It is possible but not easy to get clients if you are an inexperienced graphic designer.

It is possible but not easy to get clients if you are an inexperienced graphic designer.

Research shows that the best clients are those who know you or worked with you before. So start by selling your services to them.

Advertise your business by sending prospective clients business cards, newsletters and emails.

After securing them as clients, ask them for referrals for more business. One way of enticing clients to bring you more business is to give them a discount on their next job.

Create a portfolio of your previous work to show to clients. A portable and online portfolio is also very handy.

Be on the look-out for new businesses in your area and send them postcards about your services.

You must also be friendly to other people in the industry and related industries. You need exposure and it helps to give your services free of charge sometimes.

It is advisable to hand-deliver promotional and marketing material because you might meet decision-makers in person.

To retain existing clients, do follow-up calls to check if clients were happy with your service.

Ask them about your service and also what they would like improved in future.

To remain competitive, it is important to educate yourself with new technology and new trends.

Take a client survey to find out why they chose your business. This will help when preparing a marketing plan and give an indication as to what the message should be. You will also learn from your mistakes.