?? How to Get More Graphic Design Work: My Secrets to Client Acquisition

Ever had one of those slow months in graphic design where the phone just doesn't ring? Trust me, I've been there.

Today, I'm peeling back the curtain on a topic that hits close to home for every designer out there – getting consistent design work.

Dive in with me as we explore 7+1 game-changing strategies to drive traffic and win clients.

And yes, there's a bonus tip you don't want to miss. This is more than just surface-level advice; it's the real deal from my own journey in the design world.

I've generated well over $3million dollars in my agency since 2020 alone, and that would not have been possible without these strategies.

#1. Your Website: More than a digital business card, your website is the cornerstone of your online presence.

To make it work for you, start with SEO. Research keywords relevant to your graphic design services and integrate them naturally into your site's content.

This isn't just about pleasing search engines; it's about connecting with your audience using the language they use.

Next, focus on directory submissions. List your site on popular design directories and local business listings.

This improves your visibility and can drive targeted traffic to your site. Remember, each directory has its audience and style, so tailor your submissions accordingly.

Lastly, invest in creating high-quality content. This could be blogs about design trends, case studies of your projects, or helpful design tips.

Quality content not only attracts visitors but also establishes you as an authority in your field. Regular updates keep your site fresh and encourage repeat visits.

#2. LinkedIn: This platform is a goldmine for designers looking to network and build professional relationships. Start by optimizing your profile – use a professional headshot, create a compelling summary, and showcase your best work.

Then, engage with the community. Comment on posts, share your insights, and participate in relevant discussions.

Connect with potential clients and peers, but do it thoughtfully. Personalize your connection requests with a note on why you want to connect.

Once connected, avoid hard-selling; instead, focus on nurturing these relationships by sharing valuable content and offering your expertise when appropriate.

Join LinkedIn groups related to design and your niche markets. Actively participate in these groups by contributing to conversations, asking questions, and sharing your knowledge.

This will position you as a knowledgeable and reliable resource in your field.

#3. Facebook Groups: In the world of distractions that is Facebook, groups can be your sanctuary for building genuine connections.

Start by finding and joining groups where your potential clients might hang out. This could be small business groups, local community groups, or industry-specific groups.

Once you're in, don't just promote your services. Engage with the community.

Answer questions, provide feedback, and share insights that can help others. Become known as a helpful and knowledgeable member of the group.

Create posts that showcase your expertise without overtly selling your services. Share before-and-after designs, offer quick design tips, or post about design trends.

The goal is to add value to the group while subtly showcasing your skills.

#4 Instagram: For graphic designers, Instagram is a visual playground. But to make it work for you, it's not just about posting your work; it's about creating a narrative.

Use your posts to tell a story – whether it's the process behind a design, the inspiration, or the problem it solved.

Hashtags are crucial on Instagram. Research and use relevant hashtags to increase the visibility of your posts.

But don’t just stuff your posts with popular hashtags; use those that your potential clients are likely to follow.

Engage with your followers and the broader Instagram community. Respond to comments on your posts, comment on other users' posts, and participate in design challenges.

Engagement boosts your visibility and helps build a community around your brand.

#5 YouTube: As a designer, YouTube gives you an opportunity to share more than just the end result – it lets you share your creative process, thoughts, and expertise.

Start by creating content that adds value to your audience. This could be tutorials, design tips, or insights into the design industry.

Be consistent with your posting schedule to keep your audience engaged. Regular content keeps viewers coming back and can help grow your subscriber base.

Don’t forget about SEO for YouTube. Use relevant keywords in your video titles, descriptions, and tags to make your videos more discoverable.

Engaging thumbnails and clear, concise titles can make a big difference in drawing viewers to your content.

#6 Email Marketing: While not every designer's first choice, email marketing remains a powerful tool.

The key is to build a list of interested, engaged subscribers. Offer something of value in exchange for email sign-ups – this could be a design resource, an eBook, or access to exclusive tutorials.

Once you have a list, focus on delivering value. Your emails should be more than just promotions; they should include content that your subscribers find useful.

This could be industry news, design tips, or updates on your latest projects.

Personalization is crucial.

Segment your list and tailor your emails to different segments, based on their interests and interactions with your previous emails.

This increases the relevance of your emails and improves engagement. One of the beset pieces of advice I was every given by a mentor:

Build the list, sell to the list. My only regret is not taking that to heart sooner when he told me that years ago.

#7 Google My Business: For local SEO, Google My Business is a powerful tool. Start by claiming your listing and filling it out completely. Accurate and comprehensive information helps potential clients find you more easily.

Encourage your clients to leave reviews. Positive reviews not only improve your visibility on Google but also build trust with potential clients.

Regularly update your listing with new photos, special offers, and posts. This keeps your listing fresh and gives potential clients a reason to check out your business.

BONUS - Craigslist: Yes, Craigslist. It's a mixed bag, but if you're just starting or looking to increase volume, it's worth exploring.

This isn't just about throwing tactics at the wall and seeing what sticks. It's about creating an irresistible offer, being authentic, and choosing the platforms that resonate with you and your brand.

?? What's been your go-to strategy for getting design work? Share your experiences in the comments! Let's learn from each other and grow together.

Thanks for tuning in. If you found value in this, let me know down in the comments.

Keep looking up,

Adrian Boysel