Grow Your Business- Have Clear Goals Ep. 5

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  • Опубліковано 8 вер 2024
  • What steps do you need to take to achieve your business goals? How do you grow your creative business? Melinda Livsey is back for another deep dive into breaking down her goals as a creative entrepreneur.
    Annotations
    --
    00:37 What are the next steps in growing my business?
    01:44 What type of business goals should I make?
    02:30 Everything is realistic and attainable if you're willing to put in the work
    04:00 Breaking Yearly goals into quarterly goals
    06:00 Where will the additional income come from?
    07:11 What's getting in your way of charging clients a higher rate?
    08:38 As you are working on your case studies, what are you thinking about?
    11:22 Be Clear about your ultimate goal. Don't confuse the tactics with the goal.
    12:54 Use all the channels to put your work out there
    15:58 Make yourself easy to find. What Keywords do you want to be discovered for?
    17:37 Do Microcontent: Break your case studies down into little bite sized pieces
    19:58 Prioritizing your marketing strategy tactics (Case studies, Writing Blogs, Collaboration)
    30:15 Do I focus on all my action tasks at once?
    32:46 If I have action goals that are of equal impact and urgency, how do I choose between them?
    33:45 Do I delay lower priority tasks until I finish the main goals?
    35:20 Review and recalibrate your goals monthly
    36:15 Recap & Final Thoughts
    37:25 Bonus: Additional services that you can provide for more money
    --
    Goal Setting Video:
    • Goal Setting and How T...
    Melinda Livsey
    Marks and Maker
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КОМЕНТАРІ • 296

  • @testacc006
    @testacc006 7 років тому +178

    I don't usually comment on UA-cam videos, but we have to give props here to Melinda - It takes serious courage to be so candid about your business and the numbers and put yourself in such a vulnerable position. This series is amazing for students and already established freelancers alike.
    A big thanks to everyone involved!
    V

    • @thefutur
      @thefutur  7 років тому +7

      testacc006 yes it does. Glad you recognize that.

    • @mariapezzanoartist
      @mariapezzanoartist 7 років тому +4

      I was thinking the same thing, Melinda thank you it's hard to ask those questions, and thanks Chris for giving genuinely sincere responses. You can tell you really want to help.

    • @vicgraphicdesign
      @vicgraphicdesign 7 років тому +3

      Wow, I was thinking exactly the same testacc006

    • @melindalivsey1
      @melindalivsey1 7 років тому +40

      Thanks guys! I really appreciate it. I've come to see that being open and vulnerable like this has benefited not only me, but others.

    • @MaciejSarna
      @MaciejSarna 7 років тому +10

      Brave girl! So helpful!

  • @e_8074
    @e_8074 7 років тому +63

    Melinda, thank you for feeling vulnerable for all of us. Chris, thank you for seeing through our vulnerability to get at our potential.

    • @thefutur
      @thefutur  7 років тому +8

      Evan Crockett that's what this is all about.

    • @melindalivsey1
      @melindalivsey1 7 років тому +14

      You are welcome, Evan. I'm thankful for the opportunity.

    • @honeyfish541
      @honeyfish541 4 роки тому +1

      Melinda is a real deal. She is not vulnerable like in the talk. Its all for the purpose of the video to teach people. Its scripted in a sense. It is a marketing design. Chis and Melinda.. tell me that I'm wrong please :) 😃

    • @thefutur
      @thefutur  4 роки тому +2

      she is vulnerable. this isn't an act. it's not scripted or planned. but she's grown a lot since this video aired.

  • @aaronramsden1657
    @aaronramsden1657 Рік тому +1

    I love how courageous Melinda is here, the way she talks reminds me of myself.

  • @mrkmaker
    @mrkmaker 7 років тому +65

    Melinda asks all the questions I ask myself when I watch your videos. This is extremely helpful!

    • @thefutur
      @thefutur  7 років тому +9

      Monique Rebecca that's why she is perfect.

    • @melindalivsey1
      @melindalivsey1 7 років тому +9

      So happy it's helpful for you too!

  • @JacobPatrick1
    @JacobPatrick1 5 років тому +1

    The prioritization portion of this video was a great example of how beneficial your lessons are.

    • @thefutur
      @thefutur  5 років тому

      Thank you. Investigate design sprints.

  • @mitchstark3288
    @mitchstark3288 7 років тому +7

    Chris, this entire series with Melinda is incredibly helpful. Where she's at in her journey growing as a designer and business person is super relatable and you coaching her through this piece by piece makes way for some great tactical advice. Melinda, thanks for your honesty at different points to say, "I don't know how rate them" or things like this. It helps to make sure important things don't get breezed over. Anyways, appreciate the channel and this series especially has been a big help to me!

    • @thefutur
      @thefutur  7 років тому +1

      Mitch Stark ty Mitch.

