Explore every episode of the podcast Brand Strategy Unwankified
| Title | Pub. Date | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 94. Email Marketing 101 for Designers | 05 Jun 2024 | 00:35:27 | |
Email marketing... are you doing a bit or none at all? In this episode of The C Word Podcast I share my perspective on the 3 key questions I think designer are asking when it comes to email marketing? 1. Do I really need to send regular emails, my business is about visuals not words? 2. What should I send, because who needs another newsletter? 3. How do I get people on my list? Links & Resources You Might LoveEps 59 - Lifting the Veil on the Perfect Lead Magnet 10 Lead Magnet Ideas for Graphic Designers | |||
| 93. When Your Client Doesn't Value Brand Strategy | 20 May 2024 | 00:15:49 | |
In this episode I share the one thing you need to do if you find your clients don't value or want to buy brand strategy. You need to make ‘ownership’ of brand strategy a priority and that involves upgrading 1, 2 or all of the following: • Your offer • Your message • Your content Resources You Might Love | |||
| 84. The 7 Brand Strategy Mistakes Devaluing Your Offer | 16 Feb 2024 | 00:24:18 | |
Brand strategy mistakes aren't a problem as long as you learn from them. In this episode I cover the 7 most common mistakes brand designers make when creating brand strategy for clients. Mistakes that are devaluing your offer and undermining your authority: 1. Mistaking a questionnaire for strategy 2. Failing to separate brand and design strategy 3. Not connecting the dots between theory and application 4. Keeping the process surface level 5. Allowing the client to dilute the intention 6. Looking inwards not outwards 7. Too complicated Work With Me Visit my Mentoring With Me overview to get the low-down on what options are best suited to you. Say Hello Free Workbook: Brand Designer to Strategist: The 90 Day Plan | |||
| 83. My 5 Pillar Brand Strategy Research Framework | 08 Feb 2024 | 00:17:31 | |
Your creative or strategic work is only as good as your research.
In this episode I share my 5 pillar brand strategy research framework: 1) Stakeholder Inputs 2) Brand Audit 3) Competitor Deconstruction 4) Industry Trends Analysis 5) Audience Understanding
I hope it helps! Bec Work With MeIf you’re ready to connect with me on a deeper level and work together, there are 4 ways you can do that. Just visit my Mentoring with Me overview to get the low-down on what options are best suited to you. Say Hello | |||
| 82. Should Designers Do Brand Strategy? | 31 Jan 2024 | 00:26:01 | |
Traditionally there is a hard line between brand design and brand strategy. But I don't believe this should be the case at all. In fact, you have no business designing brands if there isn’t a strategic element to what you do. In this episode I share why I think designers should not only offer brand strategy but why it's an enormous opportunity. Work With Me If you’re ready to connect with me on a deeper level and work together, there are 4 ways you can do that. Just visit my Mentoring with Me overview to get the low-down on what options are best suited to you. Say Hello | |||
| 81. Uncomplicating Business: 4 Places to Focus Your Energy | 05 Jan 2024 | 00:28:00 | |
I’m craving simplicity in my design business, which made me think maybe you are too. So I put my thinking cap on and pulled out what I think are the 4 simple premises for a good, solid business that has growth: ~ Big Fish Offer ~ Visible Value ~ Conscious Connection ~ Repeatable Experience
Find more resources and insights here... My Website... https://bechughes.com/ Instagram... https://www.instagram.com/bechughesbranding/ | |||
| 80. I Said What I Said: My Flavour for 2024 | 24 Dec 2023 | 00:12:42 | |
This episode of The C Word is a reflection on:
1) My word for the year in 2023 and 2022 2) My word for 2024 3) What my choice means for how I want 2024 to shape up 4) My mantra for 2024 and how it aligns with my word choice
Things are going to get spicy! Work With MeIf you’re ready to connect with me on a deeper level and work together, there are 4 ways you can do that. Just visit my Mentoring with Me overview to get the low-down on what options are best suited to you. Say Hello Download 50 Ways to Elevate & Communicate Your Value as a Designer | |||
| 79. Investing Your Marketing Energy for Results with Bec Chappell | 15 Dec 2023 | 00:41:10 | |
On this episode of the C Word podcast I cosy up with the energetic marketing firecracker Bec Chappell. We talk about marketing as an energetic resource and our chat covers:
~ Where people might be squandering too much of their marketing energy ~ The most effective ways to invest your energy for marketing results ~ Switching your focus to the things that give rather than sap your energy resources.
