Graphic Designers

In which my Father truly knew what was best for me and for the business.

Starting a business isn't for the faint of heart.

The owner has no income for a period of time, but money DOES go out. One of the biggest expenses is team members. In my last business, we turned over a full team of people before I found the right people. It was exceptionally hard emotionally and financially. And – the time… Time to train, time to build relationships, time to set vision. The wrong person is extremely hard for the owner AND the person.

So, my prayer was simple - Jesus, please help me find the right team members (if I am honest, my heart begged for a NOW to be on the end of the request).

The scenery around this prayer: Hiring designers feels like something I am good at. I have done it often. But, I wasn’t just looking for a designer. I was looking for a designer who wanted to be invested in my business idea. That is a lot harder to find.

Jesus is always at work around us.

I began praying in April 2021.
I knew my biggest obstacles would be that I didn’t have enough work to hire someone full time. It’s hard to get someone to invest mentally in a business when they work in multiple businesses.
One of the things I like to do is to have designers do a test project. It lets me get to know them, and they get to know me. I learn how they design and their skill level. They learn if they like my leadership style. Five designers did test projects.
For most, it was clear that their skill wasn’t what I was looking for. A few just simply never did the project, despite being paid for it.

So, I kept praying. Please, Lord, send a perfect person.

Three more designers did the test project. Christian seemed like a great fit. He worked hard for 2-3 weeks, then was gone. Eventually, I got a note that he had health problems and couldn’t do the work any longer.
So, I kept praying. Jesus, you know I need someone who can be committed. Can you please send this person? Jesus, I am getting worried. I need a committed team member.
Two more designers did the test project. I really liked Jolo. She seemed to have everything. But she had to also work a full time job since the hours were too few for her financial needs. She left. Another designer came and left.
I kept praying. I began to tell the Lord that I was frustrated. I asked Him to please send me someone.
Our product showed up. Ninety boxes, in my garage, ready to sell. And, then the notice that one of the parts had to be exchanged or it wouldn’t be able to pass testing.

Jesus knew what I didn't.

I did not need designers so soon in my business. The product still isn’t sellable. It was going to be a long time before I needed help. Waiting for Jesus’ timing not only helped me get an amazing designer who I trust, but also allowed me to save some money and time while I waited.

Jesus, what about the business partner? Is Maxine that answer also? Or are there two people you have in mind to help me execute the business vision you gave me?