Things I wish I knew when I started my business:
1. Don’t rely on one income stream
Build multiple revenue sources: client work, retainers, digital products, partnerships, etc.
2. Ask for reviews
Happy clients are your biggest asset.
3. Turn clients into referrals
Past clients can bring your best opportunities. You can even offer a referral percentage for successful introductions.
4. Build a portfolio around your offer
Your portfolio should attract your ideal clients, not just showcase everything you’ve ever made.
5. Create offers people want to say yes to
Don’t just sell your skills. Package a clear solution to a valuable problem.
6. Share your work publicly
Social media + freelance platforms brought me most of my opportunities. Build in public, share knowledge, and create trust.
7. Treat your income like a business
Separate profit, taxes, operating expenses, and your own salary. Your revenue is not your personal money.
Building a business is not only about getting better at your craft.
It’s about building systems around it.