I always get asked how I run a success freelance website design business and yet I don’t have a large following. Or how I could earn $10K a month, yet have not paid for any ads, the answer is so simple.
In this article we’re going to be talking about the power of referrals and how to do it as a freelance website designer to earn a full time income without having to be on social media all the time.
How to get website clients without Ads or Social media
1. Adding site credits to your website projects
Without a doubt adding site credits to all my client projects has brought in a steady stream of traffic. Site credits on my client’s website act as free advertising meaning I save hundreds of dollars every month. As a result I’ve passed that savings onto my clients and offer a competitive rate much lower than my competitors. Hence making me and my service more appealing when visitors come to my website to explore my services.
2. Following up with previous clients
I often like to follow up with some of my favorite projects to see if they need additional graphic design work done. This essentially keeps me top of mind and when someone is thinking of me they often talk about me. This is a win win for both me and the client: they get some much needed assistance, I get a potential client in my inbox. I will say that this method doesn’t always mean I will get a referral, but a good portion of the time it will
3. Show your work over and over again
I know what you’re thinking, “doesn’t this mean I’m showing up on social media?” and you would technically be correct. However, the way the algorithm works now a days, the only people who really see your work are the people who already know you. In essence this keeps the referral machine moving because the people who know you are always keeping you top of mind, and spreading you name out there.
4. Cold pitching (with a twist)
I love working on passion projects, but I specifically love working on passion projects featuring the people and businesses I really want to work with. I would work on a passion project, and send an email to the person to show them what I’ve done. I don’t ask for the sale, but often the pitch results in them mentioning my name on their platform, or them being interested in working with me.
And there you have it. My 4 ways for running my website design business with no ads or large social media presence. Like this? Leave a comment below if you have any questions.