    • @melindalivsey1
      @melindalivsey1 7 років тому +1

      I'm glad you found it helpful! I'm happy to ask what some may think are silly questions.

  • @khandramayorga4870
    @khandramayorga4870 7 років тому +17

    Go Melinda! You can do it . You are with the right person at the right time ! 👏👏

  • @JeanWandimi
    @JeanWandimi 7 років тому +4

    Amazing. I love that Melinda is very transparent & honest. Not everyone can be willing to do that. I am sure she reflects what other people are going through. I can't wait to see her progress. Amazing!

    • @thefutur
      @thefutur  7 років тому +1

      Jean Wandimi watch her grow week to week.

    • @melindalivsey1
      @melindalivsey1 7 років тому +1

      Thanks, Jean!

  • @bennethjohn6068
    @bennethjohn6068 7 років тому +13

    Can't wait for Melinda's progress! I can imagine her being more successful in the next few months.

    • @thefutur
      @thefutur  7 років тому +1

      Benneth John keep watching. She's making progress.

    • @bennethjohn6068
      @bennethjohn6068 7 років тому +2

      Will definitely do!

    • @melindalivsey1
      @melindalivsey1 7 років тому +4

      Thanks Benneth! Things are already changing for me. I'm excited for when we do a follow up episode.

  • @sergiovalencia486
    @sergiovalencia486 7 років тому +15

    Thanks to MELINDA and the FUTUR team , the interesting thing is how melinda is more confident each episode as she knows more about bussines and she start asking more focused questions , This shows progress on the road , knowledge + apply = confidence i suppose , but this cant happen without courage and will power

    • @thefutur
      @thefutur  7 років тому +1

      you can see it in each episode right?

  • @DemiRonin
    @DemiRonin 7 років тому

    Applaud your patience and nurturing spirit in this session Chris.

  • @roghibfakhri
    @roghibfakhri 2 роки тому +2

    I love watching and learning from you guys, thanks Chris, Melinda and The Futur team. This series is absolutely amazing and really help me as a freelancers :)

  • @carlosdrave
    @carlosdrave 7 років тому +6

    Personally, I see people in creative industries really struggling with growing their businesses everywhere. I guess one of the main hurdles is seeing the numbers in it. Numbers will tell you so much! Chris is a breath of fresh air because he is relentless.

    • @thefutur
      @thefutur  7 років тому +3

      Carlos Correia I'm the terminator. Can't stop. Won't stop

    • @melindalivsey1
      @melindalivsey1 7 років тому +1

      I have to learn that numbers are my friends.

  • @nayaclark2342
    @nayaclark2342 7 років тому +8

    I'm a writer, who designs in my spare time, and I find this information useful across freelancing mediums. Thanks!

  • @MelissaClaasen
    @MelissaClaasen 7 років тому +5

    I adore Melinda. She's so brave to put herself out there in this way. I see so much of myself in her and it makes this whole solopreneur journey a lot less "solo".

    • @thefutur
      @thefutur  7 років тому +2

      Melissa Claasen glad to hear.

    • @thefutur
      @thefutur  7 років тому +2

      #rolemodels

    • @melindalivsey1
      @melindalivsey1 7 років тому +2

      Thanks Melissa! That means a lot. I'm so happy to be on this journey with you.

  • @gillianconnole6956
    @gillianconnole6956 7 років тому +9

    Super useful and thanks to Melinda for putting herself out there. Shes asking everthying im thinking for myself so thank you!

  • @shalmatharu
    @shalmatharu 7 років тому +3

    This is the single most helpful video I have seen (probably ever) on growing a design business. Thanks to Chris for the advice and especially Melinda for sitting in for all of us who have the same questions/problems/concerns/goals.

  • @philipkelly9521
    @philipkelly9521 7 років тому +2

    Fair play to Melinda's honestly, and giving out her information.
    Makes it very real and honest.

  • @colombiecup
    @colombiecup 7 років тому +2

    Thank you to both Chris and Melinda, this is eye opening and helps many of us to value our own work and effort, which is always over looked. Appreciate your share to the community, Chris!

  • @deadoralivextreme
    @deadoralivextreme 6 років тому +1

    Great info Chris. I suggest you make more videos on SEO and how important it is for sales. A lot of people don't realize that's one of the many ways to get customers. It also saves money in the long run than to just use advertising. It makes your brand more legit. You could also do SEO for a city you don't currently live in if there isn't much work in your area. Really important. Thanks again for the info.

    • @thefutur
      @thefutur  6 років тому

      already did it. search SEO on our channel.

  • @nang2000
    @nang2000 6 років тому +1

    This is about the 15 video I have watched and it's built my confidence up so much more

    • @thefutur
      @thefutur  6 років тому

      super glad to hear.

  • @katherinedays
    @katherinedays 7 років тому +4

    Hi Futur,
    I feel like the reason why Melinda doesn't get more business traffic is because the audience for this channel consist of creators and tinkerers already. We wouldn't book her for creation, because we can create ourselves.
    You need to place yourselves in front of people who cannot design and prototype.
    Cheers!

