Crafting a Successful Business From Your Arts and Crafting Hobbies: A Step-by-Step Plan for You to Follow
If you’re passionate about your hobby and would like to turn it into a business, there are many things to consider. While it can be tempting to jump headfirst into entrepreneurship, it’s important to take the time to plan and strategize before taking any big steps.
In this article, abstract artist KR Moehr guides you through the process of turning your hobby into a successful business.
Take Your Time
While it may be exciting to think about running a business doing something you love, it’s important to take things slow and not rush into anything. Take the time to research and plan before making any big decisions. This includes figuring out your target market, researching your competition, and determining your unique selling proposition.
For example, are you a landscape artist that creates cityscapes? Or do you like to paint horses? Are you interested in uber-realistic still lifes or do you love expressionist flourishes of color?
These are all unique unto you. By drilling down to what you do and then finding people who love that, will help you build your business.
TIP: Say, for example, you love to paint horses. Make your social media avatar one of your paintings of horses. People drawn to horses and things about horses will see it and be naturally drawn to you and potentially check you out online!
Develop a Business Plan
A simple business plan is an essential tool for any aspiring entrepreneur. Your business plan should include information on your target market, competition, marketing strategy, and financial projections. It’s important to keep your plan updated as your business grows and changes.
Create a Marketing Strategy
Marketing is critical to the success of any business. Developing a marketing plan can help you reach potential customers and build brand awareness. Your marketing plan should include information on your target audience, messaging, advertising channels, social media strategy, and craft-related promotions. Consider working with a marketing professional to develop a comprehensive plan that will help you achieve your goals.
Organize and Develop Your Online Presence
Having a web presence is critical for any business in today’s digital age. A website can help potential customers find you and learn more about your products or services. Your website should be visually appealing (check out some great website options), easy to navigate, and provide all the necessary information about your business. Consider hiring a web designer to help you create a professional and effective website.
Check out my basic photography tips for art: https://abstract-art-painting.teachable.com/p/sell-more-art-photos-that-sell-art-photography-for-beginners
LEARN TO PAINT THIS ABSTRACT STEP-BY-STEP
Consider Putting Out a Newsletter
While you should definitely be active on social media, you should also think about starting a newsletter. Not sure where to start? Begin with a Word document, talk about your hobby and include plenty of high quality photos, then convert it to a PDF when you’re finished. If you need a hand, start with a PDF file converter like this, which you can use for free. Then, you can add your newsletter to your website, send it out via email, and share it with any social media groups that have a similar interest.
MY TIP: Always think about building your newsletter subscribers! These are your very best and most-interested potential customers. You will also get so much great feedback from them and they will give lots of insight as to what they want to see and help you build your business!
Analyze Your Need for Funding
Depending on the nature of your hobby business, you may need funding to get started. This can come in the form of loans, grants, or getting investments from friends and family. Be sure to research all your options and determine what type of funding is right for you. Keep in mind that taking on debt or investors means giving up some control over your business, so be sure to weigh the pros and cons carefully.
MY TIP: Don’t borrow a lot of money and buy a lot of things you think “you might need.” Instead, get a small loan and then use it only when the need arises to spend. For example, don’t buy a lot of packing/shipping stuff until you actually sell something and need to pack and ship it!
Get Business Training
If you’re serious about turning your hobby into a successful business, you may want to consider more schooling/training for a business.
Taking a few classes or even earning a degree in business can provide you with the skills and knowledge you need to run a successful enterprise while also helping you build credibility with potential investors or customers. For those looking to take it a step further, consider pursuing an MBA or a degree in entrepreneurship to truly maximize your business potential.
Of course a degree is not necessary! By taking a few classes at your local community center or college, you can learn the basics to running a successful home business.
In conclusion, turning your hobby into a business requires careful planning and strategy. It’s important to take things slow, upgrade your marketing game by putting out a newsletter, consider going back to school for a business degree, etc. By following these steps, you can turn your passion into a successful and fulfilling career.
KR Moehr is an experienced abstract artist. Interested in her work? See her work at www.abstractart.live
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