Client Work vs. Self-Promotion

13thirtyone is still alive and well. Sorry I haven't written in a week or so. Things are so busy! Lots of new projects and clients are keeping me busy (keep checking my website for an updated client list and new portfolio work) and I'm loving every second of it.

Client work though certainly has been my priority, thus, my self-promotional activities are falling a bit to the wayside. That old saying, "the best time to promote yourself is when you're already busy" keeps rolling around in my head. How am I to juggle this?

I've decided that the best way for me to go about this is to schedule it. Once or twice a week I will have to set aside the time for blogging, or online networking, or creating my monthly email campaign. I'll give it as much priority as I would a client meeting. It's simply a part of running a business that can't be ignored. I haven't quite decided how much time to set aside yet, but I'll figure something out.

Another thing I've been thinking about is also setting aside time each week for "client appreciation." This doesn't mean going shopping and finding cute thank you gifts, but taking a little time out each week to go the extra mile. For example, being sure to write a thank you note to EVERY client after I finish a project. Being sure to write thank you notes (and not thank you emails) to the prospective clients I've recently talked to or met with. Perhaps I come across an article online or in a newspaper that pertains to one of my clients; this is the time to pass that along to show that I've been thinking about them and their project or business. What does this accomplish? I think it shows not only good manners, but it's something I can try to do to separate myself from my competition. I can show my clients a little extra attention, making it clear that I really do care if they work with me and that they are happy.

Are there any self-promotional routines that you are sure to make time for every week? I'm just curious to know if scheduling time into our busy work weeks is how others are handling their marketing and self-promotional efforts.

Does Your Business Card Need A Facelift?

We all receive business cards all the time. They're everywhere and they're the way our contacts refer us, reach us and even remember us. It's important that your business card not only reflect your company correctly, but also be organized in a fashion that's readable. The following points are provided to ensure you're getting the most from your card.

Material: What better way to have your business card stand out than by not using paper? Just imagine if someone handed you a business card that was printed on cardboard, plastic (recycled, of course), metal or another material. You'd definitely pause to look it over and it certainly would make an impression. Try helping your cards to stand out in the stack by printing on a different material. Plus, you're guaranteed to have a better chance at winning those fishbowl-free-lunch contests always lingering on restaurant counters.

Color: Black and white can be very classy and clean. But how about adding a splash of color? People are visual beings and love to look at color. If your budget doesn't allow for a full-color piece, even a one or two-color card can be more effective and exciting.

Size: The standard 3.5"x2" card is easily accommodated into most Rolodex files and business card holders. However, you can create an interesting shape without sacrificing functionality. Keep the width and try experimenting with different heights. Also, don't be afraid to create a unique size all together. An extremely long business card that can be folded into the typical size can serve as a great mini-brochure.

Shape: If you're considering experimenting with the size of your business card, why not think about shape? Design magazines all over are featuring new and trendy card designs printed in circles and squares. They may not fit into the standard sized holder, but you'll be gaining a definite impression and attention.

Double-Sided: Don't forget about the back of the business card. While it is a little more costly to print on both sides, it's well worth the investment. Think of it as getting double the space! If you have no content you'd like to feature on the back, including an eye-catching pattern or design can be very effective.

Font: No matter the size, shape or color of your business card, nothing is more important than making sure the text is legible. What's the point of printing fancy cards that look great visually, but aren't readable? I recommend no smaller than an 8pt. font if possible be used anywhere on your card. Smaller than that and you're making the reader have to work too hard to see your information.

Overall, business cards are a relatively inexpensive way to market your business. Be sure to get the most bang for your buck by creating a card that's exciting, different and that gives your business the attention it deserves.

Q & A: Pricing Logos

Every once in a while I get an email from a reader with a question related to one of my articles or blog postings. With the permission of the writer, I thought I'd publish the most recent inquiry. Maybe some could benefit from our conversation.