    • @thefutur
      @thefutur  7 років тому +1

      From Kat yes. But clients are calling us from watching the show.

    • @melindalivsey1
      @melindalivsey1 7 років тому +3

      Hi there! My main goal by being on the show is to learn and to help out others who are in a similar position as me get our questions answered. My client inquiries are increasing mainly due to implementing Chris' advice. :)

  • @soundofko1814
    @soundofko1814 3 роки тому +1

    So much value in these videos, been a Chris fan for a while and now I'm a Melinda fan too

  • @MultiCheese44
    @MultiCheese44 5 років тому +1

    Checked out her website and it's improved so much and it seems she got some big clients like Oakley! Go Melinda!

    • @thefutur
      @thefutur  5 років тому

      Oakley is an old client.

  • @tfustudios
    @tfustudios 4 роки тому +1

    Just discovering these, and I swear each video title is a question I regularly ask myself! Diving deep! Props to Melinda for examining this in front of an audience!

  • @avian6051
    @avian6051 5 років тому +2

    Takeaways:
    1:09 How do you figure out what is the next thing to do to grow your business?
    Have you mapped out your goals for the year?
    Have you watched the episode about scaffolding goals? Goal Setting and How To Achieve Your Goals (4 minutes)

    2:30 Everything is realistic and attainable if you're willing to visualize it and then put in the work, make the sacrifices, and delay gratification.

    3:34 You have all of your life to play, put in the work today so you can enjoy it while you're still young.
    3:49 Goal Scaffolding process.
    Ultimate goal:
    How much money do you want to bring in? 100k
    Scaffold the tactics:
    How much is that per quarter? 25k
    How much is that per month? 8.5k
    What are you doing today? 5.3k
    What's the spread? 3.5k. Estimate higher so you don't fall short.
    Where will this 3.5k come from? One/two/three clients? One large client.
    Solution: Raise rates from 5k to 8k.
    What stops you from raising your rates?
    (Diagnose) No new clients.
    Goal: How do we get more clients?
    13:21 Put spreads of work in social channels (Behance, Dribbble, etc).
    16:19 Make yourself easier to find (SEO, cross promotion)
    16:35 Overflow work for other companies.
    17:39 Micro content: Write on medium, linkedin to demonstrate your process/thinking.
    17:54 Expand your creative services.
    • Have a diagnostic process to evaluate your client by, so you can offer them services that they need. (Brand audit, social media scorecard, etc) Create a value ladder.
    • Outsource to a third party that provides a service of value to your client. Ex: SEO or animated videos. Call them and ask:
    ○ What they do
    ○ How they do it
    ○ Send a deck
    ○ Prices
    ○ What do I need to watch out for?
    ○ 3 most common questions.
    • Design Keynote decks
    • Catalogs, brochures
    • Headers, Avatars, social and email templates
    18:49 If there's something that you're not an expert in, build synergetic relationships with people who are and work with them.
    19:06 Every business needs a strong identity, social media marketing, and a website.
    20:30 How to figure out what goal is the most important?
    • Create a 3 column grid
    ○ Activity (Posting work on Behance, SEO, etc)
    ○ Impact
    ○ Urgency
    • Rate each from a score of 1 (low) to 5 (high).
    • Circle top 3 scores. Focus on that.

    25:18 Write your list as an action item.

    27:40 Use matrices of criteria to make better decisions. This helps align with clients as well.
    27:54 Matrix for decisions:
    Impact: How much of an impact will this make when measured against your goal?
    Urgency: Do we need to do this right now?
    Money: What kind of budget needs to be allotted to make this happen?

    30:52 After you decide your 3 main goals, set up your daily routine around them to start chipping away at the goal.
    32:47 What if you have goals with equal scores?
    • Reevaluate how you scored them. Rescore them granularly.
    • Or do both and make the sacrifices for it.
    35:22 Schedule time every month to recalibrate your goals.
    Thank you Chris and Melinda.

    • @thefutur
      @thefutur  5 років тому +1

      thanks for the timestamp summaries

  • @matthewsmith1547
    @matthewsmith1547 3 роки тому +1

    It’s amazing to see someone I find inspirational and has it all together also has problems and they are basically the same as the ones we all must be having.

  • @geedee001
    @geedee001 7 років тому +1

    good thing you guys including something about web design in your episodes. Im a web designer and this helps me a lot.

  • @omni_1376
    @omni_1376 7 років тому +2

    I love the duo! So much knowledge in one channel.

  • @MattMermet
    @MattMermet 7 років тому +2

    So I watched all the videos of this series and I'm really thankful for helping us out. I needed this. You speak with such a clarity and confidence in this subject that it inspires. Keep it up! Greetings from Barcelona!!

