Running a creative business requires more than just talent—it demands systems, strategy, and a clear understanding of what drives success. In this episode of Two Pixels Off, hosts Brad Hussey and Michael Janda share actionable advice for freelancers, small agency owners, and creative entrepreneurs looking to scale their businesses effectively.
Build Systems to Scale Your Business
Document Everything You Do More Than Once
One of the simplest ways to free up your time and focus on growth is to document repetitive tasks. As Brad explains, "If you do something more than once, you need to document it." Creating Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) ensures that routine tasks can be delegated or automated, allowing you to work on your business rather than in it.
How to Start:
Record yourself performing the task (use tools like Loom).
Explain the steps clearly, highlighting the desired outcome.
Delegate the task along with the video and ask your team to refine the SOP.
This process not only saves time but also empowers your team to operate efficiently.
Leverage the Power of Data
The Language of Business is Data
Michael emphasizes that successful entrepreneurs track their numbers and make decisions based on data rather than emotion. Whether it’s client acquisition, revenue, or conversion rates, understanding your metrics provides clarity and reduces stress.
Key Metrics to Track:
Revenue and profit margins.
Lead conversion rates.
Client retention and satisfaction.
Productivity and project timelines.
Tracking these data points consistently helps identify strengths and weaknesses, enabling you to make informed adjustments to your business strategy.
Embrace Rejection as Part of Growth
"Go for No"
Brad introduces the concept of “going for no,” which encourages entrepreneurs to actively seek out opportunities, even at the risk of rejection. In business, the numbers rarely lie: higher effort leads to higher results.
Actionable Steps:
Set daily or weekly outreach goals (emails, calls, or pitches).
Track your attempts and the responses you receive.
Celebrate the “no’s” because they bring you closer to valuable “yeses.”
This approach builds resilience and creates consistent momentum in growing your business.
Mindset Shifts for Business Growth
It's Not as Scary as You Think
Hiring your first team member or scaling your operations can feel daunting. Michael reassures us that the fear of taking these steps often outweighs the actual risk. The key is to adopt a growth mindset and trust in your ability to adapt.
Pro Tip: Remember, many successful entrepreneurs are no more talented than you—they’ve simply overcome their fear of taking calculated risks.
Putting It All Together
Success in business doesn’t happen by chance. By implementing systems, tracking metrics, and adopting a proactive mindset, you can take your creative business to the next level. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to scale, the insights shared in this episode serve as a roadmap for achieving sustainable growth.
Takeaway Questions to Consider:
What repetitive tasks in your business can be turned into SOPs?
Are you tracking the right data to inform your decisions?
How can you embrace rejection as part of your business journey?
What’s one fear holding you back from growth, and how can you overcome it?
About Two Pixels Off
Hosted by Brad Hussey and Michael Janda, Two Pixels Off is a podcast dedicated to helping creative entrepreneurs run successful businesses. The show covers everything from marketing and pricing to project execution and profitability, all aimed at empowering creative professionals.
If you’re interested in actionable advice for headline writing and other content strategies, tune into Two Pixels Off on your favorite podcast platform, or visit TwoPixelsOff.com for more episodes.