Writer writes:

Hi there, I found your information online while doing a search on logo design. I love the article you have about the steps you take to design a logo. I'm trying to get my foot in the door with designing logos but I wanted to know if there were actual things I have to consider to determine a correct price for the client. I'd like to charge based on how many hours it takes to design the logo because ive read somewhere that that's what you should do. I just can't determine if I've covered everything I should to determine how many...I'm looking for a guide to go by and would appreciate any help you can offer.

Thank you!

My response:

Thanks for letting me know you liked the article; I appreciate it!

I think pricing is tricky when it comes to design. Not only does it vary from designer to designer, but on the location you're working from as well. I've heard a couple of different theories on how to price logos. Some just go by their hourly rate. Others created a package price. Another way I've heard is to charge a starting base of $500 and then add an additional $100 for each employee the company has. This way, the cost is proportionate to the business. Since logos are the only means of design that can be sold as an asset, they should definitely be priced accordingly.

For myself, I allot myself about 18 hours for research, font selection, design and revisions, plus compiling the logos onto a disc for the client and multiply this by my hourly rate. I have found that sometimes I go a bit over and sometimes I come in under, but having a set price for this particular job makes me feel more comfortable. All other work I do is by the hour. Logos and stationery sets are the only jobs I do that I have a set "package price" for. Also, I find that this end price is competitive with what other designers are charging in my area.

Hopefully this helps. Sorry for being somewhat general and keeping it slightly vague; so many variables go into pricing. Good luck with your design career!

I thought I'd publish this because I get questions from time to time about pricing. Hopefully this will help you out as well!

The Importance of Manners in Business

Every now and again, I am reminded of how important manners are in business. I've written about this when it comes to emailing in particular before, but I think manners in general are often side-stepped in a corporate setting (at least in my experience). Sure we work with people day in and day out, and we basically live with our co-workers and/or clients 5 days a week. We're all human and we can all get agitated by someone's habits every now and then. But what happened to common courtesies?

In the article "Good Manners Are Good For Business" by The Business Journal's author Eileen Brill Wagner, she states that "...in a study conducted by etiquette consultants Eticon Inc., 80 percent of the respondents reported an increase of rudeness in business. When they encounter rudeness, 58 percent of the people surveyed said they will take their business elsewhere." That's a lot of people that are taking notice of manners in the workplace.

In the very informative and (wonderfully designed) e-book Manners Matter by Joel D. Canfield, Joel states "If the only time your best manners surface is when you’re taking a customer’s cash, it’s fairly obvious where your real interests lie." I thought this statement was so powerful and so true. To check out his e-book, click here.

Sorry if this post is coming off as preachy; that's the last thing I want to communicate. I do think that we could all be reminded from time to time, though, that the way we conduct ourselves ultimately affects our bottom lines, thus the success of our businesses.

Creating A Marketing Web

I've been working with a friend lately on developing her website and other marketing materials. In discussing her blog, e-mail newsletters and ways to gain more traffic, we started chatting about the power that all three systems have when combined. Sure a blog can be very powerful on its own, but when used in conjunction properly with other online methods of marketing, great increases in search engine rankings and more exposure in the public eye can happen.

For example, writing e-newsletters or e-zines is a great way to stay in touch with your client base and to keep people informed. It helps people to remember that you're there and to also share expertise, thus positioning you as an expert. However, one of the best ways to get people to sign up for them is by placing a sign-up box or link on both your blog and on your website. Don't forget to also include a "forward to a friend" with a "sign-up now" link within your newsletter. Now the three pieces of online marketing are working together to increase the size of your mailing list.

Another idea... Perhaps you sell products online. What if you had a few of your products appear on the side-bar panel of your blog? Additionally, how about featuring one product as a portion of your e-newsletter? When the user clicks on the link from your e-mail or blog, it can direct them to your products page or to the shopping cart directly.

A final suggestion on promoting your blog... Not only should your blog be linked in your e-newsletters, but there should definitely be a link coming from your website as well. Some sites are even embedding their blogs within their websites or creating blogs that are actually websites themselves. Don't be afraid to use the two to reference one another regularly and to send a user from one place to the other so long as your provide a ready-made link and pop up the link in a new window. Make it as convenient for your user as possible.

