From creating freebies to becoming an online expert, there are tons of great ideas you can use to market your web and graphic design services.
Create an online portfolio
Have a marketing plan
Freebies are good
Create high impact giveaways that will advertise for you. For instance; magnets, stickers, booklets, calendars, bookmarks, and gift certificates. (full disclosure, NDF sells these products).
Use Flickr and other photo sites to highlight your designs
Put your contact information on all printed materials
Know who you’re marketing to – who is your target client?
Get ideas from the 2011 Artist’s & Graphic Designer’s Market
Join professionals groups and then network with other members
Give how-to demonstrations
Contact office supply stores and other related businesses to see if they’ll let you display your card and/or refer you
Give design lessons online or off
Become a local speaker – Organizations are often looking for speakers
Create a referral incentive program
Reward those clients who send business your way
Offer a raffle prize/contest prize
Create a design service giveaway you can offer to nonprofits and other organizations that are trying to raise funds
Submit your contact information and services to all free directories
Wear your designs by putting your logo/design on t-shirts and hats
Create a vehicle magnet
Sponsor a charity event
Sponsor an event for one of your clients
Offer a free consultation for potential clients
Recruit friends and family to spread the word
Create a catchy email signature
Design your business cards with a coupon on it
Be unique/specialize in something. For example:
fast turnaround – ads designed and sent in a day
skills to work across media – print to web
on call evenings and weekends
offer quick response promise
free proof reading service
develop a particular style
Capitalize on your unique aspects by sending out a press release highlighting those aspects
Participate in trade shows
Use Holiday promotions
Send a greeting card with a coupon or special incentive
Great post and resources!
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