It’s not about what you say but how you say it? That is the basis of your side hustle, and yes it is a commonly used phrase for a reason. If you introduce your idea to someone juuuust the right way, they’ll be hooked. I’ll admit that I’m not the most creative, nor am I the most assertive with promoting my side hustles, but I’m convinced by the results from the effort I put into my branding. It’s all about the consistency. Last time we discussed WHAT you’ll be undertaking and now we’ll consider a few things that will visually REPRESENT what you’re talking about.
Family and friends will be “ride or die” from the beginning but you have to give them something to work with! I suggest that your Facebook page serve as your initial “website” before investing in a high maintenance website. However, you don’t want to just throw anything on that page and expect people to take you seriously. Use the following as guides to establish your brand and start making money on the side hustle!
What’s the first thing to create for your business? Well a name of course, it’s single most identifying component. Keep in mind, it has to STICK! That includes something simple like B. Chick Designs. If B. Chick is your name, then run with it! Don’t use that if it’s not your name. I highly recommend Canva to design a professional logo (on your own!) and to browse fonts and colors to claim as your own. For just $12.95/month, I saved my branding components to access easily with new designs. There are other features too. Check it out! This subscription is so worth it!
What will you post on social media? Double no to the sales pitches! You know you hate that too. So what will you feature for others to get to know who you are, what you do, and how you can help them? Simply think of how you’ll present yourself. People want to connect with others who tell a story, reveal personal information and testimonies. After all, this is a business, so you have to present yourself accordingly. The biggest part is knowing how to phrase your captions and what emotions to invoke. Master that, and you’ll have customers flocking to you! This simply consists of unique catch phrases, “go-to” hashtags to connect with your audience, and themed photos/topics. Brainstorm at least 5 for each mentioned.
Who do you want to sell to or work with? Where do these people go? How can you reach them. Promotion is everything when getting new customers and stacking your coins. Really think about this and spend at least 30% of your time promoting to the RIGHT audience. This can be via social media, word of mouth, flyers, attending local events, etc. Write a list of 5 ways you can “promote” your hustle each week. This ranges from sending emails to committing to an event each week to network with others.
Speaking of networking, you have to do it more than ever when your idea is still new. Leverage the relationships you have with people to get the word out. Have you considered reaching out to old friends or professors? You might actually have a gold mine in your back pocket. The key is reaching out to them, knowing what you want from them and asking for their help. Make sure it’s something simple for them and beneficial to them as well. Using the strength of your network will open up hidden opportunities through personal connections. Brainstorm, again, 5 people who you think will massively spread your idea.
I intentionally kept this post short because the great thing about entrepreneurship is the opportunity to do and not just research! Find a branding guide template and start to build and define your unique brand! Next week we’ll dive into your presentation and how to “hook” someone with your pitch. Until then, complete the branding guide and these action items:
<aside> 💡 Download the B Chic Quick Start Branding Guide
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