Surviving in a Small Local Market
April 29th, 2008 | Posted in Getting Started.
So you’ve decided to take the plunge and start a web design business. You’ve got a computer, some software, a phone and a list of services you plan to offer. It’s time to let local businesses know that you exist and what great opportunities you can provide for them.
But after approaching your small local market, you may find that only a select few businesses understand the value of a web site. Unfortunately for you they don’t have the budget to purchase your services. Before you give up all hope on your web design career, you can try some of these solutions…
Other Web Site Companies
It’s always a good idea to network with as many people as you can when you are just starting out. This would include your biggest competitors. Often times, other web site companies will get more work than they can handle. Let those companies know that you will be their knight in shining armor when they need work to be done.
Project Bidding Web Sites
You may be tempted to use online project bidding sites to get some work. One tough issue you may face is to convince the client to hire you based on your value and not the cost you will do it for. Many times when a project is posted, the lowest bidder will usually win, mainly because price is the only metric the client can use to choose their candidate.
Pay Per Click Advertising
Believe it or not, web site firms have become successful just off of PPC advertising alone. Companies such as Heritage Web Solutions spend around $80,000 per month on online ads. This brings in about 800 sales per month, which resulted in revenue of over $11 million in 2007.
Referral Commission
Offer your friends and family a commission just for sending work your way. Even offer a referral commission to your clients in exchange for some free work. This is a great incentive for growing your business by word of mouth.
Commenter Suggestions
Is there another way that you can establish your business while living in a small local market?
Let everyone know by commenting below.
