Building an Online Presence

I'm asked often about how I find clients. I find that if the mindset changes from "me finding the clients" to "the clients easily finding me", it's more simple to think about where I should and shouldn't post my information on the net. Truthfully, I rarely spend money on newspaper advertising, magazine ads and direct mailings. I find that using the Internet is a very easy (and eco-friendly!) way to promote oneself. I thought I would run through quick list of the different things I've done while setting up my business to help people find me. Let me know if you have any questions!

Merchant Circle.com: This is an online community of businesses. Somewhat like LinkedIn, users can create profiles and communicate with other members and prospective clients. Another plus is that you get to create a little webpage. While it's nothing fancy, it's just one more Internet page that offers your information.

LinkedIn: I would highly suggest creating a profile on LinkedIn. I can't say that I've gained any clients from it directly, but it's basically an online resume. People can review your services, make recommendations and you can post discussion questions and answers. All of these things help you to gain credibility, while increasing your online exposure.

BizNik: This is another online community that works well, if you have the time to put into it. You can publish articles or small news bits about your business or service area, or ask general questions. Another nice feature is that members host actual meet-ups in certain areas of the country. You can even host one yourself! A great networking opportunity.

Posting in Forums: Posting is a great way to share your expertise. A while back, I would post on the discussion boards of HOW Magazine's Forums. I made sure to include my name, business name, web address and blog address in my posting signature. Even if people did/didn't agree with what I had to say, they're still likely to check out my site and my blog. This is actually how a writer from WorkHomeYou magazine found me for an interview along with a writer for FreelanceSwitch.com. While these aren't client inquiries, they increase my visibility to prospective customers.


Join a Directory: This is very iffy, so be sure to choose wisely. When I first created my business I signed up for a free directory listing on an online freelance graphic design website. To this day, it still hasn't sent any work my way. However, it's yet another link with my contact information on it.


Write Press Releases. Seems like it has nothing to do with the Internet, but it does! Many newspapers publish their articles online nowadays. That means, if your link or website is mentioned in the written piece, surely you'll receive a link online. That's a lot of readers that now have access to your site. Furthermore, take those same press releases that you submitted initially and publish them online at free sites. One I use is Free Press Release. This doesn't bring in clients directly, but it will give those that read about you online a sense of comfort. Press releases offer credibility.

Scribd.com: Take your press releases, and even blog posts, and save them in a pdf format. Then, upload them to your new profile on Scribd.com. Scribd is a site containing thousands of articles on any subject. From how-to manuals to instructions to articles, your information and expertise can now be easily accessed. Be sure to include working links in your pdf that directs the reader to your site. You'll be building your web traffic and gaining trust at the same time!

Join Networking Groups, Such As The Chamber of Commerce: There are lots of face-to-face networking groups to join. The way that this helps your online presence is that these groups often have directories online that list their members. Your contact information can be readily available to anyone surfing the net, not to mention, you'll be very conveniently placed in the forefront of other members' minds.

Make a Free Business Listing On Google: I wouldn't recommend this option unless you have a mailing address and phone number that you're okay with people using. This works in such a way so that when people type in (for example) "hudson, wi + graphic design" my listing comes up. I have a link at the top of the page, my location displayed on a map and a link to my website. I can also include any other information I choose.


I hope you find some of these ideas helpful. Of course I have a few more tricks up my sleeve, but we'll save that for another post. :)

Co-Op America: For Green Businesses

I recently was approved by Co-Op America (...just haven't gotten around to putting that seal on my site yet...) and it's something I'm really proud of. By having this seal and by being listed in the Co-Op America National Green Pages, it shows that I'm a business dedicated to using green practices for a greener planet.

Dani Nordin of The Zen Kitchen in Boston inspired me to apply for my seal of approval. Here's some information for how to do ths for your business (taken directly from the Co-Op America website:

Screening Green Businesses

To become a member of Co-op America’s Green Business Network™, businesses submit an application, or are pre-qualified by Co-op America's Screening Team.

The Screening Team, which is appointed by and reports to Co-op America's board of directors, investigates each applying company to determine: 1) its familiarity with and commitment to social and environmental responsibility, and 2) significant action in terms of this commitment. Our research team also seeks independent data to verify company information.

