In this world, there are 3 kinds of jobs:
1) The job you love that doesn’t pay
2) The job you hate that pays well (or at least pays the bills.)*
3) The “unicorn” that pays AND you love it.
*Some have a talent for separating their passion from the work, looking at the job as “just the job.” Their dreams are related to their personal lives. I’ve always been impressed with those who can do that.
For others, life is too short not to hunt for unicorns. If you’re a creative, then it’s even greater of a challenge.
This may be the unicorn you’re looking for!
TAG Art is enjoying wonderful growth since the pandemic ended. We’re looking for talented professionals to join our team! Can you draw? Face paint? Walk on stilts? Handle a dinosaur? All of the above? Let’s chat!
Send samples of work, links to portfolios, videos of what best represents your abilities, anything that shows off what you can do!
Submissions can be emailed to info@tagartcompany.com Let’s see if we can catch that unicorn together!
]]>Are you prostituting your talents in which case what do you do for fun and balance? You have to work hard but also rest hard. Then again, is the work its own reward and can you separate yourself and learn to just BE?
It's a tricky balancing act and requires self-awareness, discipline and also humility - you can only do so much, and you have to exact patience from yourself as change, growth and lessons present themselves.
This is not exclusive to the "fun jobs." I've met people from all sorts of careers who are living vibrantly and fulfilled because they've found how they're wired, are comfortable in their own skin, manage their weaknesses (and accept them!) and soar with their strengths. After that, finding the career - indeed, the vocation - is like meeting your significant other - your perfect match. You are complete.
And why the cliche's and platitudes? It bears repeating and it's necessary to hear from multiple sources. We require a constant state of programming to develop, maintain, strengthen and enjoy success.
Life is too short! Don't wait to enjoy it.
]]>Did you stick with last years? Did you start or stop doing the thing like the promise you made the year before? Or did you lawyer yourself out of it and pivot to something that sounds new for this year?
Why do we always have to do something new to prove that we’re growing? How about resolve to keep the resolution? If you’re “in your lane” and “doing the thing” how about staying strong so you’ll continue to grow in the right direction?
If you were a tree capable of growing immensely tall and being fruitful, but haven’t achieved that status yet, would you try something unrelated or would you focus on the steps necessary for achieving the big goal?
”This year I will grow more roots.”
”This year I will drink more water.”
”This year I will get more sunshine.”
All are related to the overall goal. Being the best version possible. Truly, all should be assumed resolutions and need not be brought up.
Sure, a resolution is a micro tradition and making them is kind of fun, but also a little psycho. Aren’t we just training ourselves to lie, or at least how NOT to honor a promise or commitment?
“Hey Mr. Killjoy….” I know, staying strong may not be fun, but so many important and even crucial exercises aren’t. If go to the gym and don’t do anything, don’t break a sweat, don’t lift anything challenging, don’t stretch, and just you may be hang out at the juice bar, is that really fun?
I run into too many people who will never be successful because they can’t even do the one thing that comes natural, is easy, requires little to no effort and is in fact something they propose to offer - a service, a talent for hire, a resource, whatever it may be. They literally let the potential fruits of their potential labors rot on the vine.
Don’t fear success or the steps it takes to achieve and maintain. If you’re a painter, keep painting, discover new styles and experiment more. If you’re a musician, try a new style of music within your instrument. If you like to draw caricatures, try a different marker and paper! You’re still raising your own bar, but the bar stays strong.
Keep on keeping on in 2024!
]]>
If you have a question for Santa and don't see the answers among the video posts, send us an email and we'll find out! info@tagartcompany.com
**With every passing day, Santa's response time is increasingly limited. By 12/23, he's in "GO" mode and is focused on getting through his big run. Then it's a solid 3 days of sleep followed by a much-needed vacation with Mrs. Claus.
MERRY CHRISTMAS!
]]>Anyone with a good internet connection can schedule a one-on-one visit via a choice of video chat platforms. After purchasing this option, contact our office (info@tagartcompany.com or 260-456-6999) to schedule your appointment at an available and convenient time. We will also be happy to contact you accordingly if you prefer.
This purchase is for a video chat with a duration up to 30 minutes in length. Additional time and/or video chats may be purchased at the same rate. Santa's schedule fills up quickly so schedule early!
*Countdown-to-Christmas offer! Receive a video souvenir of your experience with Santa at no additional cost! Specify this option upon purchase, offer expires 12/24/23*
All sales final, no refunds, substitutions, or exchanges. Subject to availability. Any purchased chat must be completed by December 24th, 2023 (12/24/23)
]]>Face painting is one of our specialties, and sometimes it's a great and parent-friendly option for a child's costume. With that in mind, we thought it would be nice to share a few tips and tricks for the adults to use to keep costs down, cleanup limited and easy, and be a Halloween hero to your child!
Check out this face painting tutorial:
See additional tutorials on our YouTube channel! https://www.youtube.com/@tagartcompanymedia
]]>Now extrapolate that into a grumpy artist - true, there are some, but should there be? Further still, a grumpy entertainer? Specifically, a grumpy children's entertainer? We're getting a little extreme, but there's a correlation.
