Alli Beck
I’m learning that it’s important to make room for the projects that really light me up
I started my career in journalism and then pivoted to working for a nonprofit. While there, there was a huge need for someone to help in marketing. I started by jumping in on a branding project and then ended up as the marketing manager.
I wanted to move closer to home, so I found a job with another nonprofit. It was a design/copywriting job. Somehow I convinced them to hire me even though I had no experience in design (just copywriting). I learned how to use Adobe and Illustrator on YouTube and dove in head first. The more I did it, the more I fell in love with design.
A few years later I started my own business to help women service providers stand out in their industries through branding and website design. I work one-on-one with clients, but also recently added a digital branding course to what I offer. I love it and haven’t looked back.
What does a dream project look like to you?
A dream project is working with someone who trusts me, but is also clear and direct in their feedback. I love it when I have clients who are really excited about the final product. It’s so rewarding to watch them launch something that I helped them create.
What is something that makes you feel stressed in your business?
I think we have all taken clients we knew from the beginning weren’t the right fit. Certainly those kinds of projects can be stressful. I think sometimes I want to help everyone so I have a hard time saying no. But I’m learning that it is important to make room for the projects that really light me up.
Glacier Sleep Consulting Branding by Alli Beck
Where do you look for inspiration?
I look in the standard places like Pinterest or Instagram. But I also try to find it in everyday life. Walking through town, I like to see what has been done in the past.
What challenges do you think the creative field will face in the next 10 years?
The online space is growing more and more crowded. It is tough to compete with fast food design sites that undermine prices and the value of design. I think we will see more of that.
I think structure and systems are huge…If my life is hectic and disorganized, it sucks the creativity out of me.
What is your best tip for reaching your business goals?
I try to treat everything new I try in my business as an experiment that I continue to refine and improve. I also believe in the power of consistency. When I do those two things, I find my business grows naturally.
What is something you would like to learn more about?
I’m always wanting to learn more about branding and website design. I never consider myself as having made it. It’s a vast arena and I can always improve. I love learning and am always watching those who have gone before me.
Do you have any tips for staying motivated and productive?
I think structure and systems are huge in allowing the time and space for creativity. If my life is hectic and disorganized, it sucks the creativity out of me. I batch my work, I keep lists and use Asana to stay organized and on track. Deadlines are a great motivator for me.
On the other hand, taking time to connect with my clients and other women in business is a great reminder of why I do what I do.
What advice would you give someone who is just starting their own design business?
Make sure you have a clear process that you are guiding your clients through. Remember that the experience working with you is just as important as the final product.
Never work without a contract. Don’t take clients if there are red flags. Take half payment up front and the other half before you deliver files. Some of these things can eliminate bad situations before they get started.
Any last thoughts?
I love connecting with other designers and I believe in community over competition. Thanks for the opportunity to do that!
Connect with Alli
Website | Instagram | Pinterest | Facebook | Clubhouse: @allibeckdesign
Do you want to get more organised in your business?
With Kayla you can on-board your clients, collaborate with other creatives and get all the files you need on time and in the right format.