Specifically, to be qualified to be listed in the National Green Pages™, companies must demonstrate that they:

•Focus on using business as a tool for positive social change.

•Are "values-driven," as well as profit-driven.

•Are socially and environmentally responsible in the way they source, manufacture, and market their products and run their offices and factories.

•Are committed to and employ extraordinary and innovative practices that benefit:
1) workers, 2) communities, 3) customers, and 4) the environment.

Click here to start your Co-Op American Membership Application: Become a Member

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.

Networking

I read an article recently on Biznik by Mark Silver called "The Bermuda Triangle That Eats Your Referrals." It's about those referrals our clients notify us about, but that never come to fruition. What happens to them?

Mark explains, in a nutshell, that one thing you can do (amongst many others) is to thoroughly explain your services to your referrers. If your referrers are misinformed, or aren't sure how to explain what it is you do, chances are they'll paint a pretty sketchy picture to the people they talk to. Those conversations won't generate much excitement and will probably never create any work.

For a few other tips on how to keep those referrals form getting lost, read Mark's article here.

Promote Your Business In An Earth-Friendly Fashion

Let's face it. It's trendy to "be green." Companies across the US are trying to sell customers with their green-washing; "we're eco-friendly," "good for the earth," "we've gone green", etc. With all of the slogans, it's hard to know which services and products are actually dedicated to helping the environment.

Consumers are listening to these messages and studies have shown that now-a-days, people are making more of an effort, as a whole, to be environmentally conscious. So you've decided to join in. Whether you're looking to give your company a green-overhaul, or are just doing your part here and there, I have a few ideas that may help. What if you could take part in the race to save the earth just by bettering your marketing materials? It's surely a small step in the right direction.

The following is a list of ideas that will not only help you to be a greener person/business, but they will help you to promote your business as well.

Email Campaigns, Not Postcard Campaigns
One of the best ways to help the environment overall, is to create less trash. As business owners, we can contribute largely in this area. Direct mail campaigns may be effective, but they're also costly. Between design services, printing and postage, the dollars really begin to add up. Furthermore, having a 7% response rate, on average, is considered "doing well." That means 93% of your postcards or direct mail pieces create little or no response at all. Where do you think they've ended up? Yep, most likely in the trash.

Not only are email campaigns paperless, but they've been proven to create better results. It's delivered directly to one's email inbox, it creates easy viewing, and there's a level of convenience. If the viewer wants more info, all they need to do is click and they're at your website. That's instant gratification, and consumers love that.

If You Have To Print, Print This Way
So you're really crazy about making postcards and you seem to get great results. Fine, but if you have to print, do it wisely. Print the quantity you really need; not enough to store on your bookshelves behind your desk.

A better way to print is to also notify your graphic designer. Your designer will be able to talk to your printer about paper options that are created from post-consumer content; options that also won't hinder your design or your project objective. Also advise your designer/printer to use soy or vegetable-based inks. Sometimes, some printers only have these inks in specific colors. Make sure the designer creates your attractive design with limited color options, if need be.

Better Banners
If you've decided to do a tradeshow, the most typical signage pieces are banners. There are actually printers out there that specialize in printing not only with environmentally-friendly inks, but on special, eco-friendly banner materials as well. A good example of such a printer is Green Banners.

Put Your Catalogs Online
If your company prints and distributes product catalogs, there's never been a better time to inspire you to sell your products online. Online shopping carts, or e-commerce websites, can be pricey and time-consuming to initialize. But once it's up and your products are listed, it will take less time to manage and advertise them, than it would to redesign and print them however often. Talk to a design and web professional about custom designing a website with a matching online shopping cart.

E-Coupons, Not Paper Coupons
Coupons are great and they tend to be very effective. You can cater to the lazy customer and to the earth by not printing and mailing paper coupons. This creates work for the customer (they have to cut!) and trash. Instead, feature your coupon on your website or in an email campaign with a promotional code. When the user buys a product on your new e-commerce site (wink, wink), they can simply type in their promo code. You have an effective coupon with no paper and no cutting.

Printers
So you'd like to maybe rebrand yourself. Work with your designer/printer about your paper and ink options and work with a green printer, as mentioned previously. There are a few that I recommend.

*On A National Level: Greener Printer
Very eco-friendly and easy to work with online.

