How Will Clients Find You: SEO & Lead Generation pt. 2

[@TheMasterpulha]

i dont even work on anything remotely related to Design and I'm watching all this channel videos and learning a ton! Great Job man, one the best channels i found recently.

[@fatimamahmood7889]

Every time I'm stuck somewhere, your channel works like a religious scripture for me. I type in my problem with Chris' name and there it is! No jokes man, I've never seen a better public speaker and an educator on top better than you. Thank you so much for these videos, I'm literally laughing and crying that this content is free on the internet. Cheers!

[@thefutur]

Thank you Fatima! we are here for you. -chris

[@afroteen4647]

That's me right there

[@stephendelaney5766]

This was one of the only lectures ive ever sat all the way through....... i have completed three years of college.

[@nikkiarnold4678]

my head is going to explode with all this information. so much to learn, so little time.

[@thefutur]

that's the beauty of video. you can watch a little and come back to it later. I personally have to watch videos 3, sometimes 4 times to absorb what is being taught.

[@nikkiarnold4678]

Same. As well as taking notes and bookmarking. Thank you for your content and knowledge

[@hannahcattouse]

Same thing I was thinking, and this is because I'm not even in graphic design [mind-blown emoji]

[@alexanderfischetti394]

I'm in video production and wanted to say thank you . This channel is useful to anyone interested in business not just design. You are pumping out extremely useful content.

[@thefutur]

Thanks Alex. Glad to help.

[@annakidesign-productdesign8010]

This video is like a Bible for me, I watch it from time to time like a brand new piece of content and it always feels different from each different stand point of my business, watching design focused videos (mostly from you) has nothing to do with general business ones (real estate or stocks). Thank you Chris !

[@brightonblogger]

Great video. Especially like your comment about not going in with a mindset to sell a specific service regardless of what the client needs. Brilliant quote: ‘If you have one tool, like a hammer, everything looks like a nail. That’s not the way you service your clients.’ So well put. Thanks

[@LatoyaAntonia_]

Seriously, can any design teacher, heck teacher full stop teach with the finesse that Chris does?! Literally captivating.

[@vanessamontezumaramos3756]

It’s amazing how many of the topics discussed here relate to architecture and architecture school too. I’ve heard so many times “educate the user”, but nobody actually knows what that means

[@thefutur]

I’m here to help

[@successfulpodcast]

I like what you said about content marketing and your 5 hacks for social media are spot on and how you need to control the content on your channel to just what the brand is focusing on. When I mix my web design and music posts on Instagram, it backfired on me. Since I have been concentrating on just web design.

[@shadowfallenable]

Man... Im overwhelmed by sooooo much quality information. Im new to this channel and now I just cant go by one single hour without watching its contents!!

[@thefutur]

Welcome to the Futur

[@jaimejimenez2886]

If you want to hear his take on cold calls/emails here you go 24:31. I spent 3 hours yesterday making cold calls and I had to leave my information with the person I was talking to because the owner wasn't there. I'm not sure yet how effective this is going to be, but after listening to Chris, I realized that it might be a smarter strategy to reach out to people I know who own or have somebody close to them who runs a business. As I'm typing this, I'm tempted to slap myself because of how much a better strategy it seems haha. To quote what Chris said, "We would rather hire a friend to do a worse job, then a stranger that would do a better job, just because we know that person and like to help people out." I SWEAR I JUST GREW A THIRD EYE IN THE MIDDLE OF MY FOREHEAD. WOAH! Always grateful for the information. Once I start getting clients, I'm sending you that 10% Chris! I really don't have that many connections on linkedin that are creative professionals, so if you want to connect add me on there! Running a creative business is so much easier when you're connected with other creative professionals. www.linkedin.com/in/jaime-jimenez-705288183/

[@sarah4247]

I believe this was the very first video I watched from The Futur and it was 5 months ago. Ever since then, I've been watching videos from here, The Academy account, and listening to the podcast almost daily. I feel so enlightened. I've consumed all (if not most) of the content listening while I work, taking notes when necessary, and I am now coming back to this video and it's all beginning to make sense. After 5 months of free "training" from you guys, I feel super excited to take some real steps towards optimizing all of my content and really going after some of the goals I have for myself. Overall I just want to say thank you to Chris, and to all of you at the Futur!

