Survey Reveals Key Challenges for Small Creative Businesses

Running a small creative business comes with its unique set of challenges and rewards. I recently conducted a survey to shed light on what these businesses are facing and what they aspire to achieve in the next 12 months.

Thank you to all 18 participants who took the time to complete the survey.

The top 3 findings for most creative business owners were:

• Finding new clients
• Not making enough money
• Consistency with marketing

Main Challenges

The survey highlights that finding clients is the top challenge, cited by 12 respondents. Cash flow, selling, and marketing are also significant concerns, each mentioned by 7 respondents. Pricing issues were noted 5 times, indicating it as another key challenge. Additionally, managing a team and completing projects were mentioned, though less frequently.

Enjoyable Activities

On a positive note, the variety of work and using creativity are the most enjoyed aspects of running a small creative business, each highlighted by 14 respondents. Working with clients and being their own boss also stand out, with 13 and 12 mentions respectively. Freedom of time and the ability to work from anywhere are appreciated by many.

Least Enjoyable Activities

Not making enough money is the primary frustration, mentioned by 10 respondents. Having to find clients and the uncertainty about when the next project will come in are also major concerns. Time management and business processes further add to the list of least enjoyable activities.

External Challenges

Externally, falling budgets pose the biggest challenge, with 7 mentions. Economic conditions, AI, and too many competitors also present significant hurdles.

Aspirations for the Next 12 Months

Looking ahead, gaining new clients is the top aspiration for 14 respondents. Supporting themselves and their families is crucial for 9 respondents, while scaling the business and making it profitable are key goals for 8 and 7 respondents respectively. Offering new services is also a prominent goal.

Understanding these insights can help us, as small creative business owners, navigate our path to success more effectively. By addressing these challenges and leveraging our strengths, we can achieve our aspirations and continue to thrive.

Recognising the three big challenges around finding clients, pricing, and marketing, I have created a 7-day email challenge specifically designed for creative businesses like ours. This challenge aims to provide practical strategies and support to help us overcome these hurdles and reach our business goals.

Sign up for the challenge - https://tallboy.ck.page/7-day-challenge