Mastering the Art of Entrepreneurship: In-Demand Skills for Success (Extended)

A DEEPER and MORE DETAILED LOOK.

Adding on to “Mastering the Art of Entrepreneurship: In-Demand Skills for Success” featured within THE FEED, here are some top key sources where aspiring artistic entrepreneurs can further enhance their skills in each of the mentioned areas:

1. Business Acumen:

- Online Courses: Platforms like Coursera, Udemy, and LinkedIn Learning offer a wide range of business courses, including entrepreneurship, finance, marketing, and strategic planning.

- Small Business Development Centers (SBDCs): Local SBDCs provide free or low-cost workshops, training programs, and one-on-one consultations to help entrepreneurs develop their business skills.

- Books: "The Lean Startup" by Eric Ries, "The E-Myth Revisited" by Michael E. Gerber, and "Business Model Generation" by Alexander Osterwalder and Yves Pigneur are highly recommended reads for aspiring entrepreneurs.

2. Networking and Relationship Building:

- Industry Events and Conferences: Attend art exhibitions, industry conferences, and networking events relevant to your artistic niche. Events like Art Basel, SXSW, and TED Talks often attract influential figures in the arts and entrepreneurship.

- Professional Associations: Joining organizations such as the International Association of Art (IAA) or local artist guilds can provide networking opportunities, workshops, and access to industry resources.

- Online Communities: Participate in online forums and social media groups dedicated to art and entrepreneurship, such as LinkedIn groups or specialized forums like Art Business.

3. Marketing and Branding:

- Online Marketing Courses: Platforms like Google Digital Garage and HubSpot Academy offer free courses on digital marketing, content creation, and social media marketing.

- Branding Books: "Building a StoryBrand" by Donald Miller and "Contagious: How to Build Word of Mouth in the Digital Age" by Jonah Berger provide valuable insights into creating a compelling brand and effective marketing strategies.

- Online Resources: Blogs and websites like Neil Patel, Social Media Examiner, and Content Marketing Institute offer in-depth articles, guides, and tutorials on various marketing techniques.

4. Adaptability and Resilience:

- Entrepreneurial Podcasts: Listen to podcasts like "How I Built This" by NPR or "The Tim Ferriss Show" to gain insights from successful entrepreneurs and learn how they overcame challenges and setbacks.

- Personal Development Books: "Grit: The Power of Passion and Perseverance" by Angela Duckworth and "Mindset: The New Psychology of Success" by Carol S. Dweck provide valuable perspectives on cultivating resilience and a growth mindset.

- Entrepreneurial Communities: Engage with supportive communities like Startup Grind, Indie Hackers, or local entrepreneurial meetups where like-minded individuals share experiences and offer advice.

5. Effective Communication:

- Public Speaking Courses: Platforms like Toastmasters International or Dale Carnegie Training offer courses and workshops to improve public speaking and communication skills.

- Books: "Talk Like TED" by Carmine Gallo and "Crucial Conversations: Tools for Talking When Stakes Are High" by Kerry Patterson, Joseph Grenny, Ron McMillan, and Al Switzler provide practical tips for effective communication.

- Improv Workshops: Participating in improv classes or workshops can enhance your spontaneity, active listening, and adaptability in communication.

6. Project Management:

- Project Management Tools: Explore project management software like Trello, Asana, or Monday.com to better organize and track your projects and tasks.

- Project Management Courses: Platforms like Project Management Institute (PMI) offer certifications and courses on project management principles and methodologies. Additionally, online learning platforms like LinkedIn Learning and Udemy offer project management courses tailored to creative industries.

- Project Management Books: "Getting Things Done" by David Allen and "The Art of Project Management" by Scott Berkun are valuable resources for understanding project management principles and strategies.

7. Continuous Learning and Creativity:

- Art Workshops and Classes: Attend workshops, art retreats, and classes offered by local art schools, community centers, or renowned artists to learn new techniques and expand your artistic skills.

- Museums and Galleries: Visit museums, galleries, and exhibitions to explore different artistic styles, gain inspiration, and stay informed about contemporary art trends.

- Online Art Communities: Join online communities and platforms like Behance, Dribbble, or DeviantArt to connect with other artists, share your work, and receive feedback.

- Creative Retreats and Residencies: Participate in creative retreats or artist residencies that provide dedicated time and space for artistic exploration and collaboration.

8: Financial Literacy:

Financial literacy is a critical skill for entrepreneurial success in the arts. These books and sources can provide valuable insights and practical guidance to help you navigate the financial aspects of your artistic business and make informed decisions that contribute to your long-term success. Here are five top books and sources for financial literacy within entrepreneurship and business leadership specifically tailored to the arts:

• "Accounting for the Numberphobic: A Survival Guide for Small Business Owners" by Dawn Fotopulos:

This book provides a user-friendly introduction to accounting and financial management for entrepreneurs, including those in the arts. It covers essential financial concepts, such as cash flow management, budgeting, and financial statement analysis, in a clear and accessible manner.

