This may seem obvious, but it’s important: no one knows you’re a web design expert until you tell them. As I said before, you need to be outgoing and willing to talk about the services you provide. Here are some tools that can help spread your free web design business awareness:
Lift distance
If you only have 30 seconds to 1 minute to explain your work, can you do it? Elevator sales are named for the practice of selling them while sitting in an elevator with business executives. It’s your most basic explanation of how you can help someone’s business. Practice selling yourself and seizing the opportunity, and you’ll have a quick and easy way to introduce what you can do for people.
Business card
Obvious, but very necessary. Once you accept the mindset that you are indeed an expert, you will learn to tell everyone you meet that you are a freelance web designer. Once you’ve introduced yourself and given them your speech, you’ll want to let them know who you are. Make sure your card design reflects your personal brand. Are you simple and clean? Fun and retro? Dirty and avant-garde? Whatever it is, be consistent. And print them at places like Vistaprint or Overnight Prints.
Portfolio website
Whether you use a free service, a paid service, or your own custom site, you should have an online portfolio of screenshots and links to works. Your business card should point there and your email signature should point there. If possible, provide detailed information about each item, describing the situation and how your design can help solve the problem.
blog
As an expert, you must have a certain understanding of general web design and online marketing. A blog is the best way to showcase your knowledge in the field and convince potential clients that you really know what you’re talking about. Start by using free services like Blogger or Tumblr to develop your style and then move on to a custom WordPress blog, especially if you really want to learn WP programming and design. The added benefit of having a blog is that it encourages you to keep up to date with industry trends, and it also provides you with content to promote on Twitter and LinkedIn
Again, you’re a freelance web design expert, so spending some time on Twitter will help reinforce this perception. Create and account with custom backgrounds. Search for people in your area on Twitter or using tools like Twello. Post your own relevant industry news and tips on Twitter. Once your blog is up and running, you can provide a link from your Twitter account to your article. Follow industry leaders and understand what’s happening.
This social network is important among professionals and with an up-to-date profile you gain credibility in these circles. It shows you understand this path and it gives more traditional professionals (including those who don’t use Twitter) the chance to get to know you and rate your experience before reaching out in person. Keep your personal information up to date and ask for suggestions from clients who have successfully completed your project. If time is slow, check out LinkedIn’s answer section to see if you can help someone solve their web designer challenge.
Facebook?
Facebook can be a good place to share recent website releases and new portfolio work, but Facebook’s tone is more personal and self-promotion isn’t very popular here. Be careful when promoting your free web design business.
