I really love positive news. So when I read on the Creative Freelancer Blog that FunctionFox released survey results from the Creative Industry Outlook Survey, I was happy. The survey found that people in our business are optimistic about 2009.

I had to share the good news. Because we need positive news. Not everything is doom and gloom. Despite what we see in the media.

In fact, the survey says that 72 percent of respondents expect revenues to grow or remain steady despite the downturn. And 23 percent expect to increase their staff in 2009, while 61 percent say they will maintain their current staff size. Thirty-three percent of firms feel positive about their abilities to refocus their approach and positioning. Finally, 20 percent see new media, such as social networks, as their greatest opportunity in the new year.

Also from the blog:
Ad agency Ogilvy & Mather, cite a recent AdAge headline declaring,"Remarkable innovation occurs in marketing and media in the worst of times." They've launched a website to help marketers think and act strategically, which provides four position papers on tapping PR, making the most of creative assets and more.



Maybe it's time to turn off the TV. Just for a little while at least.

Happy holidays, creative ones!

I'm putting together a list of goals for the new year. While I probably won't post that here, I think it's good for all of us to take time and think out some things we want to accomplish in the new year.

So take a time to put down the cookies and wine and come up with some goals to help make 2009 a great year for your creative career. And if you'd like to share those goals here, by all means...

Even creatives need to be good copywriters--because they need to sell their services and themselves! That's why I'm loving this post of great copywriting resources. It includes:

“The Secret of Writing to be Read” — Seth Godin
“Six Types of Words That You Should Axe in Business Writing” — Bizcovering
“5 Simple Ways to Open Your Blog Post With a Bang” — Copyblogger
“How to Attract Links and Increase Web Traffic — The Ultimate Guide” — Copyblogger

Contest!
Enter Communication Arts magazine's 15th Interactive Competition. Judged by the who's who in interactive media, the jury's selections will be published in the 2009 Interactive Annual and on the Communication Arts Web site, assuring a prominent place on the industry's premier stage.

Deadline for entries is December 15, 2008.

Any project—interface design, educational and entertainment programs, interactive product display, self-promotion—created for digital distribution is eligible:

* Web Sites
* Interactive Kiosks
* Handheld Devices
* Online Services
* CD-ROMs

Enter Online NOW:
http://www.commarts.com/competitions/interactive



And check out this site--I'm loving it!

http://biznik.com/

Cards--Courtesy


I'm behind (not far, though) on what to do for my clients this year. I usually do an inexpensive but cute postcard. Should I send regular cards? Am I giving any gifts?

I don't know. I'm feeling so overwhelmed about the holidays, and most of my shopping is done. But for me, it's in the details. I want to do some crafty stuff and add some nice touches on our house this year. I think I'm into that because we're hosting New Year's. Without guests, I'm like, who cares?

But really, I'm kinda excited about the holidays. My mom and sister, who were away last year, will be home and I won't be taking that for granted. My in-laws are fabulous and I can't wait to spend time with them. Oh and I'm married to an absolutely fabulous man that makes me just want to lie under the tree with him all day.

Oh yes, and I've got to get a tree up, too.

The list seems endless.

What are you doing for your clients for the holidays?