Talked to a few folks last week @DevLearn who were interested in starting their own consulting company. One question that came up a couple times was around choosing a company name.
Do you go with your personal name or a business name? Do you have a preference? How'd you come up with your name?
In a way it does. Especially when it's accompanied by a professional looking website, logo etc.
It just gives (some) clients a more confident feeling of working with an actual company instead of 'just' a freelancer. In my case I'm actually sub contracting some of the work and that makes much more sense if you're seen as a company and not an individual.
Along the same thoughts about how a personal name and a more business like name can bring up different feelings from a client, I read somewhere that when dealing with other businesses/clients you shouldn't refer to yourself as a "freelancer", but something more professional like "consultant". I've actually noticed a difference in how potential clients react and how they act towards our negotiations when I started doing this.
Very interesting points about the difference in how clients perceive "consultants" vs. "freelancers." I went ahead and created this simple image that can be sent to clients who think along these lines:
LOLOLOL! I love split image example. I have to think you're going to ignite some positive and challenging replies based on dress codes for each role:-)
Even in our own field, we have changed titles to suit the times. I believe there was a thread a while back asking for help on what title should they give themselves.
A few examples given (if i remember correctly
Instructional Designer Learning Manager Training Consultant Learning Consultant Learning Designer and Instructional Ninja (I've met someone with this title)
For the most part we all do the same thing, but it's how we want to be perceived in the organization we are in or who we do business with.
*edit - I call dibs on Instructional Ronin, or Instructional Commando so I can use this picture more often.
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In a way it does. Especially when it's accompanied by a professional looking website, logo etc.
It just gives (some) clients a more confident feeling of working with an actual company instead of 'just' a freelancer. In my case I'm actually sub contracting some of the work and that makes much more sense if you're seen as a company and not an individual.
Ah anyone here can have it, I've thought of a better one! But think of me when you're famous in the world of e-learning though!
Wow you are lucky if you can hand pick your clients.
Gimme Stelter, I love it, love it, love it!!!
I actually meant that I can still hire whom I want (in my day job) :-)
Thanks, Dan. I'm offering pure gold, here.
Along the same thoughts about how a personal name and a more business like name can bring up different feelings from a client, I read somewhere that when dealing with other businesses/clients you shouldn't refer to yourself as a "freelancer", but something more professional like "consultant". I've actually noticed a difference in how potential clients react and how they act towards our negotiations when I started doing this.
Very interesting points about the difference in how clients perceive "consultants" vs. "freelancers." I went ahead and created this simple image that can be sent to clients who think along these lines:
Since I'm the product I decided to use by first and last name as my brand :)
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I'm loving the logo Tim. Its so simple, slightly familiar with the Adobe-esque design but the glow just makes it pop. Well played!
It reminds me of how other professions change their title to seem more professional.
Stewardess = Airline Attandent
Secretary = Administrative Assistant
Bartender = Bar Chef/Mixologist
I'm just going to start replying with imagery moving forward. It's much easier.
Oh my gosh that's a huge point, Jerson. I just started a new thread on that one because it deserves its own space. Awesome points!
LOLOLOL! I love split image example. I have to think you're going to ignite some positive and challenging replies based on dress codes for each role:-)
Business shirt + Sweat pants/shorts + Skype Meeting with Client. With a show of hands, who has done this.
Don't forget the tie:-)
Even in our own field, we have changed titles to suit the times. I believe there was a thread a while back asking for help on what title should they give themselves.
A few examples given (if i remember correctly
Instructional Designer
Learning Manager
Training Consultant
Learning Consultant
Learning Designer
and Instructional Ninja (I've met someone with this title)
For the most part we all do the same thing, but it's how we want to be perceived in the organization we are in or who we do business with.
*edit - I call dibs on Instructional Ronin, or Instructional Commando so I can use this picture more often.
I do it ALL the time! I've been wanting to invest in the "Half-Suit." It's business on top, party below! Great for video conferencing!
This is true! I am a "Learning Architect" :D
This is very cool! I agree with it 100%. A lot of folks who freelance also have similar full-time jobs too.
The office is the BEST. I'm liking the use of attachments. I just used the capability on another thread.
@Tim
The half-suit is too much work, still have to get partially dressed. I recommend the business suit cardboard cutout.
That's even better! You don't even have to worry about combing your hair!
Sorry Jerson, I think Phil has this title sewn up since he is a ninja in real life.
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