A conversation with Adam Plouff

Austin: I've been pondering what you said about thinking about Battle Axe as a band a lot since yesterday. Really such a cool concept.

I'm thinking about writing a newsletter about it... mind if I mention that I got the idea from you?

If you don't put in the reps, time won't help you.

Here are 2 motion design reps you can do

One for design and animation.
One for freelancing…

Since being a freelance motion designer can be quite lonely, even with social media friends, I suggest you build a small crew of motion designers. A keyframe crew if you will.

Here’s how I would do it if I had to start from scratch…

When a potential client looks at your website, are you the obvious solution for them?

Here’s one way you can make your ideal client go, “OMG, we need to hire them!”

Have you ever found (or are you currently finding) yourself in a place where you are desperate for money... like, yesterday?!

Here are the 3 steps I recommend.

1. What worked in the past?

2. Ask your network

3. Outreach like it's your full time job

Read more for the details…

In this issue, I'm going to share 3 simple tips that will help you integrate networking into your daily life.

How to get better at sales without talking to clients

Sometimes you’re in a position where you can’t take more work… but that doesn’t mean you should neglect your sales skills. Here are ways that you can get prepared for the next real sales call and blow them away.

1. Sales training

2. Role Playing

3. Record yourself

4. Level up your audio/video

5. Taking sales calls while booked

Read on for details and resources…

Last week, I introduced  the Rule of 100 to help you get out of a freelance rut.

Someone replied to this with a fantastic question:

"I'm not sure if I know what my biggest problem is. I see deficiencies in my networking and in having a focused and impactful portfolio (among other problems). Are there steps you would suggest taking to identify the biggest problem?"

So let's dig into this…

Chances are high that you have not taken action on what you've learned when it comes to freelancing.

I suggest you use the Rule of 100 to get yourself out of a rut of consuming (which feels like learning but often isn’t) and start taking action that helps you get more of what you want.

Step 1: Identify your primary struggle.

Step 2: Identify a primary action that could alleviate that struggle.

Step 3: Do 100 of that action every day for 100 days.

Here's a big picture framework to help you navigate your career.

Sticktoitiveness: the quality that allows someone to continue trying to do something even though it is difficult or unpleasant

+

Non-Obvious Freelance Skills: Traits that go beyond the obvious (good portfolio, social media presence, being kind) and add tremendous value

=

A winning long-term combo that can weather tough times

Want to know how to make more money without having to resort to stealing office supplies from your client’s office?

Well, building trust with your clients is key!

Read on for a step by step guide to build trust quickly and keep it when things get dicey…

Are you tired of being just another motion designer in the industry?

Well, it's time to spice things up and position yourself in a way that makes you stand out from the crowd!

Here are some tips to get you started:

If you haven't felt it, you've know someone who HAS had a slow down in work this year.

Here are 11 tweets that shed light on what's happening, what to expect, and, because I'm an optimist, some hope for the future.

I want to be a responsible model of desire for you by showing you what's possible as a freelance motion designer.