How to get those clients?

[GabStar]

Hi there.

Just started my new busines in the last few weeks. Website on its way, business cards printing as we speak a a jumble of ideas all turning around and around in my head. I just need some clients now. I have a dozen or so business contacts that I would like to make contact with, but Im not too sure how to do that. An email? A Phone call? Anyone have some ideas on how I can promote my business cheapily and easily, without annoying anyone. My busines is called Chocolate Copy and its primary focus is document formatting/design. Thanks for any assistance and ideas.
Gabrielle
PS Love this forum.

[Karen Wardle]

Hi Gabrielle

I'm not the best person to ask about this but will throw my 2cents in.

Who are the people that you are targeting? Who is your niche?

You mention the best way of contacting the contacts that you already have. I think that will depend on the relationship that you already have with those people and how well you know, or don't know them already. How were you introduced to these business contacts, was it through a referral by someone familiar with your work already or was it a friend of a friend etc.

If you can give us a little bit more information you might find that you get more detailed, specific answers

[Dream Group]

Originally Posted by GabStar

Hi there.

Just started my new busines in the last few weeks. Website on its way, business cards printing as we speak a a jumble of ideas all turning around and around in my head. I just need some clients now. I have a dozen or so business contacts that I would like to make contact with, but Im not too sure how to do that. An email? A Phone call? Anyone have some ideas on how I can promote my business cheapily and easily, without annoying anyone. My busines is called Chocolate Copy and its primary focus is document formatting/design. Thanks for any assistance and ideas.
Gabrielle
PS Love this forum.

Hi Gabrielle,

Welcome to the world of business! Congrats on starting your own business.
I personally try and make as much contact with business associates through a phone call, depending on the time of the day of course. I feel as though the phone call somewhat eliminates any confusion and concerns that might arise from an email.

As for promoting your business there are many different ways you can do this, however it may not be "easy".
I try and go to as many networking meetings as I can fit in. You never know who you can meet. I also just step into a few business offices whilst waiting for an appointment and introduce myself.

Hope that helps?

Regards
Warren

[GabStar]

Originally Posted by Karen Wardle

Hi Gabrielle

I'm not the best person to ask about this but will throw my 2cents in.

Who are the people that you are targeting? Who is your niche?

You mention the best way of contacting the contacts that you already have. I think that will depend on the relationship that you already have with those people and how well you know, or don't know them already. How were you introduced to these business contacts, was it through a referral by someone familiar with your work already or was it a friend of a friend etc.

If you can give us a little bit more information you might find that you get more detailed, specific answers

Thanks Karen
The contacts I have are people I have worked for previously so they all know me well. I guess I just want to do it right the first time. But I know its all a learning curve.
My business is focused on document formatting, template creation and document design and layout. Im not really a copywriter but I do dabble and I have a great contact I met thru flyingsolo who will be helping me out there.
I appreciate your help. Cheers Gabrielle

[rowans]

If you already have contacts, and they know you, then just ring them and introduce your services to them. This should be followed with a letter or email.

The bets advise i give you, work out who your ideal clients would be, what there pain, frustration and desires, that you can provide solution to.

Once you know is your ideal, then you create a message for the right people, instead of wasting your time and money on people not interested in your service.

Look for people who may be a centre of influence, these people can recommend the right people, to you.

Networking with other people, try BASI, and other groups.

Set up website - WordPress, its easy to use, this could be a place where you can show your samples.

If you have physical location, then you can use Google Local to claim your business (helps you get found in Google)

You could submit a press release to PRWeb.com about $200 helps your site get found

Submit your site local directories.

Cheers


Rowan

[Karen Wardle]

Originally Posted by rowans

The bets advise i give you, work out who your ideal clients would be, what there pain, frustration and desires, that you can provide solution to.

Once you know is your ideal, then you create a message for the right people, instead of wasting your time and money on people not interested in your service.

This is exactly the best approach. Unfortunately many create the product or service and then go looking for customers.

[Accounts Studio]

Template design - you might find a great little market in small online stores who want to set up regular newsletter marketing to their database - maybe put together a range of affordable packages and some great samples.

But absolutely define your target market - don't try and be everything to everyone, you are better off trying to focus on a niche area. Once you know your market you will be better able to find them and sell to them.

Good luck

[Gordon Akman]

Design a brochure that shows off your work then distribute those brochures where people are printing, word processing, designing documents etc.

[mike@engagemarketing]

I agree with the others - a little personal contact with your existing contacts can't hurt and will be far more effective than an email (no-one likes emails about something they haven't requested).

I would find all the printing companies in your area and try to set up alliances with them (commission-based or otherwise).