Freelance Graphic Design

Chamenas · 11-22-2006

I have played with the idea of actually trying to make some money off of my graphic design work, I tend to say no because I really dont have any money to start with a registration at any of the big freelance sites. I'm trying to see if:
A) I should even get into freelancing
B) What are some tips or what can I do to start off

I do have alot of work that I could use for a starting profolio, and I have a few people that I may be able to use for refrences, but I don't have any professional experience to back me up, even though I give professional attention to any projects that I start.

stiney51 · 11-22-2006

I'd suggest starting locally. It's not easy work, but once you land a couple jobs (which you could underbid a bit on) then use the people to network and start spreading the word.

There are a lot of people out there who could use a website or help with a log/flyer. It might be worth putting up some business cards or a flyer in a visable place.

You could also try to leverage some of the Free places to post information (such as Craigslist.com if you are in the US).

Chamenas · 11-22-2006

hmm, at my college I'm doing alot of free work, but I don't know the area well. But it is worth looking into.

dEUS · 11-22-2006

Thanks for the tip

I was also thinking about that...

Foxtrot · 11-23-2006

I have some experience in the area, two things you'll need a paypal account and believe it or not a myspace.

skstarkiller · 11-25-2006

also try Guru.com - The world's largest online marketplace for freelance talent. to get some jobs

Chamenas · 11-25-2006

Quote:

Originally Posted by Foxtrot

I have some experience in the area, two things you'll need a paypal account and believe it or not a myspace.

yea, I plan on getting one soon. The problem is that requires some finances to start off on, and I'm kind of in a financial rut as it is

. I think a part time job in addition to my work-study will fix that, and then I'll try to go for the freelance.

Young Spartan · 11-29-2006

You will need to build yourself a portfolio website to display you work, which you are going to want to be pretty good work if you expect any business. It's a saturated industry, not to say that you can't do it, but you have to have some talent. The best way to get work is not on the freelance project bidding sites, in my opinion, but rather networking through forums and communities on the internet to get yourself known in the web design community.

If you make connections and build a reputation, work will find you.

Chamenas · 11-29-2006

yeah, I was never going to throw myself in it for money originally because so many people already do it. However, in need of some finances I figured there might be a chance in it and it was worth looking into.

stiney51 · 11-29-2006

Definitely try to network a little. If there's a restaurant or club or anything like that you go to around school, ask if they need anything. It can't hurt.

Chamenas · 11-29-2006

Quote:

Originally Posted by stiney51

Definitely try to network a little. If there's a restaurant or club or anything like that you go to around school, ask if they need anything. It can't hurt.

I figured I would, I just dont get off campus much.