Kent Communications

Maybe you do too. Think of business as an art.

I think the main problem I had with “business” was the money and the sales part of it. I had been under the impression that “money was the root of all evil.” I wanted no part of it. As far as the sales part…I wanted no part of that either. Nevertheless, my first real professional job was a sales job. I worked as a young 20 year old salesman for Metropolitan Life Insurance Company. Don’t get me wrong, I needed money and I was smart enough to know that much. But I learned something from that company, which was one of the biggest in the country at the time. I learned that “nothing happens until a sale is made.” Something for all artists to ponder.

For those of you that love what you do, just imagine how much you would love it if it supported you. If it paid the bills. Well, guess what. It can and should support you. So, let’s get down to business. Let’s talk about your art as a business. And it doesn’t matter if you’re a musician, painter, photographer, writer, dancer, comedian, DJ, glass blower or dog walker.

The first thing you want to do is decide on the name of your business. Then, go down to the nearest City Hall and apply for a DBA (Doing Business As). It is very inexpensive to set up a dba, yet it gives you the ability to open a bank account in the company name. Afterwards, visit your local libraries business section where you can select books on the various aspects of running your own business. Look for books on business plans first, then accounting, marketing, website design and so on. Seek out competent legal representation. For example, in the Bay Area we have the non-profit, Lawyers For The Arts. I’m sure there are similar organizations in your area.

Look into the best structure for your company, for example, sole proprietorship, partnership, corporation, LLC and so on. If you need to raise capital to get started, consider all of your options. My strategy was to pitch anyone who would listen. You may want to start with family, friends, co-workers and even bosses. Anyone you can think of, ‘cause nothing happens until a sale is made. Feel me? Paint the picture, share your vision. The supporter will come forward. Let them know that you know…nothing trumps cash in the bank.

copyright 2006 Kent Communications