Graphic design clients are all around for designers to find, just some designers need to pull of their blinders. Yes it will take work when you are starting off as a designer to try and find clients. At some point the scales will tip if you are good enough as a designer that clients will come to you instead of you coming to them. This takes time though and if you are not good as a graphic designer this will never happen. But in 2018 there are more ways to find graphic design clients. The internet has given more options for designers to find graphic design clients.
But there are some things that you will not see on this list like freelance websites. I personally do not believe in these systems. You should not have to bid on work to get a client.
3 tips to find graphic design clients in 2018: Local Companies
No matter if you live in a small town or a large city. There are always local businesses and companies and they are always going to need to graphic design work. The best thing with working with local businesses is that if you do a good job you will be more likely to referrals and get more local work. This can lead you to becoming the go to designer in your local area.
Another thing to consider as a graphic designer is looking for clients is to join a local network group. These groups are a gathering for different business owners in your local area. This will allow you to get to know the businesses that work in your area and start to build relationships that can lead to a client.
3 tips to find graphic design clients in 2018: Family and Friends
Everyone probably knows a family member or friend member that has a business, start-up, or is starting a business. This is a great place to start when you are looking for graphic design clients. Your family and friends are willing to give you work before a stranger will. This is because family and friends want to give you a chance and help you get your start.
3 tips to find graphic design clients in 2018: Family and Friends
Social media is often the first thing people think of when it comes to finding design clients in 2017. This is a really good method but it is going to be wicked competitive. That is not all bad though this means you are going to need to stand out and really shine. Most people who are using social media to find design clients is to just give someone a link to their portfolio and say work with me. This is like being a kid in the class and waving your hand in the air like a madman. You want to try and strike up a conversation and start to understand your client’s needs. Your portfolio is not lead in but should be back to what you say.
Also using Direct Messages or DMs have become some of the best ways to find design clients in 2017. This allows you to have a one on one conversation with your potential leads and really understand their design needs if they have any. Again with this you just don’t want to send a portfolio link and say work with me. You are going to be talking with someone personally so make it personal. Do some research on the business or find exactly who you need to talk with.