If all three pieces (or more if you have other digital marketing efforts) are acting together, they create a web, or a net of sorts. This net refers visitors from one piece of marketing to another, thus, increasing the length of time that individual is interacting with your business. This allows for a more informed customer, a longer lasting impression and credible positioning for your company.

What I've Been Up To

Sorry for not keeping in touch this past week. I've moved into my office and am all settled... well, sort of. I'm still waiting on a few reception area chairs, some artwork for the walls and a dry erase board, but I'm definitely working from my new space.

I sent out an email yesterday using Constant Contact to notify my clients and readers of my new address. The ad I sent out is below:



Since our email boxes are filled with so much clutter day in and day out, I had to make this email campaign stand with an eye-catching design and a somewhat-interesting subject line. Also, I've recently redesigned my website so it was important that this email be reflective of the new site's style (you never know how many people will click) as well.

The homepage of the new site is below. Have a look around!




While I was extremely happy with my previous website, I wanted an opportunity to discuss the green aspects of my business a little more. Furthermore, as beautiful as Flash can be, it's just not search-engine-friendly, no matter how many tricks one has up their sleeve. I think the HTML will be a little more effective in terms of exposure goes. Also, updating the site and making changes will be much more efficient.

So... that's what I've been up to. I'll be sure to post some pics of the finished office space as soon as I've finished furnishing it. I hate showing a work in progress. Have a good day!

Media Kits?

I subscribe to a Melanie Rembrandt's PR e-mail tips. Once a month, or so, she offers free advice on promoting your business (for those of us who can't afford a PR firm).

Her emails are always very insightful and offer up many good ideas in terms of self-promotion. Today's email focused on a link to her blog article on media kits and why your business should have one. While it's standard to offer printed materials such as brochures to prospective clients, I wonder if it's essential for every business to have a media kit... if so, is there a way to make it more eco-friendly? Could there be an online media kit or is this just what your website is? I'm interested in getting a little feedback on this. Not only could it dictate my decision to provide one for my business, but it may push me to offer the same concept to my clients.

For your convenience, I've embedded Melanie's article below, but be sure to check out her blog and/or her website.

Media Kit Basics

By creating a media kit for your new business, you will increase your chances of getting some good publicity. Plus, you’ll have pertinent information ready for new clients, partners and investors.

With this in mind, here are a few tips to help you create your new media kit.

What is a media kit?

A media kit is simply a collection of pertinent information about your business. It enables reporters and potential customers to get the organizational data they need fast. And as a small business owner, you’ll want to print some high-quality versions for important events and media mailings. But don’t print too many as you will need to update the kit frequently with new information.

In addition, it is necessary to provide an online version of your media kit so that reporters can easily access the information at any time to meet tight deadlines. And with this electronic version, you can update the data at any time and save time and money in printing and shipping fees.

What is in it?

When people read your media kit, they should be able to understand the benefits you provide, why you are in business and who is running your organization. The information needs to be user-friendly and cover the key points you want reporters, potential investors and new customers to know.

With this in mind, here is a brief synopsis of what most media kits include:

Business Facts

What does your company do and why are you unique?

Products and Services

List all of the products and services you have to offer. But instead of emphasizing the features, focus on the benefits.

Background

Who is running your business and when was the business founded? If your business is new, you can include brief background information and bios of your key staff members in a “Business Facts” or “FAQ” section. If possible, include downloadable photos for reporters to use.

News

Include a news section that lists your press releases, media clippings, quotes from satisfied customers, event participation, speaking engagements, articles, and other newsworthy activities. But note that it is essential to keep this section updated so you appear current and newsworthy.

These are just a few key tips to get started on your media kit. For additional help, review competitor media-kits and look at the online newsrooms for successful companies you admire. Also feel free to contact me directly at info@rembrandtwrites.com or visit www.rembrandtwrites.com.

As you can tell, this whole process is going to take some effort. And if you’re still wondering if you should spend the time to create a media kit, think about this. What happens if your competitor has a user-friendly, online media kit, and you don’t? Do you think a reporter will write about your business or theirs?