For more information and links mentioned in the episode visit: https://bechughes.com/079-marketing-results-with-bec-chappell/ | |||
| 78. Where My First 6 Clients Came From | 06 Dec 2023 | 00:25:19 | |
One of the most common questions I get asked is where do I find clients. In this episode I share where my first 6 clients came from and what that’s taught me about where to find clients. Hopefully it will give you some inspiration to help build your client list no matter what stage you're at as a designer. Work With Me If you’re ready to connect with me on a deeper level and work together, there are 4 ways you can do that. Just visit my mentoring with Me overview to get the low-down on what options are best suited to you. Say Hello Download 50 Ways to Elevate & Communicate Your Value as a Designer
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| 77. What You Need to Create a Passive Income | 24 Nov 2023 | 00:16:39 | |
Passive income for designers is equal parts misconception and great opportunity. First, let’s not call it passive income. Passive implies no action and I haven’t come across any income that doesn’t require action. In this episode I share 8 things to build or consider when creating a 'one-to-many' income stream. Work With Me If you’re ready to connect with me on a deeper level and work together, there are 4 ways you can do that. Just visit my Mentoring with Me overview to get the low-down on what options are best suited to you. Say Hello Download 50 Ways to Elevate & Communicate Your Value as a Designer | |||
| 76. Over-Thinking and Over-Investing in Studio Systems | 17 Nov 2023 | 00:39:19 | |
Have you been over-thinking and over-investing in your studio systems? In this podcast I talk about: ~ Why apps and systemisation have become a status symbol ~ When over-engineering your systems might be holding you back ~ What to consider when choosing how you systemise in your business ~ What you actually need at different stages in your design business The biggest take-out I hope you get from this podcast is there is no perfect solution. You’re not missing out on something that only those in the know are aware of and it’s OK to keep it simple. Bells and whistles are not always best. Work With Me If you’re ready to connect with me on a deeper level and work together, there are 4 ways you can do that. Just visit my Mentoring with Me overview to get the low-down on what options are best suited to you. Say Hello Download 50 Ways to Elevate & Communicate Your Value as a Designer | |||
| 75. Amplify Your Story Through Imagery with Grace Costa | 04 Nov 2023 | 00:37:08 | |
Imagery is a crucial part of your brand, even more so as a creative. In this episode of The C Word I have a super informative chat with Grace Costa, photographer, podcaster and mentor, about using a curated image library to amplify both your brand and personal brand story. Grace shares some really actionable advice about: ~ How to choose the right photographer ~ What image categories you should consider as part of a comprehensive image library ~ How to get started with some good quality DIY images Connect with Grace Other Links My guest episode on The Photo Diaries Say Hello Download 50 Ways to Elevate & Communicate Your Value as a Designer | |||
| 92. Getting Your Design Work Signed Off First Time | 16 Apr 2024 | 00:21:12 | |
Sometimes the design work just isn't right, but that's not always the case. In this episode I share some of the other reasons clients don't sign off first time. I also share 4 things you can do to work towards making sign-off first time the norm not the exception. Bec x Resources You Might Love | |||
| 74. Should You Put Your Prices on Your Website | 31 Oct 2023 | 00:24:05 | |
As a designer, should you put your prices on your website? It’s a very common question.
In this episode of The C Word I chat about:
~ My own changing perspective on this. ~ The reasons why you might not want to be quite so transparent ~ Your options and the benefits
All just to give you some food for thought. Bec x Work With Me If you’re ready to connect with me on a deeper level and work together, there are 4 ways you can do that. Just visit my Mentoring with Me overview to get the low-down on what options are best suited to you. Say Hello Download 50 Ways to Elevate & Communicate Your Value as a Designer | |||
| 73. Take SEO Out of the Too Hard Basket with Karlie Plowman | 19 Oct 2023 | 00:45:35 | |
SEO for designers is just as important as any other industry. It's time to take it out of the too hard basket.
Whether your SEO's a bit S.H.I.T. or you and Google are besties from way back, you’ll want to listen to this episode.
Karlie Plowman and I talk about:
~ SEO basics and what it’s all about ~ The foundations for getting started with SEO for designers either if you’re a noob or if things have gotten a bit messy ~ Karlie shares some fab free SEO resources ~ The importance of quality content when it comes to SEO for designers.
I challenge you not to come away from this wanting to do something with your SEO. Connect with Karlie Connect with Karlie on Instagram Work With Me If you’re ready to connect with me on a deeper level and work together, there are 4 ways you can do that. Just visit my Mentoring with Me overview to get the low-down on what options are best suited to you. Say Hello Download 50 Ways to Elevate & Communicate Your Value as a Designer | |||
| 72. How Many Design Concepts Should You Present? | 13 Oct 2023 | 00:24:21 | |
How many design concepts should you present?
Designers often want to know what's the perfect number? What's best-practice? What's everyone else doing?
The truth is I’m not sure there’s a hard and fast 'right answer' to this question.
In this episode of The C Word podcast, I share my view on the pros and cons of 3 approaches: ~ The 'One and Done' Concept ~ Multiple Concepts ~ My own 'Diamond Concept' Approach
And guest what… I’ll let you choose what works for you :) Work With MeIf you’re ready to connect with me on a deeper level and work together, there are 4 ways you can do that. Just visit my Mentoring with Me overview to get the low-down on what options are best suited to you. Say Hello Download 50 Ways to Elevate & Communicate Your Value as a Designer | |||
| 71. Website Development as a Revenue Stream with Nikki Hamilton | 03 Oct 2023 | 00:40:36 | |
On this episode of The C Word podcast I have a fab chat with Nikki Hamilton from Seedling Digital. We dive onto the opportunity for designers to create a web development revenue stream.
We cover: ~ The pitfalls for designers starting in web dev ~ Why it's such a big opportunity ~ How to get started
Nikki also shares her personal story as a self taught brand and web designer, and the impact of her recent ADHD and autism diagnosis.
