7 Ways for Arlington Creatives to Get Discovered

If you're a creative in Arlington, Massachusetts, you may be wondering how to get your work in front of as many people as possible so you can make a living. After all, the more eyes on your creations, the greater the chance that someone will be interested in commissioning your work or purchasing one of your pieces. Here are seven ways for creatives to get discovered.

Write a Business Plan

One of the best ways to get your creative business off the ground is to write a business plan. This document will outline your business goals, strategies, and financial projections. Having a business plan is essential if you want to attract investors or secure a loan from a bank. But even if you're not looking for outside funding, a business plan can still be a valuable exercise. It forces you to think critically about your business and develop a roadmap for success.

Get Your Work in Front of the Public

There are numerous ways to get your work in front of potential customers and clients. You can set up a booth at local art fairs and craft shows. You can also sell your work online through platforms like Etsy or Shopify. And don't forget about the power of social media! Platforms like Instagram and Twitter are great for promoting your work and driving traffic to your website or online store.

Use Online Tools to Create and Send Creations

If you're selling physical products like clothes or jewelry, you'll need to invest in some quality photography equipment. But even if you're just selling digital products like artwork or graphic design services, it's still important to have a strong online presence. There are numerous free tools and resources available that make it easy to create and share your work online. For example, Canva is a great platform for creating professional-looking images and graphics, and Dropbox is an easy way to share large files with clients or customers.

Form an LLC for Your Business

If you're running a small creative business, you may be tempted to operate as a sole proprietor, but there are several benefits to forming an LLC (limited liability company). For one thing, an LLC offers personal liability protection, which means that you won't be held liable for debts or damages incurred by the business. Additionally, an LLC can help you save on taxes by allowing you to deduct certain business expenses from your personal income taxes. And last but not least, an LLC can give your business a more professional image. An online how-to guide can show you how to form an LLC in Massachusetts, or you can keep it simple by recruiting the services of an online formation agency.

Create a DBA for Your Business

Another way to make your creative business look more professional is to create a DBA (doing business as) designation. This essentially allows you to operate under a different name than your personal name, which can be helpful if your personal name is difficult to pronounce or spell. A DBA in Massachusetts also makes it easier to open a bank account and process payments in the name of your business rather than in your own name.

Network and Reach Out for Help

No man is an island, and no business can succeed without some help from others. When starting out, it's important to network with other creatives in your field. Attend industry events and Meetups, join professional organizations and the Arlington Chamber of Commerce, and connect with other creatives on social media. These connections can provide valuable advice, feedback, and support during the early days of starting your business. Additionally, don't be afraid to reach out for help from family and friends when needed; they'll likely be more than happy to lend a hand (or offer some much-needed moral support).

Persist Through Setbacks

Starting a creative business is no easy feat, so it's important not to forget the importance of perseverance when things get tough. Every entrepreneur faces setbacks at some point. The key is not letting those setbacks discourage you from pursuing your dreams. If you believe in what you're doing and are willing to put in the hard work required, anything is possible!

There's no doubt about it: starting a creative business takes time, effort, and dedication. But if you're willing to put in the work required, it can certainly pay off! By following the tips outlined above — like writing a business plan, using online tools effectively, and networking with other creatives — you'll soon be getting discovered by future clients here in Arlington!