What is the best way to find freelance web design work?

Question

I work with a couple of friends doing web work, and we've hit a dry spell and we can't seem to get out of it any ideas?

Answer 1

1) Always be networking.... have your business card and talk to anyone and everyone about what you do.

2) Work your "circle of influence"... if you've done good work for somebody, call them and directly ask if they know of anybody who can benefit from your work. There is no shame in asking for a referral.

3) Make cold calls! Don't be afraid to call somebody who you don't know and make an appointment to meet and talk about what you have to offer. If you're uncomfortable with cold calls I highly recommend Stephan Shiffman's book "Cold Calling Techniques (that really work)". He lays it out clearly and in layman's terms.

Good luck!

Answer 2

Advertise in local papers. Create "test" (and very small) websites for local companies that have not yet created a website, make an appointment with them, and offer a price break to start with (do your reseach here). I've knocked on a few doors after doing my research and gotten great clients who have been with me for a long time. Offer free updates to current clients who can give you the names of 3 of their business partners to contact.