Part of our success is consistency. We want to be exactly what our customers would expect. If there's an expectation gap, it can be a painful problem. Personally, I've found it to maintain a balance between thorough communication and semantic barriers.
I also like to ask for that feedback so we can "raise our own bar." You can't grow if you don't know, right? While I like to think I'm eloquent, I more often feel like a fumbler.
Out of the rabbit hole! Part of being tenacious is continuing to be exactly what you started out being (and not being a **** - fill in your word here.) It seems ridiculous, but similar to the previous posts, sometimes all it takes to be successful is consistency - consistent discipline, consistent messages, consistent service, consistent presence.
If you walk on stilts, "just" don't fall over!
If you're a mime, "just" don't talk!
If you're a face painter, "just" don't poke the kids in the eyes!
If you've been doing these things, you're likely not succeeding and hopefully this article is the "AH HA" moment you've been searching for.
Otherwise, continue to BE who you wanted to be, and don't backslide.
]]>Yes, this could have been an email instead of a meeting.
Are we actually addressing something to be changed or just rambling?
Where's the accountability? The follow-up? The endurance for the idea?
As we discussed in previous articles, success is about making progress, even if you don't want to, even if you HATE what you have to do to get to the level you can enjoy, you have to do it.
If you have the goal but don't put in the work, I'm sad to say that you're just like most of the creatives out there. Great out of the gate, nothing in endurance.
And this applies to not just those who draw, paint, sing, dance, write, etc. but those energetic people who come up with a thousand ideas, drain all the energy out of the rest trying to keep up with their brain dump, and then NOTHING HAPPENS.
You're picturing someone specific aren't you? Maybe it's you?
I had a boss from a previous life who called me out on just that habit. I would tell her about my ideas and plans, and she would say "thinking about it isn't an action. What are you doing and when? Imagine your toddler comes to you and says 'I'm thinking about being potty trained.' Great! WHEN will this happen?"
Blunt? Absolutely! Burned in my brain? You bet!
Flash forward to my present life. We were inspired by a movie and a specific set in the movie. We wanted to build something as special - but how? Can't throw money at it, don't know "what we don't know," and I DREADED the learning curve.
The result? Eating lots of frogs: Going to the county, getting the intel, the permits, the consultation, learning, and then DOING. I had never poured concrete a day in my life and now it's "just" pouring concrete. Building things? Maybe a box, now we have a castle (and 12 other structures!) at the Fun Farm.
All of this happening while navigating the growth of the business, a PANDEMIC and trying to figure out more of what I didn't know.
The bottom line is, if you're going to do it - be a professional, be in business, be on a project, follow through. Stay the course, progress not perfection. But for the sake of your pride and your customers, be available to do the thing!
]]>Back up a bit to the point where you have to "become a grown up." For some it happens all too soon, for others the inner child is firmly on the outside. Another conundrum. How do you retain the joie de vivre and fight cynicism?
You have to become your own parent.
It starts with simple things. When there's no one to tell you to "get up" or "go to school" or "clean your room" - guess what? It's YOU.
And when it becomes "time to make the donuts" or the other fleas that come with the dog of your career, who tells the entrepreneurial you when and how? YOU.
It has its rewards, you can feel more in control of your destiny and you certainly feel more substantial as a professional when you're staying the course and doing the things you know you NEED to do (but don't want to do.)
Baby steps, progress not perfection and it will be another tool in your developmental belt.
Now go to sleep! It's past your bedtime!
]]>Not an original statement, but a sentiment all of us "grown-ups" can relate to. We didn't understand as children, but it was a luxury having someone else tell you when to get up, how to dress, where to go and what to do. Of course there are exceptions, but "bills? I have to worry about bills?"
Every year that passes, the successful find that they have to parent themselves. Not just the mundane and trivial disciplines, but the "UGH" tasks. For every flea that comes with the dog of being in business, the voice in my head is very parental ("you know you have to do this, stop procrastinating, get it done quickly so you can have fun") and so on.
My go-to? Rage Against the Machine. I don't even listen to the words, it just somehow magically works and gets me trudging through.
We all have or should identify what will help us get through the tasks. A best practice is to just "Eat the Frog" first thing - fresh horses? first task of the day? Get it over with and move on (thanks Mom!)
You might find that saving it for the middle or end of your day works, but at some point every day, to continue to grow and stay a grown-up, you'll have to eat the frog.
Plug your nose - it helps.
]]>One definition of success is doing what you love and loving what you do. But can you have too much of a good thing? What if you hit the wall? Being a professional creative requires existing in 2 worlds - pragmatic and expressive (business AND creative.) One can be the enemy of the other and stress (especially in dealing with practical matters) can kill creativity altogether. Fatigue never sounds a warning.
People will let you work as hard as you want, not just as hard as you can. When you're a 'trep, you may love what you do, but you'll also never work harder for anyone as you do for yourself. Fatigue can be a regular visitor to your home.