CONNECT WITH NIKKI WORK WITH ME If you’re ready to connect with me on a deeper level and work together, there are 4 ways you can do that. Just visit my Mentoring with Me overview to get the low-down on what options are best suited to you. SAY HELLO Download 50 Ways to Elevate & Communicate Your Value as a Designer
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| 70. Getting Found Part 2 - Volume and Value | 26 Sep 2023 | 00:18:26 | |
In episode 68 of The C Word, I shared my insights on standing out in a crowded market, focusing on the 4 key opportunities to leverage. But there’s almost no point in focusing on building your brand to stand out if you can’t be found, seen or heard. So in episode 69 I shared the first part of my 3 'V' framework to 'stand up' and be seen... visibility. In this final episode in the mini-series, I dive into how you can leverage volume and value to support your brand to be found by potential clients RELATED EPISODES Episode 68 - Standing Out in a Crowded Industry Episode 69 - Getting Found Part 2 - Volume and Value WORK WITH ME If you’re ready to connect with me on a deeper level and work together, there are 4 ways you can do that. Just visit my Mentoring with Me overview to get the low-down on what options are best suited to you. SAY HELLO Download 50 Ways to Elevate & Communicate Your Value as a Designer | |||
| 69. Getting Found Part 1 - Visibility | 26 Sep 2023 | 00:31:18 | |
There’s almost no point in focusing on building your brand to stand out if you can’t be found, seen or heard. In the previous episode (#68), I shared my insights on standing out in a crowded market, focusing on the 4 key opportunities to leverage. For the next 2 episodes, #69 and #70, I'm sharing the magic little framework I refer to when it comes to being seen and 'standing up'. It’s made up of 3 lovely little V words… visibility, volume and value. In this episode I'll share 14 visibility tactics that you can test and try in your business to support your brand and be found by potential clients. Then in episode 70 I'll take a deep-dive into how to leverage volume and value.
RELATED EPISODES Episode 68 - Standing Out in a Crowded Industry Episode 70 - Getting Found Part 2 - Volume and Value
WORK WITH ME If you’re ready to connect with me on a deeper level and work together, there are 4 ways you can do that. Just visit my Mentoring with Me overview to get the low-down on what options are best suited to you.
SAY HELLO Download 50 Ways to Elevate & Communicate Your Value as a Designer | |||
| 68. Standing Out in a Crowded Industry | 04 Sep 2023 | 00:26:57 | |
How do you stand out in a crowded industry? That’s probably one of the most crucial questions for any business owner.
Surprisingly the answer is not post more on social media.
In this episode of The C Word Podcast I'll explore 4 key learnings designers can take from brands that stand-out across different industries to apply to our own creative business:
1. Innovation... the magic in your unique method. 2. Desirability... use your brand style to ensure people believe you can help them achieve the self image they desire. 3. Relevance & Relatability... becoming the go to expert for your audience. 4. Cut-Through... cultivate your personal brand.
And don't forget to subscribe or join my 'in the know' list to be the first to know when I share the follow up episode about being seen and heard. Because there's no point in creating a stand-out brand if no one can see you doing it!
WORK WITH ME If you’re ready to connect with me on a deeper level and work together, there are 4 ways you can do that. Just visit my Mentoring with Me overview to get the low-down on what options are best suited to you.
SAY HELLO Download 50 Ways to Elevate & Communicate Your Value as a Designer | |||
| 67. Your Ego and the Impact on Your Business | 16 Aug 2023 | 00:22:23 | |
Self-concept, also called self-image, self-identity or ego, is at the centre of just about everything we do. It's a powerful force and can propel you forward or it can hold you back and stop you from being and doing what you want. In this episode of the C Word Podcast I look at: ~ The 3 aspects of self-concept ~ How self-concept can adversely affect designers in their business ~ How you can use self-concept to change how you behave in your business for the better ~ Examples of how self-concept has informed and supported me in my life and business
WORK WITH ME If you’re ready to connect with me on a deeper level and work together, there are 4 ways you can do that, visit https://bechughes.com/mentoringwithme/
SAY HELLO Download 50 Ways to Elevate & Communicate Your Value as a Designer | |||
| 66. Grow with Brand Strategy Inspired Income Streams | 30 Jul 2023 | 00:25:25 | |
There are lots of way to create an income from brand strategy related services, it doesn’t have to be an all in brand strategy process.
In this episode of The C Word podcast, I share 6 potential revenue streams that will allow you to create income from brand strategy and other brand related services:
1) Branding Audit
2) Brand Audit (not a typo, they are different!)
3) Naming
4) Consultancy Intensives
5) Style Guide & Guidelines Creation
6) Digital Products
Let’s dive in and see if we can find 1, 2 or more new income streams for your business.