*On A Local Level: Graphic Design, Inc.
Located in Hastings, Minnesota. A full print shop with lots of green capabilities.

*On An International Level (label printing): Metro Label Group, Inc.
I've never worked with them personally, but understand they actually run their business in an environmentally-friendly building. Located in Canada, this company offers label printing solutions.

Saying Thank You
A great way to network is to send thank you cards. Customers and colleagues really appreciate being appreciated. Why not make an impression about your business sense and your green-conscious mind with Grown-A-Note greeting cards? These attractive, handmade paper cards are also PLANTABLE. After reading your message, the recipient actually plants your card. A few months later, they have flowers or herbs based on whichever seeded paper you've chosen (this is my favorite tip.)

The list can go on and on. If you'd like more ideas, or would like to discuss making your business materials green, email me at angela@13thirtyone.com.

The Power of Posting

I, too, was always skeptical of online forums. Posting and chatting online seemed to have such a "nerdy" connotation to it, and furthermore, could it really be that helpful?

As one of my approaches to social marketing, I've been posting and commenting in forums more than ever before. Not only do I respond and offer feedback to other individuals, but I post my own questions and topics as well. Having taken part in online discussions such as Biznik and HOW magazine's online community, I now understand that this type of networking not only can position you as an expert in your field, but it can generate referrals as well.

The Savvy Gal's Guide to Online Networking (Or What Would Jane Austen Do?) quotes a designer and small business owner I very much admire, Dani Nordin of the Zen Kitchen. Dani Nordin offers the idea that including your email address, business name, website and other contact information in the signature of your forum post gives people direct access to finding out more about you. If someone is impressed by your post, they're likely to take the time to research who you are and what you're all about. Not only have you gained possible clients, you've also increased your search engine rankings.

Taking the time to post in online forums can be time consuming, but networking and learning from peers is well worth the effort.

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.

another networking site...

I signed up to receive e-news from Molly Gordon, a career coach who owns the company Authentic Promotion. She offers advice about being an entrepreneur, self-promotion, etc.

Today, I received an email discussing face-to-face networking and how it sucks for most of us. She then went on to speak of online business networks, and to my surprise, bragged up a community called BizNik (isn't LinkedIn supposed to be every online networker's true love?). She convinced me to take the time to check out yet another online networking forum. I figured that if she can convince me, I'd pass it on to you.

Why Your Business Needs a Social Life

Networking. Ugh.

Can I just say that, from the age of 5, I've generally felt that socializing--not to mention networking--was something inferior beings (also known as popular people) turned to for lack of better things to do with their time?

I'm much better now (thank you), and I still find the idea of networking less than appealing. It conjures up images of shaking hands with someone who is looking past your right shoulder to see if there is someone more important they should be talking to.

Besides, I couldn't think of a worse way to promote my work than trying to interest a stranger in what I did while hoping there wasn't spinach in my teeth and wondering if his glazed look indicated over-medication or simple boredom.

The Internet changed that for a lot of folks. We discovered that we could listen and respond to others from the privacy and safety of our offices and homes, building connections through cyberspace that were every bit as real and supportive as those that more socially adept folks forged in meeting rooms.

Even so, for a many years online social networking was largely a matter of coming together in shared interest groups. Then sites like Myspace took online socializing to a whole new level.

A level apparently populated by 13 year olds, gamers, and other aliens.


No Great Expectations

In spite of the culture gap, social networking and small business seemed headed on a collision course. As ringside seats were cheap, I signed up at all the major social networking sites and some of the lesser known ones. I published my profile several times in this ezine, and a few of you invited me in to your networks (Hey, thanks. It felt great to be included.)

After 5-6 weeks, I decided to drop Plaxo (too invasive), made Linked-In my big pond of choice, and adopted a wait and see attitude toward the rest.

But then career coach Heather Mundell invited me to join her network at Biznik.

From the first I felt that Biznik was different. For one thing, you gotta love the tagline, "Business networking that doesn't suck." Then there is the way the site is organized. I could actually see at a glance what they had to offer. And it doesn't hurt that they are using one of my favorite greens in the logo.

Biznik felt like a place where an individual could make an impression without a lot of fuss and bother. So I joined. I even ponied up real money to be a paid member (which is strictly optional).