Perhaps you've never experienced this phenomenon called fatigue? It's not just feeling tired, but often described as the complete lack of any kind of energy or enthusiasm. Even a mindless activity like watching television is unappealing. Until you're fully recovered, you're not.
So how to prevent fatigue in the first place? Or, if afflicted, how to recover from it and sally forth?
1) Become in tune with your limits. Know at what point your discipline demands that you unplug, pick it up another time.
2) Watch out for "one more." One more item, one more task, one more call, one more soon becomes 15 more. When you're done, you're done.
3) You don't have to break your own record. There is a limit to all things, at what point are you "enough?" At what point can you coast?
4) You can't pour from an empty cup - sleep, hydration, proper diet, exercise, all the good habits and balances must be maintained. You have the same 24 hours in a day as all other humans. You don't magically get 25. Once your basic needs are met, what's left is what you have to work with.
If you neglect yourself and find yourself fatigued, the best initial step toward recovery is to stop and maximize resting, even to the point of cabin fever. Let the healing commence.
]]>Cast your mind: A mom calls inquiring about entertainment for a ONE YEAR OLD BIRTHDAY PARTY. We tread lightly here - who is the party really for? The child won't even remember it. They'll be just as happy to smash cake in their face, poop their pants and pass out (the cycle to be repeated in college?)
Our conscientious suggestions? Less is more. Keep it simple. Sure, entertain everyone interested, but what about escalation? What will you do for this child at 16? Maybe a balloon artist, simple things, quickly rendered, a sampling of fun and keeping expenses down.
Don't get me wrong, we don't overtly turn down work and if they really want what they want, we'll take their money. Service first, no judgement (as long as WE don't become the scapegoat when what we advise actually happens.)
Seeing both sides to this flow chart, is there really a benefit to "less?" If you consider human nature, then absolutely! Consider the bigger/faster/stronger obsession we have and how the counter-culture encourages us to stop and smell the roses. There's even a movement of "slow t.v." popular across the pond, where one can watch hours of scenery pass by.
The balance must be maintained, even if we don't consciously acknowledge it.
I liken what is happening, especially thanks to smart phones and social media, to a "speed zoo." We can't stop, learn, observe and enjoy the quiet and easy pace of the experience, we have to see how much attention and stimuli we can exchange before our ADD screen-addicted heads freeze up.
Expand this to entertainment. Magic wasn't enough. CGI wasn't enough, holograms weren't enough. Now we're replacing an entire human existence with a false one ("meta?") Been there, done that. It was a dud in the '90s as well. The definition of insanity here?
SO, how about a balloon? Maybe a unicorn on your cheek? A simple show where everyone can enjoy it altogether?
We would rather have 400 special, intimate events than one blockbusting chaos.
And so would you!
]]>Q&A:
1) What is the mystique?
We define the mystique as that which supports the sense of wonder in the guest. It's intangible, magical, imagination-supportive, and simply brings the "WOW." No matter what we arrange, we want that result.
2) Why is it so important?
In a small way, we're trying to be the change we want to see in the world. There's too much cynicism. We're born with faith, it's a natural response. Cynicism is learned. Does it have to be learned at all?
3) Does this change how you deal with guests?
Part of our brand is to preserve this value. Unfortunately, some are determined to heckle or diminish our efforts. The "F" word in our world is "FAKE." It can be frustrating and ridiculous considering that these are the same people who yell at a movie screen. And did they REALLY think the CGI was real? Let's suspend disbelief a bit.
So we don't tolerate it, especially from unattended children who should know better (it takes a village!) Rude is rude and if someone doesn't like it, they're not our client or guest.
4 How does this philosophy impact what you present as options?
We strive for a quality work environment for our artists and performers. Often times, clients don't have a frame of reference or experience in what we do, so we have to "help them help us." This includes preparatory areas, climate controlled options, "bad cops" and line control where necessary, and generally preventative maintenance. As we work hard on looking the best and doing the best, we want to make sure the supportive logistics are equally strong.
And if that can't happen, we don't do the event!
]]>Q&A:
1) Everything seems to be competitive and self-centered. Why do you shy away from showing off?
There's a fine line between pride and arrogance. We strive to do our best and are already our "own worst enemy" about several things. However, it's from seeking to raise our own bar, not to beat someone else in the market.
2) But if there were a competition or if you had to claim superiority....?
We've had that question and been tempted to outshine another while working side by side, even with just our team being present at an event. It's rude and unnecessary to pit people against each other. Doing what you promised and doing your best is the most important thing if you want to serve a client. If the client is happy, then we ARE the best (for them!) The rest is just vanity.
3) Have you ever compromised?
It's sad when there is a perceived competition. People will also compare and play favorites for the most minute of details. In these situations, we have strived to make clear why we do what we do and also clarify who is on our team, especially if values or results are incongruent. This is to confirm how we do business, not to disparage others.
Our track record has also revealed to us that no one asks us to slow down or show off. As such, we render work, especially stationary work, good and fast. It's not cheap, but a client can't have all 3.
If they want good and cheap, it won't be fast.
