Patricia van den Akker is the director of The Design Trust, an online business school for creatives, and has been a creative business adviser, trainer and coach for over 25 years. She was elected Number One Business Adviser for Branding & Design by Enterprise Nation in 2018, and Number One Business Adviser in Sales in 2019. Patricia teaches at institutions such as the Royal College of Art, and has worked with creative organisations including Etsy, Folksy and Top Drawer.
Patricia has been at the forefront of advising small businesses on best practice for many years, and this handbook is full of her wisdom for both new and much experienced creative teachers. -- Sarah James MBE * Director of Craft Festival and Find a Maker * If there’s anyone who knows how to make a living out of your creativity, it is Patricia! As more people opt to turn creative passion into commercial profit, this book can be your guide. It’s written by a professional who’s been there and done it, and offers top tips plus the all-important inspiring case studies. In short, it’s essential reading! -- Emma Jones * Founder of Enterprise Nation * This is the definitive guide to how creative practitioners can package their knowledge and experience to create memorable, valuable and enriching courses that people will want to pay a premium for. -- Jo Sealy * Director of To Market, Founder of The Black Artisans, Trustee of Heritage Crafts * This book showcases Patricia’s drive and energy, in a really practical and inspirational way to help you unleash your teaching potential, identify what you can teach, reach your market, and run creative and powerful workshops. If you’ve been thinking for a while “I should teach this”, then this book is the answer. -- Tony Quinn * Reader & Course Leader, BA Ceramic Design, Central Saint Martins * Having worked with Patricia for several years I am delighted that she is sharing her experience and knowledge to empower others. I am a huge believer in “it is not always what we know but how we deliver it” is what impacts our learners, and this book is a fantastic tool to add to anyone’s kit. -- Chris Oliver * Head of Professional Training, The Goldsmiths’ Centre * In this book Patricia has crafted practical exercises and pragmatic top tips, alongside insights from brilliant professionals and, importantly, guidance on reflection to ensure that you develop skills and put them into practice in a way that is right for you and your business. -- Nicky Dewar * Director of Programmes, Crafts Council *