Business Tips: I've Learned So Far

Hey Friends. Today I'd like to talk about some business tips I've learned so far. A lot of them are from fails, so hopefully this helps someone in the future....or me as I'm still growing.

1. Social Media, Post & Schedules:

It is very beneficial for your business to have socials...for people to interact with you. Try to make sure each social name matches or are similar. This helps you business name stick in the brain. Make sure you post regularly and/or have a schedule. Try not the miss too many postings. (I'm guilty of this!)

2. Topic:

I don't believe this will matter to many but for me it's big. I'm a designer, artist, soaper, crafter, planner. All that being said, I have 3 Instagrams: craft business, design business and personal.

Craft business (Panda Soap & Crafts): crafts, crochet/knit, soap

Design business (Wilson Designs): interior design, art, graphic design

Personal: everything else (mostly family stuff)

Sometimes the craft and design business cross over whenever I make a home décor item. Try to stick to a topic that is clear!

3. Time Management:

Make sure you're using your time wisely! There's times I could have been working on something but didn't pay attention to time. Don't over work yourself. You can even schedule time during the day to sit down and work.

4. Business Plan/LLC:

I don't have one! Not because I don't want one or don't think I need one... I've been interacting with my businesses as hobbies. Sit down and come up with a clear plan about what your business is. Who is you demographic? What service will you provide? Will it be an online business or is the goal to be in stores?

5. Confidence:

Having this is everything!! You have to believe in yourself and others will too!

6. Name, Logo, Packaging, Brand:

Will your name stick? Do you have a logo that looks nice? Is your packaging professional? Could you see it in stores? What is your brand? These are things you need to know going into your business...or figure it out quick. Over time these things will change. Best Tip: Make sure your brand is you!

7. Research:

It doesn't hurt to research more than one time. I research or look online at least once a week. The more information you have the better you'll be.

8. Ask For Help:

It doesn't hurt to have help. You sometimes might need to bounce an idea off someone. I usually talk to my boyfriend, mom or grandmother about my ideas.

9. Answer E-mails/Calls, Check Your Socials

10. Don't Be Afraid:

You already have an idea...shoot for the stars! I'm still afraid about this business thing but deep down I believe in myself.

These are just 10 things I've learned while I've been a crafter. Each thing I at times have a hard time with but I've made progress this year alone with posting to The Panda Blog. I predict that by Christmas my posting schedule on all my socials will be up to speed! I also predict that by New Years the Etsy shop will get sells. (I'm used to making sells in person at vendor events.)

Love & Light!

Xan