What This Means to You
There are three reasons why it's worth your time to finish this article and then pop on over to Biznik for a look-see.

1. To find out if you like what you see.

2. To observe what it is you like or don't like.

3. To put what you observe to work in your business.

Are We Having Fun Yet?
How much time, energy, and money have you spent trying to build your business doing things you don't like to do? Signs of this include piles of expensive marketing programs gathering dust, stacks of brochures decorating your shelves, and a Web site that has been "in development" so long you can't remember the name of your Web designer.

Visit Biznik and find out if there is anything there you like. Do it as a research project into what kind of social life your business needs.

Getting Permission for Email Marketing

So... yesterday I gave my little ten minute spiel at my PWN meeting. It went so-so. I flew through it in six minutes, strangely. As I practiced before, I kept going over ten. I got up there and kept thinking, "hurry, hurry!" I honestly was suffocating myself in front my peers - I was forgetting to breathe, then my voice started shaking and I think I looked really nervous. This all coming from a girl that spoke at her high school graduation in front of 5,000. Crap. I need more practice.

Okay, so what does this have to do with email marketing. Everything - I just needed to vent for a minute. While I was giving my presentation, shaky voice and all, I decided to pass out an email signup sheet. Not only did I print this right at the top of the sheet, but I also explained that my emails were sent out only once a month. Furthermore, their info was not going to be shared with any the party. Making these points are very important, I feel. People get way too many emails a day already - make sure they know you're not going to SPAM them all day, everyday.

Next, I explained what my emails were all about. They're not stating tid-bits of news such as "Angela just got a new client." No one cares. Instead, I provided the crowd with the idea that my emails are actually do-it-yourself tips on business and self-promotion. You actually gain insight from reading them (hopefully) and I'm out to share my knowledge with you.

Wanna know what happened? I got a full sign up list. In all honesty, this has never happened before. Usually I get one or two email addresses and a lot of "no way" faces. But I actually took the time to talk to people about this and they cared AND responded. Awesome.

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?

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]

Idea 6: Chat Online

Not like AOL instant messenger. But by joining a forum that pertains to your profession, you can gain a lot of exposure. Whether it be starting your own posts or replying to someone else's, showing participation is a great way to meet people and get your name out there.

Sure, depending on the forum you join, you could be chatting away with colleagues instead of prospective clients. But those conversations can generate leads as well. A quick tip, though; when leaving a post or comment, be sure to include some sort of signature. Only by informing others of your blog or website address can people follow up.

And point two, remember you're putting yourself out there. Keep it appropriate and don't be offended if others don't take to your posts as well as you though they would.

Day 5: Create a Newsletter

So we've made it to self-promotion idea number five - creating a newsletter. While jotting down some thoughts and mailing them out once a month, or whatever, may sound like a lot of work, it actually doesn't have to be. This is a great way to show your clients and prospective customers who your business is on a personal level. You can also flaunt your expertise by offering articles with tips and insight.

If you're still hanging on to paper newsletters, hire a designer or someone familiar with print layouts. They can help you to set up a newsletter template that works effectively and entices the viewer to keep reading. By including well formatted articles and photos, people will be more inclined to read your news.

In setting up a template, the design will always be consistent. So instead of worrying about how it'll look every month, you can focus on the more important stuff instead - the content. Once you have it, just plop it into the template and hit print!

Another way is to send a e-newsletter. You know all those emails in your inbox with the Constant Contact or Emma logo at the bottom? Those are two mass e-mail marketing companies that can help you to set up your e-news systems. For those who may not be so design savvy, there are loads of templates to choose from. If you have a web developer or designer already, they can create the newsletter template to reflect your website's - it's all about branding and consistency!


A major plus to doing this online is that programs such as the two mentioned above will offer reports depicting the number of people who read, deleted, forwarded your email, etc. This can be very helpful.

A final plus to doing this digitally is the concept of allowing people to join your mailing list EASILY. One can simply add a link or sign-up box to their website or blog and instantaneously a person can sign up to receive your newsletters.

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.

Day 1: Tips for Tradeshows

I thought I'd give a few networking/self-promotional ideas to help small business owners (such as myself) kick off the new year. The list of marketing to-dos are infinite, but we only have so much time in a day. That said, I thought I would post one suggestion roughly every day to keep the wheels turning.

