Who can join this group?
The CR is designed to work with graphic designers, web designers, web developers, illustrators, photographers, writers — freelancers, entrepreneurs, and small business owners who own and operate their own creative business.
What is the purpose of the group?
As independent business owners, we are so isolated that we easily get overwhelmed with business development that we often just shut down. The purpose of the CR is participation in virtual monthly accountability groups where you get the added benefit of being part of a creative community. Get the interaction and expertise you crave with the structure you need — from wherever you work, to take your business to the next level. Be united with a creative community where we support and hold each other accountable, and share resources and experiences to help you build the creative business you most desire.
Does it cost anything?
Yes, the cost of membership covers the moderator and business costs.
What is the biggest benefit of being a member?
By sharing your experience with like-minded individuals, and getting direct mentorship and support, you’ll be able to set measurable and attainable goals and navigate challenging business situations like a pro! Run by a veteran designer with over 30 years of experience in her own creative business, the CRs’ monthly meetings help you grow your business, expand your expertise, and tackle your to-do-list. By sharing your experience with like-minded individuals, and getting direct mentorship and support, you’ll be able to set measurable and attainable goals and navigate challenging business situations like a pro! Being an independent creative who operates your business as well as gets all of that creative done is a daunting task that can easily consume our lives. It’s hard work. Just because we choose to own our own business, doesn’t mean we have to do it alone. In this non-competitive community, we foster a safe zone to shed your barriers and get honest, genuine feedback and support to help you be proud of your business.
How long is a term?
New members commit to a year and we offer a discount for the year commitment. Returning members have the option of a 6-month long term. We meet once per month in an online video conference tool, Zoom.
How much is the time commitment?
We meet each month in a 1-hour video meeting — the day and time are set at the beginning of each term. We expect you to put in time during the month to work on your business development goal. That time is up to you. Members also find a huge benefit by interacting with other members and having discussions in our private Slack group — we have great thought-provoking conversations taking place every day. Maybe the question should be back to you, “How much time are you willing to invest in growing and strengthening your creative business?”
What is a session like?
We start each session by touching base with each member and checking in on their 30-day tasks. We help celebrate successes, talk about challenges, and vet out any issues that are holding you back from success. We also discuss Hot Topics where we can dig deeper into creative business operations, and then you tell the group what you will work on before the next meeting. The primary outcome here is holding you accountable to do what you say you’re going to do to strengthen and grow your business.
How many members are in each session?
We try to keep the groups to 6 members per group, per session, per term. This allows each member their own individual time to talk about their progress, their struggles, their successes, ask the group for support and bring up Hot Topics that are affecting or impacting their creative freelance business. Each group stays together for a 6-month term.
How can I be a great CR member?
- Come prepared for each session with your 30-day update, successes, what challenges you faced, and where you are in need of support to accomplish your next 30-day tasks.
- Share your favorite resources with members: websites, articles, publications, vendors, etc.
- Listen and support your fellow CR members.
- Be honest, authentic, and respectful.
- We are all one big happy family and find an overwhelming amount of value from every member.