[thelist] Advice on Getting That First Client

Jon Haworth jhaworth at witanjardine.co.uk
Fri May 10 12:28:00 CDT 2002


Hi Jackson,

> but what's the key to attracting that first client?

It seems to be a combination of lots of networking, lots of pushing, and a
hefty dollop of being in the right place at the right time.

You'll need some sort of portfolio to prove you can do what you're talking
about, so start building that up *now* - have you tried approaching
charities, churches, youth groups, or similar non-profits in your area? You
may end up doing a couple of freebies, or giving some very heavy reductions
on what you would like to charge, but it will at least get your name out
there and get you some real experience and references.

Alternatively, you could get involved in some open-source projects that need
a website to call their home - have a look through some of the projects at
http://sourceforge.net/ and see if there's anything you could do (I bet
there is). You could also sign up at places like http://www.e-lance.com/ and
bid for projects that look intriguing.

In terms of networking, print up a batch of business cards and give them to
everyone you meet. Tell your friends, your family, your neighbours, your
postman, that strange lady with the carrier bags who talks to herself at the
bus stop, EVERYONE, that you are looking for work.

Good luck, and keep us posted!

Cheers
Jon








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