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It happens all
too frequently. Artists with all the creative talent in the world who have absolutely no idea how to make a business out of it. After working with
artists for fifteen years, I see a pattern of
mistakes they make while trying to make a living off their talent.
Certainly, most artists only hit one or two of these five, but even a single misstep can be costly.
And, the countdown begins.
The 5th biggest mistake artists make in their businesses is . . .
Not knowing where they want to
go with their careers. Artists, like all people in business for
themselves, need to learn to set goals and figure out a path to reach
them. Is it more important that their work is in a museum or that they
make $50,000 a year? Only they can decide what success looks like.
The fourth biggest mistake artists make in their businesses is . . .
Not following up with people
who express interest in their work. Like a true professional,
artists should follow up with a phone call or handwritten note within
one week. Email is appropriate in some situations, but artists can distinguish themselves
from others by being generous with their gratitude.
The thrid biggest mistake artists make in their businesses is . . .
Thinking there is a fairy
godmother (an agent) who will sell all their work for them and make
them a star—and waiting for him/her to rescue them. Get real!
That's not how the world works! It takes a lot of hard work,
persistence, and consistency to be successful.
The second biggest mistake artists make in their businesses is . . .
Presenting themselves in an
unprofessional manner. Artists need to show they care about
visual presentation. If their marketing materials and website are
sloppy or sub-par, why shouldn't one assume that their work is also
worse than average? Written materials and websites need a makeover that
reflect the direction the artist is going. Coherent written materials
and excellent verbal skills go a long way when trying to sell one's
art. Artists should pay special attention to photo reproductions of
their work since it must stand in for the originals.
And, The Biggest Mistake Artists Make
in Their Businesses is . . .
Neglecting their contact lists. Artists must learn to become comfortable socializing and meeting more
people. They ought to be adding to their mailing lists constantly. More
importantly, they should get a good database and use their mailing
lists. After all, a good, qualified mailing list is their number one
asset.
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