Bec
THE BRAND METHOD PROGRAM Create a Brand Strategy income stream
SAY HELLO Download 50 Ways to Elevate & Communicate Your Value as a Designer
WORK WITH ME If you’re ready to connect with me on a deeper level this year and work together, there are 2 ways you can do that: ~ 1:1 Creative Insider Business Coaching… visit bechughes.com/business-coach-for-creatives ~ The Creative Value Incubator… visit bechughes.com/incubator/ | |||
| 65. Strengthen and Elevate Your Brand Strategy Offer | 17 Jul 2023 | 00:34:24 | |
Brand strategy as a core part of your offer in a brand design business has so many benefits including: ~ Increased revenue ~ More impactful creative outcomes ~ More fulfilling client relationships
In this episode, I share 6 essentials that will strengthen and elevate your brand strategy offer as a creative in business so you feel confident delivering and charging for it: 1) Your brand strategy methodology 2) The Consultant Mindset 3) Industry case studies 4) Co-creating the brief 5) Brand-led messaging 6) Putting brand strategy at the centre of your business
SAY HELLO Download 50 Ways to Elevate & Communicate Your Value as a Designer
WORK WITH ME If you’re ready to connect with me on a deeper level this year and work together, there are 2 ways you can do that: ~ 1:1 Creative Insider Business Coaching… visit bechughes.com/business-coach-for-creatives ~ The Creative Value Incubator… visit bechughes.com/incubator/ | |||
| 91. My Shittiest Client Experiences | 11 Apr 2024 | 00:26:03 | |
This episode is part therapy session, part cautionary tale and part paying it forward so you can learn from my mistakes. First, let's be real, having 100% 'dream clients' isn't realistic. You won't always repel or be able to pick the pain in the ass clients straightaway. In this episode you'll hear about: ~ My shittiest client experiences ~ The learnings I took from it ~ Why 80:20 'shining star' vs 'shitty' clients is great, not a sign of failure ~ What you can do to give yourself the best chance of achieving and improving on that ratio Resources You Might Love | |||
| 64. 5 Essential Strategies to Amplify Your Content’s Impact | 28 Jun 2023 | 00:21:52 | |
I read a rare, 'stop-me-in-my-tracks', good enough to want to share in my stories piece of content recently.
So I ran a little diagnostic on it and pulled out 5 strategies that will help you create more impactful, growth delivering content of your own:
Strategy 1: Get out of the studio and into your client’s office Strategy 2: The so what...? story Strategy 3: The BBQ chat principle Strategy 4: People forget facts, but they remember stories Strategy 5: The best unkept secret
Listen for an in-depth demonstration of each strategy including specific, actionable examples.
SAY HELLO Download 50 Ways to Elevate & Communicate Your Value as a Designer
WORK WITH ME If you’re ready to connect with me on a deeper level this year and work together, there are 2 ways you can do that: ~ 1:1 Creative Insider Business Coaching… visit bechughes.com/business-coach-for-creatives ~ The Creative Value Incubator… visit bechughes.com/incubator/
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| 63. Rebranding Networking | 22 Jun 2023 | 00:23:01 | |
Networking needs a rebrand!
It can feel particularly awkward for designers. We're most at home in a creative bubble. So getting out and meeting people with an agenda of business growth feels cringey and unauthentic.
But I think your network is more important than your portfolio, and would love to see more designers feeling inspired and aligned to the idea.
In this episode, my aim is to reframe how you see networking, the ways you can approach it and the things you can do to network in a way that works for you.
SAY HELLO Download 50 Ways to Elevate & Communicate Your Value as a Designer
WORK WITH ME If you’re ready to connect with me on a deeper level this year and work together, there are 2 ways you can do that: ~ 1:1 Creative Insider Business Coaching… visit bechughes.com/business-coach-for-creatives ~ The Creative Value Incubator… visit bechughes.com/incubator/ | |||
| 62. Consultant Mindset versus Producer Mindset | 18 Jun 2023 | 00:34:59 | |
In this episode I take a deep-dive into the Consultant Mindset:
~ What it is and how it's different to the producer mindset ~ The value of cultivating your consultant mindset in your design business ~ Some of the signs that your consultant mindset might need work ~ 9 attitudes and behaviours of a creative consultant ~ What it looks like in action in your business and how you can implement it
Thanks for listening! Bec
SAY HELLO Download 50 Ways to Elevate & Communicate Your Value as a Designer
WORK WITH ME If you’re ready to connect with me on a deeper level this year and work together, there are 2 ways you can do that: ~ 1:1 Creative Insider Business Coaching… visit bechughes.com/business-coach-for-creatives ~ The Creative Value Incubator… visit bechughes.com/incubator/ | |||
| 61. Secrets to a Discovery Call that Converts | 09 Jun 2023 | 00:36:08 | |
In this episode of The C Word Podcast I take a deep dive into discovery calls:
• What a discovery call actually is and what it isn't! • How it fits into the discovery process and why it's an important distinction • The biggest secret to success when it comes to discovery calls • My tips for a great discovery call and what works for me • The 5 phase framework for a well-managed call: pleasantries, explore, share, clarity, next steps.
I hope you find it useful and it takes some of the pressure off your next discovery call. Bec
SAY HELLO Download 50 Ways to Elevate & Communicate Your Value as a Designer
WORK WITH ME If you’re ready to connect with me on a deeper level this year and work together, there are 2 ways you can do that: ~ 1:1 Creative Insider Business Coaching… visit bechughes.com/business-coach-for-creatives ~ The Creative Value Incubator… visit bechughes.com/incubator/
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| 60. How It’s Going Hotseat with Bec Hughes | 30 May 2023 | 00:26:40 | |
To celebrate 1 year of The C Word podcast, I invite you to join me for a fun Q&A. In honour of the tradition started in Episode 1 of The C Word Podcast, I'm interviewing myself on how things are going as a podcaster 1 year on. I share my learnings from the podcast and business in general, and look ahead to what the next 12 months has in store. Listen in for a bit of a giggle, more about me and some tips and snippets of inspo along the way. I also mention 'The Brand Brief', a monthly muse on what's inspired and interested me in the world of brand and design. Click here to join in and get your regular dose: bechughes.com/the-brand-brief/
RELATED EPISODES Episode 16: Are You Missing the Opportunity to Sell Strategy Episode 30: 3 Words that will Increase Your Value Episode 14: From Freelancer to Design Business Freedom
SAY HELLO Download 50 Ways to Elevate & Communicate Your Value as a Designer
WORKING WITH ME IN 2023 If you’re ready to connect with me on a deeper level this year and work together, there are 2 ways you can do that: ~ 1:1 Creative Insider Business Coaching… visit bechughes.com/business-coach-for-creatives ~ The Creative Value Incubator… visit bechughes.com/incubator/
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| 59. Lifting the Veil on the Perfect Lead Magnet | 26 May 2023 | 00:31:32 | |
In this episode of The C Word Podcast I get super practical and dive into what makes for the perfect lead magnet.
