Preserved Topic: Question about getting yer biz going...

Just wondering what things people here with small design businesses are doing to get their name out. Any good networking techniques? Promotions for jump starting your portfolio? Hubs? Fliers? Telemarketing? What is the best way to target the demographic requiring web and graphic design? I am eventually going to offer signage [vinyl graphics] and the like when I can afford a nice vinyl cutter...any good pointers there? What are some good organizations to become a part of? Any online printers that are reputable and reliable? How about some sites that offer resources for such things as printing (letterhead, biz cards, banners). Should I use local resources? Horror stories? Success stories?

We are getting started here, and SE Michigan seems like a good place for this type of business (lots of manufacturing and industry). Basically, I am hoping for some pointers on what some of you have done to get things rolling in the right direction. Up until now, things have been very experimental (a year) and we are now ready and confident to show ourselves. I know many of you work within larger firms. Are there any connections that can be made with them?

We are not looking to get rich quick here, just dying to get our hands dirty. Any information, even anecdotal, is most appreciated...

I'm probably not the most experienced designer here, but I've had my share of freelance stuff tossed my way.

My big connection was working on a project at school. The professor running the show introduced me to someone who in turn asked if I could help him out with a project. One thing lead to another. Basically he tossed me business he didn't have time for. Some of the stuff I passed on, some of the stuff I took. I spent a few days in town (and other local towns) just talking to small business owners. I'd walk in the door, ask for the owner, toss them a business card and explain what I could do for them. If they were interested I gave them a rundown of what I can and have done. I got a few clients that way. Keep in mind that I'm not trying to start a business, just make a few extra bucks for school.

If you call your Congressmans office, you should be able to obtain a listing of all the newly registered business in your state pretty easily. If you send out some flyers, the cost will be well worth it to get a few customers.

Of course you'd probably be better off asking the Doc

-Jestah
Cell 277

[This message has been edited by Jestah (edited 10-21-2002).]

Well, we're also in SE Michigan. What worked for us was to determine what types of businesses would need our services. Then we found some associations that these businesses belong to, and sent them letters via snail-mail. They in-turn forwarded the info to their members......

ALA: http://www.alistapart.com/stories/business4/

-Jestah
Cell 277