25/03/2024
Growing up in the creative industry, I've had the privilege of working with a variety of clients and projects over the years.
One thing I observed from other creatives, small /well-established business owners, and entrepreneurs is a lack of Focus, excellence, integrity, and collaboration. Mastery (FIEACM)
Unfortunately, this mindset can ultimately lead to undervaluing your work and not delivering the full value of the project.
Early in my career as a Creative entrepreneur and writer, I struggled with this aspect of lack of focus, mastery, and delivering excellent projects. I was passionate about my creative work and eager to showcase my talents, but when it was time to deliver, I found myself giving unnecessary excuses. I worried that if I sent an un-excellent and un-focus detailed work, I would lose the opportunity to work with the client again. As a result of my inability.
However, as I gained more experience and confidence in my abilities, I realized the importance of valuing my work, delivering a masterpiece, excellence, and advocating for fair compensation. I came to understand that for one to attract a certain client one must embrace quality learning and mastery is not about being greedy or money-driven, but rather about recognizing the value of the creative services we provide.
Over time, I learned to learn from the best, master it, collaborate with like minds, ask the right people the right questions, and observe the mistakes of those playing big in my industry. I began to articulate the value of my work in terms of the expertise, time, and effort invested in each project. I emphasized the unique insights and creative solutions I brought to the table, as well as the tangible benefits my clients would gain from working with me.
I am proud to say that I no longer shy away from discussing my work with clients I approach the conversations with confidence and professionalism, knowing that I am offering valuable services that deserve fair payment. This mindset shift has not only empowered me to advocate for myself but has also enabled me to deliver the full value of my creative projects to clients.
Moral Lessons, I know your pastors, coaches, and motivational speakers named it told you to start anyhow, practice makes you perfect I am not saying they are wrong, but instead of venturing into the industry with your 1k, 3k 0r 5k class knowledge, why not pay the real price to learn from the top players in your industry, Master it like no one’s business, brand it and collaborate with people who are in the same journey with you. Hey, I know you want to be called CEO, CHOCH, MENTOR, OR WHATEVER TITLE YOU ARE AFTER, make sure you are worth calling remember embracing the value of your creative work is essential for success in the creative industry.
To stand out in your industry as a creative, consider the following strategies:
- Find Your Niche
- Understand the problem you want to solve
- Embrace Risk Don't be afraid to take creative chances. Innovation often comes from stepping outside of your comfort zone.
- Learn the education and the monetization aspects of it
- create a Unique Voice, after learning from others, focus on your inner voice to create work that reflects your unique perspective and style.
- Network Effectively Dr. Stephen Akintayo will always say “Build a network before you ever need them.”
These steps can help you build a reputation as a creative being who brings unique value to your industry. Remember, standing out takes time and persistence, but with dedication, your creative work can shine.
Choose excellence, mastery, and collaboration; and insist on it!
Pictures credit: Promise Ukaigwe
-TheglobalJola