I chat about: ~ The purpose of a lead magnet and getting that clear ~ 5 ingredients of a great lead magnet ~ 8 steps to create and share an effective lead magnet
At the end of the episode I mention my blog with 10 Lead Magnet Ideas for Graphic Designs which you can check out via this link: https://bechughes.com/lead-magnet-ideas-for-graphic-designers/
RELATED LINKS On the Blog: 10 Lead Magnet Ideas for Graphic Designers
SAY HELLO Download 50 Ways to Elevate & Communicate Your Value as a Designer
WORK WITH ME If you’re ready to connect with me on a deeper level this year and work together, there are 2 ways you can do that: ~ 1:1 Creative Insider Business Coaching… visit bechughes.com/business-coach-for-creatives ~ The Creative Value Incubator… visit bechughes.com/incubator/
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| 58. How to Be More Consistent... On Purpose | 19 May 2023 | 00:43:13 | |
Being consistent is something many solo creatives and small business owners wrestle with. In this episode of The C Word podcast I talk about some ideas and strategies to help you be more consistent: ~ 3 golden rules for choosing the right places to invest your efforts ~ Why consistently isn't just about your social media posts ~ The concept of a consistency practice and why it's useful ~ 7 strategies to support you to create the right foundations for consistency Enjoy! Bec
RELATED EPISODES Episode 37 – Mindset Strategies for Effective Selling with Christine Corcoran
SAY HELLO Download 50 Ways to Elevate & Communicate Your Value as a Designer
WORKING WITH ME IN 2023 If you’re ready to connect with me on a deeper level this year and work together, there are 2 ways you can do that: ~ 1:1 Creative Insider Business Coaching… visit bechughes.com/business-coach-for-creatives ~ The Creative Value Incubator… visit bechughes.com/incubator/
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| 57. Mindset Strategies for Effective Selling with Christine Corcoran | 10 May 2023 | 00:59:19 | |
Christine Corcoran is a Business Mindset Master Coach, Speaker, Podcast host and Creator of the Thrive Retreat & ELEVATED Program.
And she really brings the goods when it comes to mindset.
Christine is a qualified Practitioner in Master Neuro-Linguistic Programming, Matrix Therapies and an MBraining Practitioner with an extensive study of Human Behavioural Profiling, Hypnotherapy and Leadership Coaching.
We cover so much valuable ground in this podcast: ~ What mindset is and why it requires work and dedication to change it ~ Separating the value you create as a designer from your worthiness as an awesome human ~ The impact of mindset on your pricing, and why it can lead to undercharging and challenges when communicating your value ~ The role of mindset in sales ~ Strategies for effective sales calls and conversations ~ The concept of an identity upgrade and how it links to your belief systems
Pencils sharpened and at the ready because this is a pot of gold!
CONNECT WITH CHRISTINE WORKING WITH ME If you’re ready to connect with me on a deeper level this year and work together, there are 2 ways you can do that: ~ 1:1 Creative Insider Business Coaching… visit bechughes.com/business-coach-for-creatives ~ The Creative Value Incubator… visit bechughes.com/incubator/
SAY HELLO! Download 50 Ways to Elevate & Communicate Your Value as a Designer | |||
| 56. Overcoming Objections from Prospective Clients | 03 May 2023 | 00:29:50 | |
In this episode of The C Word podcast I talk about overcoming client objections from new prospects and enquiries.
I'll get in your ears about: ~ The 3 pivotal points in the sales process to effectively tackle objections ~ How to get closer to your prospective client to understand what their objections might be ~ The most important skill when it comes to overcoming client objections ~ My tips for overcoming the 3 most common client objections
RELATED EPISODES Episode 17 – Ditch Your Price List and Do This Instead
SAY HELLO Download 50 Ways to Elevate & Communicate Your Value as a Designer
WORKING WITH ME If you’re ready to connect with me on a deeper level this year and work together, there are 2 ways you can do that: ~ 1:1 Creative Insider Business Coaching… visit bechughes.com/business-coach-for-creatives ~ The Creative Value Incubator… visit bechughes.com/incubator/
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| 55. Project Layering - The Sweet Spot for Increasing Your Income | 28 Apr 2023 | 00:25:38 | |
How do you manage your workload and your workflow? And more importantly how is that reflected in the money you make as a designer? For may designers we are inundated and juggling work frantically one minute and then staring at a blank schedule wondering where the next project is coming from the next. In this episode I explore how other designers work and manage their workload. I’ll share my approach, which I call Project Layering, and how that can increase your revenue and also the overall manageability and sustainability of your business.