[@thefutur]

Welcome to the Futur

[@thefutur]

Thank you for tuning in.

[@RawrdesignsCa]

We can't believe this video doesn't have 100x more views. Thank you for all that you do. This information is insanely invaluable and impossible to find. It was by mere chance we ran across it in an article posted on facebook.

[@hs1626]

Hey Chris (and the whole team!) I just wanted to say thanks so much for all your help and advice in these videos and podcasts, they've helped me a tremendous amount. I am setting up a company with three business partners and we are focusing on the business of design. We are primarily Experience designers and all have a range of experience (pardon the pun), from 15+ years to me with less than 6 months and no formal design education! (What I lack in experience and formal knowledge, I try to make up for in innovative thinking). Our motivation is to bring massive value to clients and move away from being order takers and move towards helping clients shape their business in any way that suites their specific needs. To that end, our route to market strategy is to target start ups and small business, charging them enough to cover our costs and taking some equity. We feel this method has two main benefits, first these companies are often cash poor but potential rich, and second we want to clearly demonstrate that our aim is to grow their business, their success is our success. I've heard you mention this strategy before and I'd really like to hear your opinions and any advice you have in more detail! Thanks so much again, you've been a great help so far!

[@thefutur]

when you are starting out, it's important to get clients. money is less important. but be choosy in the client you pick. they should understand the work is being done at discount. they need to be willing to give you a level of creative autonomy. otherwise you're better off working on internal spec projects.

[@no1_of_note]

Thanks Chris, I love the depth to which you discuss these topics. Watching your videos feels like devouring a meal I didn't know I was craving. I really appreciate that your design+business insights always get at the heart of what we should do as creatives: provides value to our clients and ourselves.

[@thefutur]

Peter Broomfield thanks! Provide/create value for your clients. In turn you become more valuable.

[@roberthramon7799]

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[@blackglass1549]

This is phenomenal content. I'm actually going to be watching this with my partner, because you've literally covered 90% of what I couldn't figure out how to bottle into something digestible that he could understand! It's incredible, thanks for this. And: you even covered a "roleplaying" jedi-mind trick I was going to use on him, though yours is a little different (re: the google thing.) Thanks again.

[@borcsaster]

Now this was thoughtful! It's interesting to see, how the low appreciated child of marketing - direct marketing - has evolved into the leading 'influencer' among marketing tools and the 'big brother' advertising seems to loose it's ranking.. The 'SEO yourself' is really a must have for any artist or freelancer and we really like to forget about it! Yes, it's work, but unless you have someone to do it for you, you have to manage yourself! I should improve on that too! So thank you for reminding me on this! And also thanks for the 'micro interactions' for taking my negativ critiqes as well! Bests!

[@Jonesrful]

One of the best pieces of advice. Nothing is wasted in watching these videos.

[@thefutur]

Riley Jones thanks Riley.

[@matiaspitters6058]

So related to that bit where you say we designers feel we can only charge for producing. Thank you for giving me the confidence on charging for my thinking and talking.

[@thefutur]

yes. go get that money.

[@jfur5881]

Oh man, you called it on the architecture life. LOL. My partner has his masters in architecture and while working in commercial firms he was designing bathrooms. He now works in residential because that's where his passion is and it's much more rewarding.

[@carlymitchell5931]

OMG! I'm sold. I've been practicing architecture for over 10 years and would love to expand into brand strategy and identity design. Your comment was funny about the first years of architecture! Thanks

[@thefutur]

was it true about the first year?

[@carlymitchell5931]

@@thefutur I've done my fair share of restroom layouts, and still do today. But mainly, my first years consisted of learning how to produce construction documents and detail buildings.

[@Nunjick1]

4 pages of notes in 2 videos, I have a headache. Thanks for everything, I'm an Industrial Designer trying to figure out how to grow and evolve to a Design Consultor.

[@huanpham]

This is Gold. Thanks Chris. So much Infomation, I would need to watch this 7 times more to remember them all

[@suhovejeva]

Chris and The Futur team, thank you so much for these vids - I was just thinking yesterday how lucky we are this content exists and its accessible to everyone for free. Thanks!

