135 How to Create a Strong Brand for Your Own Design Business

The Profitable Graphic Designer

#Arts #Graphic Design #Kady Sandel

33:58

In this episode, we delve into the concept of being "qualified" in the workplace, examining who gets labeled as such, who doesn't, and the underlying reasons. We explore "competency checking"—the practice of scrutinizing individuals' abilities—and how it disproportionately affects underrepresented groups, often going unnoticed or unchallenged. Our discussion aims to redefine qualifications in a fair, equitable, and actionable manner. Our guest, Shari Dunn , is an accomplished journalist, former attorney, news anchor, CEO, university professor, and sought-after speaker. She has been recognized as Executive of the Year and a Woman of Influence, with her work appearing in Fortune Magazine, The Wall Street Journal, Ad Age, and more. Her new book, Qualified: How Competency Checking and Race Collide at Work , unpacks what it truly means to be deserving and capable—and why systemic barriers, not personal deficits, are often the real problem. Her insights challenge the narratives that hold so many of us back and offer practical solutions for building a more equitable future. Together, we can build workplaces and communities that don’t just reflect the world we live in, but the one we want to create. A world where being qualified is about recognizing the talent and potential that’s been overlooked for far too long. It’s not just about getting a seat at the table—it’s about building an entirely new table, one designed with space for all of us. Connect with Our Guest Shari Dunn Website& Book - Qualified: https://thesharidunn.com LI: https://www.linkedin.com/today/author/sharidunn TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thesharidunn Related Podcast Episodes: How To Build Emotionally Mature Leaders with Dr. Christie Smith | 272 Holding It Together: Women As America's Safety Net with Jessica Calarco | 215 How To Defy Expectations with Dr. Sunita Sah | 271 Share the Love: If you found this episode insightful, please share it with a friend, tag us on social media, and leave a review on your favorite podcast platform! 🔗 Subscribe & Review: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Amazon Music…

acum un an 27:00

MP3•Pagina episodului

Branding isn’t just for your clients - it’s essential for your design business too.

Often, designers overlook their own brand, assuming their work will speak for itself. But a strong brand identity is what sets you apart, attracts clients, and establishes you as a serious professional. In this episode, I share everything you need to know about creating a powerful brand for your business.

You will learn:

How to define your brand’s core values and mission.
Steps to build a consistent visual identity that represents you.
Tips for crafting brand messaging that aligns with your values.
How to structure your portfolio to attract the right clients.
Why consistency is crucial as your business grows.

Grab a cup of coffee, your notes, and get ready to redefine how you run your design business!

Aventive Academy’s Resources:

Free Brand Guidelines Template: https://aventiveacademy.com/brand-guidelines/

Free Client Portal for Designers: https://aventiveacademy.com/client-portal/

$12k Client Attraction Masterclass: https://aventiveacademy.com/attract-clients-workshop/

Join My Weekly Newsletter: https://aventive-academy.ck.page/0fc86a336f

The Wealthy Client Blueprint: ⁠https://aventiveacademy.com/wealthy-client/

12-Week Business Program for Designers: https://aventiveacademy.com/profit

The Creative CEO Accelerator: https://aventiveacademy.com/accelerator

149 episoade

135 How to Create a Strong Brand for Your Own Design Business

The Profitable Graphic Designer

published acum un an

Distribuie

MP3•Pagina episodului

Branding isn’t just for your clients - it’s essential for your design business too.

You will learn:

How to define your brand’s core values and mission.
Steps to build a consistent visual identity that represents you.
Tips for crafting brand messaging that aligns with your values.
How to structure your portfolio to attract the right clients.
Why consistency is crucial as your business grows.

Grab a cup of coffee, your notes, and get ready to redefine how you run your design business!

Aventive Academy’s Resources:

Free Brand Guidelines Template: https://aventiveacademy.com/brand-guidelines/

Free Client Portal for Designers: https://aventiveacademy.com/client-portal/

$12k Client Attraction Masterclass: https://aventiveacademy.com/attract-clients-workshop/

