Repeat after me: other people’s time, money and experience.
That’s my dad favourite saying when talking about business. However, in spite of the repeated exposure, I always try to do things by myself whenever I can. Mostly to save money.
Having a full time job changes all of this.
I can only work on my biz at night. Being short on time means that there are things that I can’t do because I simply don’t have enough time. Yet, not doing those things hinder my business’ growth. I’m sacrificing money when I’m trying to ‘save’.
Yesterday, I decided to hire a design agency to help me with branding and other design related stuff that I’m no expert in and took up so much time. Their expertise frees up my time while the so called expense from paying them is gonna be paid off via increased profit.
Another thing that usually stops me from getting outside help is my eagerness to learn new things. Ironically, I’ve realized through this experience how outsourcing is a great way to learn. I get to see how the best in the field do it and steal a thing or two from their playbook.
The Art of Asking Questions
Good research means you get the answers you’re looking for. To do that I have to learn what questions to ask, depending on the audience. I’ll analyse the video below, rate the top three questions and give my comments in italics.
“How did you balance business with the creative?” - a sobering question for beginners who might get caught up with the idea or the creative. If it doesn’t sell it’s not creative!
“Do you have advice for people who wants to be an art director?” - Since the title is ‘How to Become a Creative Director with Alexa Chung’, this question should’ve become the focus instead of just a side topic.
“How much do the analytics dictate what you’re producing?” - insightful answer! Despite using analytics in everything that they do, the data is only used to direct how they present the content and not shaping the content itself.
Hail Rain or Sunshine
Pro tip if you’re visiting Melbourne (probably not anytime soon): check the weather forecast.
For a city known for having four seasons in a day, the forecast will probably be inaccurate but at least you’ll get an idea of what you’re in for.
That day, I and a friend knew that it was gonna rain and hella windy. Still, we decided to go cycling to a beach that’s 10 mins away from her place.
Unexpectedly, the sky cleared up a bit once we got to the beach and ordered our food although the wind almost returned the fish back to its habitat. After 30 minutes of eating with hair all over our faces, our plan to cycle a bit more was hindered by the rain, followed by hail. Once the rain stopped we continued our ride as the sun decided to reclaim its throne.
As I parted ways with my friend, I got a free outdoor shower while the sun was still out on the other side of the road. Classic Melbourne.
Fortunately, I checked the weather forecast before cycling so at least I know what was coming :)