How To Feel Comfortable Saying "No" As A Creative Entrepreneur

Hillary Jeanne Photography. Coaching for creatives based in San Francisco.

You are a creative.

Whether you are a photographer, designer, coach or in any creative field, your business focuses on using your creativity to help others. You might identify as one or all of the titles I listed above, but if we are being realistic - you can’t be everything to everyone. Which is why it can sometimes feel uncomfortable saying the word, “no.” Trust me, I know the feeling. 

In our businesses as creatives, we sometimes get clients who expect a lot from us. It would be amazing if we could do a million things at once but unfortunately we can’t. And sometimes we get those clients who think we can. That’s when it comes time to say no. It's as simple as that, right? Yet, why do those two little letters bother us so much? Why do they make us feel so awkward and uncomfortable? Is it because we want to be a master of all trades even when we know we are not? Or is it that we don’t want to make our clients unhappy and lose the sale? It's probably a mix of both. 

One thing I have experienced and I am sure you have too is working with a client who asks you to do something for them that might be a stretch or out of your zone of expertise. Maybe they’ve asked you to do additional editing that you know will take hours to complete or your styles just simply don’t mesh. Just as our clients should be able to work with their dream creative, you should be able to work with your dream client. Collaboration is a two way street! 

How To Say No

I know telling someone “no” when they ask you to do additional tasks beyond the original project or even saying no to working with them is easier said than done. But practice makes perfect. So, next time someone who wants to work with you asks something of you that doesn’t quite sit right, tell them no. Of course, I don’t mean slam the door on their face and literally yell, NO! There are ways of turning down a project that are still professional and won’t scare away all your clients. 

If your gut is telling you that your styles don’t align and you shouldn’t work with a certain person, always tell them you appreciate them reaching out but simply state that you don’t know if you are the best fit for them. It’s that easy! Yes, it's uncomfortable. But action will give you confidence! If a client is asking for additional tasks beyond what you originally discussed, let them know you’d be happy to do it (only if you have the time and if you really would be happy to do it), however you will be adding an additional cost since it goes beyond your first contract. It's only fair that you are compensated for your time and creativity.

Check In With Yourself

Saying “no” to anyone whether they are family, friends or coworkers is never the most enjoyable situation. Saying “no” to potential or current clients is a whole other level. But just remember, it's perfectly ok; and sometimes necessary. Whenever you are planning out a new project, always ask yourself: Do I think I could work with this person? Are they asking too much of me? Do our creative visions align? Checking in with yourself as a creative will just make the whole experience better for everyone involved. And you might wonder - will doing this push away my dream clients that I’ve worked so hard to get? The answer: No. 

Need more assistance growing your business as a creative entrepreneur? Work with me! Follow along the blog and visit hillaryjeanne.com to schedule a 1-1 call!