No two freelancers find work the same way. But we noticed that successful graphic designers share a few common themes: they all have eye-catching portfolios, and they all emphasize the importance of building healthy relationships. How do they manage to keep their schedules so busy? These are their time-tested strategies to find freelance graphic design jobs.
Cold contact your dream clients
Abe Zieleniec, a brand designer, says to build credibility, it's important to land a few well-known brands. It signals to other clients that you can handle a big account. Amber Vittoria had just that idea -- she wanted to work with Gucci. But she didn't have a contact at the fashion house. One day, she saw an Instagram photo with Gucci's art directors tagged. She sent each one a direct message. One replied, with a project in mind. A few months later, she had illustrations for Gucci's perfume and knitwear collections to add to her portfolio.
Build a following on social media
When graphic designer Heather Franzman sees a brand she likes on Instagram, she sends them her portfolio -- and she says about half respond. Having a real presence on social media also gives clients the chance to find you. Traditionally, illustrators work with agents, but at the outset of her career, Vittoria couldn’t get an agency to take a chance on her. In the end, she didn’t need one: “The rise of social media democratizes that process,” she says. Once she started getting more of a following on Instagram, more clients came calling.
Don't stop following up
Vittoria keeps a running list of art directors who told her they might have work for her at some point and makes it a point to regularly check in with them. Zieleniec says that if a potential client reaches out to him, “I’ll do max two follow-ups.” This may sound familiar to anyone with a Tinder profile: Show interest, but also know how to take a hint.
Vittoria also asks contacts to grab a coffee to build relationships.In that spirit, she says newbie freelancers are welcome to email her if they need advice. “Blanket advice is great," she adds, "but sometimes it’s nice to talk to someone.”
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It’s always fun to learn more:
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How to Find Free Productivity Apps and Tools to Supercharge Your Business
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