So, today's topic:
Tradeshows And Why You Should Participate In One

While tradeshows may not be the most exciting events to take part in, they're certainly a great way for people to put a face with your business name. It gives you the opportunity to talk personally with prospective clients. There are a few tricks though that can help your tradeshow experience to excel or fail.

Clear Signage: Many tradeshow exhibitors think it's necessary to spend large amounts of cash on glitzy boards. They spend so much time setting mini billboards and displays up that they miss people walking by. While some of these more expensive and extravagant pieces certainly work, so can the low budget ones.

Make sure your signage is clearly legible from the walkway area. If people can't read your sign, they're not likely to stop by. The two most important things you want to communicate are your logo and the service you're providing. For example, I wouldn't put "graphic and website design and wedding invitations" on a board. No one's going to read that. If I'm at a wedding show, "invitations" will work just fine.

Short and Sweet: Kind of going hand in hand with the previous point. Keep your display simple. Complex exhibits can intimidate or deter passerbys. To keep people looking your way, don't complicate the scenery. A large sign with your service title along with your logo are plenty. Smaller informational pieces can be left on your table.

Lights: They say lighting up a tradeshow is a good thing. It brightens up your area and allows readers to see your info a little better. The problem is a lot of tradeshow venues will charge up the wazoo for an outlet. Tradehow specialist Jean Holewa says save the money and use battery powered lights.

Move Your Table: Another tip from Jean is to physically move your table backwards in your space. This allows a sort of "gathering place" in front of your table. People are free to move out of the walkway area and can relax at your booth without feeling like they're being rushed by the crowd. Just by doing so, you can have a more intimate conversation with those interested folks.

Greenery: Strangely, people are attracted to plants. There's almost nothing more depressing than a tradeshow location - it's all cardboard, tables and pamphlets. Liven up your area with a few plants or vases of flowers. Every time I've done this people always comment on it, especially my tradeshow neighbors who wish they would've done the same thing.

Plan Accordingly: I saw a presentation given by Jean and she made a point about promotional items. Exhibitors learn that there will be about 10,000 people coming to a particular tradeshow, for example. So they buy and create 10,000 writing pens with their logo on them. While it's great to be prepared, Jean says, "Do you really think all 10,000 people are going to stop by your booth? Futhermore, if they did, you'd make no contacts and have no conversations."

Tradeshows only last 6 hours at most, typically. If you talk to each person that stops by and is truly interested for about 10 minutes each, that's only 6 people you can talk to in an hour. Who's going to grab those pens? The people who stop by. That said, keep some of those dollars for candy to rest on your table. Instead, print only about 100 pens and call it good.

Email Manners

We're all busy and we all suffer from making spelling and grammar mistakes from time to time. But recently, I've found that poorly written emails can slow projects way down, cause for major editing, and what's worse, possible printing errors. I hope I don't sound like a major crab here. In fact, most of the time I find myself giggling at the new words that have been introduced to the English language as a result of poor spelling. But when the same client is writing me over and over with words so jumbled they don't form a full sentence, I think we might have a slight problem.

I won't go as far to say that they should introduce college courses regarding email etiquette. However, I do think that the same manners a business person uses to conduct a conversation or formulate a nicely written letter on their corporate stationery, should carry over into the digital world. So here are my tips for a smoother email conversation so that both parties can walk away on the same page without wasting much time.

1. Run a spellcheck. That little button only adds about 60 seconds longer to the time you put into your email. It can make a world of a difference.

2. Read it over. So this may be more difficult and time consuming the longer the emails get. But really, this is the least we can do to help the receiver of the message know what we're talking about. If you read it over (and aloud, which helps a lot) and it's not flowing, fix it.

3. Be professional. It's true that we're more friendly with some clients than others. We develop special relationships with some of our colleagues that allow us to relax a little and not be so on edge. Even if this is the case, save the YouTube video clips and chain mail forwards for a separate email. Anything regarding business should stay business.

4. Watch your tone. One of the worst things about email conversations is the issue of tone. You may think you sound friendly and easygoing. On the other end, the reader could interpret you as being stern and angry. Be sure to state your emotions clearly. If you're disappointed, angry, upset, spell it out. There's a lot of room for interpretation in emails. If you begin the pattern of truly voicing yourself to your client, they'll understand when you're happy and when you're not, as it's clearly stated.