• "The Artist's Guide to Financial Management" by Gerald M. Newmark:

Specifically written for artists and creative professionals, this book offers practical advice on managing personal and business finances. It covers topics like budgeting, tax planning, pricing artwork, and negotiating contracts, providing valuable insights into financial management within the arts industry.

• Arts & Business Councils:

Many cities have Arts & Business Councils or similar organizations that offer resources and programs to help artists and arts organizations develop their financial literacy and business skills. These councils often provide workshops, seminars, and one-on-one consultations on financial management, fundraising, and business planning. Examples include the Arts & Business Council of New York, Arts & Business Council of Chicago, and Arts & Business Council of Miami.

• Small Business Administration (SBA):

The U.S. Small Business Administration offers a wealth of resources for entrepreneurs, including those in the arts. Their website provides valuable information on financial management, business planning, funding options, and government assistance programs. They also offer online courses, workshops, and access to business mentors through their network of Small Business Development Centers (SBDCs).

• Financial Management for Artists:

Financial Management for Artists (www.financialmanagementforartists.com) is an online resource dedicated to helping artists and creative professionals understand and improve their financial literacy. It offers articles, tutorials, templates, and tools on topics such as budgeting, pricing artwork, managing taxes, and financial planning. The website provides practical guidance specifically tailored to the unique financial challenges faced by artists.

Remember, while these sources provide valuable knowledge and resources, it is equally important to gain hands-on experience and try things out. It is important to have a growth mindset, seek feedback, and continually push yourself to improve your artistic and business abilities. To be a successful entrepreneur in the arts, you need a combination of artistic talent, business skills, and an entrepreneurial mindset. By developing skills such as understanding how businesses work, building connections, promoting yourself, being able to adapt and bounce back from challenges, effectively communicating, organizing projects, and constantly learning and being creative, aspiring artistic entrepreneurs can position themselves for success in the competitive arts industry. The journey may be difficult, but the rewards of turning your creative passion into a thriving business are priceless. To effectively showcase your unique artistic vision to a larger audience, it is important to acquire a solid understanding of business, nurture valuable relationships, and excel in marketing and branding. This will help you build a loyal customer base and establish yourself as a respected name in the arts industry. Being adaptable, resilient, and a good communicator are crucial skills that will help you navigate the ever-changing landscape of the arts industry and effectively communicate your value to clients and stakeholders.

Having good project management skills is important for successfully completing creative projects. This includes planning, organizing, and coordinating different aspects of your projects, like timelines, resources, and budgets. It's not only good for your professional reputation but also helps your artistic business grow and last. It's important to keep learning and being creative to stay relevant and inspired in the arts industry. The industry is always changing, so staying updated with online courses, industry events, podcasts, and books is essential. Using these resources can improve your skills and knowledge, and help you succeed in a competitive arts world.

To succeed as an artist-entrepreneur, you need talent, business know-how, and an entrepreneurial mindset. By continuously improving these skills, you can overcome obstacles, seize chances, and build a rewarding career in the arts. Embrace the journey, embrace the arts, and unlock your full potential as a successful artistic entrepreneur because the possibilities are endless.

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MAINTAINING CREATIVITY FOR PROSPERITY - COACHING - LIAM IAN

© 2023 Liam Ian (LIAM IAN LLC) - © 2023 Liam Ian (LIAM IAN LLC) ⩀

THE POWER OF BELIEF!

WHEN YOU FINALLY FIND SOMEONE WHO BELIEVES IN YOU.

Sometimes, one of the keys to Success is Belief. When someone believes in you—shows you that you and your endeavors have substantial worth in this existence we know as Life—you’ll often feel something much more impactful and motivating.

© 2023 Liam Ian (LIAM IAN LLC)

The Importance of Reciprocal Belief for Artists and Entrepreneurs: Fostering Success and Fulfillment

For artists and entrepreneurs, the journey towards accomplishing goals and completing projects can be filled with challenges, self-doubt, and uncertainty. In such times, the power of reciprocal belief becomes even more crucial. In this blog post, we explore why reciprocal belief is essential for artists and entrepreneurs and how it can contribute to their success and fulfillment.

Artists and entrepreneurs often face moments of self-doubt and questioning their abilities. Reciprocal belief serves as a lifeline during these moments, offering support and reminding them of their worth and potential. When they have someone who believes in them and their vision, it strengthens their resilience and helps them push through obstacles with renewed determination.

