Like many moms-to-be who are running a small business, as the Big Day got closer I started to wonder what to do about maternity leave. With no employer providing time off and work coverage, the thought of it was overwhelming.
Read my latest post on the Creative Freelancer Blog to see how I successfully prepared for my Little One’s recent arrival.
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See all of my small business posts on the Creative Freelancer Blog here.
HOW Design Conference in Chicago
Last month, I attended my very first HOW Design Conference in Chicago. It seems crazy that I waited so long, seeing as I started my design business over ten years ago. But since it was in my hometown, I made the time and effort. Now, being seven months pregnant at the time, it was a bit of a challenge and I did have to make some concessions (going home early, no cocktails) but it was well worth it.
In addition to catching up with friends and colleagues and making new connections, I walked away with a wealth of knowledge—and a new outlook on my business.
A recent New York Times article spoke about how, in some circles, the business card is becoming a “relic.” [insert collective gasp from graphic designers everywhere]
My graphic designer-based opinions aside, I host networking events in Chicago and there is never a shortage of business cards being exchanged.
At the recent HOW Design Conference in Chicago, I saw business cards—from attendees and vendors alike—in myriad shapes and sizes, some using interesting formats or folds.
I understand the article’s point of view that in certain environments—such as tech conventions—people are exchanging contacts using technology (i.e. twitter handles or barcodes). But eventually those businesses will need to make themselves stand out or be memorable. And in a crowded marketplace, a well-designed business card can help your business stand out.
Business cards also keep you top-of-mind with the recipient. Many times, I keep a business card on my desk as a visual reminder to follow-up with someone. Can this be done with an electronic contact?
So yes, I think business cards will be stickin’ around.
Read my tips for making your business card more effective
lsvdesign on flickr
I often notice a recurring theme in my (business) life. Something that seems to follow me around wherever I go. Right now, that theme is: being memorable.
The closing speaker at the HOW Design Conference in Chicago last week was Sally Hogshead, author of the new book Fascinate. Sally gave an engaging and inspiring talk featuring the 7 triggers of fascination and how they can be applied to people, products and brands to make them more fascinating or memorable.
For example, my primary trigger is PASSION. According to Sally, that means I draw people closer to myself and my ideas with a warm and open style of interaction (which is true).
PASSION could also be used by a brand who communicates passion for their product to their customers—thus making it more memorable.
And aren’t you more likely to buy something from a passionate shop owner, rather than one who doesn’t greet you when you walk in the door?
Earlier this week, I was reading a blog post from Megan Auman of Crafting an MBA about “making your business stick.” Megan references the book Made to Stick
One of her suggestions is based on the concept of stories: are you telling stories about you and your business? People buy from you because they are interested in the story.
This was a concept discussed in a session at the HOW Design Conference (there’s that theme thing again…) and it goes along nicely with the idea of making your business more memorable. If you tell a story about your business (on your website, for example) a potential client will not only feel more comfortable (it’s like they know you already), but they will also remember you.
Find your Fascination Factor: take Sally Hogshead’s ‘F Score’ quiz here.
Scenes from the HOW Design Conference in Chicago
Have you been thinking of attending an industry conference?
What’s stopping you? The cost, travel details, taking time off work? It can all be overwhelming. I know, I’ve been there.
Well, I’m here now to tell you: do it!
Having attended my first HOW Design Conference in Chicago just one week ago, I’m now saying top myself: “what took you so long?”
The benefits were well-worth the cost of the conference—and I realized what an important investment in my business it was. And now I’m hooked…I’m already planning for the next conference!
So if you’re on the fence about going to a conference, I urge you to do it. Of course, it’s important to find one that’s right for you. But after you do your research, take the plunge—even if it means saving up the cash or rearranging your schedule.
Read my tips on designing the perfect conference experience.
Going to an industry conference can be overwhelming. So many sessions to choose from, people to network with, resources to learn about—not to mention socializing with industry friends and colleagues. Whew.
After attending my very first HOW Design Conference in Chicago this weekend, I’ve decided to share a few ways I discovered to make attending a conference more manageable and rewarding.
Scenes from the HOW Design Conference in Chicago
Yesterday (June 21st) was the Summer Solstice, which marks the longest day of the year.
Besides more “al fresco work days” (via laptop and wireless), I’ve been planning a few ways for my small business to kick off summer in creative style.
How I kicked off my summer…I like to stay in touch with clients and friends by sending cards with a handwritten note throughout the year. And since my logo is the sun, sending a “summer solstice” card seemed only natural.
TIP: sending a card on a less-expected holiday always makes an impact.
Attending the HOW Design ConferenceLeaving the office for a few days to get creatively inspired and network with other professionals is important for small business owners—especially solopreneurs. So this year, I decided to attend the HOW Design Conference, which just happens to take place in my hometown!
TIP: let your clients know you will be out of the office at a professional conference. They will appreciate knowing that you are working on improving your business (which benefits them!)
It's time to take a break!
Why should kids be the only ones who get a chance to peek into Mom & Dad’s workplace?
Mark your calendars: Friday, June 24 is Take Your Dog to Work Day!
In my case, I’m lucky to have Essie in the office regularly. Essie is a great office-mate. She doesn’t complain much. She’s a great stress-reliever and walking partner. Plus, I don’t even have to pay her (well, maybe in kibble). She also keeps me from hunching over my keyboard for hours on end. How can you resist a furry paw on your arm, begging you to go out? Now if only I could train her to fetch me a cup of coffee.
See Essie “hard at work” in the Take Your Dog to Work Day Photo Gallery.
Buckingham Fountain in Chicago's South Loop
A recent article in the Chicago Journal caught my eye today. It spoke about the increase in retail vacancies on South Michigan Avenue, a popular shopping and dining area in the South Loop neighborhood of downtown Chicago.
Due to rising rents, many independent retail shops are forced to close or move, with chain stores sometimes taking their place.
The article was timely for me, having just returned from a vacation to a Florida island community where chain stores are practically non-existent. I realized that one of the things I love about visiting this island—or any new place for that matter—is stopping into independent boutiques or coffee shops and chatting with the owners.
I also recall my days at Columbia College in the South Loop, which included walks to the local art supply store or bookstore. Will this all but disappear in Chicago?
As the article pointed out, high parking fees can deter locals from shopping in downtown areas, while tourists tend to spend their money on food and dining. However, I can’t imagine that all Chicago visitors want to buy fast food or cheap, mass-produced souvenirs.
What is the solution to keeping local retail business alive in downtown Chicago? Locals like myself need to make more of an effort to visit independent businesses downtown. Perhaps the Chicago Convention & Tourism Bureau can create a “Shop Local” campaign to encourage visitors to shop at local boutiques. Share your thoughts in the comments.
New growth in the West Loop
As I walked around my Chicago neighborhood on a warm May day, I saw many signs of new growth in the trees. After a long snowy winter it was a welcome sight. Spring had finally arrived and with it, new growth and potential for the future.
This got me thinking: what new growth was I currently experiencing in my small business? What was I doing to prepare for, or create, future potential?
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See all of my small business posts on the Creative Freelancer Blog here.
