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September 10, 2024

Starting my own firm hasn’t gone how I expected. Should I take a job at someone else’s?

Creative-business coach Sean Low helps one designer see the importance of self-compassion—and giving themselves some time to explore their options before committing to their next step.

business advice

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August 27, 2024

I work in the ultraluxury end of the market. Do I really need to charge an upfront engagement fee?

Creative business coach Sean Low explains why charging an engagement fee and never fronting cash are two crucial financial components of a successful design business—and why one designer working at the highest income tier should not hesitate to embrace both.

business advice

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August 13, 2024

Across the industry, standards of behavior seem to be deteriorating. What happened to taking the high road?

Creative business coach Sean Low advises a designer who’s drained and demoralized by a slew of clients and competitors who seem to have lost all grace and good faith.

business advice

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July 16, 2024

Hourly plus commission still feels like the safest way to charge. What am I missing?

Charging hourly along with a product markup remains common industry practice for designers who fear not having their time fairly compensated. Creative business coach Sean Low talks one designer through the potential downsides of this popular approach.

business advice

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July 2, 2024

How do I get over my anxiety about handing off client communications to my team?

Creative business coach Sean Low reminds a firm principal that before they can delegate confidently and effectively, they must shore up the foundations of their business’s identity and values.

business advice

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June 18, 2024

How can I leverage my design skills to find success in a new industry?

To a designer preparing to make a big career change, creative business coach Sean Low explains why getting in touch with their unique vision and voice is the most powerful tool they can use for success in any artistic medium.

business advice

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June 4, 2024

I’m so burned out that I’m considering quitting design entirely. Am I making a mistake?

Creative business coach Sean Low offers a decisive path forward for a designer who has allowed a job at a global architecture studio to dampen every last creative spark in them.

business advice

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May 21, 2024

I’ve outgrown some of the people who helped my firm succeed. How do I move on with grace?

Creative business coach Sean Low gives one designer permission to shed the partnerships that no longer fit their business in order to help it evolve and flourish.

business advice

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May 7, 2024

My team needs constant oversight to meet my work standards. How do I motivate them to step it up?

Creative business coach Sean Low helps one design firm leader understand how they’ve been enabling their staff’s mediocre performances—and how they can empower the employees to reach the next level on their own.

business advice

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April 23, 2024

My firm isn’t landing the right leads, despite thoughtful marketing. What am I missing?

A full-service firm is fending off constant inquiries from clients seeking quick design help or partial services. Creative business coach Sean Low explains why the focus shouldn’t be on scope of services but rather on design identity, vision and voice.

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