    • @thefutur
      @thefutur  7 років тому +1

      thanks and hi Barcelona! we have another episode that will drop this week. look out for it.

    • @MattMermet
      @MattMermet 7 років тому +1

      The Futur Thanks!! Can't wait! 😁

    • @melindalivsey1
      @melindalivsey1 7 років тому +1

      I'm glad you're finding it as helpful as I am, Matt!

  • @DDD0323
    @DDD0323 7 років тому +8

    "My work output is on par with my goals."

  • @victoriaaamalia
    @victoriaaamalia 6 років тому +1

    I said it before but I learned so much while watching this video and many others. Love what your doing.

    • @thefutur
      @thefutur  6 років тому

      Tori Vieira Thank you.

  • @lovesamuraisaturn
    @lovesamuraisaturn 5 років тому

    Hey Chris and Melinda, thanks. I really needed to hear these honest hard facts, feel this frustration, and get a professional perspective put to light to push me beyond preconceived "limits". I had been working at a lower rate for survival, and out of fear of rejection. I really appreciate this video series because it really helped me bring that to light, face it head on, and do something about it. Sincerely, thank you.

    • @thefutur
      @thefutur  4 роки тому

      You're very welcome

  • @christopherdhliwayo4341
    @christopherdhliwayo4341 7 років тому +1

    This channel has the greatest content

  • @ericle8289
    @ericle8289 7 років тому +1

    Love this series! I'm years behind Melinda in experience but pretty much have the same goals so this is perfect. Thanks guys!

  • @christianbarros1580
    @christianbarros1580 7 років тому +2

    Melinda is the perfect student.

  • @AnthonyPham
    @AnthonyPham 4 роки тому

    Love this series with Melinda! just joined the pro group today!

  • @carrie.kyarri
    @carrie.kyarri 7 років тому +2

    OMG. He totally described what I did with her link. I never open the description; but I did because I'm a designer that wanted to look at her website. I opened it up in a new tab; but I'm at work, so I haven't looked at it much yet.... It's like he was watching me!

    • @thefutur
      @thefutur  7 років тому +1

      Carrie Evans who said I'm not watching you now?

    • @melindalivsey1
      @melindalivsey1 7 років тому +1

      Haha

  • @MajomHus
    @MajomHus 5 років тому +1

    Watching your presentations for a week now and you helped me a lot with my confidence. Some days ago a new client asked me what I charge and I told them a number that is 5 times the number I usually charged and explained to them what they are getting for that price. They gladly accepted. Since then I made more money in 3 days than I did last month. ( I do 3d furniture modeling and design with interior renders)
    Thank you.

  • @casperfigge
    @casperfigge 7 років тому +3

    lover your way off speaking of B to C and B to B .... and how to make these relationship better and stronger.. thx for it and stay Creative..

  • @unquestionabletv
    @unquestionabletv 6 років тому +1

    Chris, you say, "welcome to The Process..." however neither the video title nor the description contains this. When I was asking about the playlist on the previous video this was also part of my confusion. You are involved in great creative work-I think a similar naming scheme(for lack of better phrasing right now) would be beneficial to those who are trying to find this content even if it's something short at the end like the "Deep Dive" or "The Process."

    • @thefutur
      @thefutur  6 років тому

      it was your original question. is there a playlist with Melinda in it? that was the answer you were looking for.

  • @mansi.rastogi
    @mansi.rastogi 7 років тому +2

    I am learning so much with you guys Chris & Melinda. I feel and identify with Melinda's issues as a designer. Thank you Melinda for being so honest and open. I really do wish you hit your goal fast.
    @Chris, I have a small young team of designers, I would love it if you could do some episodes on hiring, managing and guiding your team to help them become independent thinkers and reach business goals.... PLLLLEEEAASEE with cherry on top.

    • @thefutur
      @thefutur  7 років тому +1

      mansi rastogi that's not an easy thing to solve. Let's see if others ask for this.

    • @mansi.rastogi
      @mansi.rastogi 7 років тому +1

      Thanks Chris. I really do appreciate you and the team. I understand it's not easy to manage a team but I am willing to do the work. Till others ask I'll continue to work on the rest of the lessons I take from you. Much thanks.

    • @melindalivsey1
      @melindalivsey1 7 років тому +1

      Thanks, Mansi! I appreciate the encouragement.

  • @TheRae3331
    @TheRae3331 7 років тому +2

    Always so pumped to watch the Melinda videos, they are super helpful to me

  • @ragzm9794
    @ragzm9794 7 років тому +2

    What a gold mine this episode is! It's interesting that this episode followed right after the AMA live the previous day of how to find a mentor? And here it's given in engaging and powerful to the extent you ask questions for the unspoken objections or questions one has within their mind. The kind of energy Chris Do resonates, all we have to do is be an empty cup to be filled everytime we sit for a session like these. Melinda - really envy you 😜. Having said that the questions you ask are very interesting and looks like you are asking on our behalf. Awesome. I just finished my matrix after seeing it and am on my way to kick the goals 😂.

