I guess this is something I really need to do… I was successful in print graphics for many years as a freelance but need to try and make this work in the online world.

Thanks very much.

Forest.

Thanks for your comment.

Craigslist is a great place to find virtual graphics people that are looking for work and will work for very little because they are now where you were a year or two ago–looking for those initial clients.

I NEVER sent those sales letters!
Why? Because I have had a steady flow of referrals keeping me busy with work and haven’t outsourced or set up any freelancers to work for me. Additionally, like the builder who doesn’t fix his own back door, my business web site keeps being put on hold for client’s work. I know this is limiting my potential income and I do need to address this.

You are also correct with saying people are suspicious of free or cheap. I had one client question my fees as I don’t charge anything like what graphic or web designers charge. I told her honestly that my aim was do a good job and at a reasonable price so that she is so happy that she will refer me on. I explained to her I wanted more work so my business would grow to have a steady flow of work and income. She immediately referred me on to a bigger client who now gives me plenty of regular work. What started out as a very small job has grown to be much larger than.

Most of my clients have been referrals from happy clients but I do need to work on growing my graphic business beyond just ‘24/7 ME!’ I need to incorporate allocation if I want to make serious income. I did have a large company approach me to freelance for me but they charged 4-5 times what I did and I want to keep my business available for new businesses.