Join My Weekly Newsletter: https://aventive-academy.ck.page/0fc86a336f

The Wealthy Client Blueprint: ⁠https://aventiveacademy.com/wealthy-client/

12-Week Business Program for Designers: https://aventiveacademy.com/profit

The Creative CEO Accelerator: https://aventiveacademy.com/accelerator

149 episoade

#Arts #Graphic Design #Kady Sandel

Semua episode

1
149 How Smart Designers Are Using AI to Scale Their Business 24:24

acum 6 zile24:24

24:24

AI is shaking up the design industry, and the smartest designers are using it to work faster, scale their businesses, and increase profits. I’ll show you exactly how I use AI in my branding and design agency to streamline workflows, enhance client communication, and automate marketing. If you’ve been wondering whether AI is a tool or a threat, this episode will give you the clarity (and strategy) you need. You will learn: How to use AI to create mockups, proposals, and marketing content The best AI tools to automate client communication and admin work Why AI isn’t replacing designers – but those who use it are getting ahead Ways to integrate AI into your design process without losing creativity Grab a cup of coffee, your notes, and get ready to redefine how you run your design business! Aventive Academy’s Resources: Mockup Magic: https://aventiveacademy.com/mockup-magic/ $12k Client Attraction Masterclass: https://aventiveacademy.com/attract-clients-workshop/ Brand Guidelines Template: https://aventiveacademy.com/brand-guidelines/ Client Portal for Designers: https://aventiveacademy.com/client-portal/ The Wealthy Client Blueprint: ⁠https://aventiveacademy.com/wealthy-client/ 12-Week Business Program for Designers: https://aventiveacademy.com/profit Join My Weekly Newsletter: https://aventive-academy.ck.page/0fc86a336f The Creative CEO Accelerator: https://aventiveacademy.com/accelerator…

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148 Why Working Less Made My Design Business More Profitable 23:13

acum 13 zile23:13

23:13

Most designers think that working more means earning more, but what if the opposite were true? In this episode, I’m sharing how I cut my work hours, take two months off every year to travel, and STILL make more money than when I was hustling 24/7. If you’re stuck in the grind and feeling burnt out, this episode will show you how to shift your mindset, optimize your pricing, and create systems that let you work smarter—not harder. You will learn: How I structure my workday from 9:30 AM to 2 PM and get more done in less time Why taking two months off each year actually helped me grow my business The pricing strategy that allows me to make more while working less How to attract high-paying clients who respect your time and expertise Grab your notes and get ready to rethink how you run your design business! Aventive Academy’s Resources: $12k Client Attraction Masterclass: https://aventiveacademy.com/attract-clients-workshop/ Client Portal for Designers: https://aventiveacademy.com/client-portal/ The Wealthy Client Blueprint: ⁠https://aventiveacademy.com/wealthy-client/ Mockup Magic: https://aventiveacademy.com/mockup-magic/ BrandGuidelines Template: https://aventiveacademy.com/brand-guidelines/ 12-Week Business Program for Designers: https://aventiveacademy.com/profit Join My Weekly Newsletter: https://aventive-academy.ck.page/0fc86a336f The Creative CEO Accelerator: https://aventiveacademy.com/accelerator…

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147 The Reason Many Designers Can't Grow Their Business 23:44

acum 20 zile23:44

23:44

When you try to appeal to everyone, you end up appealing to no one. Specializing in a specific niche or service can transform your design business, making you the go-to expert for your ideal clients. In this episode of The Profitable Graphic Designer, I’ll show you how narrowing your focus leads to higher-paying clients, better referrals, and easier marketing. You will learn: How specializing positions you as an expert in your industry. The benefits of focusing on a niche, including attracting higher-paying clients. Common fears about specializing and how to overcome them. Actionable steps to identify your ideal niche and start specializing today. Aventive Academy’s Resources: Mockup Magic: https://aventiveacademy.com/mockup-magic/ $12k Client Attraction Masterclass: https://aventiveacademy.com/attract-clients-workshop/ Brand Guidelines Template: https://aventiveacademy.com/brand-guidelines/ Client Portal for Designers: https://aventiveacademy.com/client-portal/ The Wealthy Client Blueprint: ⁠https://aventiveacademy.com/wealthy-client/ 12-Week Business Program for Designers: https://aventiveacademy.com/profit Join My Weekly Newsletter: https://aventive-academy.ck.page/0fc86a336f The Creative CEO Accelerator: https://aventiveacademy.com/accelerator…

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146 Why Your Portfolio Isn't Landing You Clients (And What Will) 23:46

acum 27 zile23:46

23:46

Most designers think their portfolio is all about showcasing stunning visuals, but that’s not what lands you clients. Your potential clients aren’t designers - they care about how your work solves their business problems. In this episode of The Profitable Graphic Designer, I’ll show you how to turn your portfolio into a client-magnet by focusing on strategy, results, and the stories behind your designs. You will learn: Why showcasing results, not just visuals, is the key to converting leads. The three-part structure every case study in your portfolio should follow. The biggest mistakes designers make in their portfolios (and how to fix them). Actionable steps to rewrite your portfolio today to attract high-paying clients. Grab a cup of coffee, your notes, and get ready to redefine how you run your design business! Aventive Academy's Resources Mockup Magic: https://aventiveacademy.com/mockup-magic/ $12k Client Attraction Masterclass: https://aventiveacademy.com/attract-clients-workshop/ Brand Guidelines Template: https://aventiveacademy.com/brand-guidelines/ Client Portal for Designers: https://aventiveacademy.com/client-portal/ The Wealthy Client Blueprint: ⁠https://aventiveacademy.com/wealthy-client/ 12-Week Business Program for Designers: https://aventiveacademy.com/profit Join My Weekly Newsletter: https://aventive-academy.ck.page/0fc86a336f The Creative CEO Accelerator: https://aventiveacademy.com/accelerator…