Thanks for reading, and feel free to send me your questions, comments and suggestions. I’d love to hear from you!

Networking Doesn't Have to be All That Bad

I went to the 11th Annual PWN Spring Conference yesterday. By the way, the totes I handed out as my promotional piece (see previous post) were very well received. Very exciting...

The theme of the conference was "The Chemistry of Networking" given by guest speaker, SagePRESENCE. I learned a few tricks that I thought I'd share, as they truly make networking seem less horrific.

Networking is imperative to almost all business owners; it's the only way we can continue to build a client base on a personal level. It's also a less expensive form of marketing/advertising and it allows prospective customers to put a face with your business name (which alone is huge). Truth be told, many people hate the idea though. Approaching people that we don't know and being forced to sell ourselves can give us a squeamish feeling, and what's worse, can give others a squeamish feeling about ourselves. So how is it that networking can be more enjoyable while beneficial?

SagePRESENCE taught the group yesterday that many people view networking as "me vs. them" situations, where one feels like the room is filled with prospective clients and it's up to the individual to make as many contacts in the shortest amount of time possible. In reality, SagePRESENCE explained that all it's about is having an authentic conversation. Shift the focus from yourself and stop thinking in your head about whether or not you're blushing, if you're sweating, if you sound ridiculous, etc. Focus on the other person and what they're actually saying. Do this by asking questions and by genuinely trying to learn about the individual. Then be the person to fill a need. If the product/service you have to offer doesn't fulfill what the individual is looking for, think of your network and be the person to recommend someone who can. This not only helps two people out, but it makes you a more memorable contact, which really works in your favor.

For example, if someone approaches you and you start chatting, simply ask, "What is it you're looking for today?" Continue to ask questions until you have a true need you can try to fulfill for this person. Then, when the conversation turns to you, say something along the lines of (for example), "I'm in graphic and website design. I help companies to establish their identities and to work that into a complete branding package. Do you currently have a website/graphic designer?" If they say yes, that's fine. But the opportunity isn't over. Continue with, "That's great! Well, do you know anyone who may be in need of some help?" Now, suddenly, you're no longer just talking to that individual, but to everyone that they know - to their entire network, SagePRESENCE explained. The person will surely not feel bombarded with selling tactics and is likely to remember such an authentic and genuine approach.

This is what networking is supposed to be about. It's about having real conversations with people and not just phony sales pitches. SagePRESENCE suggests that by practicing asking questions and really appreciating the answers with your friends, co-workers and family members, these steps will come naturally. And your networking opportunities will be better for it.


SagePRESENCE is a consortium of filmmakers who specialize in this process. Since 2001, individuals and organizations have approached SagePRESENCE to increase their professional influence. Our programs teach them to speak in the way their audiences think, and to leverage their presence to inspire their audiences toward decisive action.

Green Resources

I've been somewhat green in my life for a while. Within the last year, I've been devouring more and more books and listening to podcasts about how to be a greener individual and to reduce my carbon footprint as much as possible. About six months ago, I had an epiphany - if I'm trying so hard to be greener in my personal life, why not carry that over to my work life?

As of recent, I've applied with the Co-Op of America to be a member of their green business organization. In doing so, there's a long questionnaire one must fill out to describe how their business operates in an environmentally fashion. In doing so, I realized that I could never have greened my business (or my life) to the extent that I have without the resources I've tapped into.

The following is a list of books that I've read, websites I've looked over and podcasts I've listened to. Hopefully you can make good use of these resources as well.



Green Talk Radio: podcasts featuring conversations about how to live a more sustainable lifestyle.

GreenLivingIdeas.com: host site of Green Talk Radio.

IdealBite.com: daily tips for living a greener life. Sign up and you'll receive one tip per day in your email box.

TheGreenOffice.com: online office supply store offering office products that are more sustainable.

Co-Op America: organization for individuals and businesses to join. Mission statement: "To harness economic power - the strength of consumers, investors, and businesses - to create a socially just and environmentally sustainable society."

GreenGirlGuide.com: haven't read this one too much, but I think the design is cute.

