I have been a self-employed software consultant for over 25 years. Quite often, folks wanting to become independent consultants have asked me how to get started. “How do you get the word out?” “How do you market yourself?” These are usually the most asked questions.
Rather than go into a long, time-consuming essay about the ins and outs of promoting oneself, here are thirteen basic ideas you can use that will go a long way toward promoting yourself as an independent consultant of any kind. Try one or try them all. Whatever works for you is what counts.
1 Give people two business cards instead of one. Ask them to pass the extra one along to a friend or business associate.
2 Build word-of-mouth referrals by creating flyers with inserts offering promotional discounts. Ask owners of your local dry cleaners, hair salons, and restaurants to distribute thyem in exchange for bigger discounts on your products or services.
3 Hire a native speaker to rewrite your materials into other languages. This way you attract a wider and more diverse audience while expressing your message properly, and showing respect for everyone’s holidays, ceremonies, and culture.
4 Send thank-you letters to every customer, vendor, or supplier three or four times a year. This will remind them that you are still operating and could result in new sales.
5 After mailing flyers, brochures, etc., follow up by telephoning customers or prospects. Often, this type of personal contact results in a boost in your business.
6 Listen to what your clients or customers tell you about your work. When appropriate, ask what new services or products you could provide for them.
7 Consider giving something away. Donate your time or even a modest gift, coupon, or discount. It’s a great way to warm up potential customers.
8 Teach classes, give presentations, write a blog, create an e-mail newsletter, or write short articles for your local newspaper. You can showcase your skills and gain free publicity.
9 Do something good for others in your community. Participating in funding drives that allow you to mingle with others and become acquainted with new groups in your community.
10 Keep up-to-date with the latest technologies in your field. Investigate the hidden value of online advertising by browsing web sites and subscribing to e-mail newsletters. Consider these to be investments in your future and a source for potential marketing ideas.
11 Continue your education and stay current on economic and technological trends. Attend conferences, seminars, workshops, and join industry organizations and user groups.
12 Get out of the office at least once a day. Meet a colleague for breakfast or lunch, and wherever you go, talk with as many people as possible. Don’t forget to always have a generous supply of your business cards, wherever your go.
13 Nurture and enjoy your dreams. They are too precious to abandon.