Ian Deloney: Making the Leap from 9-5 to Freelance - #185

In this episode of Hustle Inspires Hustle, Alex Quin sits down with freelance graphic designer Ian Deloney to talk about his shift from working at Iconic to building his own design business. They explore the importance of combining creativity with solid business practices, the challenges of freelancing, and the power of long-term relationship building. Ian shares insights on client management, staying organized, and what it really takes to work with top-tier brands like Jägermeister and Target. This conversation offers valuable lessons for creatives who want to move beyond talent and build a sustainable, professional business.

Episode Outline

[00:00:00] Intro by Alex Quin – Introducing Ian Deloney

[00:01:30] Catching up: Last meeting, shoutouts, mutual connections

[00:03:45] Ian's exit from Iconic, launching his freelance design business

[00:06:10] Ian’s background in photography and creative roots

[00:10:30] Transitioning from hobby to career: Finding the right major

[00:13:00] The role of business knowledge in Ian’s creative work

[00:16:00] Alex’s experience with content creation and its value in advertising

[00:19:30] Ian’s proudest recent projects: Jägermeister, SEEK, Kids Super

[00:25:00] The impact of seeing work in real-life spaces like Target and billboards

[00:28:00] The challenge of freelancing and staying flexible

[00:31:45] The importance of relationship building over time

[00:35:15] Client needs vs. creative vision: Putting ego aside

[00:38:20] Key lessons from running your own business

[00:42:00] Building infrastructure before going solo

[00:47:00] Post-payment process: Staying organized and professional

[00:51:10] Being dependable, not just talented

[00:55:30] Common pitfalls among creatives

[01:00:20] Final advice and mindset shift for freelancers

[01:03:15] Ian’s social handles and closing thoughts

Wisdom Nuggets

• Talent Isn’t Enough: Business Skills Matter: Many creatives over-focus on their art and neglect the importance of being organized and professional. Running a freelance business successfully requires business sense, clear communication, and client understanding—more than just good design.
• Don’t Wait—Plant Seeds Early: Ian emphasizes that most of his current success comes from relationships and efforts made years ago. Creatives should build connections before they need them, not when they’re desperate for work.
• Systems Before Sales: Prep for What Happens After 'Yes': Freelancers often focus on winning projects but overlook what comes next. Having onboarding systems, case studies, and pitch materials ready improves credibility and client trust.
• Ego Kills Collaboration: Letting go of creative ego is key. Just because it’s your favorite design doesn’t mean it’s right for the client. The best creatives learn to listen, adapt, and prioritize results over personal preference.
• Be a Joy to Work With: Reliability, speed, and professionalism can set you apart more than creativity alone. Clients want someone who respects their time, delivers on promises, and makes the process smooth.

Power Quotes

"Case studies—even the small ones—are gold.” - Alex Quin

"You have to be able to put your ego aside and do what’s best for the client.” - Ian Deloney

Connect With Ian:

• Instagram
• LinkedIn

Connect With the Podcast Host Alex Quin:

• Instagram
• Twitter
• LinkedIn
• Website
• TikTok

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