    • @thefutur
      @thefutur  7 років тому

      raGz M awesome. Go be a winner.

    • @melindalivsey1
      @melindalivsey1 7 років тому

      I love to hear this! Can't wait to see your progress.

  • @jeffmacpherson4283
    @jeffmacpherson4283 6 років тому +1

    LOVE this series

  • @cheryldowse6055
    @cheryldowse6055 5 років тому

    That was so helpful, thank you Chris and Melinda! Melinda you are a brave superstar!

  • @r.designs
    @r.designs 4 роки тому +1

    Am I the only one nerding out over his Daiso Brush pen lol

  • @blackroomat663a7
    @blackroomat663a7 7 років тому +1

    These are all great tips, I wish I have seen these earlier, I have been just starting my own company after a few years of working in marketing and advertising. And I have been struggling how to handle a company by myself

    • @thefutur
      @thefutur  7 років тому

      better late than never right? here we are.

  • @soniarodriguez7411
    @soniarodriguez7411 7 років тому +2

    Thanks Melinda. I hope you continue doing more videos.. Great!!

  • @liveformusic8
    @liveformusic8 4 роки тому +1

    So much value. Thanks.

  • @zn376
    @zn376 5 років тому +1

    You guys are being extremely helpful in developing a design business. Fantastic insights, you answer all my questions, before I can even formulate them! Hope you get more subscribers, more creatives should hear what you have to say :)

  • @patrickryandesign8438
    @patrickryandesign8438 7 років тому +2

    1. I loved this episode as I struggle with prioritization and setting clear goals for the day, week, year, etc.
    2. After the final credits rolled through I asked, "for real this time?" and sure it enough right after I said it, you answered me lol, which made my day
    3. I loved the final animation of the futur logo, I'm not sure if it has been there for a while or what but I'm a fan!

    • @melindalivsey1
      @melindalivsey1 7 років тому +1

      I'm still working on #1. But getting better!

    • @thefutur
      @thefutur  7 років тому

      TheGoodLogo yes. It's been there but you just noticed it more this time.

  • @kristopherleithwood
    @kristopherleithwood 6 років тому +1

    I would put one of my goals as, get my business to the point where I get interviewed on the futur.

    • @thefutur
      @thefutur  6 років тому

      Tartan Ninja that’s a good goal. :)

  • @jonasarleth
    @jonasarleth 7 років тому +2

    The after show was great!

    • @melindalivsey1
      @melindalivsey1 7 років тому +1

      Agreed!

    • @thefutur
      @thefutur  7 років тому

      Jonas Arleth it's a reward for those who stay til the end.

    • @jonasarleth
      @jonasarleth 7 років тому

      @melinda Great to see you helping Chris interact with the community!

  • @Mixnotes
    @Mixnotes 7 років тому +7

    This was a big help for me. Much thanks!

  • @vicgraphicdesign
    @vicgraphicdesign 7 років тому +4

    I am running out to compliments, if I say it in Spanish does it counts as a new one? Excelente trabajo!!! Thank you for sharing this valuable content. I love the part after the fake ending :). I kept on wondering why there was so much time left and the credits were already running. Great ending "The show is over, For real this time".

    • @melindalivsey1
      @melindalivsey1 7 років тому +2

      Hey Victor!!! I'm so happy you found it helpful. And yes, it totally counts in Spanish. :)

  • @erikmejialegacy
    @erikmejialegacy 7 років тому +2

    Those videos are incredible amazing! I got a few goals for the upcoming months with my own business, after applying some of your insights and recommendations I'll share with you guys the results at the end of this year. Just wait!

  • @ProdbyPackTV
    @ProdbyPackTV 4 роки тому

    This is great! Rooting for u Melinda!

  • @wiliamelomaloma5990
    @wiliamelomaloma5990 7 років тому +1

    really enjoyed this video i had the same questions and this show just answered all my questions thank you for all the hard work that your team's doing day in day out to educate us growing designers.

  • @penguinentrepreneurstreate673
    @penguinentrepreneurstreate673 7 років тому +3

    Excellent, I love the charisma of the Brother and the desire to learn from the sister, Excellent insights, my personal advice to sister Melinda would be to create a new industry. That's a deeper goal that requires a very profound transformation. Consciousness for the long term. I loved to watch and gladly subscribed. May you have life, prosperity & Health. In Maat= In peace

    • @thefutur
      @thefutur  7 років тому +1

      The Penguin Entrepreneur peace be with you. Thank you.

  • @aeliayousaf
    @aeliayousaf 7 років тому +1

    Great video as usual! I am in a similar business as you but am struggling in growing my business - I have tried almost everything, but the only thing left for me to try is actually finding a physical office space. I feel people (both clients and workers) will take my business more seriously if there is an actual office. Even when i hire sales people; if they have an office to go to then they will make the effort to sell. correct me if i'm wrong, but i think it is very important to have an office.

