002 - How to Start and Run a Design Business — with Frank Shi [Rebroadcast]

Blair Enns's "The Win Without Pitching Manifesto" challenges the traditional sales approach for creative professionals. It emphasizes the importance of clearly defining value and communicating it effectively to potential clients. The book guides professionals on how to position themselves as experts and attract clients who are a good fit. It encourages a shift from pitching to a more consultative sales process, focusing on understanding client needs and presenting solutions that align with those needs. The book's principles can be applied to various creative fields and beyond, helping professionals command higher fees and build sustainable businesses.

In 'Delivering Happiness,' Tony Hsieh shares his entrepreneurial journey, from co-founding LinkExchange to leading Zappos to its remarkable success. The book emphasizes the importance of company culture, customer service, and employee happiness in achieving business success. Hsieh outlines three core sections: 'Profits,' 'Profits and Passion,' and 'Profits, Passion, and Purpose,' highlighting key lessons such as the superiority of product quality over marketing, the importance of passion in entrepreneurship, and the critical role of company culture in driving success. He also introduces frameworks for happiness, including perceived control, progress, connectedness, and vision/meaning, and how these can be applied to create a happy and productive workplace.