If they want fast and cheap, it won't be good.
Whenever we've slowed down, the lines are too long. Whenever we've shown off, the lines are too long. Whenever we've sped up, the other artists (not on our team) are unable to keep the pace and the disparity happens. Balance is necessary.
4) How does that apply to other services?
By-products of our bigger/faster/over-stimulated sub-culture is a lack of patience and attention span. We've seen "less is more" work across the board. Kids (of all ages) just don't have the interest or ability to continue in an activity beyond 17-20 minutes. It's a miracle that they can wait at all for anything.
Across the board, we also apply this philosophy to our appearance from dress code to character appearances. I applaud the appearance of conservative attire, especially to any character we arrange, or what is created by others.
5) What about optics?
Optics are how you're perceived. Perception is (often and sadly) reality. Sometimes we've "fired a customer" who wants what we can't ethically do. Other times we've turned down work because it puts us in a compromising position. When it comes to performers, we also want to avoid being a scapegoat because a client had what they thought was a good idea and they didn't understand their own guests.
6) Do you see these trends continuing?
Every pendulum swings wide. As much as it seems things are over-stimulating and high speed, it's still the minority. We would love to take more time and enjoy more of the work, and sometimes we get the chance. We try to under-promise and over-deliver, but you just can't be everything to everyone. Some will sing your praises against others demonizing you. In the end, the proof is in the pudding. We wouldn't be busy if we weren't doing right by people.
]]>
Caricature Q&A:
1) Why do you insist on making conversation?
Have you ever just stared at someone? Much worse, having them stare at you? No talking, just several minutes of silence. Maybe one of you is making faces. Add in the idea of being scrutinized and one can understand why we'd love to take the guest's mind OFF of this process. It's an advanced skill, but adds a little "show" to the experience.
2) Does this include where you're stationed?
YES. A climate controlled location, conversation level spot, good lighting, etc. All are key to helping an artist do their best. Of course we've worked in harder environments, but the harder the artist has to maintain, the slower they become. If a client wants the most productivity, they'll help us help them.
3) Will you do copies? Why or why not?
Most artists will admit that their heart is always on their sleeve. Even if they're highly experienced and lauded, one cruel word can destroy them. If an artist wants to do their best, and then has to worry about their work being compared to another artist - or even worse, another version of their own drawing, it creates a mental conflict. You want a copy? Go to a copy shop, or have an artist draw you digitally and you can reuse the image as often as you like, guaranteeing a perfect copy.
We also don't draw people more than once at the same event for the same reason as above, but also because it creates a slippery slope - one guest can monopolize the line and create lots of tension or problems (we've had some "Jerry Springer moments!") and the artist is stuck in the middle.
4) How does that apply to the style of work?
It's common sense - be nice to people and they hire you more. If we turn the disconcerting experience into a show, entertaining, and draw someone in a way that DOESN'T exacerbate their insecurities, it's in our best interests to do so - "loose portrait" is the result.
5) What is the "big 3" a customer has to choose from that keeps you from working too hard?
A customer can have it fast, good or cheap. They can only pick 2.
If it's fast and good, it won't be cheap;
If it's fast and cheap, it won't be good;
If its cheap and good, it won't be fast.
We give the customer the choice and stick to what they pick.
6) (A question worth repeating): How do you avoid being overwhelmed?
Stick to your policies. Have them in writing and agreed to in advance. The client agrees and has no wiggle room.
Stick to what you do best. Don't take special requests because you'll open the door to ALL requests and then be accused of inferiority, playing favorites, it's a slippery slope.
If you're not comfortable working in a particular environment, don't be affable! You'll only be punished for it.
People will rise to your expectations and standards. Don't lower yourself to theirs.
]]>
Meet-and-greet Q&A:
1) Why do you insist on staying in character?
Children (of all ages) become increasingly cynical as they grow. A wise man once said "Adults expect too much and are always disappointed. Children expect nothing and are always surprised." When you hire us, we want you to have a "WOW" experience and not look for the "strings." Never breaking character is just one of the ways we preserve the mystique. In a way, it's a "happy disappointment" when we don't "admit we're not real."
2) Does this include getting ready (and unready?)
Absolutely. No one gets to see the performer's "secret identity." Why support someone being disappointed? In a way, all we have to do is not fail. Not to mention, getting prepared to perform requires time and focus and interruptions can ruin the performer's ability to be their best.
3) Have you ever compromised in appearance?
Sadly, sometimes an improvement or repair to a look just isn't an option. Our hearts are in doing our best and seeking the best results for the experience. I like to think that if there is an issue or a point of less-than-perfect, we're the only ones who will see it.
4) How does that apply to playing villains?
Good actors can cast a gaze or intimidate with a strong appearance. They don't have to cross the line of truly committing crimes. We also have protocols in place to prevent accidental overstepping. Not to mention, we want to entertain children (of all ages) so we aren't interested in opportunities that would force us to compromise our values or challenge us to convince those who are dead set against being entertained.
5) What about optics?