  • @TaylorKenny
    @TaylorKenny 7 років тому +5

    Loving these episodes. Tons of great info.

    • @SimonDroog
      @SimonDroog 7 років тому +2

      I also find these episodes very helpful and insightful. Great content. Thanks to Chris, Melinda and the rest of the crew!

  • @butchbalsomo
    @butchbalsomo 7 років тому +2

    Coolest bumper!

    • @thefutur
      @thefutur  7 років тому

      Butch Balsomo we like it too!

  • @darksentences9420
    @darksentences9420 7 років тому +3

    Making the time and committing to my objectives…Having the time to make this happen is worrying. I will do this. I have to do this. Thank you.

  • @jecamartinez
    @jecamartinez 7 років тому +1

    Love this! It's like Melinda representing all of us at the early stages of our career/business. BTW Chris, I understand how to come up with ideas for additional services for Logo and Branding because I feel like those areas are specific enough to branch out from. But what about in my case with 2d animation and illustration? Do I just list out how potential clients can use my work? (say: animation for social media, explainer videos, animation for game apps, children's book illustrations, etc) though those don't sound like additional services, but are more of examples of what can be done with my services...hope that question was clear :)

    • @melindalivsey1
      @melindalivsey1 7 років тому +1

      Good question!

    • @jecamartinez
      @jecamartinez 7 років тому

      Thank you! I hope Chris sees this and can answer :D

  • @kevinbishop_
    @kevinbishop_ 7 років тому +6

    I was looking forward to this more than the return of Game of Thrones. The Futur is coming!

    • @thefutur
      @thefutur  7 років тому +1

      Kevin Bishop the Chris Do always remembers.

    • @kevinbishop_
      @kevinbishop_ 7 років тому +1

      The Futur Chris Do/John Snow - king of the north. I smell a parody 😄

    • @melindalivsey1
      @melindalivsey1 7 років тому +1

      =)

  • @azizas9366
    @azizas9366 7 років тому +1

    great Video. Thank you

  • @ChrisEllinas
    @ChrisEllinas 7 років тому +1

    I loved the after credits :)

  • @crepanna
    @crepanna 7 років тому +2

    Inspiring content per usual~ I'm looking forward to determining my goal for this year.

  • @quersiafilhos8439
    @quersiafilhos8439 5 років тому +1

    thank you for sharing

  • @niccohirajeta
    @niccohirajeta 7 років тому +2

    I'm loving these episodes! Keep them coming :D

  • @jamesvowell2329
    @jamesvowell2329 5 років тому +2

    I cant get enough !!! love yall !!!

    • @thefutur
      @thefutur  5 років тому +1

      Thank you James.

  • @tin-sewdavid633
    @tin-sewdavid633 7 років тому +1

    Great quality video, Melinda's looking great!

  • @PhillipClayton
    @PhillipClayton 7 років тому +2

    Reality TV has nothing on you guys lol.
    Admirable bravery on Melinda's part and Chris is the perfect guide, great series.
    I like that sacrifice was mentioned, a lot of people want all the good stuff but wont give anything up, this goes across the board. My parents also instilled the discipline in me as child to get my work done first then play later and I don't plan on changing that approach either.
    I also grew up with this, which I think many did but it's probably very common place these days - " The heights by great men reached and kept were not attained by sudden flight, but they, while their companions slept, were toiling upward in the night." - Henry Wadsworth Longfellow
    Get Melinda a Futur money clip to put all that new income coming her way! Hell, put it up on the store as promo merch lol.
    Good stuff guys, cheers!

    • @thefutur
      @thefutur  7 років тому +1

      Phillip J. Clayton right? She's going to need to open a second bank account. From time to time we will do a status update.

    • @PhillipClayton
      @PhillipClayton 7 років тому +1

      I believe she will need a second account lol.
      Looking forward to the updates, it's a good process to watch, the world is watching this progress.

    • @melindalivsey1
      @melindalivsey1 7 років тому +3

      I love reading these comments. Ya know, the more I say certain dollar amounts out loud, the less awkward I feel when saying them to clients. The mere act of talking about it with Chris helps me to feel more comfortable. So, yes, the second bank account will be needed!

    • @PhillipClayton
      @PhillipClayton 7 років тому

      Melinda Livsey that's great, you're becoming more interactive and open to the process, I see it in each episode. It's also good that you are getting comfortable speaking about money, the more comfortable we are the more confident we become.
      That comfort and confidence comes from having the information, so I guess you can insert 'knowledge is power' or something of the sort here. Point being, only an informed person can speak confidently about something.
      It's not about the market, or the currency we work in, we are all in different locations around the globe, we simply need to understand "the business of design".
      That's my understanding anyway, looking forward to the next one.
      Cheers 🍻👍

  • @hiawathaw
    @hiawathaw 5 років тому

    He drops jewels consistently!