BooksForTheFuture.org: not really a resource for making a lifestyle change, but this is a great cause. If you purchase a book, they plant a tree!

GreenHome.com: next time you need to replace something in your home, make it a more sustainable something.

These are just a few of my favorite resources. I hope this is helpful!

Lowering Rates?

Lately I've been reading a lot of articles about hourly rates and the effect our country's recession is having on them. Many freelancers are lowering their rates to keep business flowing in as much as possible, since consumers and businesses are cutting back costs. Other designers are doing away with hourly rates altogether, creating one-stop pricing per project, no matter the size or the scope. Then there's the other group of people who are just choosing to wait it out and do nothing, as far as a price change is concerned.

Of course, as designers and as small business owners, we've seen "calculate your rate" worksheets - those fill-in-the-blank sheets of paper promising to help you figure out your rate in order to cover overhead, tax and income costs. But what these worksheets don't calculate is the possible fluctuation needed to accommodate an unstable economy.

In my personal opinion (and I always have one), I feel it's somewhat "used car salesman-like" to move your prices up and down based on what people can afford to pay. As a professional, I feel it's more appropriate to run a special, or a promotion of some sort, should customers need a break. I was hoping to get a little feedback on this, just to see what other designers and small business owners felt about the issue.

Spring Special

It's that time of year for spring cleaning. I've been busy going through my closets, prepping myself for a garage sale, etc. While cleaning away, I got to thinking - we tidy up our homes and air out all of the winter "staleness." Do our businesses need a refresh as well?

I like to run a promo of some sort seasonally and thought what could work better than a promotion that plays off a spring cleaning? Tidy up your business's identity with a redesign... Here's my little promo image I sent out in my email campaign:

Green Tips for Small Businesses

Green Living Ideas is a website dedicated to helping individuals live a greener life daily. I listened to a radio program hosted by GreenTalk Radio (GreenerLiving.com's radio program) about helping businesses to implement greener practices. Whether you're a small start-up or a large corporation, this podcast is a great way to pick up a few green tips.


Click here to listen to this program now

Click here to read the tips in a transcript

my thoughts on Biznik

So... I signed up for a free account on Biznik yesterday. I did the tour, researched how I could best utilize this account, etc. After all is said and done, I'm very impressed. I've already had more interaction with business owners through Biznik than I have in my entire time on LinkedIn.

While the free account can be limiting, I'm loving the features that I have access to. For example, I can easily publish articles and tips, making myself stand out in my community. Other users can post their comments and thoughts on what I've written. And I'll be honest; at first I thought it looked like any other networking site. Sure I could post, but would people actually respond? I've been getting great feedback already.

I've also managed to network with one other professional in my area. Turns out, we may be able to help each other out with work and referrals in the future. In a nutshell, yes, it takes loads of time to sign up for these sites and to use them to their full advantage. But, as I said, I set this thing up yesterday and already am seeing results. I don't think this is a networking opportunity you'd want to miss.

Does your company have the right logo?

What’s the point of having a logo and why do designers and marketers place so much importance on them?

A logo isn’t just a pretty little doodle next to your company name. It’s what people will remember your business by. We’ve all heard that humans are very visual creatures – they respond to images much more than to just plain text. That’s why it’s standard practice to have a logo – think of it as the icon or stamp that sets the tone of your company. So in truth, it really is a big deal and a lot of time should be spent creating the right logo.

Many companies think that any logo will do. Not true. While having any logo is a good start, it actually can be detrimental to your business should you have one the misrepresents your company. A logo should convey the service you provide, the age of the audience you’re targeting and the cost of your services. How does this work?



In looking at the example, we’ll pretend that a small gift and flower shop is opening up. It’s target market is middle-aged women and while it’s a fun and classy joint, it’s not overly priced. The logo at the top is very inappropriate for this business. The letters are all uppercase and feel rigid and too overbearing – this font does not at all represent the organic nature of plants. Furthermore, the letters are blue – plants are green... Catch my drift?

The leaves are nice, as they suggest what the business does, but they’re too prominent. The black “the” in lowercase at the top of the logo sits funny. It feels like it was plopped there simply because the designer didn’t know where to put it.