Optics are how you're perceived. Perception is (often and sadly) reality. Sometimes we've "fired a customer" who wants what we can't ethically do. Other times we've turned down work because it puts us in a compromising position. When it comes to performers, we also want to avoid being a scapegoat because a client had what they thought was a good idea and they didn't understand their own guests.
6) What about dress code?
Support staff for the characters dress to match the code of the event while still supporting out brand. The performers commit to a proper appearance regardless.
7) How do you avoid being overwhelmed?
Stick to your policies. Have them in writing and agreed to in advance. The client agrees and has no wiggle room.
Stick to what you do best. Don't take special requests because you'll open the door to ALL requests and then be accused of inferiority, playing favorites, it's a slippery slope.
If you're not comfortable working in a particular environment, don't be affable! You'll only be punished for it.
People will rise to your expectations and standards. Don't lower yourself to theirs.
Happy Holidays!
]]>
A little back story on our motivation for these articles: Particularly in our TAG Art culture, we've grown and matured (and continue to do so!) and have been blessed with these pearls of wisdom along the way. In the end, we've found whenever you focus on the best experience possible for the guest, you'll also achieve being the best option for your client. If you focus on being "the best" first, you'll find nothing but frustration.
For artists who are just starting out, looking to prove themselves, or are a bit obsessed with fame, remember "more money, more problems" translates to any pursuit of ego.
There's always someone who can do as well or better in something (not everything, thank goodness!) than you. Accolades and awards are just like name dropping. Humility brings greater reward. Be YOUR best.
Of course, take these tips with a grain of salt. We have found these "best practices" to work very well with our client base, but you might find differently - or you might have additional tips and tricks to add to the collective. Feel free to comment or share via email! info@tagartcompany.com
Face painting Q&A:
1) Why do you use makeup and not just paint?
Some products are marketed as "face paint" and are hypoallergenic (but that just means it won't kill you.) Paint is still paint and like many items can have an expiration date. Mold can develop quickly and essentially you'll be painting ringworm onto guests' faces. You may not even know it until it's too late. Always use high quality anything that may touch someone's skin.
2) Does a brush have to be expensive and especially labeled as a face paint brush to work well?
NO! We've had great success with fine art brushes. Check out an art supply store near you - play with the brushes, see how they hold their shape, how they feel on your skin. The same results fine art painters are looking for in a tool apply to your skills. Sometimes a #2 pencil (also labeled "HB") will cost you $2 more just because it's an "HB" and not just in the school supply section.
3) Do you use just brushes? Sponges? Stencils?
Whatever works best for the result - as long as you're staying neat and clean. Too many artists think a sloppy station is part of what the client should accept when hiring an artist (a "creative mess") and that's nonsense. You can have a clean artist who produces clean results.
4) How clean are you?
We use a wash-rinse-repeat after every color, even on the same person. The water contains a little dish soap so the brush is cleaned after every use. We don't mix colors either. Get the dedicated color for the dedicated use. Cross contamination can occur and it also makes you look dirtier, which hurts the entire market.
5) What about optics?
Optics are how you're perceived. Perception is (often and sadly) reality. Which looks better, a professional seated or a professional standing ready to assist? Someone hunched over a guest or someone who maintains as much space as possible? Pandemic notwithstanding, you can work closely but also safely (wear a mask and gloves if you need!)
6) What about dress code?
Again, optics. Do you want a short-shorts, sandals and tank top artist or do you want someone who matches your company dress code to be a part of your event? There is such a thing as too casual. Cover up parts of your body that can smell, be a distraction, or get in the way - don't be a dirty bohemian. Clients don't want that, they just don't know they can have what they really want.
Practically speaking, socks and shoes are protective. Do you want a child to accidentally land on your bare or exposed feet? Have a buffer.
You're in the space of a stranger and you are a stranger to that person. They don't want to endure your hair in their face, smell your breath or learn about your tattoos. It's not about judging, it's about alienating people who are trusting you to be around their boss, children, HR, all of the above.
7) How do you avoid being overwhelmed?
Stick to your policies. Have them in writing and agreed to in advance. The client agrees and has no wiggle room.
Stick to what you do best. Don't take special requests because you'll open the door to ALL requests and then be accused of inferiority, playing favorites, it's a slippery slope.
If you're not comfortable painting a part of a face or body, DON'T. You'll be the scapegoat if someone gets an infection because you painted over acne or a rash and then moved on to the next guest.
People will rise to your expectations and standards. Don't lower yourself to theirs.
8) Full face or small items?
No one asks us to slow down and show off. They want everyone to be taken care of. As the adage goes, you can have good, fast, cheap but you can only pick 2. Most clients want fast and cheap, which means small items.
Watch out for precedence and be on the same page as your possible co-artists on this one. If one of you is showing off, (ego) then it puts the others in an impossible situation and someone is going to be the scapegoat.
You may have a gig where you are expected to render full face and show off. If you have a client who understands AND has your back when it comes time to cut things off, enjoy that gig! They don't happen often.