I’ll be chatting about: ~ What the different approaches to workload management look like for the designers I asked ~ The pros and cons of each ~ The foundations of an ideal scenario and what that scenario could look like for you ~ The direct and specific impact it can have on your income figures
Link to the show notes and visual reference I talk about in the episode: https://bechughes.com/increasing-your-income/
SAY HELLO Download 50 Ways to Elevate & Communicate Your Value as a Designer
WORKING WITH ME IN 2023 If you’re ready to connect with me on a deeper level this year and work together, there are 2 ways you can do that: ~ 1:1 Creative Insider Business Coaching… visit bechughes.com/business-coach-for-creatives ~ The Creative Value Incubator… visit bechughes.com/incubator/ | |||
| 90. ChatGPT and Brand Strategy: Can You Outsource Your Creativity to AI? | 02 Apr 2024 | 00:34:43 | |
With so many tools and custom prompts to support AI generated content and solutions, I want to ask if AI can make you more creative. It can make you more efficient, perhaps more informed. But as brand designers one of our key messages is the importance of originality and ingenuity in brand. How can we use AI as the creative engine and simultaneously stand by that claim? Does using AI as a tool to create brand strategy undermine our point of difference, turn us into a curator rather than a creator? In this podcast, I discuss why AI is both a threat and (ironically) a competitive advantage for brand designers. Resources You Might Love | |||
| 54. 10 Things I Would NOT Do Again if I was a Start-Up | 18 Apr 2023 | 00:31:47 | |
In the previous episode of The C Word podcast I shared the top 10 things I would do first if I was a start-up. I'm following that up in this episode with the 10 things I would NOT do again if I was a start-up.
I reflect on things I did in the evolution of my business that, with the benefit of hindsight, I would avoid or do differently now:
1) Paid Online Ads 2) Services Just for Revenue 3) Persist with Red Flag Clients 4) Free or Reciprocal Work 5) Tailor the Process or Timeline 6) Putting Client Work Before My Well-Being 7) Over-Invest in Meetings 8) Referrals 9) Evidence of Industry 10) Worry About What Others Think
SAY HELLO Download 50 Ways to Elevate & Communicate Your Value as a Designer
WORKING WITH ME IN 2023 If you’re ready to connect with me on a deeper level this year and work together, there are 2 ways you can do that: 1:1 Creative Insider Business Coaching… visit bechughes.com/business-coach-for-creatives The Creative Value Incubator… visit bechughes.com/incubator/ | |||
| 53. 10 Things I Would Do First If I was a Start-Up | 18 Apr 2023 | 00:50:14 | |
If I was a start-up design business what would I do in today's market? It's been some time since I started my business and a lot has changed. Not only that, I've learned a lot and have the benefit of hindsight.
So in this episode of The C Word podcast, I reflect on what I would do now if I was a start-up design business based on what I believe would give me the fastest but also the most sustainable growth:
1) Create a Simple Packaged Offer 2) Focus on a Robust Website & SEO 3) Embrace My Personal Brand 4) Build My Network & Community 5) Grow & Nurture My Email List 6) Intentional, Consistent Content 7) Make Strategy the Hero 8) Commit to Robust Legal & Financial Systems 9) Streamline My Process 10) Define & Uphold My Boundaries
SAY HELLO Download 50 Ways to Elevate & Communicate Your Value as a Designer
WORKING WITH ME IN 2023 If you’re ready to connect with me on a deeper level this year and work together, there are 2 ways you can do that: 1:1 Creative Insider Business Coaching… visit bechughes.com/business-coach-for-creatives The Creative Value Incubator… visit bechughes.com/incubator/ | |||
| 52. Business Legals for Designers with Tracey Mylecharane | 30 Mar 2023 | 00:42:46 | |
Business legals for designers often only come up when you need to lean on them in a tricky client situation. And if you don't have them in place, it's almost too late to start thinking about them at that point. My guest on this podcast is Tracey Mylecharane founder of TM Solicitor. She is an unconventional business lawyer who delivers confidence for small business owners. Tracey has created business legals for designers as well as many other small businesses and in this episode she shares her wisdom on: • Why your legals are a business essential no matter what stage you're at • How your legal documents can be an extension of your brand and values • The importance and impact in creating a professional client experience • Why templated legal documents are not a good idea • Which legal documents you need as a minimum Even the nicest people can turn combative when there’s money involved. So if you’re sitting there thinking 'I don’t need legal protection, all my clients are lovely, it will never happen to me!' Don’t say I didn’t warn you.
