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+--- Thread: Advice for Graphic Design Freelancing? (/showthread.php?tid=48828)
Advice for Graphic Design Freelancing? - pokari - 02-06-2008
I have done many things for non-profit. Now I think I am ready to do freelancing on a part-time basis. Does anybody have any advice out there, most notably, how to get jobs?
Thanks,
pokari
Re: Advice for Graphic Design Freelancing? - tahoedrew - 02-06-2008
Start getting to know the board members and executive directors of non-profits you'd like to work for.
That info is usually right on their website
Re: Advice for Graphic Design Freelancing? - iaJim - 02-06-2008
Time for MacArtist to weigh in on this one. He's a full-time designer.
Re: Advice for Graphic Design Freelancing? - pokari - 02-06-2008
I would like to work/freelance for anybody, not just non-profit. I meant I have done work for non-profits as a hobby/ to help out, and NOW i am ready for other jobs for pay.
Sorry for the confusion,
pokari
Re: Advice for Graphic Design Freelancing? - Paul F. - 02-06-2008
Yeah.. Non-Profit organizations usually want stuff for free..
Non-profits are often non-paying too!
(I dont' have any useful ideas for you... just have had the same experience with Non-profits... good for practice, lousy for pay!).
Re: Advice for Graphic Design Freelancing? - mattkime - 02-06-2008
half your work will be finding jobs. don't underestimate the importance of being your own salesman.
Re: Advice for Graphic Design Freelancing? - jdc - 02-06-2008
what state are you in?
i just closed my design studio after 13 years -- started as freelancer but times were a lot better back then --
seems like here in CA, there are a thousand designers per square mile...
Re: Advice for Graphic Design Freelancing? - pokari - 02-06-2008
Alabama
Re: Advice for Graphic Design Freelancing? - karsen - 02-06-2008
Here's some tips I learned freelancing over the years:
Build a website that showcases your portfolio. Be creative, but not over the top. Flaming skulls don't appeal to most business professionals.
Get business cards, hand them out to everyone you know. Read the book "Here's My Card" for great ideas on how to market using business cards.
Don't accept jobs that pay nothing just because you're new. Those only lead to more jobs that pay nothing. Set prices and stick to your guns. if you're good, people will pay.
After every job, send a thank you letter and in that letter explain to the client that word of mouth advertising is your main source of obtaining new clients. Ask them to spread the word if they were satisfied with your services. Enclose 2 business cards in the envelope.
Think about who you want as a client and seek them out. If there are 10 local businesses that you think would benefit from your services send them a letter and explain how you will be a welcomed asset to their company. Be creative. If handled properly, 10 local businesses can keep you occupied with more than enough work to support your freelance business.
Don't overbook jobs. I've gotten onto more trouble accepting jobs with tight deadlines thinking I could just fit them in between other jobs. It's a nightmare waiting to happen that leads to headaches, nausea and sleepless nights. I've now lost jobs by not compromising on deadlines, but I'm happier for it.
Become a member at your local Chamber of Commerce. Attend meetings, schmooze.
G'luck!
Re: Advice for Graphic Design Freelancing? - vision63 - 02-06-2008
Karsen's method works. I limit myself to Non-Profit work. I work for foundations primarily. That way not only do I develop their materials and online initiatives, I become an actual partner in how they market and present their initiatives.
I spent many years working corporate but felt that the work was somewhat shallow overall. Non-Profits pay if you bill them. Establish your prices (I go by this: http://www.gag.org/) and have fun.
Be creative and design as much for yourself as possible. That fun will translate into business believe it or not.