Selling UrSelf as a Cre8tive "Professional"...

Welcome freelancers and consumers alike. Whether or not one is new to the business world, the first thing an individual should consider is what type of business entity is suitable for his or her practice. In doing so, deciding on an accounting method is the next. Becoming educated about business development is the most professional thing we will do when starting creative practice. With these major items out of the way it is easier to research and build a method of record keeping that helps you track expenses, client list and revenue. These few items make it possible to determine profit and how well your business is doing. Good practices make it easier to obtain business credit, also. Prominent and established businesses look for these things in vendors. There is an art to selling yourself as a professional and good presentation is 50% of what people see from your initial approach and the rest is good business practice. This is definitely communicated through good records keeping and the ease of locating things in timely fashion. Until you can hire someone to do this for you, it will be your primary job!

Types of Business Entities

Sole Proprietorship - (Schedule C/1040 tax return) 1 person

Partnership - (Schedule K/1040 tax return) 2 or more persons

Limited Liability Company - (can elect to be taxed as partnership or corporation)

Corporation (C) 1120/941 or 944 and/or 940 tax forms all monies stay in business

Corporation (S) 1120 S/Schedule K/1040/ Similar to partnership

Accounting Methods
Cash
Accrual

Comparison of cash and accrual basis accounting. There are more links available on google.

Educating yourself on the difference between these methods are important. It gives you a sense of how to do business and the terms associated with payment. As a creative professional developing an impeccable method of presentation unique to our practice can assist clients to distinguish customer service. As a result the ability to document clients request for services and billing, gives a snap shot on what is expected and directly contributes to the best use of time across multiple projects. Project planning goes a long way to seeing your business through its first five years and beyond!

Once you have laid a foundation for a growing business, creating an image that represents your company to the consumer is up next. While I'm venturing into my 14Th year of self employment, I have come to realize that many self promotion efforts have been trial and error. Most importantly, understanding that we "sell ourselves" within the early years of business is the truth. This is because we are wearing many hats such as working with the clients, generating new business, and completing projects.

At Cre8tive Media, we provide small businesses a 2ND chance to make a 1st impression because "Presentation Is Everything". Advertising media has expanded beyond print and websites alone. Social networking chopped things down to size. Now its all about personality!!!! Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, Linked In and Blogger in combination with a brand can create recognition for new products and services. Business development is a serious matter and with reliable graphic designer and social networking our business can get noticed.

As a freelance artist going from a sole proprietorship to sub chapter S corporation, I understand the protection associated with hammering out the details. I definitely encourage other artists to take an interest. Setting business goals is good, but measurable goals are better. A hands on approach keeps us abreast of whats going on with our business but the ability to research the industry, helps us better articulate our goals and experiences. This is how I sell myself and Cre8tive Media has been able to grow over the years as a result. Until next time...Cre8, lean, and grow