CONNECT WITH TRACEY WORK WITH ME If you’re ready to connect with me on a deeper level this year and work together, there are 2 ways you can do that: 1:1 Creative Insider Business Coaching… visit bechughes.com/business-coach-for-creatives The Creative Value Incubator… visit bechughes.com/incubator/
SAY HELLO! Download 50 Ways to Elevate & Communicate Your Value as a Designer | |||
| 51. Connecting the Dots Between Brand Strategy, Design Strategy and Brand Design | 23 Mar 2023 | 00:28:39 | |
In this episode of The C Word, I step through the 3 elements of Brand Creation: 1) Brand Strategy 2) Design Strategy 3) Brand Design Understanding and then leveraging these 3 distinct stages and skill sets is an important opportunity for design businesses. I share: • The purpose of each stage and how they differ • What brand strategy actually is • The building blocks of a comprehensive design strategy • How the 3 stages interlock to create a powerful brand outcome • How you can leverage them to create more value in your design business Enjoy! Bec x
RELATED EPISODES Episode 30 - 3 Words to that will Increase Your Value as a Designer Episode 16 - Are You Missing the Opportunity to Sell Strategy
SAY HELLO! Download 50 Ways to Elevate & Communicate Your Value as a Designer
WORKING WITH ME If you’re ready to connect with me on a deeper level this year and work together, there are 2 ways you can do that: 1:1 Creative Insider Business Coaching… visit bechughes.com/business-coach-for-creatives The Creative Value Incubator… visit bechughes.com/incubator/ | |||
| 50. Knowing When to Say No to a Prospective Client | 15 Mar 2023 | 00:26:32 | |
Something that most designers will realise at some stage in business is not all work is good work! But instead of getting halfway through a project and realising that, wouldn't it be better to say no to those projects in the first place? Now I appreciate that's easier said than done. Recognising which clients to say no to off the back of an enquiry or discovery call isn't always straightforward. But there are some red flags you can look out for which I'll share in this episode. I also share why getting clear on your values, boundaries, niche and ideal client are foundational when it comes to knowing which projects and/or clients are right for you. And I talk through a handy response model to help you say no promptly and confidently so things don't drag on or get awkward! Because the impact of not saying no to the wrong work is considerable when it comes to taking your opportunities, your profit and your well being in your business. Bec x | |||
| 49. Reflections on Being a Female Creative on International Women’s Day | 08 Mar 2023 | 00:36:33 | |
In this off-the-cuff, reflective episode of The C Word Podcast, I explore my very personal musings on what it is to be a female designer.
This episode is inspired by the sentiment of International Women's Day and my view that this day should be a demand for change as much as a celebration of women.
I share some of my own experiences as a female designer and how I think they were influenced by gender bias in the design industry.
I also reflect on what needs to change in the design industry to address the glaringly uncomfortable statistic of how many females enter the industry as juniors versus how many go on to occupy senior positions. It's not pretty!
And finally I share my view on how this bias in agency life impacts those who go on to be female creative business owners. Something I want to help change in my own contribution to the industry. Bec
WORKING WITH ME If you’re ready to connect with me on a deeper level and work together, there are 2 ways you can do that: 1:1 Creative Insider Business Coaching… visit bechughes.com/business-coach-for-creatives The Creative Value Incubator… visit bechughes.com/incubator/
SAY HELLO! Download My Free Profit Plumping Strategies Training and Worksheet ‘Meet Me at the Water Cooler’ for monthly creative conversations, coaching and chats | |||
| 48. Beyond Socials: Digital Marketing Inspiration with Maryanne Amies | 02 Mar 2023 | 00:45:21 | |
Digital Marketing is probably highest on most business owners priority lists. For some it's an exciting, evolving opportunity, and for many others it's a minefield. In this podcast I’m joined by one of my favourite people Maryanne Amies, founder of award Winning Digital Marketing Agency, Wise Up Marketing. Mary-Anne has lived through the launch of Instagram, Paid Social ads, TikTok and everything in between – you could call her the veteran of digital marketing. In this episode we cover a lot of ground. Maryanne is an all round good human being. Settle in for some light-hearted banter and stick around for the digital marketing gold. We cover: ~ Challenges and opportunities of social media for creatives ~ The future of the curated feed ~ Digital strategy beyond socials including your website, list building, email marketing and digital networking ~ Trends to look out for Oh and you’ll find out what Maryanne really thinks about the British royal family and what she’ll do to you if you give her cheap chocolate!CONNECT WITH MARYANNE WORKING WITH ME If you’re ready to connect with me on a deeper level this year and work together, there are 2 ways you can do that: 1:1 Creative Insider Business Coaching… visit bechughes.com/business-coach-for-creatives The Creative Value Incubator… visit bechughes.com/incubator/
SAY HELLO! Download My Free Profit Plumping Strategies Training and Worksheet ‘Meet Me at the Water Cooler’ for monthly creative conversations, coaching and chats | |||
| 47. Communicate Your Value: What, How & Where | 23 Feb 2023 | 00:28:13 | |
How do you communicate your value as a designer? It's a question that comes up a lot amongst the designers I connect with. Being able to confidently communicate your value is the foundation for feeling more valued and becoming more valuable as a designer. In this episode of The C Word Podcast I talk about the what, how and where to define and then communicate your value effectively: • What the 5 key elements are you should focus on to articulate your value • How to communicate that value in the most engaging and meaningful ways • Where you should be talking about and showcasing your value with purpose and intention Bec x
WORKING WITH ME If you’re ready to connect with me on a deeper level this year and work together, there are 2 ways you can do that: 1:1 Creative Insider Business Coaching… visit bechughes.com/business-coach-for-creatives The Creative Value Incubator… visit bechughes.com/incubator/
SAY HELLO! Download My Free Profit Plumping Strategies Training and Worksheet 'Meet Me at the Water Cooler' for monthly creative conversations, coaching and chats | |||
