JoAnne Maass Design

2010-09-14T12:20:00.000-07:00

I just finished designing the cover of an invitation for the Colors of Life party. The design was inspired by old-vintage music posters but with a modern twist of contemporary colors.

I really love the way it turned out and my client is very pleased.

The Work I Love.

2010-08-05T10:04:00.001-07:00

I was thinking the other day about the work I really want to be doing.

As any self-employed person can tell you, the reasons you go into business for yourself often has more to do with getting to choose the people you work with than just about any other concern and doing work you truly love and enjoy is probably the other biggest need most of us have. So why do we so often find ourselves taking "whatever comes along" whether or not it truly fulfills us?

To be honest, it’s fear and a paycheck. You get so used to the security of the weekly or monthly income that when you don't have it, or you're having a slow period and your savings is starting to disappear, you get afraid that you'll never find work again, and you end up saying "yes" to that project you knew you shouldn't have taken. Within weeks, you're stressed out, miserable and wondering why you chose to go into business for yourself.

Not wanting to fall into this trap again I decided to develop a plan for turning things around. I made a list of my favorite clients and projects over the last few months and wrote down exactly why they were so cool and fun to work with. And I started noticing distinct patterns:

* All of them trusted in my talent and creativity and hired me not just because I was a graphic or Web designer they met at a networking event or from a referral.

* All of them had company values and a corporate culture that were in line with my personal values and interests.

* All of them paid me well and respected the value I brought to the project.

* All of them like me personally and wanted to have a bit of fun while working together.

* All of them were businesses that I was helping to succeed.

With this information, I was able to come up with a list of questions to ask myself when I'm interviewing any new client:

* Can I get behind their business?

* Can I really help them succeed and how?

* Do I get a good vibe from them? Do they respect me and value good design?

* What is their budget? Is it reasonable considering what they're looking for, and can they allocate more if it's needed?

* Can I get really jazzed about this project?

Having this list while talking with new clients has already saved me time and stress, it's gotten me some really great clients, and helped me realize a few of the relationships I had that weren't quite working out for me. Plus, now that I have a good idea of the type of people and projects that I want to be working with and it gives me even more info to start the search for clients that will be a good fit for me.

Your Planet ad

2010-06-29T09:25:00.001-07:00

Zeta ad

2010-06-29T09:23:00.001-07:00

ad design

2010-06-15T13:44:00.000-07:00

It's not often that I get to design print ads so when a client calls me about an ad campaign I always jump at the opportunity. It's fun working with a creative team and brainstorming ideas. It's even more exciting to see the final ad placed in a magazine. And of course hoping your idea sells the product and reaches targeted audience.

The importance of a great logo

2010-06-10T13:04:00.000-07:00

Most clients don't understand the value of logos, what goes into designing a logo, or great branding. It's not about making something look beautiful. Owning a computer with software doesn't make one a designer. Hire a professional!

There is a higher value on logos: everyone will associate that identity/mark with you or your company. That is why a logo design tends to cost more than a brochure, flyer or poster. When you see the Nike logo you think of sport and athletics. When you see the Apple logo you think of cool electronics, computers and smart phones. There is an instant recognition.

A few factors used to determine logo design pricing.

Research
Client budget
How complicated the logo will be
The amount of concepts and revisions
How the logo will be used
What target or market
Longevity of the company

Marketing Solutions for 2010

2010-06-09T15:46:00.000-07:00

Trying to find the perfect marketing resolution for 2010? Try any of the ideas below to strengthen and grow your business through the coming year.

Create or update your logo. Think branding.

Create or update your marketing materials. Sales brochures,
advertising, etc.

Create a blog.

Create a facebook account for your business.

Build/update your Website.

Create an email newsletter.

Send an email blast to new and existing clients.