Getting contracts can be a tough job in itself and if you are new to freelancing it can be frustrating even knowing where to start. Toby Somerville has started a 3 parts series over at SitePoint that I will be covering on how to do just that, get contracts.
This post covers part one of Toby’s series. I will just be summerizing some of his points and you can read his article for the full details.
How Does it Work?
- First, find and research the web and advertising firms in your area.
- Next, send the firms an introductory email.
- Then, follow up a few days later with a phone call.
The Ground Work
Preparation is really important, potentially any of these firms could be worth thousands of dollars to you. So, it is worth putting a bit of time and effort into researching each firm — basically the same as if you were preparing for a job interview (which effectively you are).
How to Find the firms
I would start by using search engines and your local business directories i.e. the Yellow Pages. When searching look for both web firms and advertising agencies. Note: Not all advertising agencies have a web department.
Research the Firms
Once you have a list of potential firms. Research them. Try and work out whether or not they are going to be a likely source of work. Do this by; reading through their website, looking for any forum post about them, and generally giving them a good Googling. Also, look at their client lists and analysis the website itself.
Keep Notes
Keep notes on your progress with each firm including:
- who you contacted
- what was said
- the date and time of contact
- any follow up that is required
In his next post Toby will be talking about the introductory email and how to form and structure this crucial point of firs contact. Stay tuned.
January 31st, 2008 at 6:56 am
[…] has published the second part of his three part series on getting contract work. I covered the first part in a previous post which laid the ground work for what Toby talks about next, the, ever so vital, initial email. Again […]