6 Ways to Find Leads For Your Design Business
I have found 6 ways to find leads for your design business, that has worked for me. Customers are the heart of your business and without them you can’t generate any revenue. Finding leads for your business can be frustrating and hard to find but no need to panic, there is lots of work and businesses out there that need your services.
Changing up the way you’re looking for leads will open up more doors for you, so we’re going to help. Check out our list of 6 ways to find leads for your design business.
1. Local Businesses
You may visit multiple local businesses through out the week, and some on a more frequent basis. These businesses may need your help with some of their print collateral or digital media. These local businesses can be your local auto mechanic, coffee shop, day care, and landscaper, even your local print shop.
All of these businesses could use your design expertise, and all it takes is just a simple introduction and face-to-face meeting.
2. Networking Events
As designers you maybe use to networking via the digital space, but networking also requires you to get out and about and meet new people. Networking has allowed me to generate some new leads, and a couple mentors. It allows you to expand your network, and while there maybe times you may not receive a direct lead at an event, someone you met may refer you to someone in his or her network. When attending any networking event, just be sure you have plenty of business cards on hand, and don’t’ be afraid to speak and introduce yourself.
3. Referrals
Don’t be afraid to reach out to your family, friends, current and past clients. Ask them for referrals. Let them know you’re looking for some new clients. They may know someone who is in need of your services.
4. Upwork- Formally Elance
Upwork is one of many job boards independent professional, and even large companies go to work. Like any other job board, Upwork is extremely competitive, but if you build a great profile, and stand out above other creative, you can generate great income.
The key to winning a bid is to ensure your profile is:
- Ensure your profile is top not and everything is filled out
- Take some skills test to build creditability with the community.
- Craft a personalized proposal. Check out How I built a 6-figure freelancing business on Elance
5. eBook
Writing a small eBook is a great way to educate your potential clients. As a designer you could educate your clients on the importance of branding their business, or the ultimate guide to a responsive website. Whatever direction you choose to go just be sure you don’t promote your business within the eBook, it defeats the purpose.
After you write your eBook, share via your social media pages, and set up a landing page on your website to receive email addresses in exchange for your eBook. This will in turn help you build up your email list, which is worth gold.
6. Social Media
The power of social media is at it’s highest right now. You can go on your social media pages, and search hash tags and you’ll find people that are looking for your service. For example, if you to search Twitter hash tag logo designer needed, tweets with this hash tag will populate, and you can go through each tweet to find the best fit for you. You can do the same thing with Facebook and Instagram as well.
These are just 6 ways of finding new leads for your design businesses that has worked for me and will work for you as well. Just remember you have to be consistent, and find which way works best for you.
Brainstorm some ideas and post, we’d like to see what works for you.