[@cynthiahopkins963]

Chris, your outfit is on point.

[@thefutur]

Thanks.

[@negative42]

Chris these video's are so good, it makes me feel like I am there in a classroom. Plus the value is insane, and that for free. Much love from The Netherlands!

[@thefutur]

Thanks. I’ll be Begen for a workshop in Sept.

[@prashanthsckumar6802]

Adam Sanborne the ending music is awesome, Nice Work!

[@jonathanperucho8862]

Chris, I genuinely feel I'm in the same room as the audience you're talking to. Really hope to experience a live talk from you one day! The delivery of your talk keeps me engaged and is irresistible (yes, irresistible - couldn't think of a better word haha)

[@thefutur]

Jonathan Perucho that's awesome to hear. Thank you. Next time come to our workshop. I'm speaking all the time.

[@jonathanperucho8862]

Dang, I can only view and listen (as I have been) to your content online for now. I live in the UK! But thank for personally inviting me, will need to plan a trip to the States!

[@jonathanbates1156]

I love what you're doing Chris. I first heard about you on the Cinematography Database podcast, and now I'm hooked.

[@thefutur]

Jonathan Bates welcome. Glad to have you.

[@Beansifull]

I have learned more from this in 2 hours than i could ever have in class, i thank you

[@despiertahumano5396]

What class are you in? Stop wasting money damn

[@MrInsider33]

hey chris, I don't know if you are still going to read this, but about your "anxienty" to talk in front of people. First of all i would have never thought that sitting in that classroom. Just one little tip/critique (i am really not trying to offend you) but maybe you could put out your chest a little bit more, it comes over more confident and you will also feel more confident because you produce more thestosterone like that i believe, try it. You're almost perfect in every aspect of teaching, I only found this for you to work and improve on.

[@dbuller]

so glad i found this channel. trying to soak it all up like a sponge. Brilliant as always.

[@thefutur]

Diego Buller thanks Diego.

[@alifelongfriend]

Best video I have seen on this topic. Like the no BS approach to Q/A

[@MicahBuzanANIMATION]

Good points, one thing I disagree with though. Cold emails can work if you keep it short and to the point, and don't try to sell in the first email. I've built my business on cold emails. Doing 3 cold calls and deciding the concept itself doesn't work because it doesn't work for you personally is not a very scientific approach.

[@chrischristopher7102]

Damn. Chris is really awesome when it comes to the business side of a graphic design career

[@thefutur]

Thanks Chris.

[@skycreeper55]

This comment and reply made my day 😁

[@MatiasBaldanza]

Thank you so much for posting this video. I've only discovered your channel yesterday, and it's insane the amount of value your providing here.

[@shivneep]

I am from india , and am student doing btech IT 3rd year. But i love graphic designing and i don’t want to sit free ... so i doing freelancing from last year. Watching your videos give me direction how to manage everything. I want to meet you 1 day and want to thank you 😇😇

[@mariaandrea9020]

Loving these so much! Thank you Chris and Jose! I've discovered these videos about a month ago and I've been starting my mornings playing these while I get ready. So valuable, thank you thank you thank you :)

[@thefutur]

Maria Andrea come to our next taping or workshop Maria.

[@stepm4394]

Hey Chris! first of all THANK YOU! Me and my team learned so much from you, I have been following a some great entrepreneur like Patrick David, Grand Cardone and I am really glad that i found you here in youtube...I have this goal when we got big, I will personally come to you and shake your hand and tell our success story because of you :)

[@thefutur]

i hope you hit your goals. i would like to meet you some day.

[@stevensimmons3934]

Thank you really nice to see someone pit-in the truth about how the design field should be structured and looking at it from a creative point of view. I definitely value your opinion and time.

[@thefutur]

Thanks Steven. Glad you like what we are putting out there.

[@jaswindersocialscholar]

Sometimes ask too many questions and than client says I am about to hire somebody who are more quick responder than you and ready to start work instantly. It's like client think I can't understand the job requirements.

[@lakmal1st]

Thanks for the enlightenment.. chris.... i was bit on to the artistic side rather than the business... but i remember you saying it's the business we should put our effort on in a another session... this one is excellent.. too ...

