Generating new business as a freelance designer can be tough, so here are five ways of attracting new clients:
Create Examples
Creating project examples independently of clients (self funded) similar to the type of work you are looking for can be very helpful. It provides an accurate representation of your skills, motivation and passion for the medium. It provides material that can generate interest from potential business contacts. To illustrate this point, I have recently completed two projects using Adobe Character Animator (including the music video for “A Little On The Darker Side“) and have actively been demonstrating these to clients as examples of presentation techniques for products, announcements or even an animated component of a communications package. As a result of these efforts, I am currently working on a project from NetThreat that utilises animation.
When creating these proof-of-concept examples, ensure they are fun, demonstrate detailed knowledge, have clear direction and creatively utilise technology. Another example that led to work with clients was the “One More Chance” 3D 360 Music Video that used a simple / basic light suit idea and an original soundtrack.
Write A Book
One way to connect with your audience, focus on your expertise and develop your knowledge is to write a book. In 2017 I began writing the 360 Video Handbook – a mixture of project examples, recommendations when working with 360 / immersive video and the technical knowledge required. There were a reasonable number of books sold on Amazon, but the real commercial success came from the number of projects undertaken as a direct result of my writing.
During the writing process I needed to request permission from Kodak, Samsung, HumanEyes Technologies and SanDisk. As a result, I received images and content to feature in the book in addition to two paid projects and camera products for evaluation. 8 months after the launch of the book, I received a request from Matterport in California to write a similar style of book to the 360 Video Handbook and, again, was allowed to test their products and platform.
Call The Company
This is a tough one, but can occasionally yield some quite spectacular results. However, you should prepare yourself for rejection on a large scale.
Back in 2013 I received a letter through my door indicating that the Airbus Beluga cargo plane would be flying over my house with extended hours up to midnight to support the wing build rate. Having read the letter, I contacted the Community Liason Officer and asked if the communications team would be interested in creating a monthly interview with the Head of Plant regarding current events, an evaluation of progress and future milestones. I was invited over to the factory in Broughton, North Wales. Monthly Comms has been a feature of the communications at the Plant since that meeting.
Impress Your Clients
Never underestimate word-of-mouth. An impressed client is likely communicate their delight with your work to other business contacts if a relevant conversation arises. At the very least, design is a visual discipline and the work you produce will be viewed in some way. This could be in a business to business context or presented to the public as part of a service.
Advertise With Google
By selecting your keywords and phrases you can attract business by promoting a landing page specifically tailored to the type of client you are looking for or alternatively, direct potential clients to your website homepage and allow exploration of your entire portfolio. Whilst both of these approaches have benefits, a website landing page focuses your presentation to ensure that the reader can immediately identify with your text and imagery. A general overview of your skills via your main portfolio page can present you as a more “rounded” designer, photographer or video producer and be of interest to the new client across a wider spectrum of creative disciplines.
Conclusion
Hopefully this provides you with a few ideas for your marketing strategy. There are many other ways I haven’t mentioned here including adding your business to directories, attending business networking meetings locally or in your capital city, advertise in print or other communication channels (eg YouTube ads). Good luck with finding new clients.
