Are you struggling to get your graphic design business off the ground? It’s all in the strategy. No matter how great your graphic design skills are, you’ll need a solid plan if you want to see success. Here are some valuable tips to help you start a rewarding graphic design business that wows your clients.

1. CHOOSE YOUR TARGET MARKET

Before you do anything, know who you’ll be selling your graphic design services to. For example, will you be targeting small businesses, corporations, or nonprofit organizations? Will you target clients based on industry (i.e. healthcare brands, tech companies, or pet businesses., etc.) There are so many possibilities when it comes to niching down your graphic design company to target specific clients.

2. DETERMINE YOUR OFFERING(S)

The graphic design industry is very broad. So if you go into the industry with no clear vision of what you want to offer, you won’t be able to narrow down your target client. Don’t be afraid to specialize in a certain skill, service, or niche. For example, your graphic design business might focus on marketing materials and branding such as logos, brochures, letterheads, business cards, etc.

Make a list of the types of services you aim to offer. Brand strategy, logo designing, web designing, and infographics are just a few services to offer your clients. Choose the ones you know you’ll excel at or are willing to take the time out to learn.

3. BUILD A PROFESSIONAL WEBSITE

As a professional graphic designer, having a website is a no-brainer. You’ll need a space to show off your portfolio. Without a portfolio, potential clients won’t be able to gauge the quality of your work. Choose a web host and site builder to get started.

4. ASK FOR REFERRALS

Not sure how to find clients? Word of mouth is a powerful method. After using platforms like Upwork and Flexjobs to find your initial clients, ask them to refer you to other business owners. This will help you establish yourself as a major player in the graphic design game.

As you go along, you’ll have to make adjustments to your strategy. But that’s the fun of building a business.