]]>Despite adversity, everyone should truly live and seek that which makes them happy. Our country was founded on principles such as these. If you're blessed enough to do what you love, it's an even greater responsibility to enjoy it.
And then practical matters show up.
And then issues arise.
And then you're exhausted and frustrated.
So much can burn the fun out of existing much less professionally existing, that it can drive you to your knees. Of course, that's a good place to revisit your priorities as well.
What's your "WHY?" As the song goes "the things we do for love." How much do you love your "why?"
WHY are you doing this?
It can't be "for the money." Money is no basis for a career, and if you're always chasing it, you'll never be satisfied.
It can't just be "because you love it." The most ideal circumstances don't involve more than 1 or 2 people - not lots of fickle customers.
It can't just be "the thrill of it." The challenge? The chase? The hunt? The deal?
In 100 years, will any of this matter?
Who are you doing it for?
Who will care that you did it?
Who will truly benefit from your efforts?
"Who" becomes "Why" and you'll be on the right path to living (and working) vibrantly as you were created.
]]>We're enjoying a wonderful "return to normal." In fact, there is a "revenge partying" trend going on that I hope doesn't end.
However, there is a flip side of all this eager celebratory over-compensation: "If it's not perfect in my mind, it's someone else's fault."
So the company couldn't have a party for the last 2 years. Now all eyes are on the person in charge. It needs to be bigger, better, blow the 2019 party out of the water. Everything is Christmas-anticipation-meets-job-review. Not the smallest detail can go wrong.
Or perhaps the conversation is had, the terms are set and everyone is happy to work together - and the day of the event, it's obvious those terms weren't read at all.
Or maybe everything you're doing is exactly what you promised. But your success hinges on a third party who didn't get the memo and just doesn't care.
And what if that happens? What if ALL of that happens?
Do you trust yourself enough to stand by your terms? The terms you had for the last umpteen years that have always been the way it works and have never been a problem - and now they are?
Everyone has a line to stand on. Others have a line that moves. Are you trusting enough to leave your professional success to chance? Do you have faith that you can stand up for yourself and attract other business? Is what you're doing what you planned on doing with your career?
Welcome to the crossroads. The path you choose will turn you into what you hoped to be - or what you feared you would become.
In the end, go back to basics. And that is a subject for next month - stay tuned!
]]>This is a fatal flaw in networking as a creative - shying away from, neglecting to inform or just not communicating that you "can do that." For the record, it always hurts me to learn that a customer would have hired us "if we knew you did that!"
It's human nature to relegate things to a single dimension. We can't be bothered to dig in, learn more, assume more layers exist. We need to understand quickly, put a label on it and pigeon hole it in our mind. A broad category is just too, well - broad. We see it all the time:
"You're the face painter guys!"
"Yes, and the balloon artists, and the caricaturists - we're doing all the entertainment here."
(Mind blown - even though we're the whole team wears the same uniform.)
It's never "You're the entertainment!"
"Yep! All we do is fun!"
So we (and you) are already fighting an uphill battle to explain that you can provide a number of solutions - the stereotyping is generations old.
What's a creative 'trep to do? SPOON FEED.
Even on the back of our cards we have redundant services. I don't want any misunderstandings about what we can do or arrange for a client. There are no values compromised, no duplicity, it's all family-friendly entertainment. All we do is "fun."
So whose fault is it if your customers don't know you can help them? Take an extra breath and dig in - drill down to what they really want and offer a solution, get paid and grow your business!
]]>According to research on event trends by Splash, in-person corporate activities are poised to make a comeback. In 2022, 50% of companies are planning to host more in-person events, although the virtual and hybrid formats will be here to stay as well. Around 38% of companies increased their event marketing budgets, and the social event landscape is trying to balance aspects of the new normal to create memorable experiences for attendees. With in-person social events ramping up again, we have the chance to change the way they’re framed. Gone are the boring cocktail parties that only management enjoys; now, work socials are all about genuine empathy, compassion, and self-awareness. In a write-up on building relationships from LHH, SVP Frank Congiu describes these as “high-touch” moments — face-to-face meetings that allow people to interact with each other, so they can build trust and confidence. High-touch moments are effective to connect employees with your message as a company. Here are three tips to make your next in-person work event a high-touch one for employees:
Eventually you expand, diversify, but also learn more about the type of lead and client you want. There are those who want the world for a nickel, those who take a LOT of your time for proportionately little reward, and then there are those who challenge you to define your values more specifically.
Usually it's a pretty simple flowchart for me: 1) Will we be safe? 2) Money? The rest is doing what we say we can do.
After all, we've been doing this for a little while. We know what we can do, don't brag about it, focus on making memories, and walk the talk. As I've mentioned in a previous article, all we have to do is not suck. That's a glorious state of being in business.
Even more so (and we try not to get spoiled here) is to identify what "juice is worth the squeeze." While just about anyone can be our client, we recognize that we can't be everything to all people (and budgets.) The expectation gap is real and getting caught up in that can drive you mad. This helps trim the opportunities - refining and saving our energies and talent for the greatest outcome.
'Merica, right?
