Another Creative Outlet

Funny how things tend to go together and make new things possible... I mentioned that I got back into making jewelry... and that I finally got a PayPal account. Well, now I can easily post my creations, and if someone wants to buy something, they can pay online through PayPal.

Here is where I'm selling my stuff:

http://www.TikasTrinkets.com

Sign of the times

I broke down and got a PayPal account today. (I hate PayPal due to a bad experience 5 years ago - contact me if you want to know...)

I just had a client bounce a check on me - first one in 13 years! I understand it was an oversight. We are all tight on cash these days. The PayPal account was a way to get paid instantly.

On a good note - if you LIKE to pay with PayPal, I now have an account and you are welcome to pay your invoice that way! :-)

I know times are tough... but COME ON!

I'm currently seeking new clients. I look everywhere, I ask for referrals, I advertise and like any modern designer, I check Craig's List postings.

I can't believe how many people ask for something for free, or close to it. It's almost insulting. "Need cutting edge, top dog designer for new logo. Will look great in your portfolio. No pay."

Do they realize that

1 - it costs us money to do our jobs - we pay thousands of dollars for our computers, our software, our high end laser printers, and most of us keep up with the technology, software updates and industry standards. This is all stuff we have to pay for - why should we hand it over for free to a complete stranger? There actually are several legitimate business people out there willing to pay for good design, so I'll skip those that aren't.

2 - do they have such a low opinion of their own worth that they don't realize the worth of another's time and talents?

3 - you get what you pay for.

Please help me spread the word that no matter what you do for a living, you are worth compensation. Even non-profit organizations respect this.

Pay for a print quote?

I had the strangest experience. I'm trying to price out the printing for a two color job - yes, old fashioned, 2 pantone colors - NOT 4 color process match.

The first printer I called said he really didn't want to spend the time but that I could pay $50 for him to estimate it! I never did find out if that $50 is then applied to the price of the printing if he gets the job...

Get involved

I have to say - things have picked up since I’ve gotten involved...

I joined my local chamber, found some networking groups, attended meetups and mixers, etc.

You will be amazed by how many people you meet that can help you with your business/job search either by providing a service that you need to further your career, or actually lead you to work - either directly or through referrals. Remember the 6 degrees of separation game? Well it is especially important in business. They always say: it's not what you know, but WHO you know. So, get out and meet people and get to know them!

Hard times getting easier?

I'm definitely getting a little busier thanks to some virtual pavement pounding... I'm taking on new projects, but the big difference is I'm having to work for much less money. I'm not complaining - I'm happy for the work. I can still get by, so that's good, but I'm working longer hours. In the past when I got busy, I would hire one of my wonderful free-lancers to help with the work load, but I just can't afford to do that right now. I hope things change for the better, for everyone, so I can help others while helping myself. I think they already are.