We recently connected with Chris Hanson and have shared our conversation below.

Chris, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Was there an experience or lesson you learned at a previous job that’s benefited your career afterwards?

Communication is key. This is a foundation for me how I conduct myself with my clients. I’ve worked jobs where the wording for invoices to clients are ambiguous and it caused a lot of issues with the billing schedule, if they were going to continue to use the services or issues with others not making the requested changes for the creative the way the client wants them. I strive to be upfront about the cost and billing and to make sure the client and I are on the same page for any adjustments that are needed for their project.

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?

I’ve always had a love for drawing as long as I can remember. It’s always been a goal of mine to have a career as a creative. I started off with the goal of becoming a professional illustrator but moved into the graphic design field in school. I also went with several certificates in addition to my degree to expand my skill set and offerings to my clients. I offer graphic design, photography, front-end web design and illustration as my services. I’ve been focusing on printed goods to sell such as greeting cards, canvas prints and cutting boards. With my design work with clients I offer graphic and front end web for re-branding as well as commissioned pieces for individuals and businesses that are looking to add something extra. My diversified skill sets offer many solutions to clients in my area who specialize more on focused skillsets.

Can you tell us about what’s worked well for you in terms of growing your clientele?

It would be networking and word of mouth has been very effective for me. It’s been people seeing some of my completed works from some of my previous clients and having them reach out. I’ve just moved this year so seeing what I can do to become part of the community and getting my name and brand out there. I’m looking at doing stands at local craft fairs as well as possibly selling printed goods at the local farmer’s market as well that have artisanal and other creative goods for sale.

How did you put together the initial capital you needed to start your business?

It has been using what extra money I can get from my paychecks. I’ve been lucky that doing freelance creative work has kept my overhead low. With the COVID-19 pandemic, it showed me that I can do this creative work and keep a low overhead with selling printed goods outside of my commissions with being able to work remotely.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://chrishansondesigns.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chrishansondesigns/?hl=en
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/chansondesign
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-r-hanson/

Image Credits
Portrait Photo by Carrie Fox, Image photography by Chris Hanson