Interview - Marion Piper
Marion is a true creative who had a successful agency career. But after experiencing burnout, she wanted to see if she could ‘make it’ as a freelancer. Spoiler alert, she made it, and now she helps others embrace the magic of self-expression on her terms. We explore the path that led her here.
Tell us how you ended up here as a freelancer? Where did it all begin?
Ahhh my origin story! In many ways, I’d always been a freelance creative, working part-time jobs here and there, chipping away at creative projects. After finishing a PhD in 2017 and also working in creative agencies both here in Melbourne and in the USA, I was craving more freedom and control over my time. I wanted to pick my own clients and have the space to nourish my creativity along the way (instead of being stuck on the hamster wheel of #agencylife 24/7).
What was your last ‘real’ job?
I was Creative Director of Avion Communications in Melbourne. I grew so much through that role, doing everything from copywriting to client engagement and sales. It really set me up and gave me the confidence to head out on my own, so I’m infinitely grateful for the time I spent there :)
What inspired you to start freelancing? Was there a ‘moment’ that made you realise it was time?
BURNOUT. I was so tired that I didn’t have a choice really. I had never dreamed of starting my own business, I’ve always been more passionate about art and creativity. But what I realise is that I have something unique to offer the world and I can channel my creativity to help others embrace the magic of self-expression.
How did you prepare to start working for yourself?
I jumped in with both feet! The saying ‘leap and the net will appear’ applies here FO SHO. I gave two weeks' notice at my FT job, finished up, took a few weeks to catch my breath, then started asking my network if anyone else needed help. I had no agenda, grand plans or goals at that stage; I just wanted to see if I could do it!
“If you’re not happy, you have a responsibility to yourself and your business to do something about it”
What was your biggest fear before you started freelancing? Any tips to overcome these fears?
My biggest fear was whether or not it would be any different. I think there’s a danger in the ‘grass is greener on the other side’ attitude of being an employee. Freelancing has its own unique set of challenges (it’s not all day drinking and sleeping in, though that’s a big part of it). I was confident in my skills and how to ‘sell’ what I do, but I also didn’t want to trade the shackles of FT work for the shackles of being a business owner.
My advice to overcome these fears is to understand that with every new opportunity comes both risk and reward. You figure out pretty quickly what works and what doesn’t, so keep reminding yourself that if you’re not happy, you have a responsibility to yourself and your business to do something about it. I know I often forget that I have that much control, but we all do (even if we’re working for someone else).
In three emojis, describe your life as a freelancer…
🧐✨🤯
Walk us through a typical work day?
AM:
I get up around 6:30am, meditate for 20 mins, do some gentle yoga then write a few pages in my journal while I’m chugging some warm lemon water. I’ll pop out for a coffee from my fave local Home.One, then usually kick into the day around 8:45-9:30am. I check emails and plan out my day, then depending on what day it is, I’ll either do some admin or crack into client work (either copywriting or illustration).
PM:
After lunch, I usually work for a few hours then around 3pm I’ll take a longer break. My energy levels are pretty low around that time, so I like to honour my body and go for a walk and listen to a podcast. I’ll come back around 4pm and smash out a couple more hours of work before dinner around 6:30ish.
Evening:
Post nom-noms, I’ll go for a walk around the hood to stretch my legs, or do a bit of reading and writing. If I’m not catching up with friends and family, I like to have Netflix on in the background while I potter around my apartment. Gossip Girl is GREAT for this and I aim to crawl into bed around 10pm (but stop using devices around 9-ish).
“Your work will only be as healthy as you are, so invest time and energy into taking care of yourself and you’ll be unfuckwithable!”
How as COVID-19 impacted your everyday life?
It’s been a wild ride, hasn’t it?! My energy levels were all over the place at the start but I became acutely aware that I had to listen to my body and give it what it needed. Otherwise I’d end up in an anxious ball on the carpet, crying into a pastry. What COVID-19 reminds us is that we are first and foremost human BEINGS not human DOINGS, so it’s vital to carve out time for play and rest. Your work will only be as healthy as you are, so invest time and energy into taking care of yourself and you’ll be unfuckwithable!
Name three qualities you need to succeed as a freelancer?
Creativity
Emotional intelligence
Patience
I know we’re not supposed to have favourites, but can you share a favourite client project of yours?
I love ALL my clients equally, ha! I absolutely LOVED writing the web copy for tukr snacks. Their tone of voice is playful, full of puns and a bit cheeky (kinda like me). I got the chance to really push the boundaries with language and the founder Matt Cork was a DREAM to work with. He was so open to my silly words and feedback – definitely one for the books!
Best thing about freelancing?
Meeting new people! I love that I get to work with so many different brands and business owners in both short and long term capacities.
Suckiest thing about freelancing?
Probably the lack of collaboration. I miss working with designers and big teams, but I scratch that itch by working with agencies every now and then.
“Don’t be afraid to admit you don’t know something and ask for help when your brain tries to eat itself.”
What advice would you give to someone just starting out on their freelancer journey?
You’re AMAZING and you have everything you need to crush it. Surround yourself with likeminded people and don’t listen to anyone who says you won’t survive (they’re just jealous). Don’t be afraid to admit you don’t know something and ask for help when your brain tries to eat itself.
What’s next for you in business?
I’m working on ways to integrate my PhD research into my business by running creative self-care challenges. I also want to offer more opportunities for creativity coaching. So many of my clients just need the creative support of another brain to help generate ideas and build confidence...and I would LOVE to be that for people. My goal is to be the go-to for all things growth, all thing copy and all things art.
This or that
Tea or coffee? Mama needs her happy juice!
Introvert or extrovert? And a Leo (adore me plz?! ha)
Earlybird or night owl? If I could sleep from 8pm til 4am and still have a social life, I would!
Home office or coworking space? I find coworking spaces too noisy at the best of times
Emails or calls? I love conversation in all forms!
Paper or digital to-do list? I use both! Love paper for tactility, love digital for when I’m out and about
Books or podcasts? Getting lost in a good book is therapy!