If you're a creative in Carlisle, Pennsylvania, you may be wondering how to get your work seen by more people. After all, it can be difficult to stand out from the crowd. However, there are a number of things you can do to increase your chances of getting discovered. In this article, we'll explore some of those options and offer helpful tips on how to make the most of them.
Use Online Tools Strategically
One of the best ways to get your work seen by more people is to use online tools to create and send it out into the world. There are a number of websites and platforms that allow creatives to showcase their work, including Behance, Dribbble, and Etsy. By creating an account on one (or more) of these sites and sharing your creations, you'll reach a wider audience than if you rely solely on word-of-mouth or in-person networking.
In addition to using online tools to create and send your work, you should also take advantage of social media. Platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter are great for connecting with potential customers and fans from all over the world. By sharing your work on social media, you'll reach people in Carlisle and beyond who might not otherwise see it.
Get Your Work in Front of Your Intended Audience
In addition to using online tools and social media to get your work seen by more people, you should also make an effort to get it in front of as many eyes as possible in person. One way to do this is by exhibiting at local art shows or craft fairs. This will not only give you the opportunity to sell your work, but it will also help you build name recognition in the Carlisle community. Another option is to rent space in a local gallery or co-op. This can be a great way to get exposure for your work without having to organize or promote an event yourself.
Establish an LLC
LLCs, or limited liability companies, offer a number of advantages for small businesses, including personal asset protection and flexible tax options. Perhaps most importantly, LLCs in Pennsylvania can help to give your business a professional image. When customers see that your business is an LLC, they may be more likely to trust your products or services. In addition, landlords and suppliers may be more likely to work with an LLC than with a sole proprietorship or other business structure. Forming an LLC can therefore help you to build credibility for your small business. An online formation company can take care of the filing process for you.
Use a DBA Wisely
When you start a business, you may need to operate under a business name that isn’t your first choice if the one you wanted is already in use. In this case, you can register a Pennsylvania DBA (doing business as) for your business, which allows you to use a different name than the one you’ve legally registered for your company. This can be helpful for building your brand under the name you want, and it can also help you when it comes to expanding your product line should you want to market your new offerings under a different name.
Write Up a Business Plan for Your Business
Once you've taken steps to get your work in front of more people, it's time to start thinking about how you can turn your creative endeavors into a sustainable business. One of the best ways to do this is by writing a business plan for your business. This will help you clarify your goals and objectives, map out a path to profitability, and set yourself up for success in the long run.
Reach Out for Help
When starting any business, it's important to network with other professionals in your field. This is especially true for creatives, as the arts community is often tight-knit and supportive. By reaching out to other creatives in Carlisle — or even outside of town — you'll gain valuable insights into the industry, make valuable contacts, and perhaps even find mentors or collaborators.
Additionally, don't be afraid to ask for help when starting your business. There are many resources available to entrepreneurs, including the Pennsylvania Small Business Development Center (PASBDC), SCORE chapters, and the Carlisle Area Chamber of Commerce. These organizations and their members can offer advice on everything from marketing to financing, so take advantage of their services!
There's no denying that starting a business can be a challenge, but it's not impossible. If you're a creative in Carlisle looking for ways to get discovered and turn your passion into a career, there are steps you can take toward making that happen. Use online tools such as social media and Behance to reach a wider audience; exhibit at local art shows or rent space in co-ops or galleries; protect your company with an LLC; use a DBA to your advantage; write a business plan; network with other creatives; seek out mentorship; and don't be afraid ask for help when starting your business. Most importantly: persevere. With hard work and dedication (and maybe a little bit of luck), anything is possible!
Photo: Unsplash