[@thefutur]

yep. designers/creatives need to learn to speak the language of business.

[@BrewskaySA]

There is nothing wrong with sales. It is a needed aspect of business. It is a tool just like everything else.

[@Yotrymp]

Great presentation. Really brought to light several issues. The alternative compensation model really just sounds a lot more trustworthy right off the bat. Also sounds easier for people new to negotiating sales/trades. Double the awesome.

[@thefutur]

Give it a try. See if you can negotiate something like this for yourself.

[@rsbharadwaj]

This is the design education I needed.

[@pincgator]

Timeless content right here champ. Thank you for this.

[@GinaMusicPro]

Unbelievably valuable, once again! Thank you Chris!

[@eddydbautista]

I think it would have been a good idea to point out some tools that they can use to organize their ideas, work on their ideas, and do their ideas. Some good tools: ** NOTE TAKING ** - Evernote (This is actually my favorite tool, you can record audio, save websites, pictures, etc.) ** SOCIAL MEDIA SCHEDULING ** - Buffer - Hootsuite - IFTTT

[@thefutur]

Eddy Bautista good point.

[@thefutur]

love evernote. i actually don't like to use social automation. i will tell you why in another video. i'm actually working on a new social media marketing kit that outlines an approach for companies and brands of all sizes.

[@eddydbautista]

The Futur Well social automation actually helps you. Without a scheduling system, you will have to be at that time to post the content. Depending on the system it can actually tell you what is the best time to post and you can schedule to post every day content that you have on your pinterest or other social platform.

[@thefutur]

Eddy Bautista I've tried both hootsuite and buffer. My opinion is that timing isn't as critical as some believe. I think quality posts done natively have performed the best for me.

[@abeebolaniyi9570]

I'm an Architect Chris and I heard that. lol I really love what you are doing. Your videos have being helpful. Thank you.

[@thefutur]

Thanks.

[@thedeputydadbod]

Everytime i find a new video i learn something new. I really enjoyed this and found a lot of value here.

[@thefutur]

Awesome!!!

[@MsSquarebanana]

Seriously, every time I watch these videos, I have a page full of notes of actionable steps I can start implementing immediately. I've seriously learned more from the watching your videos this past year then I did in all of my years of design school.

[@thefutur]

ProlificBanana post your notes and tag us! Glad to hear that we are helping.

[@StashMan]

Was waiting for this particular follow up video, thanks Chris, Jose and the futur team

[@thefutur]

you got it. we're working on pt. 3 (where we dive into bids/estimates).

[@getmoreleads3792]

Great video. Explosive growth of business definatly definately depends on th quality of leads you have that can be converted to sales.

[@traeb3]

loving the content so far, ... just started watching stuff today. I do SEO and paid traffic, got some good insights for my personal biz.

[@thefutur]

excellent. check out the SEO episode.

[@ifeanyichukwudike1827]

Mind blowing insights ... Thanks Chris

[@Mchipres]

Thank you so much for giving us designers real world in-site on certain things. Our industry is always growing its nice to have these videos to keep up. Thank you sir

[@thefutur]

Michelle Chipres you're welcome Michelle.

[@AlessioGranella]

Im a very fun of this page. Think you very much! The sharing is caring!!!

[@thefutur]

Alessio Granella we care a lot about you.

[@StefanoPapaleo-TS]

The alternative compensation model is really great and sometimes it does make much sense - I've got something you need, you've got something I need... let's talk about it and take money off the table for the time being. I've done that a few times with great satisfaction for both parties. After all, you need money not in itself but to get something else ;)

[@thefutur]

Stefano Papaleo nice!!

[@josephgermani]

Just subscribed to your KZbin channel! Finally a mentor that I can relate to! :D

[@thefutur]

yes! Thanks Joseph.

[@vivaanhector8597]

InstaBlaster.

[@instatech3510]

Wow..each video gets better than the last one. Gotta watch all of them.

[@thefutur]

InstaTech music to our ears.

[@Kolxwork]

Thank you so much for doing this! Just watching your content all the time. Just My industry! It is really helpful.

