Talk Money or Stay Broke!

Key Concepts:

• Comfort with discussing money
• Entrepreneurial perception vs. "creative type" perception
• Asking clarifying business questions
• Generating respect and willingness to invest
• Helping clients think

Talking About Money and Entrepreneurial Perception:

The core argument is that creatives often struggle with discussing money, which hinders their business success. The speaker emphasizes that becoming comfortable talking about money is a fundamental business principle. This comfort signals to potential clients that they are dealing with an entrepreneur, not just a "creative type" or "dreamer." The speaker believes that this shift in perception is crucial for closing deals and building trust.

The "Epic but Intimate" Example:

The speaker recounts a specific example of a new business call where they asked clarifying questions. The client used the phrase "epic but intimate," which the speaker found confusing. By seeking resolution and understanding, the speaker demonstrated a business-oriented mindset. The client's reaction was overwhelmingly positive, expressing gratitude for the thought-provoking conversation and the generation of new ideas. The speaker notes, "That was amazing you made us think my brain hurts thank you for all the ideas i don't remember giving you a single idea."

Impact on Respect and Investment:

The speaker asserts that asking clarifying business questions, like the "epic but intimate" example, significantly increases the client's respect and willingness to invest. When clients perceive that the creative understands business principles and can help them think through complex issues, they are more likely to open their "pocketbook." The underlying reason is that "thinking is difficult," and clients value those who can facilitate the process.

Conclusion:

The main takeaway is that creatives need to overcome their discomfort with discussing money and embrace a business-oriented approach. By asking clarifying questions and demonstrating an understanding of business principles, they can shift client perceptions, build trust, and ultimately increase their chances of securing investments. The ability to help clients think is a valuable asset that translates into tangible business success.