💰 Your Creator Business is Broke Because You're Investing in the Wrong Things

Hey there! 👋

First, some housekeeping! I wanted to share about two upcoming events I’m hosting you might be interested in attending

Not let's talk about something I see all the time: creators dropping cash on the latest productivity app, fancy camera gear, or that shiny new platform... while their business foundation is non-existent.

I get it. New tools & gadgets are exciting! They promise to solve all your problems and make you look professional. But here's the thing (and you might not love hearing this): your business doesn't need another subscription. It needs strategic investments.

So let's dive into the 5 investment priorities that will move the needle for your creator business:

1. Your Legal Foundation 📋

I know, I know. Legal stuff is about as exciting as watching paint dry. But nothing will tank your business faster than getting sued because you didn't have proper contracts or accidentally violated someone's copyright.

Start with basic contract templates that include scope of work, usage rights for your likeness, content ownership terms, and payment schedules. Don't forget clear terms of service for your platforms and maybe even trademark protection for your brand name. Think of it as insurance for your future success.

2. Financial Systems That Actually Work 💳 

Stop tracking expenses on napkins, waiting till the last minute and just hoping for the best! Invest in proper bookkeeping software (or better yet, hire a bookkeeper). You need to know where your money is coming from, where it's going, and how much you're actually making.

Plus, when tax season rolls around, you'll thank yourself instead of wanting to hide... (I didn’t do this my first year…)

3. Your Personal Brand Assets 🎨 

This isn't about hiring a $10k designer (though if you can afford it, go for it!). I'm talking about consistent logos, color schemes, templates, and some professional headshots (Can’t afford one? Check out our sponsor below!)

Your brand should look intentional, not like you threw it together during a Netflix binge.

It can (& should) evolve over time, but having something consistent will help your audience tie your content back to you.

4. Education and Skill Development 🧠

The creator economy moves fast. What worked last year might be totally irrelevant now. Invest in courses, workshops, or coaching that keeps you ahead of the curve. Whether it's mastering new platform features or learning business strategy, your brain is your best asset.

Don’t have funds for this? That’s ok! There are so many free resources out there. I recommend setting aside time to focus on a development for each quarter to build the learning muscle.

Here’s a few to get you started:

• The Creator Match Blog - to learn about LinkedIn Content & Partnerships

• Canva Design School - to learn how to improve your graphic design skills

• Beehiiv Academy - to learn more about sending newsletters

• Creator Science Podcast - a crash course in all things content

5. Systems and Automation 🤖 

This is where the magic happens! Email sequences that nurture your audience while you sleep. Content scheduling tools that keep you consistent. CRM systems that help you manage client relationships without dropping the ball.

Good systems don't just save time (they do that too). They help you scale without losing your sanity.

Here's What NOT to Prioritize Yet

Before you invest in that $3k camera setup or premium editing software, ask yourself: "Will this directly impact my revenue or save me significant time?"

If the answer is no, it can wait. Focus on the foundation first, then add the fancy stuff.

The Bottom Line

Building a sustainable creator business isn't about having the coolest tools. It's about creating systems that support growth, protect your assets, and free up your time to do what you do best: create amazing content.

Start with one area from this list and build from there. Your future self (and your bank account) will thank you! 💜

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