Let’s look at the bottom example (please note that this took me five minutes for demonstration purposes only – this is not a great logo, by any means). The soft “the” in brown shows that the designer thought about how to incorporate the word into the logo while giving it its own place. The retro-styled lettering of “greenhouse” is slightly playful but also very “vine-like” in feeling. The small touch of the leaves on the end of the “e” give just enough of an afterthought to relate the logo even more to plants without rubbing it in the viewer's face. The overall look of the logo is feminine while elegant. A much more fitting choice.

So, with this I ask you... Does your logo fit your business? Can you tell what products or services you provide by looking at your logo? Does it feel expensive or cheap? Does it look appropriate for the age of your audience? If the answer to any of these items isn’t what it should be, you could be loosing sales and customers. While redoing your logo on your own is a great way to save some cash, hiring a professional to help you get started and to solve these problems is sure to be helpful in the long run.

Elevator Speech

I have to make a mini-presentation to my local PWN network on Thursday evening. I say mini because I only have 10 minutes to talk about my business, what I offer and how I can help business owners.

I've been told to practice my elevator speech for this little talk - have a brief summary about 13thirtyone ready as if I were next to someone in an elevator for a few minutes, making small talk about what I do. Ten minutes would be a long elevator ride...

Obviously I'll give a little bit of background about my business (which no one will really care to hear) and then begin to discuss the different facets of design that I can provide. But here's my question - ten minutes can go either very fast or very slow, right? So how should one best present their company's services without rambling in a ten minute window?

I was thinking a bit of show and tell might be helpful. I could pass around a few samples while chatting about the different services. But that would only take about two minutes. So what should the rest of the time be dedicated to? A preaching sermon about why a business needs graphic design?

I need a little advice here - what would you chat about for 10 minutes, when the initial business intro only takes about three?

Last Promotional Idea (for now)

I have to be honest. I thought by offering a promotional idea every day would not only help folks out, but give me something to write about. It did both, sure. But I think I'm ready to offer different advice.

That said, I found an awesome list today of promotional ideas for the new year. Roughstock Studios, a design and branding firm in California, published a New Year's Marketing Resolutions post and it's awesome. They've also gone to all the trouble of labeling different types of promotions - for example, promotional ideas that build sales, relationships, etc. Good stuff.

So there you have it. That's my half-ass last promotional idea... to send you somewhere else. Sorry to disappoint, but can you tell I'm burning out on this topic?

Freelancers - Get Out!

I'm too tired to write another self-promotion idea today. I think I'll take a break, if that's okay.

Instead, I wanted to share an interesting article I read. This chick wrote about being a freelance designer and about how important it is to socialize. As a freelancer, we get stuck behind the computer for days at a time without much social interaction. I really enjoyed her thoughts on how to break the silence and mingle. I've attached the article below.

The Importance of Socializing for Freelancers
Kristen Fischer

I had a client meeting last week with a new prospect. As I put on my khaki pants, blouse and boots—my “dressy” outfit—I groaned at the thought of meeting the guy. Sure, I want to develop my business more. Network. Get more clients and all that jazz. But at the time, it just seemed like so much work. I’m so accustomed to being holed up in my home office alone.

“Why can’t this dude just be like everyone else and give me a call and look at my work online?” I grumbled to my husband. He, on the other hand, deals with people in person every day, and wishes he didn’t have to. The grass is always greener, isn’t it?

But after listening to myself, I realized that I get behind the computer for so long and forget the value of a face-to-face meeting. That kind of forced interaction can seem like a chore unless you exercise the social muscle every now and then. Not only is it good to meet clients to do business, but it’s good to interact with others.

So I did. And it went great. After a successful discussion and an almost 100% secured client, I left Starbucks elated—not only because I had a great cup of tea, either. I was glowing because talking to someone felt so good. Not having a cubicle or a corporate cafeteria at my disposal anymore, I sometimes don’t remember how much I loved the contact that came with a full-time corporate job.
FreshBooks

I had forgotten how valuable meeting a prospective or existing client is. That feeling of getting out there was great. It was so easy for me to talk and present myself, I wondered why I even labeled myself a homebody to begin with. I was a natural at face-to-face consultations, I thought to myself. Why didn’t I do them more?

