Three Principles: Building a Creative Business the Lightbox SF Way

found on PinterestShelly and I are hard at work on a new e-course that will be the first in a series of three. In this past year working with multiple clients we've noticed that no matter what stage of business they're in we work on similar issues. We have a strong core philosophy when it comes to marketing advice, so we thought we'd put it in a package that allows more people access to our particular style of branding and marketing a business.

If you've worked with us directly you've probably heard this all before, but I realize that I've never put it in writing on the blog. So here's a little peek into the Lightbox SF approach.

First Principle: Find Your Story

We are all unique and bring something different to the table. This is key to remember in what often seems a crowded handmade market. We believe that your personality, passions, values, and strengths are what will make you stand out. The trick is defining what those differences are and then presenting them in a way that speaks to your target market.

Second Principle: Tell Your Story

Once you've nailed down those strengths and benefits that set you apart and answer the question "Why You?" you need to communicate it. You need to use your story as a guide in developing your online presence, communicating with your market, and creating a social media and marketing campaign. It should show through in your blog posts, Twitter updates, the font you use for your business cards, and the colors you choose for your website.

Third Principle: Community

We believe strongly in building community both in your customer base and in your peer group. Building a relationship with your customers and making them feel like they are a part of something keeps them engaged and talking about you. Building a similar group of peers and complimentary businesses around you expands your reach and broadens the benefits that you can bring to your customers, not to mention the support you have when things get tough.

In working with you to integrate all these principles into your business we also throw in some great tips and strategies for pushing through the stuck times and keeping yourself on track. We know first hand how difficult it can be running your own business part-time and in those supposedly free-hours.

As the e-course comes together over the next month or so I'll be giving you some teasers and telling you all about how it will run. We're really excited to be able to offer a new way to help all of you reach your goals.