I've been working off referrals for the most part up to this point, but as I'm getting onto the online marketplace, I'm really wondering if I should even bother with advertising (something I've been considering in slower times) Even though I am part time, I don't mind getting some more work. Just wondering if it's even worth it or not.
I do not use advertising at all. I base all my clientèle off of referral. However, when it is slow I might go to a forum to advertise my services.
have you always done that. how did oyu build your referral base starting out?
I started with people close to me. I found my parents friends who wanted websites for their cities organizations. Also, I was on the verge of going into small shops with no websites or poorly designed ones.
I wouldn't bother with advertisements unless the deal is excellent.
I started with people close to me. I found my parents friends who wanted websites for their cities organizations. Also, I was on the verge of going into small shops with no websites or poorly designed ones.
On the verge? What made you stop? Too much business?
Right now we are at capacity. I only do that when we are slow.
i sure do. i get a lot of business that way. i build relations with people and get steady business that way.
PR..good idea...i think i should try it..thanks
Social networking is a big part of freelancing. Its good to know people.
PR..good idea...i think i should try it..thanks
http://cyberzeus.net
Nice site. I like the color scheme and layout. Very easy on the eyes. 
The way I see it, you also need to have your site as a venue to showcase your past works. Advertising this site would give you more chances at getting more clients instead of just referrals IMO
The way I see it, you also need to have your site as a venue to showcase your past works. Advertising this site would give you more chances at getting more clients instead of just referrals IMO
I agree. It also shows that you have completed projects. Its a good idea to also have client referrals as well.
The only way to get clients is to make sure your message can be found where they're looking. Otherwise, you're invisible.
There's paid advertising (e.g., yellow pages, PPC, etc.) and unpaid advertising (
http://www.FreelanceLocalTech.com, FreelanceDesigners, etc.). Both are going to be more effective than hoping someone finds you or waiting for your existing clients to tell a friend about you.
One good avenue is to offer slight discounts to clients who allow you to keep a link on the bottom of the page for your company, it pays back if you do good work.
The only way to get clients is to make sure your message can be found where they're looking. Otherwise, you're invisible.
There's paid advertising (e.g., yellow pages, PPC, etc.) and unpaid advertising (
http://www.FreelanceLocalTech.com, FreelanceDesigners, etc.). Both are going to be more effective than hoping someone finds you or waiting for your existing clients to tell a friend about you.