7 ½ Proven Strategies to Get More High-Paying Clients
1. SPEAKING
Although many of us are petrified of speaking in front of groups, it is hands down, one of the best ways to get a new client. Why? Because after someone heard you speak, she is much more likely to know, like, and trust you. And people only do business with those they know, like, and trust.
2. SOCIAL MEDIA
If you think, social media is a waste of time, think again. Every day, many relationships are forged on facebook, twitter, and linked in. To have your profile on each one of these networks is a must. The next step is to participate! It is only through conversation and dedication of time, that you will start seeing results.
3. ON-LINE MARKETING
One of the best ways to get new orders, is to stay in touch with your clients. And one of the best ways to do that is through an e-mail newsletter (also referred to as e-zine). When done systematically and authentically, e-zines will keep you front and center in your clients’ minds.
4. DIRECT MAIL
This one may sound a bit scary, I understand. You may have questions like: what to mail, when to mail, how often, and to whom? I can tell you that frequency outpulls the size of your mailing piece. So it’s much better to mail a smaller card several times, then to mail a large fancy card – only once. The list of prospects can be easily rented from various sources that specifically deal with databases (i.e. infousa.com).
5. NETWORKING
This is one of the oldest ways of growing your business known to man. Oldie, but goodie, it is one of the most powerful ways to get in front of your prospect. They say showing up is 80% of the job. I say following up is 95%. If you don’t follow up, all the time that you spent getting the event, talking to people, distributing cards, and driving back is wasted if you don’t follow up afterwards.
6. REFERRALS & TESTIMONIALS
Everyone knows and says that their business is built on referrals. I think you’ll also agree that if we only rely on organic referrals, it will take an eternity to grow our businesses. The important note to remember here is that it’s our job to ask for them. The best way to do that is to let your customers know from your first interaction that you appreciate referrals. Set up systems in your biz to encourage and get them, so that they are not forgotten. Finally, put your testimonials on all your marketing materials!
7. PUBLIC RELATIONS
Free publicity – what could be better – right? But how do you get it? Like anything else, it takes dedication. It starts with good photos. Next you must know your publications’ editorial calendars. Finally, you must present yourself to the editors as a valuable resource. Position yourself like this: “How can I be of value to your publication?”
7 ½ Just do it!
All these strategies may sound overwhelming, as you’re already overwhelmed by the amount of work you have. So my advice is to pick one, that sounds like a ‘low-hanging-fruit’. Give yourself a deadline. And do it. Once done, pick the next ‘low-hanging-fruit’. And tackle the list one-by-one.
If you would like more in-depth information about all of these strategies, and more, you have to check out www.BusinessofDesignTelesummit. 10 design industry experts share their secrets about exactly how to tackle each of these marketing strategies.
