What are good ways for contacting new clients?
Most consulting jobs are obtained by word-of-mouth referrals from people who know you. This is especially true once you have become established; the majority of your clients will come from referrals as well as from repeat business. Initially, however, you need to take active steps to gain these referrals. Therefore, you should take every opportunity to let people that you meet know what you do and how you can be contacted. Network (with people, not machines) by attending meetings of (or doing volunteer work for) professional organizations and talk to strangers about what you do. Know the type of client you want, and go where they are – whether it be national meetings or local computer stores. Have a 10 second description prepared, as well as a longer explanation for those who express some interest. Hand out business cards to those who seem interested. Even if they can’t hire you, they may pass it along to someone who can. Get their card and call them later to follow up, using your note
