TLDR;
This video presents five books that are highly recommended for designers starting their freelancing career. These books cover essential aspects such as business management, client interaction, financial investment, and habit formation, emphasizing the importance of business acumen alongside creative skills.
- "Freelance, and Business, and Stuff" by Jen and Amy Hood covers virtually everything related to freelancing as a creative, including pricing, proposals, client management, finances, and business structures.
- "The Win Without Pitching Manifesto" by Blair Enns provides 12 lessons on how to regain power by positioning oneself as an expert, negotiating effectively, and understanding one's value.
- "Business Made Simple" by Donald Miller offers a 60-day challenge to quickly learn essential business principles, covering marketing, leadership, and finance.
- "The Simple Path to Wealth" by JL Collins gives straightforward advice on managing money, budgeting, investing, and achieving financial independence.
- "Atomic Habits" by James Clear provides a step-by-step approach to building good habits and breaking bad ones to support consistency and goal attainment in freelancing.
Freelance, and Business, and Stuff [0:33]
"Freelance, and Business, and Stuff" by Jen and Amy Hood is presented as a comprehensive guide covering nearly every aspect of freelancing for creatives. The book includes advice on pricing strategies, proposal creation, client acquisition, self-marketing, and financial management. It also discusses different business structures like independent contractor, S Corp, and C Corp, offering guidance on branding and business setup. The author highly recommends this book, emphasizing the extensive knowledge of the authors. Additionally, Jen and Amy Hood have created an online course based on the book for those who prefer that format.
The Win Without Pitching Manifesto [1:31]
"The Win Without Pitching Manifesto" by Blair Enns is recommended for freelancers who sell their services to clients, offering 12 lessons on how to reclaim power in client relationships. The book teaches creatives to position themselves as experts, diagnose client needs effectively, and focus on specific areas of expertise. It provides tips on negotiation, communication, and self-perception, encouraging freelancers to view themselves as valuable experts rather than mere service providers. This book aims to shift the freelancer's mindset, improving client interactions and business outcomes.
Business Made Simple [2:35]
"Business Made Simple" by Donald Miller is suggested for those without formal business education, offering a quick and practical overview of business operations. The book presents a 60-day challenge with daily lessons covering marketing, leadership, and finance. It is described as a fast-paced method to gain essential business knowledge, similar to what one would learn in business school. The author recommends revisiting challenging sections to reinforce learning and improve understanding of key business concepts.
The Simple Path to Wealth [3:24]
"The Simple Path to Wealth" by JL Collins is recommended for freelancers to manage and invest their money wisely. The book provides straightforward advice on budgeting, financial planning, and investment strategies to build a secure financial future. It encourages freelancers to view their work as a business and to save and invest for long-term financial independence, moving away from a paycheck-to-paycheck lifestyle. The book challenges readers to take control of their finances and plan for the future.
Atomic Habits [4:28]
"Atomic Habits" by James Clear is highlighted as crucial for freelancers to develop supportive habits for consistency and goal achievement. The book offers a step-by-step approach to building good habits and breaking bad ones, starting with small micro habits. It addresses issues like laziness, procrastination, and inconsistency, providing strategies to establish healthy habits for long-term success. The author also suggests signing up for James Clear's newsletter for regular wisdom and insights.