We now rarely get the "work for exposure" clients, and quickly qualify the world-for-a-nickel clients. There is room for others in our market, so we can focus on bigger services, hopefully working smarter (not harder) and a less-is-more on the bottom line between working and earning.
Once you vet that your skills are worth what you're charging, know your value, have faith in your potential, and keep moving towards the best results.
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https://open.spotify.com/album/59ZQxTlgVP40sNeNKTJdey?si=BSih50FXRgqtJZqUUQepww
Enjoy today and watch for more!
Also coming as soon as possible, "The Fun Farm" t.v. show! It's our goal to put a little more kindness into the world, especially for children. For more information, join our mailing list!
]]>It's not common, but it happens enough to remind me that I'm a bit of a mutant. One foot in the business world, one foot in the creative world. A third foot in a parallel universe (well, hello rabbit hole!)
What a wonderful world we live in! We've never enjoyed such freedom, inclusivity, technological benefits, medical advancements, just overall quality of life than right now. No matter what the social media ducks or the sensationalism on t.v. focus on, it's a great time to be alive.
Everything is great but it seems no one is happy.
Everyone has a piece of cake, but it's the wrong size, shape or color.
We have a heart problem. We're visually diabetic. God is great but people suck.
So how does a sensitive creative person navigate the greatness and the misery?
Check your own heart. Remind yourself of your own definition of success.
If you can be at peace wearing a funny costume or drawing caricatures or simply being present in the moment to make someone else's life a little better, then someone else's definition of success holds no weight.
The choice is yours!
]]>Growth, development, success, all take time and are a struggle. After all, anything worth doing is worth doing well. How do you get good at something? Practice. Sometimes practicing is fighting. Fighting for improvement, fighting for understanding, fighting just to be an option for your market.
The same holds true with any skill you may not want to improve upon, but NEED to improve upon. Especially as a typical creative (shout out to the introverts!) being social, putting yourself out there, striving to make things happen, all involves communicating. Talent alone isn't enough, a head for sales and an understanding of human nature is key.
Hence the term netWORKING.
You want to get the gig? You want to make the deal? You want to grow the sales? You want you want you want? How bad do you want it? Show me any "overnight success" and I'll show you the "dog years" of "overnight." Marathon, not sprint.
If you'd love to see a certain connection happen, then don't be afraid to put yourself out there or try to make it happen. You already don't have the market/client/gig, so it can't be worse than what you don't have. Try the email, make the call, see about the appointment, and stand up for yourself.
Cue RuPaul.
]]>It reveals some things about your values, your interests, your character. It can be fun rhetoric.
Pare it down to your career. If you could work with anyone, anywhere, doing anything you love to do, what would you choose?
Or more importantly, who would you choose NOT to work with?
It seems a little simple at first, but if you know your value, are confident in your abilities and can really bring the best solution to the client, nothing should stand in your way towards success.
Alternately, you should know who isn't your customer as well as you know what foods you would never want to even try (canned spinach, anyone?)
Success grows slowly but surely. Along the way, experiences mold you into what you're meant to be. One tripping point is the test of your values and how your want your reputation to grow.
Sometimes who you work with determines who will work with you!
This is not about judging so much as being aware of how you may be judged. I joke that I "don't judge anyone's money." We focus on what we're hired to do. We focus on the service - there's no duplicity, secondary motive, alternate agenda.
Of course, there are limits to who we'll work with - anything that is in direct opposition to core values is avoided, but even that is very pragmatic. You can't be everything to all people (so settle for the majority!)
When presented an opportunity, take a beat and think of how your involvement will be perceived and how the resultant work will reflect on you. Don't let present desperation determine your future.
]]>1) The "exposure" trap: A charity approaches, a non-profit, a "low budget" event, or just someone obsessed with a deal. They can't pay you, pay you much, or certainly what you need to grow your business - BUT if you discount or trade out your work entirely, you'll get great "exposure." It's a flawed interpretation of exposure marketing. A "Pizza Hut" opens in your town and there's never been one before. Their ads call attention to their presence. THAT'S exposure marketing. You need clients - paying clients. You don't need people to know where you are.
2) TRADE: A customer has a product and will be happy to trade you the fair market equivalent of theirs for yours. Who decides? Do you even need what they have to offer? Would you willingly seek it out and pay your hard-earned money for it? If the answer is no, stick to cash.
3) The "Back End" - "Take care of us on this one, and we'll take care of you next time." Guess what never seems to come along? "Next time." .
4) "Media sponsor." When was the last time you saw a logo, ad, brand on a t-shirt, whatever, and it made you want to go buy that product? The "sponsor" of an event is a trifecta - exposure, trade, and "next time." Large companies have a large budget to throw at sponsorships, their public image, placating the masses, even the need for a tax write-off. Do you have that much money dedicated to such things? If the answer is no, move along....
There are a few others, and I don't think anyone means ill will when they approach with one of these "offers," but human nature is too focused on a deal, not the value.