Belief is contagious, and when reciprocal belief exists within a creative or entrepreneurial environment, it creates a powerful and uplifting atmosphere. Surrounding oneself with individuals who believe in their talents and dreams fosters an environment of support, encouragement, and collaboration. This positive energy becomes the driving force behind their creative and entrepreneurial pursuits.

Reciprocal belief instills confidence in artists and entrepreneurs, enabling them to take bold risks and step outside their comfort zones. When they have someone who believes in their capabilities, they are more likely to embrace new opportunities, explore innovative ideas, and challenge themselves creatively. This confidence is instrumental in unlocking their full potential and achieving remarkable outcomes.

Artists and entrepreneurs often encounter moments of fatigue or moments when the path to success seems arduous. Reciprocal belief provides ongoing motivation and accountability. The belief and support from others serve as a reminder of the importance of their work and the impact they can make. It helps them stay focused, committed, and accountable to their goals, even during challenging times.

For artists and entrepreneurs, reciprocal belief plays a vital role in their journey towards success and fulfillment. It serves as a beacon of encouragement, resilience, and inspiration. Surrounding oneself with individuals who believe in their abilities and reciprocating that belief creates an empowering ecosystem for growth and achievement. Embrace the power of reciprocal belief, and witness how it propels you forward on your artistic or entrepreneurial path.

- Coaching Tip -

Reflect on your network and support system as an artist or entrepreneur. Identify those individuals who genuinely believe in your talents and dreams. Nurture those relationships and actively seek out opportunities to reciprocate that belief. Together, you can create a powerful synergy that fuels your motivation, resilience, and success.

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The concern and process of Confidence and Ability as an Artist is essential to transitioning into an Entrepreneur. One must practice discipline and measured focus to switch between the different states of mind that are required to successfully jump back and forth between those worlds. For our thoughts and information on Entrepreneurship for Artists . . . JOIN US . . . within THE CIRCLE.

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THE POWER OF BELIEF - COACHING - LIAM IAN

© 2023 Liam Ian (LIAM IAN LLC)

GETTING READY FOR A POST PANDEMIC WORLD!

NO ONE WILL GIVE YOU ANYTHING…EXCEPT THOSE WHO KNOW YOUR PAIN.

As to not drag it out, the fact of the matter is that there will come a time when this pandemic is over and the question to ask is “What did you do before we returned to that false sense of normality to advance and progress at your endeavors?’

A lot of opportunity has presented itself in the fields of Convenience, Online Presence and Safety. As usual though, the ones with the fortune enough to have had the resources going into and throughout the Coronavirus Pandemic will undoubtedly reap many benefits. You can, however, still take advantage of the opportunity to position yourself and your business or endeavors accordingly.

TIP 1

I say START PLANNING NOW! Don’t wait until things have begun resolve themselves before you decide to draft plans on how to reintroduce yourself within the new world. Do not wait for others to come to you with a plan and don’t think that you can copy what someone else might be doing most of this issues brought about by this situation are very unique and individual. You need to start planning now! You to take a look or sit down with someone to organize your thoughts and start planning now.

TIP 2

START GETTING SAVVY ONLINE! Whether you want to admit it, you and your business are and will be competing much more on a landscape that is heavily reliant on the web. Yes, many individuals have started that transition if not already there as a natural aspect of their age group and/or lifestyle. This pandemic though has pushed things to the forefront forcing us to consider the internet for so many other reasons and functions. Create a plan on how you will increase your footprint and impact online as it will be crucial for your survival.

TIP 3

THROW AWAY FEAR of failure. Anything you do from this point on—in all likelihood—will be a trail at something that someone else probably already tried. In some cases people fail and then in others, people succeed. In many more cases than not, people fail. It’s just what we do. Failure is the predecessor to success. In failure, there are many lessons to be learned. Some lessons will be harder than others to learn but you’ve got to go thru the process. It’s a must. Let go of your fear of failure. Let go the fear of rejection and lost time and lost money because all of your actions are there to build opportunities. Fear nothing. Strive for everything…even failure.

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There’s a lot more to know about getting prepared for the Post-Pandemic World but know and understand that getting prepared NOW is the BEST thing you could do. No, no one knows what’s really coming but there are signs. There are signs for opportunity. No matter how much worse things get, everything is an opportunity—you just have to be open-minded and clearheaded enough to see it. You’ll see nothing if you’re struggling to play catchup with others because what YOU could’ve done might have already been done by thousands. Create your opportunity today to create opportunities tomorrow.

—Liam Ian

For Entrepreneurial and Small Business Tips in making your Post-Pandemic survival and transformation a success, join me at The Burrell Business Group. We talk the latest in Entrepreneurial News to help take you to the next level.

LISTEN...

THERE’S A WEALTH OF B.S. OUT THERE BUT THERE’S EVEN MORE GOOD STUFF TO BE LEARNED…AND GREAT STUFF TO BE GAINED!