| 46. A Client Off-Boarding that Future Expands Your Business | 15 Feb 2023 | 00:22:59 | |
We all know about client onboarding but what about client off-boarding? It's sometimes the poorer cousin of the onboarding, but an intentional client off-boarding is often an overlooked but awesome opportunity full of potential goodness for your business. On this episode of The C Word I share why I think it’s something you should pay more than lip-service to and what I think a good off boarding looks like: • The 3 important jobs of a client off-boarding • Why projects don't always wrap-up neatly • The benefits of a well considered client off-boarding process • 10 questions to ask yourself when masterminding your approach to off-boarding • What it means to future-expand your business
WORKING WITH ME If you’re ready to connect with me on a deeper level this year and work together, there are 2 ways you can do that: ~ 1:1 Creative Insider Business Coaching… visit bechughes.com/business-coach-for-creatives ~ The Creative Value Incubator… visit bechughes.com/incubator/
SAY HELLO! | |||
| 45. If You’re Not Earning $100k You’re Not Successful | 10 Feb 2023 | 00:21:54 | |
If you're not earning $100k you're not successful! Of course I don't belief that to be true. Because no one can tell you what you should be earning. But I received an email recently from a coach and mentor and to be honest it really pee’d me off. In short it implied just this... if you’re earning anything less than $100k as a designer you're underachieving. You’re just another struggling designer statistic. And I felt it was important to address everything that's not only wrong, but dangerously misleading about that statement. So in this podcast I discuss: • What's wrong in the coaching industry and the marketing constructs of 'cult coaches' • The real reason coaches talk about money and earnings... spoiler, it's not to benefit you • Why it's important to set your own financial goals • Why the revenue figure isn't what you should be focusing on I also talk very openly about my own challenge to myself as a coach and mentor and how I want to do things not only differently but much better. This is a ranty one, at times it's a raw one, because I am deeply concerned by what I see sometimes. And I want to talk about it openly because I know it's not just me. Bec x
WORKING WITH ME If you’re ready to connect with me on a deeper level this year and work together, there are 2 ways you can do that: 1:1 Creative Insider Business Coaching… visit bechughes.com/business-coach-for-creatives The Creative Value Incubator… visit bechughes.com/incubator/
SAY HELLO! | |||
| 89. The No1 Reason Your Content Isn't Connecting With Your Audience | 27 Mar 2024 | 00:12:26 | |
Would you rather lots of engagement with your content from people who will never buy from you or a small amount of engagement from people who will buy from you? I think we'd all say the same thing... if our logical brain was answering. But the emotional reality is quite different. In this episode I discuss: • The reason designers are falling into the trap of a specific type of content • Why that content isn't working for you • The 3 types of content that turn your ideal client off • How you can flip that content to work harder for you Brand Designers Resources You Might Love | |||
| 44. What Does it Actually Mean to ’Show Up’? | 02 Feb 2023 | 00:25:39 | |
I hear it all the time that you need to ‘show up’ in your business, in your marketing and for your audience. And I wanted to pick the concept apart. Because I don’t disagree with the sentiment of it, I just think the phrase has become overused and misunderstood. Very often it just manifests itself as showing your face and the occasional (re)introduction post on social media. In this podcast, I talk about what the concept of 'showing up' means to me, the ways in which I’ve found it beneficial in my business and how I choose to apply it.
WORKING WITH ME If you’re ready to connect with me on a deeper level this year and work together, there are 2 ways you can work with me: Creative Business Insider 1:1 Coaching… visit https://bechughes.com/business-coach-for-creatives The Creative Value Incubator… visit bechughes.com/incubator/
SAY HELLO!
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| 43. The Client Centred Business Model is Broken | 25 Jan 2023 | 00:31:01 | |
In this episode of the C Word Podcast I want to challenge one of the most ingrained concepts in the creative industry, and that is the client centred business model. Because I believe it's fundamentally broken and it doesn't serve clients or creatives.
I'll share: 1/ Why I think the model is problematic 2/ The impact it has on designers creating a business that works for them 3/ An alternative creative-centred model 4/ 5 key ingredients to crafting that business and becoming a more valuable and valued designer
THE CREATIVE VALUE INCUBATOR
RELATED EPISODES Eps28 - Setting Boundaries with Clients and Staying Friends Eps24 - Cultivating Unshakeable Belief in Your Creative Work | |||
| 42. 9 Ways to Jump Start Your Revenue During a Quiet Period | 18 Jan 2023 | 00:21:13 | |
In this episode of The C Word podcast I get super practical with 9 ways to jump start your revenue if things have gone a bit quiet. Most design businesses have ebbs and flows and will experience quiet periods. January is often a slow month, with little client activity. But with talk of an economic down turn, I know those experiencing lean times are feeling the pressure and the worry of things feeling a bit slow. So I wanted to help get you into a growth mindset and share some immediate actions you can take to get some instant revenue into your design business quick sticks!
Working with me in 2023 If you're ready to connect with me on a deeper level this year and work together, there are 2 things happening at the Strat go 2023: ✨Aspiration to Action Intention Setting Challenge... visit bechughes.com/one/ ✨Doors open soon for the first live round of the Creative Value Incubator starting on 6 Feb... visit bechughes.com/incubator/ Say hello! | |||
| 41. A Game-Changer for Every Design Business | 11 Jan 2023 | 00:33:10 | |
In today's episode I'm sharing one of the biggest game-changers for any design business - brand, graphic, web or otherwise. And that is presenting your creative work in person.
This is something I think many designers are reluctant to do. However, I believe it can have such a positive influence on how much your clients value you and the impact you can create with your work.
So I share the key reasons I think this is so important for designers, as well as tackling the key objections I hear from fellow creatives when the subject of presenting your work in person comes up. FIND OUT MORE & SAY HI! Creative Value Incubator Guest List | |||