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145 Psychological Tricks to Sell Design Services 27:15

acum 5 weeks27:15

27:15

Selling doesn’t have to feel pushy or uncomfortable. In this episode of The Profitable Graphic Designer Podcast, I’m breaking down the psychological tricks that make selling design services feel natural. From building trust to framing your services as solutions, these strategies will help you connect with clients and inspire confidence without feeling like you’re forcing the sale. You will learn: How to build trust using authority and social proof. Why framing your services as solutions makes all the difference. Ways to use scarcity and urgency ethically to motivate clients. How reciprocity and thoughtful listening can create meaningful connections. Strategies to refine your sales process and close more deals confidently. Take notes and learn how to guide clients toward choosing you, effortlessly! Aventive Academy’s Resources: Mockup Magic: https://aventiveacademy.com/mockup-magic/ $12k Client Attraction Masterclass: https://aventiveacademy.com/attract-clients-workshop/ Brand Guidelines Template: https://aventiveacademy.com/brand-guidelines/ Client Portal for Designers: https://aventiveacademy.com/client-portal/ The Wealthy Client Blueprint: ⁠https://aventiveacademy.com/wealthy-client/ 12-Week Business Program for Designers: https://aventiveacademy.com/profit Join My Weekly Newsletter: https://aventive-academy.ck.page/0fc86a336f The Creative CEO Accelerator: https://aventiveacademy.com/accelerator…

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144 Client Feedback Is How You Grow 26:39

acum 6 weeks26:39

26:39

Feedback is one of the most powerful tools for growing your design business - not just from clients who say yes but also from those who say no. In this episode of The Profitable Graphic Designer Podcast, I’ll show you how to use client feedback to refine your designs, improve your sales process, and build better relationships. Whether it’s understanding why a client went with a competitor or asking better questions about your work, these insights will help you run a more efficient and successful business. You will learn: How to ask for detailed, actionable feedback on your designs. Ways to gather insights on your sales process from both yes and no clients. Strategies to turn feedback into real improvements in your business. How to strengthen client relationships through thoughtful follow-ups. Practical tips to track feedback and identify patterns for growth. Take notes and discover how feedback can drive your design business forward! Aventive Academy’s Resources: Mockup Magic: https://aventiveacademy.com/mockup-magic/ $12k Client Attraction Masterclass: https://aventiveacademy.com/attract-clients-workshop/ Brand Guidelines Template: https://aventiveacademy.com/brand-guidelines/ Client Portal for Designers: https://aventiveacademy.com/client-portal/ The Wealthy Client Blueprint: ⁠https://aventiveacademy.com/wealthy-client/ 12-Week Business Program for Designers: https://aventiveacademy.com/profit Join My Weekly Newsletter: https://aventive-academy.ck.page/0fc86a336f The Creative CEO Accelerator: https://aventiveacademy.com/accelerator…

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143 Is It a Scam or a Real Design Client? 31:37

acum 7 weeks31:37

31:37

Scammers are becoming increasingly sophisticated, and as design business owners, it’s essential to protect ourselves from falling for their tricks. In this episode of The Profitable Graphic Designer Podcast, I’m sharing how to identify red flags, common scams targeting designers, and the steps you can take to verify potential clients. By the end of this episode, you’ll feel confident in handling inquiries and safeguarding your business against scams. You will learn: The red flags to watch for in client communication. Examples of common scams targeting designers and how they work. Practical steps to verify legitimate clients and avoid sketchy situations. How to set up processes that protect your business and your energy. Tips to stay informed and confident when dealing with potential clients. Stay one step ahead and protect your business with these strategies! Aventive Academy’s Resources: $12k Client Attraction Masterclass: https://aventiveacademy.com/attract-clients-workshop/ Brand Guidelines Template: https://aventiveacademy.com/brand-guidelines/ Client Portal for Designers: https://aventiveacademy.com/client-portal/ The Wealthy Client Blueprint: ⁠https://aventiveacademy.com/wealthy-client/ 12-Week Business Program for Designers: https://aventiveacademy.com/profit Join My Weekly Newsletter: https://aventive-academy.ck.page/0fc86a336f The Creative CEO Accelerator: https://aventiveacademy.com/accelerator…