As a copywriter, most of my work is conducted over the computer or phone. Every few months I have to get in my car and am happy to write off the gasoline cost to get to a client. Afterwards, I always have this energized feeling and the yearning to go on more consults. The other part of a good client meeting is that feeling that you’re generating the business. Because some of my work comes from job boards on the Internet, the act of submitting my resume and getting the gig can be a little dry. In other words, sometimes it’s cool to “work it” a little more for a gig.

After returning home, charged up and excited to be out of yoga pants, T-shirts and flip-flops, I realized how important socializing is. Even if it’s not work related, it’s vital to get out sometimes. Here are some tips to help you get un-holed up and get out there.

Set up more meetings in person. Have the advantage of a client nearby? Pick your favorite coffeehouse or go to their office. In my opinion, having a latte is better then melting under fluorescent light, but it may do you good to see an office—it reminds you how cool it was to break out of one. (For freelancers who work full-time in an office, I recommend the coffeehouse.) Point is, “selling yourself” in a consultation gives you great practice and should always be practiced.

Take a break—outside. I’m a big believer in fresh air. So whether it’s warm or cool out, take a short walk. Better yet, bring your laptop into the sun if you have to work. I’m kind of lucky to have a cat that always wants to hang out in the backyard. I feel unproductive if I just watch her, so I bring out the computer and start working on my latest project. I get nice breezes and find it really breaks up the day. While it’s not the most interactive tip (unless I talk to a neighbor or say “hi” to a stranger on a walk) getting outside helps.

Make appointments—with friends. Just as you would set up a time to have dinner with a pal, why not hang out with a buddy who is home during the day? I have a few acquaintances that have weekdays off. Others are home with the kids. It’s a great way to get out of the house. Meet up somewhere or just go to their house (or have them over to yours) to socialize.

Make friends—even online. I must admit—as I’ve gotten older, I have lost touch with plenty of buddies. That’s why I love the Internet. Even when I’m too busy to get out—or just don’t feel like it—I have interaction daily with online pals via blogs, forums and IM. It’s a great way to connect with people that live on their computers as much as I do. In most cases, my online friends are always on if I need to blab!

Take the afternoon off. Yes, I said it. No matter what you do with that time, I find that I am more prone to talk to others during the day. If I give myself the night off, I rarely want to go out. That’s why getting some morning work done, and then taking the afternoon off, helps. I work some evenings anyway, so when work allots it, I work a morning and night. Heck, some days I just work mornings!

Skip the email. When it comes to work, it’s sometimes nice to talk on the phone. Again, I’m not a big phone person, but I do sometimes make an extra effort to pick up the phone and call a client every now and then. Email can take a long time to go through and you’re not guaranteed a quick answer if you need it. Taking the extra two minutes to ask my client how they are and get the answer I need on a project question keeps me visible to the client. I rarely call just to gab, though—I know my clients are busy and I want to appear the same way. But there’s nothing wrong with touching base via phone rather than email. It gives me the human touch, if you will.

Human, as I am sometimes not. As I need to be reminded to be.

So whether or not it’s for work or just to talk to another living thing, it’s vital to get out sometimes. After all, your office will always be there waiting for you with the splendor of a filled inbox and packed voicemail. Let it wait for a while.

Technorati Tags: [graphic design][freelance][self promotion][networking]

Day 4: Run a Promo

Running a promotion can be a great way to increase your sales, gain referrals or get a little exposure in your area. There are many different campaigns businesses of any type of put on. A few ideas are as follows:

1. Discount a product or service: People love discounts, even small ones. Whether times are slow or you're just looking to build your work load a bit, create a campaign and offer something as small as 10% off the customer's next purchase.

2. Referral Campaigns: These promotions are great because they don't require much. Simply base your campaign on the premises that if a client refers you to someone and that new individual signs a contract for work or buys a product from you, the original client receives a discount, gift or coupon. Let your clients (the people who've worked with you first hand) be your salesmen.

