How to Start a Graphic Design Business

Posted by Paul Thompson on January 10th, 2011

Here’s a question from one of our readers:

I want to start a freelance graphic design business. I want to focus on print graphic design with some online work including brochures, logo and identity, catalogs and publications, annual reports, as well as traditional ad campaigns. What are the ways I can develop new business and market my business on a tight budget?

- Maritoni (Maryland)

Congratulations on your new business!

Here are some suggestions on how you can win new business for your graphic design business, particularly on a shoestring budget:

1. Create a portfolio to showcase your work.

Your best marketing tool is the collection of all previous work you have done. Your portfolio should showcase the quality of your work in the various genres of graphic design. To the extent possible, use real world examples of works you have actually designed for customers.

However, even if you have little real world experience and no clients, create graphic design for a number of products such as a book cover, CD cover, business tri-fold marketing brochure, logos, stationary designs, greeting cards and invitations, posters, among others.

Moving forward, continue to build your portfolio. Incorporate in your contracts with customers the permission to use their project for portfolio use, then request for a few copies of the finished product to add to your portfolio.

2. Make customer satisfaction your primary goal.

Word of mouth is extremely important and a highly effective way to market a graphic design business. Extremely satisfied customers can return and use your services again in the future.

The better you service your clients, and the happier they are, the more likely they are to recommend you to their colleagues, friends and family. They can also refer you to other potential clients, and talk favorably about your business. Business owners can introduce you to their network of other business owners. Read the article “Simple Techniques to Keep Your Clients Happy”

3. Create your own website and use it to showcase your work.

The Web has become a critical part in marketing any type of business. Your business needs to be on the Web, and you can use it to generate leads, increase the word about your business, and showcase the work you have done so far.

The web site need not be expensive, but it needs to look professional and clean. Better yet, your website’s look and feel must be consistent with your design and style preferences. For ideas on how to create an inexpensive website, read the article “How I Created an Effective Web Site for Under $100”

4. Find potential partners.

Other types of complementary service businesses can provide a graphic design business with high quality leads. Working with these businesses and other business owners can open up your business to potential new clients.

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