Many people out there work to be influential and impactful by disseminating information. Sometimes this information can be good while others not so good. It’s essential to discern when to listen, what to listen to and who to listen to.

I’ve learned that the most important and influential information anyone can pass on to you is that which can help develop and transform your life—information that informs…your life. This is usually Financial, Business, Personal Management, Health, and/or Social advice.

WHEN TO LISTEN

If you’ve ever observed someone make eye contact with you when you speak, that gives you room to speak without interruption, repeats and acknowledges your words as you say them, affirms your thoughts when you’re done, or opts to get you to think on your discussion rather than to offer you advice—this is someone to listen to.

In my opinion, the person that makes a conscious effort to LISTEN to you is someone who might be worth listening to. People who often make others feel listened to are those that truly take in your thoughts and process them. You can just tell. When a person takes time to take in your thoughts, that means to some minimum degree that your words are in process to be understood. People that seek to understand your thoughts often cultivate and return an opinion or idea that supplants or expands upon what you’ve given. This is an element of Trust.

This is when…you need to listen!

It’s also—to me—an indication that they might have something worth offering. It’s often that those who genuinely have nuggets to offer want to and will then practice effective listening to use as an opening to offer their thoughts. Most who have nuggets will do so and will keep those nuggets as “bite size” as possible. People who know their stuff will keep it short, direct and simple. Those whom are confident in what they’re offering won’t need to coddle you or spend time to substantiate what they know—they’ll say what needs to be said, attempt to discern if you’ve received the message clearly, then move on about their day.

Additionally, the person worth listening to are often positive and proactive. They act with intention or a sense of mission and operate with an air of confidence.

WHAT TO LISTEN TO

People will waste your time. People will waste your time on B.S. that is important or interesting to them but not very effective to what you might have going on. Gossip, celebrity news, gloating, or negative talk are ALL a waste of time. Though they are important elements of being social, they are NOT the things worth giving “mental real estate” in your mind. You want the GOOD stuff!

The GOOD stuff is often information that helps to passively but clearly inform on things that are essential to getting along everyday…or influences ideas about the future. Financial news, commentary on Relationship Building, notifications about Innovation within your field or areas of interest are all on the list of things you should listen to. When it’s coming from someone looking to advise you, it should fall the same way. They should be able to tell you—IMMEDIATELY—how positive and good this info might be to enhancing your life or make you better at what you do or just being you.

At the TOP of my personal list of things to “Listen Out For” are Financial Subjects (including Strategies for Wealth Management), Industry News (that serves to assist my performance and knowledge within the CURRENT field I work), and Relationship Topics (including research on modern social trends and norms). I’ve trained my mind to pick up on these things in my everyday as result of actively pursuing them throughout time.

Spend time filling up your mind, body and spirit with those things that would serve to move you forward in and out of your current position and/or condition. Make a list of those subjects that interest you including those that are what inform your current and desired work and careers. Make the list…then get active in listening. Learn to shun any form of information that is negative, common or of low moral standard (messages about violence or negative perspectives of others).

Avoid, also, being comfortable. Get away from those things that DO NOT challenge you to the next level—as you would define what that “next level” is. Growth is about stepping out therefore you need to consume what will further inform and educate you on what you DO NOT know.

WHO TO LISTEN TO

As described in “WHEN TO LISTEN”, it is essential to know who you need listen to. Whether a friend, colleague or an advertisement for a company, you should know…clearly who you should listen to.

Track records and reputations are important. People that are often considered as thought-leaders and mentors usually have a history and record to legitimize the claim. While that’s good and the norm, it does not take away from how they relate and communicate to you…on a personal level.

Most certainly, you want to listen to those that give you adequate respect and room to listen to you and your thoughts but you also want to develop a history—a line of reference—for these people as they relate or associate with you. Even for you and companies, trust…is only earned by (positive) experiences that are and have been consistent throughout time. Yes, you might find a good reason to consider the thoughts and opinions of strangers who just might have your BEST interest in mind…but you’ll always give more value and worth to someone you’ve known and established trust with.

Trust (as a subcategory) is also developed by being able to see a persons actions match up with their words. People who do not practice what they preach often lead others to question the quality of what they know—what they say they know obviously must not be effective enough to make them do what it is they are advising. People worth listening to…are those who take their own advice.

Listening is a key function and aspect of gaining Success. In whatever journey or endeavor, it’s our capacity to listen (and to be listened to) effectively that will help propel us into and onto the next level. So much of listening is about Building Relationships and Staying Competitive. Success will not come to you working alone in most cases, it is a product of interacting with others.

- LIAM IAN

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Liam Ian | Burrell Business Research, LLC | BBR Photo

LIAM IAN