1
142 How Graphic Designers Get More Clients - Mockup Magic 16:09

acum 8 weeks16:09

16:09

Struggling to impress clients with your designs? Mockups might be the missing piece to elevate your presentations and simplify your process. In this episode, I’m sharing all the details about my course, Mockup Magic , which helps you create stunning, photorealistic mockups in minutes using AI tools. Whether you’re tired of spending hours in Photoshop or want to deliver polished visuals that wow your clients, this episode is packed with actionable tips and insights to help you work smarter and charge more confidently. You will learn: Why professional mockups are essential to landing premium clients. How Mockup Magic can save you hours of time and stress. What’s inside the course and how it transforms your design workflow. The tools and strategies I use to create custom, high-end mockups in minutes. Let’s take your design presentations to the next level – one mockup at a time! Mockup Magic with AI - https://aventiveacademy.com/mockup-magic/…

1
141 Client Onboarding Process for Brand Designers 24:25

acum 8 weeks24:25

24:25

Having a solid client onboarding process is critical for success as a brand designer. It’s more than just paperwork – it’s about creating a professional first impression and ensuring every project starts on the right foot. In this episode, I’ll walk you through my step-by-step onboarding process, covering everything from setting expectations to delivering organized final files. Whether you’re working with a startup or a high-profile client, this process will help you streamline your workflow and create a seamless client experience. You will learn: How to create a clear and professional onboarding process that sets expectations. The steps to implement a client portal for organized communication. How to present your design work effectively to showcase its value. Tips for maintaining communication while setting boundaries with clients. How to wrap up projects in a way that ensures client satisfaction and future referrals. I hope these tips inspire you to refine your process and make your next onboarding experience even better! Aventive Academy’s Resources: $12k Client Attraction Masterclass: https://aventiveacademy.com/attract-clients-workshop/ Brand Guidelines Template: https://aventiveacademy.com/brand-guidelines/ Client Portal for Designers: https://aventiveacademy.com/client-portal/ The Wealthy Client Blueprint: ⁠https://aventiveacademy.com/wealthy-client/ 12-Week Business Program for Designers: https://aventiveacademy.com/profit…

1
140 3 Best Ways to Find Freelance Design Clients in 2025 26:20

acum 9 weeks26:20

26:20

2025 is here, and it’s time to attract the high-paying design clients you’ve been dreaming of. If finding clients has felt overwhelming or inconsistent, I’m sharing three powerful strategies to help you stand out and build a thriving design business this year. These proven methods will help you connect with the right people, showcase your expertise, and create a steady pipeline of clients who value your work. You will learn: How to use networking to create genuine opportunities and referrals The steps to build an online presence that attracts dream clients effortlessly How to master proactive outreach and position yourself as the go-to expert The biggest mistakes designers make when finding clients—and how to avoid them This is your year. Grab your notebook, and let’s transform the way you find clients in 2025! Aventive Academy’s Resources: Free Brand Guidelines Template: https://aventiveacademy.com/brand-guidelines/ Free Client Portal for Designers: https://aventiveacademy.com/client-portal/ $12k Client Attraction Masterclass: https://aventiveacademy.com/attract-clients-workshop/ The Wealthy Client Blueprint: ⁠https://aventiveacademy.com/wealthy-client/ 12-Week Business Program for Designers: https://aventiveacademy.com/profit…

1
139 How to Craft Proposals That Win You High-Paying Clients 25:15

acum 10 weeks25:15

25:15

Proposals are more than just documents—they’re your ticket to landing high-paying clients. If your proposals feel generic or aren’t getting the results you want, it’s time to rethink your approach. I’m breaking down exactly what to include in a winning proposal, from crafting a compelling executive summary to confidently presenting your pricing. With clear structure, strong messaging, and polished design, you’ll be able to create proposals that close deals and attract the clients you really want to work with. You will learn: The essential sections every high-converting proposal needs How to write about your services in a way that highlights client outcomes Tips for presenting your pricing confidently and professionally The most common mistakes designers make in their proposals—and how to avoid them How to set clear next steps that make it easy for clients to say yes Grab your laptop and let’s transform the way you craft proposals! Aventive Academy’s Resources: Free Brand Guidelines Template: https://aventiveacademy.com/brand-guidelines/ Free Client Portal for Designers: https://aventiveacademy.com/client-portal/ $12k Client Attraction Masterclass: https://aventiveacademy.com/attract-clients-workshop/ Join My Weekly Newsletter: https://aventive-academy.ck.page/0fc86a336f The Wealthy Client Blueprint: ⁠https://aventiveacademy.com/wealthy-client/ 12-Week Business Program for Designers: https://aventiveacademy.com/profit…

