Finding freelancing clients can be challenging. If you're like most of us, you're always on the lookout for potential clients. But some methods of finding work can be more successful than others. There are job bidding sites and job search sites, you can advertise your business online and offline. And of course, there's always word of mouth - how most people find work.
How do you find clients?
Freelancing Help
What Do You Wish You Knew About Freelancing Before You Started?
What do You Like Best About Freelancing?
Is the Customer Really Always Right?
Great Truths About Freelancing - Why You Might Want to Freelance
How to Set Up Your Web Designer Office
I (we) don’t do any freelance work, but if I did, it would definitely be done via “word-of-mouth” because, let’s face it, there is no substitute for high praise from a respected customer/client or acquaintance.
I find that networking events – where you get out and meet business owners, are really good. especially if they’re with decision makers and not all salespeople.
I also blog and use twitter.
At this point (my business is 7 years old) we do get word of mouth a lot, but I’ll warn that takes a LONG time to build!
I started by getting, and still take on, projects from DesignQuote. Although it’s an investment and you’re never guaranteed the job, I’ve met some of the greatest people to work for through DesignQuote.
I have gotten most of my clients by asking everyone I meet “do you have a website?”. Then following with “Are you looking to get one?” or “Are you happy with what you have?”. The rest of my clients are from word of mouth. It helps that I attend or vendor at local shows (my “hobby” business is making soap, jewelry, & candles). My biggest client came when I asked those questions to a lady I was purchasing close-out jewelry from.
Not web design but related…..I went to open a new checking account and ended up selling 4 bars of soap to the man at the bank who helped me! Do not under estimate the power of mentioning what you do to EVERYONE you meet.