Branding Challenge Series
Years ago, when I began my career as a freelance designer, I was of the mentality that I was on my own in the world. Like many freelancers out there, I enjoyed my life and my work, but quickly came to realize that becoming a solopreneur invites a unique set of challenges. I had very few solo associates to go to when I had a question, when I wanted to share a success – or when I just needed advice.
Enter the tribe…
The first tribe I joined, the Solo Mafiotto, was somewhat spontaneously formed at the first Creative Freelancer Conference, held in Chicago in the summer of 2008. Our group is now comprised of 17 awesome, supportive creative freelancers from all over North America.
Put simply: a tribe is a group of peers in the same field who get together and get real with each other. Typically via email, our tribe discusses business plans, unique client situations, contracts, marketing, technology – anything and everything related to what we do. We all understand each other because we all work the same way – and that’s the best part: we’re all in this together.
Try the tribe…
Every professional, in any field, should join or form a tribe. It’s as simple as that. Statistically speaking, members of a tribe are shown to be more successful than those without.
There are many different types of tribes out there – you just need to find one that works for you. There are coaching tribes, mentoring tribes, industry-specific tribes, Mastermind Groups, CEO Roundtables and many others. Some tribes require monthly or weekly meetings and some tribes just confer when help is needed. Many tribes have some sort of accountability program, designed to help members thrive and grow.
A good tribe will…
- Allow you to analyze what others in your industry are doing to succeed
- Help you create reliable industry connections, should you need help
- Provide both support and a good kick in the pants when you need it
- Encourage you, commiserate with you and allow you to share experiences
- Foster a relatable atmosphere, composed of people who know your trade terminology
And hey – if you don’t find the right tribe, you can always form your own! That’s how the Solo Mafiotto was formed!
My path to success…
Tribes are of tremendous value. Becoming a part of the Solo Mafiotto inspired me to join other tribes. (Who said you could only join one?) I’m now a part of three different types of tribes: the trade-specific Solo Mafiotto, an accountability group and a strategic planning association.
I have to say that over the past two years I can attribute much of my business success to the regular support I receive from my tribe members. I never realized there could be so many benefits to sharing my experiences, frustrations and successes with other solopreneurs.
Now get out there and find your tribe!
Next “Challenge” issue: Getting Back on Track
Share this post: Facebook It | Stumble It | Subscribe via RSS or Email.
Today’s desktop publishing software is more easy-to-use and more accessible than ever—and it’s a far cry from what it looked [...]
Now that I’ve taken away your Mixed Caps for emphasizing text… NOW WHAT? See what I did there? Really [...]
Cap? We’re not talking about whether or not you put the cap on your toothpaste (which I always do). Instead, [...]
Let’s take a moment to think back to all those ambitious New Year’s Resolutions. Are you sticking to your guns? [...]
Lately I’ve noticed that many long-absent company mascots seem to be returning to the marketing scene. Could it be because [...]
{ 1 trackback }
{ 0 comments… add one now }