5. Confrontations. Some discrepancies can be handled quickly and easily over email. But if there's a real issue at hand, it's best to pick up the phone. Email takes longer to solve a problem. Waiting for the person to read and then respond can take days. Furthermore, if you and your client respect each other enough, no one should be hiding behind their email program.

6. Be yourself. Don't try to use words to sound smart when you're not sure what they really mean. That can just get you into trouble. Make sure you always explain your points clearly and thoroughly. And also, don't be afraid to use a little color in your email. Using blue, pink or a different font type creates a memorable impression.

Referral Program

Want to see my latest gimmick? Here it is:
"'Tis the season for giving. You give 13thirtyone a referral, 13thirtyone will give you $150.00 off!"

Having a "sale" on graphic design is kind of weird. But I've heard it's a big deal and a good way to bring a few referrals in the door. Of course, it can't pay just because. The catch is, the client's referral has to actually call and sign a contract. They have to become a working client. We'll see...

Market That Blog

In a recent post I noted that I've been a little addicted to blogging lately - more so than ever. I read blogs, link to blogs, write my own blog, and most importantly, market my blog. With all of these things combined, however, blogging can be a very time consuming thing. But what's the point of dedicating all this time if no one can find your blog to read it?

While the sole concept of blogging could be therapeutic for some, I find it to be an online networking and self-promotional tool more than anything else. Therefore, it's important that I stay on top of the different ways to make my blog noticed online. So with that said, how do I not only get new traffic to my blog, but keep the old traffic returning?

New Posts
No one wants to pull up a blog that hasn't been updated since January of 2006. What's the point? Unless the topic is immune to being outdated, the info is old and probably not worth anything anymore.

By posting regularly, you're doing multiple things. One, is that you're giving your current readers something to come back for. Keep your current subscribers interested and if they're into what you're saying, chances are they'll pass your blog info on to someone else.

Another plus is that by writing often, you're consistently keeping your blog refreshed. And by keeping it refreshed, you're keeping your name at the top of the blog search engines. With the thousands... no, let me revise... millions of blogs that there are out there, you can't afford to be at the bottom of the list. Keep your blog updated and you'll be sure to be updated on search engines.

Blog Stats
Keeping an eye on your blog's stats is a great way to know how well you're really doing. You may think just because you have a published blog, you'll have readers, but that's not true at all. There are several programs that I use to keep an eye on my blog traffic. A few of them being Feedburner, StatCounter Pro and MyBlogLog. I can get a wide range of info from each of the different programs. Best of all, these programs are free.

Subscriber Links
So, they're not the prettiest things in the whole world. But by adding a few link buttons to your blog, you can gain a lot of traffic. By adding an RSS feed link, or placing a couple of buttons to link to major blog portals such as Technorati and such, you can give your visitor a one-stop sign-up spot to receive your news and recent blog posts. This a great way for people to tag your page, should they like it, so they won't lose it. They'll be sure to return. Furthermore, add a few links for them to forward your blog posting to a friend. Referrals are great!

Participation
There's a lot to be said for actively participating in the online community. What does that mean? Go to a favorite website and see if they have a discussion board. Find a topic you're interested or well-versed in and speak up! By showing that you know your stuff, and by being sure to sign your posts with your blog address in your signature, you're getting free advertising. And not only are you putting your online info in front of people, you're showing that you're a smarty pants as well.

Linking
Ever been to a blog and seen a huge list of links to other sites and blogs? They weren't put there by the author just to be nice. They're there for publicity. Seems a little backwards, yes, but here's how it works. You're bored at work and find a cool blog. It's got great info and you're really impressed by the author. You quickly type a message to the blogger and say, "Great blog. I'd like to link to you from mine. Would that be okay?" Of course, they'll say yes. But chances are, they'll be curious about who's checking out their site. They'll realize that you're a nifty blogger yourself and probably add your link. Now, you're getting their readers. And they're getting yours. Traffic for everybody.

While the list is pretty much endless, these are a few points that I've learned work well. It can be daunting to seek out a forum and type your thoughts, to keep track of your stats, and to post regularly. But, what I've found, is that it becomes routine. And eventually a likable activity.