If I had the means, I would hire someone to take care of the business side of my work. Having to be both artist and business person is difficult. I am having to learn the business side of things, not quite kicking and screaming, but you get my drift, if I am to survive. And I fully intend to survive and do it well. One thing I have learned, though, is that I value a professional attitude first and foremost. So, when putting on my business hat, I behave accordingly. A while back, a store owner emailed me wanting to stock my artwork in her shop; she attached all kinds of paperwork, from licence to local Chamber of Commerce credentials, to show me that she was legitimate. Of course I was very happy with the offer (even though I'd been disappointed before, hope springs eternal!), checked out her links, and replied promptly, giving her the information she asked for. And then -- I never heard from her again. I did follow up with an email, but the silence was deafening. I considered everypossible scenario, even one where she may have gone out of business, but in every case, all it would have taken was a quick email to tell me so.
After I got over the disappointment, I looked at it this way: the lack of professional manners showed me that this person was not reliable. Had I gone through with the deal, I may have lost my artwork to boot.
This is also why I appreciate and gladly work with people who treat me professionally.... cuffs, collages, apprentices, Christmas, fishes -- you know who you are. I so appreciate you!! You are "totally hot."
I have discovered the same. It's too exhausting to deal with unprofessional people and there are so many great customers to chose from out there.
ReplyDeleteThe balancing act is hard...I am learning too!
ReplyDeleteI can really relate to what you're saying here. No matter how experienced we are, there always seems to be those times when we trip up through no fault of our own. I agree that it would be wonderful to have someone to take care of things. Wearing just one hat would be a genuine pleasure instead of cramming on several.
ReplyDeleteDear Colette,
ReplyDeleteSo sorry to hear of your terrible experience and disappointment. I think it was a very lucky escape not to deal with this person. Fortunately, I think, most people are genuinely trying to be as professional as you and I do hope you get the opportunities to show and sell your work, that you deserve
Sending good wishes your way, so sorry I haven't been around much lately. I've had a lot going on at home. Carolyn xx
i love creating art and even though i have a lot of years of marketing experience i do not enjoy the business side of my little art studio. oh, if only i could just happily habit my art studio and play all day. big sigh!
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