Ten Lessons From My First Year In Business
It’s official, today marks ONE year in business and I couldn’t be more humbled by the overall reception Sweeney Curations has received over the past year. I can remember the nerves that came with the official launch like it was yesterday, but the excitement and passion that gave me the courage to move forward were stronger. For every like, share, comment, referral, and project; the belief and encouragement so many of you have in this business has never gone unnoticed. I thrive on providing a service that makes a difference for so many business owners and I didn’t quite grasp when I started this company how much of an impact my knowledge, skill and work would have for other businesses.
I could go on and on, but let’s get down to it.
1) Perfection doesn’t exist. Be present and bring your best self forward, that is all.
2) Balance is unattainable. When people ask how I do it with two kids at home, I respond “It’s called survival mode; some nights we eat frozen pizza, some days they watch too much Paw Patrol. Some days work doesn’t get touched until bedtime and I end up working late into the evening hours and pay for it the next day.”
3) Some days are productive, and others not so much. As is life, some days the creativity flows and other days it does not. Be kind to yourself.
4) Not everyone you know will support you. I remember reading about this before I started my business, and I thought what an odd concept. It wasn’t until I officially launched that it quickly became apparent that some of the most supportive people are strangers or people you barely know. Yet, people that you truly thought would be referring your services, or engaging with your posts - simply don’t. Accept it, don’t focus on it, and be grateful for all the support you do receive.
5) Transparency. Being open and honest with everyone (potential clients, clients, suppliers, etc) is ALWAYS a good thing. It’s what makes people trust you, and it’s what gives you a reputation for being upfront and honest, which is something you should be and it sets the tone for your business and your integrity.
6) Move on. There will always be people that surprise you. If the way that your suppliers, potential clients, or existing clients are operating their business does not align with the way you want to do business, it's totally okay to move on. There are others out there that want to work with you, that respect & value you and that is who you should be doing business with.
7) Good design makes a difference. Sure I started my career off with the statement ‘good design is good business’, and of course I meant it. But let me tell you, hearing first hand that a photographer is getting bookings without ever meeting clients after you do their branding, or having a store tell you that after creating their marketing ads they saw their sales reach new monthly highs. Well let's just say it's one of the MOST rewarding feelings in the world,
8) Be personable, and just be YOU. You never know when opportunity will arise. I gained one of the most wonderful clients while I was out shopping, holding Connor’s hand and literally wearing Hailey in a carrier. A simple conversation led to a complete rebrand for their business, and a friendship developed that I truly cherish.
9) Believe in your skills, and remind yourself that not everybody is your ideal client. I was having my website photos shot by the amazing Brian Walters and we were discussing how to price your services. He encouraged me to price accordingly, to believe in myself, my skills and not to sell myself short. And let me tell you… when you are hired and your services are valued, your clients ultimately reap the benefits because you’re putting out your BEST work.
10) You can do it. Don’t underestimate the power to do anything you set your mind to. Seriously. This past year has been surreal, challenging and a continuous learning curve as I grow and develop this company and build my empire. I had my design work PUBLISHED in not one, but two magazine issues this year - I can still remember the happy dance in my kitchen when that email came through (thank you Dana for believing in me). I am proud to have clients across Canada who have confidence in my abilities, and I cherish the friendships that have formed as a result of doing business together. My own belief in their businesses and the results of my designs helping them achieve their goals has been the most rewarding of all.
If you run your business in a professional manner, and fuel it with passion, skill and integrity - clients will come and they will continue to come. Be you, be kind, be authentic and believe what you do makes a difference, big or small.
A big thank you to my kids for reminding me to pause and take a break, or replenish their snacks at the very least. Thank you to my amazing husband, friends and family for all of their support over the last year. Most of all thank you to all of my clients for believing in Sweeney Curations and allowing me to do what I LOVE, I couldn’t do any of this without YOU! I have BIG plans for year two and I can’t wait to sit back and reflect in another year from now, thanks for following along this journey with me. I’ll be sending you all a virtual ‘Cheers’ tonight, as I sit back with a big glass of my favourite red. -Amber