  • @Spiritofabrand
    @Spiritofabrand 7 років тому +2

    Added to favorites. Thank you for this crazy good content.

  • @aerozg
    @aerozg 7 років тому +2

    I have already watched this twice. You guys just rock. I am already doing some of this stuff, but man have i got work to do! My only trouble is, living in Eastern Europe, where there is no work, and all my clients being in the U.S. I thought i could maybe change my name to an american version, and brand myself basically as a designer from the U.S. since all my business is there. Any tips for that? Great great show, as usual. We need to earn this.

    • @melindalivsey1
      @melindalivsey1 7 років тому +2

      Glad you got a lot out of it. I'm interested in what Chris would advise in your situation. I figure, if most of your business is in the US, it would benefit you to fit in as best you can with the target you're aiming at.

    • @thefutur
      @thefutur  7 років тому +2

      aerozg be a global business/brand no matter where you are from. Act, talk and speak like a global brand.

    • @aerozg
      @aerozg 7 років тому

      Thank you Chris. Thank you from the bottom of my heart, for everything you do. You are giving all this know-how for free, not expecting anything in return. You're basically a Deity now. A Saint at least. Patron of the struggling creatives :) It's like that saying: "Give a man a fish, and you feed him for a day. Teach a man to fish, and you feed him for a lifetime.". This is what you do. There is no money that can buy that. We are infinitely thankful for having you. 10% coming your way as soon as i catch a big one!

    • @aerozg
      @aerozg 7 років тому

      Dear Melinda, thank you for your response. Thank you for doing these videos, you look great on camera! You're so natural! How do you do it? Yes i do get a lot out of these. I can't even begin to describe it. I have basically decided to forget everything i thought i knew about this business and created a blank canvas in my mind. Starting up from scratch. I decided to trust and use these videos as a basis for transforming my freelance practice and supplementing with many additional materials like books, tutorials, podcasts, videos and such. The Futur framework has no match, anywhere. There are a few others that try to do the same, but Chris is at least 10 orders of magnitude beyond them. I now think of him as Elon Musk of 'business of design' education :) By the time everyone else starts catching up on this, he will already have achieved world domination. And i he will, i know it. So far it has been a blast.
      So my dream ultimately is to move to California, where all the buzz is. Where all the best creative people are. The world capital state of creative business.
      That's why i was thinking about maybe changing my name to an american version, like a pseudonym or something and market and brand myself as such. But then i fear that some clients might accuse me of fraudulent misrepresentation. They think i am a native american, only to find out that i am just a guy, sitting behind a computer somewhere in Eastern Europe. What do you think about that?

  • @edmundsgn111
    @edmundsgn111 7 років тому +2

    Hey Melinda, your work is really good! Ive just seen the "Mobile Ciro Care" project on your Behance page and it looks professional and clean, nice work, especially the photography :)
    Btw, Chris is right about Behance.. This platform is IMO "the" best graphic design community out there.. business actually visit this platform all the time, so you'll have a high chance of being discovered.
    I'm using it for years and I gotten a lot out of it.. at least more then anywhere else online lol they have a large variety of jobs in there too.
    I'd also say that its extremely effective to collaborate on Behance. its a true game-breaker if its done right :)

    • @melindalivsey1
      @melindalivsey1 7 років тому +1

      Thanks for the tip! And the compliments. :)

  • @souadghaffari3904
    @souadghaffari3904 6 років тому +1

    Thank you for all the help!
    I wonder what is SEO? Already searched it and didn't get it!

    • @thefutur
      @thefutur  6 років тому

      search engine optimization. haha.

  • @senbrown6447
    @senbrown6447 7 років тому +2

    Just when you thought it was over.... great video!

    • @thefutur
      @thefutur  7 років тому

      Sen Brown ya never know.

    • @melindalivsey1
      @melindalivsey1 7 років тому

      Glad he remembered about it!

  • @abhilashmohanty
    @abhilashmohanty 7 років тому +2

    What should be the very first case studies of a start up design agency ?

    • @thefutur
      @thefutur  7 років тому +1

      Abhilash Mohanty Whatever you think you do best.

  • @josephblackhall
    @josephblackhall 7 років тому +2

    Chris Do is so cool

    • @thefutur
      @thefutur  7 років тому

      TheMrschad thank you.

  • @neuemage
    @neuemage 7 років тому +2

    Send Melinda some work guys!
    you all got overflow and you know it ;) hardest thing for an agency is creating their own brand, so why not outsource it?

  • @ManylenB
    @ManylenB 7 років тому +2

    Thank you so much for putting out such great content ^.^

  • @TopixGD
    @TopixGD 7 років тому +4

    Do you guys offer any videos on SEO? If so mind linking me them or sending me off in the right direction? Thanks for the great videos Futur!