It's still very tempting isn't it? Growth in business is said to be under the greatest test within the first 5 years. Factor in a pandemic, housing crisis, recession, Y2K in any of the 5 years and you're more likely looking at a marathon of 10 or more years.
Can you hang in there that long? Do you have the patience? Do you really believe in yourself, believe in your product and its value? If you don't, you shouldn't be in business in the first place. Take heart, creatives can be creative for their own soul food. You may discover a better path professionally along the way that incorporates your creativity without diminishing your love of creating.
If you are committed to being in business, it's still hard to turn down opportunities. The same holds true when you've worked with someone, put the good faith in the relationship, and then you're chasing a check, dealing with a ghost, or they keep wanting more - "you took care of us last time..." Classic. But can you really "fire" a customer? Have faith in the process, see them for what they are, and be a ghost to them.
Let your reputation for quality grow. You'll attract the ideal customers who don't play the games - as long as you're worth it. As we say often, "all you have to do is not suck!"
]]>With every major change (incidentally the only thing that DOESN'T change is "change") we establish our "normal" through our actions, with our friend groups, in relating to our families (or not) and so on. We build up a certain micro-culture that works for us - or we say it does.
This applies to business as well. From corporations to 'treps, expansion, diversifying, pivoting or just rebooting happens. Sometimes the hardest part is accepting that change needs to happen and not mourn what once was.
As a creative, one constantly has to manage the chores and tasks of all things not creative, or at least find resources to delegate to. Until you can afford that level of support, it's all on your shoulders. Strategy, promotion, marketing, advertising, sales, insurance, so many practical matters that outweigh abandon. How does one mitigate it all?
One bite at a time.
Practice daily acceptance of what is no longer, and save your best mental energy (whenever that occurs) for the tasks you hate. Get them off your plate and enjoy what's left to do - be creative.
Establishing such habits (and being honest about when each piece must occur) helps you make slow-but-sure progress.
Along the way, be keenly aware and receptive to that which helps and that which hurts your progress. Time sucks, negative energy, any habits that undermine your progress need to be honestly addressed - after all, how bad do you want to succeed?
Remember to keep your values intact. I promise you, what you have to offer has a market looking for it. It's much like dating, but seeking a relationship of thousands instead of "the one." You've spent enough time getting comfortable in your own skin. Live in it vibrantly!
Change will happen, growth will happen, success will only happen if you stay focused and keep making progress.
Welcome to YOUR "new normal."
]]>What is a creative to do in this environment? How do you distinguish yourself in this dichotomy while at the same time convince potential clients of your trustworthiness?
Time and consistency.
It is a marathon, not a sprint and many who are staying afloat and prospering got their fields ready for rain some time ago. That's not to say that you can't start. Indeed, NOW is the 2nd best time to do so!
Have you drilled down to your goals? Is your vocation clear? Then the rest is steady-as-you-go. "Simple" things - intangible, but important - are also shining examples of success:
1) Be available when the phone rings - or email or text. If you're open for business, be there when it calls! Never make your customers follow up with you.
2) Want to work? Then make that part of your discussion - enthusiasm is contagious. Well-placed levity can really break the ice. Be that "puppy in a cage, ready to play!"
3) Walk the talk - go the distance with your customer. Be available for questions, ideas, even changes along the way. You're literally growing loyalty - people WANT to trust, want to invest and want to be served. In most cases, it's more important than the product itself.
4) There is no place for ego - you can be proud of your work and confident in your abilities, and certainly have samples to back up your proposals - but skip the awards and accolades. There are plenty of competitive spirits but the back-and-forth just leads to disparagement. Seek to do your best for the customer and you will likely turn out to be the best in their eyes.
5) Remind customers - past, present, future - anyone you'd like to work with (or work with again) that you exist. Everyone is "busy" and have plenty of people or demands or interests or responsibilities to deal with. It's not that you're not important, you're just the "10th priority" and "1 through 9" keep changing. Reach out - a text, an email, a call (whatever you think will work best.) You'll find a pattern of behavior with each customer, which is part of a life-long business relationship.
6) Remind yourself what feeds your spirit. Remember why you chose this work. If your only motivator is money, you'll chase your tail. If you pursue the right values, not only will you have more career satisfaction, but money will come along anyway.
You will grow, and you will expand and you will take on additional duties - which can lead to bringing help on and everyone growing together.
If you haven't already, BEGIN! The rest is easy.
]]>Earwig aside, let's talk about Halloween! We're having our second (hopefully annual) Fun Farm Halloween event! This merry-not-scary, "pandemic-friendly" experience will be perfect for a safe trick-or-treat and entertaining experience.
Our debut year was during the pandemic and our small-group, outdoor (socially distanced) and open air event was just perfect for everyone who attended. We had an aerialist, magician, princess, superhero, dinosaur, and 12 trick-or-treat stations in our Fun Farm village.
Spoiler alert! This year we thought we'd pay tribute to a certain lovable dog and his friends, along with a couple other surprises. Our goal as with any event we're involved in, is to make great memories for our guests. More details available on our website!
https://tagartcompany.com/products/fun-farm-halloween
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