What to do when progress is slow
I remember when I was first starting my jewellery business, I’d created a pendant and pair of earrings and given them to a friend which she actually wore - I was so proud (and truthfully a little flabbergasted I’d actually made something that people seemed to like) and so I merrily created some more designs, posted them onto my Facebook page and…. Crickets.
Well, that’s how it felt anyway. All my effort and excitement quickly felt like a sad balloon limply fizzling out.
I did eventually start making sales, but progress felt painfully slow at times. It took me a long time to find a groove in my creative business which worked for me, and brings me income in a sustainable way which feels aligned.
Now, I feel here I must be completely transparent - I’ve not made my millions, and in fact over the years I’ve worked in several jobs alongside running my business (both part-time and full) and for me, there is absolutely no shame in that! It’s enabled me to try different things and find what works for me, and my customers. It’s enabled me to build a creative life which truly lights me up!
So, if you’re struggling with a business which you feel is growing too slowly or not bringing in enough money, what can you do? Here are some of my tips to help you along the way.
And remember, try things with an open mind, and only what works for you and your dream creative life - we are all different and our aims are different too.
Take one tiny step every day (or as often as you can). Just one. It can be as small as watching a mindset video if that’s what you need. Or it could be posting on your Instagram, or trying out a new design. Each of those tiny steps is moving you one step closer to your dreams. Slow growth is beautiful and sustainable. It allows your to really nurture your creativity too.
Create products at different price points. You could have smaller ‘entry level’ products which don’t take you too long to make and act as a gateway for customers to your work. For me, it’s my Little Luna pendant which is now one of my best sellers.
Nurture your current customers. Looking after the people who have already brought from you is a great way to grow your business. They already love your work, so are more likely to buy again. There’s a lot you can do such as special offers, first looks at new designs and a referral scheme if they send a friend your way.
Start an email list. This should be the backbone of all your marketing, because people are far more likely to buy your products if they have time to ‘get to know you’ over email.
Create craft kits. I’m all about diversifying your business so you have a few different streams of income. This has been amazing for me, and craft kits are one way you could do that. Which leads me on to…
Run workshops. People love the human connection of a workshop, and you have a unique skill which they would love to try! Since I started running workshops, my business has grown year on year. Plus you can have a selection of your lovely products for them to buy on the day too.
Collaborate with a local business. You could get together to host a giveaway online, or create a special range to sell in their shop. It’s a great way to reach even more people too.
