02-06-2008, 08:41 PM
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!
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!