Whether you're on a budget or just a bit frugal, like me, there are a ton of free and cheap resources out there that can help you grow your business. Here are a few that I like.
1. 99designs: This is an excellent example of crowdsourcing. As the name implies, it is a place to get design work done. You pay a small fee to post your project on the site and, depending on the size of your project, you offer a reward of a couple hundred dollars or so. Then, sit back and wait for the designs to roll in! You have to put in a little work; the better your project description and the more feedback you provide, the more likely you are to get what you want. Pick the winner, award the prize, and the design is yours.
On the flip side of the coin, this is a great place to make some cash and build your portfolio as a freelance designer.
Tip: For logos and images, make sure to get your design in .AI or .EPS format so that you can make adjustments (color, size, etc.) down the road.
2. Freelance Communities: I've tried Elance.com and Guru.com for myself and on behalf of a client, and I like both. People post jobs they need done and freelancers can bid on the projects and make a proposal. Freelancers can set up a profile showing their skills, portfolio, education, etc. and if you are willing to spend a few minutes and/or dollars, you can verify your skills and credentials. The cost for using these sites ranges from free to $15+ depending on how many jobs you want to post or bid on. The best part is that these sites connect people offering services directly to people looking for work. Much better than cold calling!
Tip: Try to find jobs with few to no bids on them and only a little time left on them. This will increase your chances of getting a gig and allow you to start building your reputation as a provider.
3. Networking: I recently joined several networking groups on meetup.com. I've only been to events for one of them, NY Entrepreneurs Business Network, and they have all been excellent (even on a rooftop in last night's torrential downpour). I met some interesting, inspiring people, made connections, and have had some good follow-up activity...all for only the price of drinks and some pain in my feet as a result of standing in heels for a few hours. I highly recommend joining this group. Also, search Meetup for other groups that represent your industry or some niche you're trying to reach.
Tip: People are going to ask what you do (duh) so have your answer prepared beforehand, and refine it to be appropriate for the crowd with whom you're networking. It seems obvious, but if you're like me, you might think you've got it down, only to find yourself struggling to make people really get what you do. Stay with it, because it does get easier. And don't forget to follow up!!!
The bottom line for all of these resources is that you're going to get out what you put in. Even if there's little to no monetary cost associated, you should be prepared to put in a some time and effort in order to reap the best results. Chances are, if you're an entrepreneur, you are probably OK with that - you didn't chose this route because you thought it would be easy, right? ;-)
Update! Someone just reminded me of another service that I've found to be extremely helpful and inexpensive. Check out Gotprint.com for quality business cards, flyers, etc. with great customer service and very reasonable prices.
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