    • @thefutur
      @thefutur  7 років тому +1

      Topix yes. We have one with Tina and Will

  • @chancenorris8854
    @chancenorris8854 7 років тому +2

    Liked the bonus content!

  • @fayyazb
    @fayyazb 3 роки тому

    Very good episode this one!

  • @kjemradio
    @kjemradio 7 років тому +2

    Hi Chris. One thing that has always been a trouble spot for me is how to bring in people (both business side, and talent side) at the ground level when you don't have the money to pay them right away? Very few ever work pro bono, and convincing people I'd like to bring into my design firm to wait even for a short time is virtually impossible in today's world.

    • @melindalivsey1
      @melindalivsey1 7 років тому

      Can you form relationships now with others and then pull them in as freelancer as needed?

  • @pradeepbalaji2664
    @pradeepbalaji2664 3 роки тому

    Hello, new fan here!
    Everything here is really useful but, I understand things has to be broken down to smaller chunks, problem is what should I do if one chunk fails? How do I prevent it from causing other chunks to fail ?

  • @ManavMadaan
    @ManavMadaan 7 років тому +2

    Amazing, Lots of takeaways!

  • @pixelpearlproduction538
    @pixelpearlproduction538 4 роки тому +1

    Chris I always hear u talk about case studies... what is this ? Or can u refer me to a video that explains what a case study is ?

    • @thefutur
      @thefutur  4 роки тому

      Just search case studies. Ben made a video.

  • @salvataz
    @salvataz 7 років тому

    When you outsource something specialized, how is the money being moved around in that situation?
    Should this be discussed early on, and then built into the price you give them, and then you the designer are paying that outside person?
    As a client, I wouldn't want to be surprised later on with extra charges and then go over my budget.
    But as the designer, it can be hard to tell how much these outsourced services are going to cost, correct?
    And if your client is paying the specialist directly, are you then getting a referral fee from the specialist?
    I feel like I need to have a good vision of how this is going to work financially before I discuss it with a client.
    Lots of questions, I know. Thank you for the videos so far - they're helping me with more than design. If anyone gets a chance to respond to this, my sincerest thanks in advance. 💠

  • @jbchotai1
    @jbchotai1 7 років тому +2

    Hey chris.. Hi after long time..
    Hey melinda thank you for being there and being a motivation for fellow designers like me.. I saw your website and i liked ur design style. :)
    Chris i have a question..
    I am updating my design charges and all going good but as am charging big amount client will require invoce.. But because am a freelancer and i am not registered so can not provide tax invoice.. what i should do any alternative proffesional way?
    Thanks in advance

  • @JoeShock7777
    @JoeShock7777 7 років тому +1

    1 + 1 = 4
    Seems about right. *camera thumps up Chris

  • @nicholasinclan6844
    @nicholasinclan6844 7 років тому +2

    chris and team, thanks! super duper valuable! I am in a similar position as Melinda, i'll def be watching this ep. a lot.
    Question: have any tips on approaching a potential collaborator? i.e. Melinda does logo's, person x does websites.. Melinda wants to reach out to person x to establish a collaborative partnership on a potential client that needs logo + website.

    • @thefutur
      @thefutur  7 років тому +1

      Nicholas Inclan just reach out. Strike up a conversation. Tell them you admire their work and want to explore ways of possibly working together.

    • @melindalivsey1
      @melindalivsey1 7 років тому +3

      I agree with Chris. Since this episode has dropped, I've gotten a lot of inquiries to collaborate. Too many to keep up with even! The ones that stick out to me are mostly those who's names I recognize from FB, UA-cam comments, groups etc. The ones who randomly reach out who I have never seen around get less priority. I love seeing messages and think "Oh I know them!" cause I've seen them around. The familiarity breeds trust.

  • @MsSquarebanana
    @MsSquarebanana 7 років тому +2

    So.. I've been hearing all of this advice about finding your niche and only doing that. In this, it seems that you are suggesting that we take on different kinds of work and offer different services. What is better to do?

    • @thefutur
      @thefutur  7 років тому

      ProlificBanana sorry if I wasn't clear. She can offer up additional services to increase her billing to new prospects.

  • @arce1986
    @arce1986 7 років тому +2

    can somebody send a link to Melinda's portoflio on behance, thanks!

  • @gnazlis
    @gnazlis 7 років тому +1

    How long till the whole process you describe becomes an unbreakable HABIT???
    By the way, Great Staff People!!!!

    • @melindalivsey1
      @melindalivsey1 7 років тому +1

      Breaking my bad habits is not as easy as I thought!

  • @aoxenuk
    @aoxenuk 7 років тому +5

    I love seeing you two ♥

  • @latinillusion00
    @latinillusion00 6 років тому +1

    Did the episode on SEO eventually get made? Chris: 16:38

    • @thefutur
      @thefutur  6 років тому

      Yes. But it might only be available for Pro Members.