3. Get One, Give One: These campaigns are similar to the referral program. For example, if your client buys a new lawnmower, they get another one for free - but they have to give their voucher for it to a friend. You're then getting business from your current client base while building a new one. Obviously, lawnmower giveaways are a bit pricey, I know...

4. Customer Appreciation: Customers and clients love to feel loved. Why not give them the warm fuzzies by showing you appreciate them? This is could be a party, an open-house, a gift in the mail, a discount, etc. A great way to give yourself some positive coverage.

So these are only a few ideas, but the possibilities are limitless. The bottom line is, if you need to beef up your client base, if you don't have enough work flow, or if you just want to do something a little different, there are lots of options. And I'm sure your clients, both current and prospective, will take notice of your efforts.

Day 3: Social Marketing

It's the newest craze on the Internet: social marketing. Paying for SEO terms is no longer the best way to promote your product or service online. And according to industry studies, it looks like this trend is going to be around for a while.

I saw a stat yesterday that stated 62% of online users watch 6 minutes or more of YouTube videos a day. Blogs seem to be where people want to receive their info from. Facebook and MySpace aren't just a venue for kids to discuss their teen crushes. According to a study I saw on stompernet.net, a large portion of MySpace users are ages 35+ and they have a lot of disposable income to spend online at e-commerce sites. Interesting.

For ideas on how to get involved and to see a huge surge of traffic flow to your website or blog, visit stompernet.net and watch their 50 minute video. It will change the way you conduct your online marketing efforts.

Day 2: Join a Networking Group (not online)

Of course it's easy to chat over the Internet and make a few buddies via Facebook. However, joining a networking group that involves a little face time can be even better. Sure it can be time consuming, but by putting yourself out there you're giving people the chance to put a face with your business name. Furthermore, you're getting the opportunity to do what we all love to - talk about yourself.

I'm currently involved in two different networking groups. I've checked out a few more and have belonged to several over time, but there's only so much time in a day. My advice is to pick a networking system that presents opportunities for your business and offers you the chance to grow and get involved. Below are a few ideas for groups that my be in your local area:

* Professional Women's Network (PWN): Unfortunately there's not one organizational site that allows you to look up a chapter in your area. I found mine just by Googling PWN + my city name. PWN is focused on helping women to succeed in the business world. In my chapter, guest speakers attend every meeting to offer insight on how you can improve your business. I can honestly say that 30% of my client base derives from this group, or their referrals.

* Downtown Women's Club: I've never had the chance to join this organization myself since there's not one in my area. But the idea of the group is a networking opportunity for women on the go. Take a look online to find out if there's a club group in your location.

* Chamber of Commerce: It may be a bit of a spendy option, but it can gain you some serious coverage in your town. By joining your Chamber, you're helping other local area business owners and giving back to your community.

* American Institute of Graphic Arts (AIGA): AIGA is a professional association for graphic design. While it is a national organization, each state typically has their own chapter. They host events, conferences and truly provide some educational opportunities. Furthermore, there are perks only available to members such as discounts on competition fees, newsletters and job board access. Very valuable.

* AdFed: A more advertising based network, is similar to AIGA. I'm not sure if they're only Twin Cities based, but you can peek on their site to find out. They also have AdFed2, for younger professionals. "...Ad Fed does have great speakers, professional development seminars, The Show, networking opportunities, social events and more. In fact, it's the place where the advertising community of the Twin Cities meets—in person, online and in print. "

* Meet Up: A more casual setting, if you're into it, is the MeetUp network. This website offers the opportunity to hang out with pros in your area. Basically, it's a group of people in your industry forming their own group. I've never tried it, but some people think it's great. Check them out and conduct a search for other people from your industry.

* BPW: Business and Professional Women For the more serious woman, this might be your calling. I attended a BPW meeting in my area. While it was inspiring, I found it to be more of a women's movement concept than a networking group. They help their communities, lobby in Congress, etc. If you're looking to make a change in the world and are pro-women, this is a sure thing.