[@carobacort]

This is an amazing channel. Couldn't be happier with what you guys do! Thank you for all the help and knowledge you've shared with us♥

[@thefutur]

Appreciate it

[@Mouhtadi]

I m in love with this channel ! I from Morocco and we don't have people talking about design companies and how to succeed in design business, so i want to thank you for sharing with us your experience, I learn so much and hope to see you in Morocco maybe for special conference ... Thank you Chris ! Thank you TheFutur

[@thefutur]

MOUHTADI that would be lovely. I've never been to Morocco.

[@liamandrewcura7518]

Personal marketing is such a challenge but you guys, The Futur team, ive some really great, practical advice. Thanks so much!

[@thefutur]

Liam Andrew Cura thanks Liam.

[@emilianmocanu8715]

I love this. These ideas are game-changers for me ❤️

[@richardking1654]

Thank you so much I believe this is the missing piece to what I have been trying to accomplish, now I can look forward to 2018 with confidence. Blessings

[@carlosluna5148]

Coming from a marketing background, this video tells me that I'm ready to start making millions lol. Thank you guys! It seems that I started the process in reverse order.

[@thefutur]

we will meet in the middle.

[@carlosluna5148]

I already reached out to a a few poeple for venues. I am going to have my first seminar after hearing Chris Do mention that he tells lots of people to start doing stuff like that and they don't do it. I'll let you guys know how it goes.

[@Clayjarazn]

Awesome. A lot of work to be done but clients aren’t going to throw themselves at me.

[@somhimank]

Hi Chris, its very much kind of an eye opener listening to you, How would you handle a regular client of yours for whom you have worked for an under value in the past, but now you have raise your fees ? Also because of the past experiences with that particular client, he is always expecting very lower prices and that's why he keeps on hiring you. How to break this cycle ?

[@christophermercado1126]

If I were that architect, I will not take direction from whoever the client wants LOL at the end of the day it is my legal responsibility as the architect of record, architect like me is also learning from what you're preaching like providing value to clients. But what you said is true, it's even difficult to get high paying architectural clients that's why I'm listening to your videos thanks!

Finally! I'm eager to watch this entire video!

I think I will unsubscribe your channel just to be able to subscribe again! Awesome as always.

[@thefutur]

Luciano Hernandez naw. Don't do that. Bring a friend.

[@RishabhTiwariV]

Chris this was really good video. I have a question for you : " you talk about design strategy or strategy sometime in your videos. so can you tell me how to make a strategy ? what does a strategy exactly mean ? and the most important what is the strategy exactly about, Is it about the company's branding or any-other thing ? "

[@thefutur]

Strategy is a "high level plan". Tactics are how it will get done (the details if you will). Many designers are trained to think by crafting the end result, while the strategic decisions are often made at the executive level. By not understanding how/why strategic thinking works, you'll be stuck as an "order taker". This is what our product CORE helps people to learn.

[@TheAgentmigs]

idk...i prefer a more organic way of pitching my design ability. The social media/hash tag thing is good for some people but I just find it lacking in true engagement. I know that if I can meet a potential client..then I got em. Maybe instead of cold calling i'll show up in person at a social engagement and develop a line of communication the old fashioned way, and follow up with social media. It takes a bit of courage and charisma to walk up to someone but it just feels better and leaves a much more lasting impression.

[@ehsancharolia3297]

I'm an architect (almost. Final year) and that jab at architects actually hurt... BECAUSE IT'S FREAKING TRUE 😂

[@jenshirley1190]

I learned so much from this video. I love this Chris and this channel. Thank you.

[@micahhansen]

This one is SO good I just watched it TWICE!

[@thefutur]

Micah Hansen ty for that. Twice as good. :)

[@foggyblues13]

LMAO!!! 23:25 "being an architect sucks" .... I'm an architect. I love doing graphics and websites on the side. I love the videos from Chris & Co. Very inspiring.

[@thefutur]

sorry if I offended you. we have many architect friends who tell us about their pain.

[@foggyblues13]

@@thefutur LoL. Not offended at all. What you said is true. I laughed out loud. I watch all your videos and you provide a valuable resource for any creative industry. I very much appreciate all that you do. Thank you.

[@thefutur]

Thanks

[@PerfectWaxing]

Great video!! Thanks for sharing this great infos!

