working and leading teams in both agency & in-house environments. She has recruited, hired, and managed every type of creative role, and her mission is to help every creative across the globe sell themselves more effectively, to feel less stuck and more empowered in their careers!
CONNECT WITH JAMIE:

Connect with Jamie on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamie-roberts-rtcj/
https://www.rockthatcreativejob.com/
Resume Course: https://www.rockthatcreativejob.com/creative-resume-in-a-day
Use code:  ROCKTHATRESUME for a 20% discount
Podcast: https://www.rockthatcreativejob.com/podcast

CONNECT WITH ME!
Website: https://4thecreatives.com
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/4thecreatives
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/4thecreatives/