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138 How I Automated My Design Business and Took a Month Off 25:02

acum 11 weeks25:02

25:02

Tired of feeling like your design business would collapse if you stepped away for even a week? I’ve been there, and I’m here to tell you it doesn’t have to be that way. In this episode, I’m sharing exactly how I automated my branding agency, hired a team I trust, and took an entire month off—without losing clients or momentum. I’ll walk you through the tools, systems, and mindset shifts that made it possible for me to work just 15 hours a week when I’m in the office and confidently step away when I’m not. If you’ve been wondering how to scale your business while actually creating more freedom for yourself, this episode is for you. You will learn: How to build a team you can trust to handle your client work The tools I use to keep my agency running smoothly, including Gmail, Trello, Slack, and WhatsApp My approach to batching tasks and planning ahead to free up time The weekly schedule that helps me stay focused while working fewer hours Why shifting your mindset is the first step to building a business that works for you Take a moment for yourself, grab your favorite drink, and let’s get started on building a business that truly works for you! Aventive Academy’s Resources: Free Brand Guidelines Template: https://aventiveacademy.com/brand-guidelines/ Free Client Portal for Designers: https://aventiveacademy.com/client-portal/ $12k Client Attraction Masterclass: https://aventiveacademy.com/attract-clients-workshop/ Join My Weekly Newsletter: https://aventive-academy.ck.page/0fc86a336f The Wealthy Client Blueprint: ⁠https://aventiveacademy.com/wealthy-client/ 12-Week Business Program for Designers: https://aventiveacademy.com/profit The Creative CEO Accelerator: https://aventiveacademy.com/accelerator…

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137 Your Roadmap to a Profitable 2025 as a Designer 24:27

acum 12 weeks24:27

24:27

Creating a profitable 2025 starts with setting clear goals, defining your ideal clients, and building systems that support your growth. This episode is your step-by-step roadmap to envision where you want to be by the end of 2025—and build the structure to get there. From revenue planning to refining your service offerings, I’m sharing the actions that will set you up for a successful year. You will learn: How to envision your ideal 2025 and set actionable goals. Strategies for defining revenue targets and achieving financial health. Tips for identifying and attracting your ideal clients. How to structure your service offerings for maximum impact. Systems and actions to streamline your business. Grab a cup of coffee, your notes, and get ready to redefine how you run your design business! Aventive Academy’s Resources: Free Brand Guidelines Template: https://aventiveacademy.com/brand-guidelines/ Free Client Portal for Designers: https://aventiveacademy.com/client-portal/ $12k Client Attraction Masterclass: https://aventiveacademy.com/attract-clients-workshop/ Join My Weekly Newsletter: https://aventive-academy.ck.page/0fc86a336f The Wealthy Client Blueprint: ⁠https://aventiveacademy.com/wealthy-client/ 12-Week Business Program for Designers: https://aventiveacademy.com/profit The Creative CEO Accelerator: https://aventiveacademy.com/accelerator…

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136 Raise Your Design Rates (Without Losing Clients) 26:48

acum 13 weeks26:48

26:48

Raising your design rates isn’t just about earning more—it’s about reflecting your expertise and the transformation you bring to clients. In this episode, I share how to approach rate increases confidently, attract high-paying clients, and position yourself as a premium service without fear of losing clients. This is about aligning your fees with the value you bring. You will learn: How to communicate your value beyond deliverables. Strategies for positioning yourself to attract premium clients. How to structure proposals with tiered pricing. Ways to handle rate objections confidently. Steps to gradually increase your rates over time. Grab a cup of coffee, your notes, and get ready to redefine how you run your design business! Aventive Academy’s Resources: Free Brand Guidelines Template: https://aventiveacademy.com/brand-guidelines/ Free Client Portal for Designers: https://aventiveacademy.com/client-portal/ $12k Client Attraction Masterclass: https://aventiveacademy.com/attract-clients-workshop/ Join My Weekly Newsletter: https://aventive-academy.ck.page/0fc86a336f The Wealthy Client Blueprint: https://aventiveacademy.com/wealthy-client/ 12-Week Business Program for Designers: https://aventiveacademy.com/profit The Creative CEO Accelerator: https://aventiveacademy.com/accelerator…

1
135 How to Create a Strong Brand for Your Own Design Business 27:00

acum 14 weeks27:00