Quick Tips from Industry Insiders for Retailing your Craft

Some quick tips from three industry experts originally presented as part of our Best Practice Series, Benchmarks and Foundations for Retailing your Craft

Jenny Brown from Melbournalia

• Consolidate and know your own story and philosophe
• Understand RRP and don't undercut your retailers
• Be respectful when contacting potential retailers. Work out the best time and best way to approach before launching into their space.
• Don't take kids and pets into a meeting
• Don't be offended by knock-backs. Use any feedbacks to improve your product, pitch and information.
• Understand what needs to be on a professional invoice - more here.
  
  

Damien Wright woodworker and commission based artist with over 30 years of experience

• Don't be a gate-keeper - meaning, don't keep your jobs and expertise a secret. Share knowledge, resources and jobs to create a positive community.
• Work like a tradesman and think like an artist.
• Do your research, know your history, context and craft and be prepared to share this knowledge with your clients.
• Enter through the trade door and finish up at the dinner table.
• Use one account for your business exclusively and track your expenses carefully.
• Don't do "cash jobs".
  
  

Abby Seymour - jeweller and prolific maker with multiple years or retail experience.

• Consider what part of the business you want to be working in and aim to outsource the parts your dislike or are not good at. Set up a business model that can accommodate your vision and ideal working model.
• Use social media to build trust around your brand.
• Use Xero or another accounting software to manage the financial flow of your business.
• Use your own name as your brand to give yourself longevity in the business.
• Have different streams within your business to futureproof your income. Develop a few avenues for consistent income and cash flow.
• Remember: some skills can't be taught, so price work that cannot be reproduced by another's hands accordingly.