Professional Vs. Creative

by Kori Rodley Irons | More from this Blogger

11 Jan 2007 10:14 AM

I am under no illusions that my little one-person home business can compete with more established "corporations." Still, with the advent of the home computer, desk top publishing and the wide array of technology available to even the most bumbling of novices, appearing professional and "official" isn't too difficult. But, I'm not sure I want to appear too professional--there are dueling interests and possibilities for me in how I present my business and my work--should I be professional or creative?

I've taken some liberties with my personal business that I haven't seen done at the more established and traditional businesses where I've worked. For example, my invoices are a little more creative--done in color and a slightly scripted font. They fit my personality and are a little less "formal," while being completely functional and in the same basic style as a typical invoice. I also tend to handwritten most of my envelopes and put personal notes on my invoices and contracts. I guess it not only feels natural and personal, but I want people to know that they are dealing with a creative, approachable person and not a rigid company.

I do still keep a professional demeanor and take my work very seriously--I meet deadlines, provide the information I say I will, return calls, keep records, answer e-mails--all hallmarks of a professional person going about her work with commitment--but I certainly don't feel bound by the same conventions I did when I was working in traditional jobs.

I think it also depends on the type of business you operate and with whom you are competing. It all comes down to finding a niche for your business, and establishing a reputation that both feels comfortable and fitting to you as an individual and provides a unique and valuable service to your clients or customers. I imagine I will continue to weigh things out in terms of finding a balance between professionalism and creativity. Part of working for myself is, for me, the freedom to to have flexibility and fun with my work.

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