Illustration courtesy Britt Irick
This is the third of three questions we asked for August’s “Three” series. Check out what several local creatives had to say, then share your own insight via the comments below!
We want to know: How do you fight the economic downturn (personally or professionally)?
Networking and marketing. You have to be out in front of people who need your help. You have to be an asset.
Rely on saved money. Be willing to take smaller jobs. Avoid using credit cards. Learn to appreciate the cheap beer.
Other than cutting back some on things we do not need — like premium cable channels, expensive vacations, spa treatments — I am just
waiting it out.
Stop Listening to the radio and reading the newspaper. Ignorance is bliss.
Finding ways to keep costs (and spending) low is always something I’m doing regardless of the economic situation, so I’m instead putting in even more time building upon my existing relationships and trying to connect with people to form new relationships, too. I’m looking at this situation as a time to invest and grow knowing it’s an uphill battle that’s definitely worth the hard work.
My take on this is very simple…
Don’t waste time trying to find new ways to save money, you should already have a budget to work with (personally and/or professionally).
Instead, always focus on making more money.
People often get lost with trying to save money and loose sight of larger opportunities in the process.
I used to think like Nick Whitmoyer. But I think it was foolish to underestimate budgeting to see where money goes. i still agree a penny saved not as valuable as a penny earned, because you are limited by how much you can save but not how much you can make. with that said, people who can really go for it, are the people who can work for ramen noodles for 18 months (take risks that others with dependents, mortgages can’t [easily]).
Be small and stay small. There is no down-turn in the economy when you are small, nimble and niche — a “bad economy” is when most “great” small business flourish.
The amount of work hasn’t decreased (it’s actually increasing), just the budgets for that work have decreased — adapt or die.
Retire! P@
Expand your skills. I’m adept at teaching and tutoring advanced CS4 skills. I’m learning CSS and web skills on my own and am freelancing what I’ve learned. I’m taking graduate courses in print, web and video from the University of Baltimore. I’m improving my illustration skills and have done posters for the City of Seattle, a t-shirt for the Rhythm & Roots festival, and a logo for a music festival in Hampden in Baltimore. I’m redesigning my website and look forward to have it up soon.