[@honeyfish541]

Beautiful lecture. Thanks Chris!

[@thefutur]

Thank you

[@kennethe.montgomery2785]

thank man. your videos and the messages you give is so motivational. i enjoy learning and hearing your pass experience. so helpful and i appreciate that. Thanks Chris.

[@thefutur]

Kenneth Montgomery thanks for watching and commenting.

[@teroblepuns]

One day I will give you the greatest high-five for all your lessons.

[@thefutur]

high five? sure.

[@babyshmay]

this is so good! 7 years old and super great

[@fiooore18]

strongly agree, best advice on running a design business! Thank you and keep them coming :)

[@thefutur]

Hi Anna. Thanks! We'll keep making more.

[@JarodBillingslea]

Dammmnnnnnn I sure as hell been looking at that email headline longer than any email today! You right lmao!! Definitely gonna take heed to this advice!

[@gcc4426]

yay! it's here! thank you

[@thefutur]

gc68 working on the next one.

[@agustinruiz2760]

Great video. You guys have become my favorite KZbin channel!

[@thefutur]

Agustin Ruiz sweet. Thank you.

[@MASO204]

Best Channel on the internet

[@jeffpunz5337]

Awesome as always guys! I really dig the ACM (Alternative Compensation Model) option for business. Any chance of doing a video on the steps (legal, contracts, etc) to see this type of thing through once client agrees and the negotiation is in the works?

[@thefutur]

i think at that point, you have to get in touch with an attorney.

[@jarobbins3]

Awesome video Chris, I'm about to launch my website solution business and the content you put out just pumps me up even more if that's possible. Keep it man, I love your stuff!!!

[@thefutur]

James Robbins let me know how your business goes. Glad I can provide some motivation for you.

[@teabagNBG]

my problem is at the moment im not really a designer , i know how to use the whole cc suit and how to create and print stuff but basically i just recreate and print old bike decals because these are the only clients i have i know i could do ALOOOOOT more! im not sure how and in in wich design direction i should go to get things going to get real clients for real created digital products NOT printed products... i already did all kind of stuff for clients vectorizing, finalizing for print, webdesign (uiux), logo design and alot more... i cant really tell where my specialitys are thats why i dont kno where to start.. its like i cant see the wood because of the tree...

[@xtriple000x]

So much gold, thanks The Futur

[@thefutur]

Stewart Rosburg consider enrolling in the sales and marketing course we are offering.

[@justinkruemmel6155]

Architecture...drawing bathrooms...yeh, I love drawing them! Haha! Thanks for posting this!

[@thefutur]

Justin Kruemmel you're welcome.

[@christianquiambao627]

Great episode and awesome tips as always. Again, thank you for sharing Chris.

[@thefutur]

christian quiambao you're welcome Christian.

[@ChristylBenford]

This is great info! It really gives me so much information in building my freelance business in graphic design. I can't wait to incorporate it. Thanks a bunch!!

[@thefutur]

Christyl Benford you're welcome Christyl.

[@onuohaudeagha1255]

I'm in Africa, but the clients here are not people I want to market to, considering their low budgets. I want to take my services online to a Western Audience, preferably US, UK, Canada and Australia. But there are so many good graphics designers in these places, and that's a BIG challenge. Is there a spot for me in this market or should I look elsewhere?

[@melissafranky]

Thank you so much for sharing!! Excellent, challenging and motivational video!!!

[@raymondlai6745]

@7:25 Chris Do predicts YT Shorts. Chris, your content is evergreen.

[@thefutur]

Thank you Raymond.

[@mauriceingram]

aNOTHER fREAKING aWESOME vIDEO!!!....This Vid is packed with powerful information on building a solid foundation for your business.....learned so much thanks Chris!!!

[@thefutur]

maurice ingram glad you liked it. Thanks for commenting. Check out the next one.

[@abusinessfromscratch4886]

I launched my email and inbound marketing a few days ago and hit my first client by sending a "welcome message" to every new connection in LinkedIn. In this welcome email I send a link to a "Error-free email blast checklist" as a freebie. Create content that can be use as a Lead Magnet, and you'll have great results. Hope it helps somebody here 🙂