Getting Your First Web Site Design Company's Clients
A Web Hosting Article Contributed by Frances Rhea
Starting a Web Site Design Company
Starting a company, especially a Web site design company, is one of the hardest things anyone can do. Getting your first clients is even more difficult if you have no experience. There are a few techniques that may help.
Networking to Make Your Web Site Design Company Grow
If no one knows you exist, you will not get any work. Larger towns have various groups such as a local chamber of commerce, Elks club, etc.
Go to each group you can find. Attend their meetings several times. Attend events and become active in the groups that match your style and needs.
Networking includes every person you meet or know. Tell everyone what you do and what type of jobs you want.
The Yellow Pages are a Great Resource
If you can afford it, place an ad yourself. If not, use the directory to contact local businesses to talk to them about your services. Be open and informal instead of direct. Making friends at the business may get you a new client.
Bartering Your Design Company Services
Bartering is a way to get exposure and build a portfolio. Since you will need business cards and a brochure, see if your local printer will print them in exchange for design work.
Volunteer Work
It is important to have work to show. Volunteering your services may be the answer. Local non-profits have limited budgets may need some work done. Ask if you can include your company information on the work.
Finding Web Site Design Work for Your Company Online
Try newsgroup postings, online job services, and specialized Web sites for designers. Your own Web site can be a resource also if you work to get it listed on the search engines. Include your city and state in the meta tags for your Web site.
The Web is changing how people find jobs. You can list yourself with numerous Websites, post a "job wanted" ad, or browse "job offered" ads, usually for free.
Establish yourself as an expert on a newsgroup. Answer people's questions when you can, whether or not it will lead to a job.
If you see a job posted that sounds interesting to you, respond to them by email.
Signature Files
A signature file includes your name, your company name, and a catchy phrase about your company, your Web site URL, and your address and phone number.
Email software can automatically attach your signature file to all outgoing email and newsgroup postings.
Create a Newsletter for Your Web Site Design Company
Newsletters are a great tool to put and keep your name in front of customers. Keep them short and they will more likely be read. Tell about your services, your equipment, and awards. Give them tips to enhance their lives.
Referrals
Don't wait for referrals to come to you. Actively seek them. Let everyone know you are looking for new clients. Provide an incentive for referrals, but only if it actually results in new work.
