Six Steps to Your Own Freelance Graphic Design Service

by Kelly Richardson
kelly.richardson@careerschoolguide.com
CareerSchoolGuide.com Columnist

Are you an imaginative type who is comfortable with technology as well? Do you prefer controlling your own destiny to working for someone else? With basic computer skills, some creativity, and a graphic design degree, self-directed people can own a flourishing freelance graphic design service.

There is nothing quite like the self-reliance of owning your business. Unfortunately, many people can’t afford to give up a salaried job or don’t work in fields where self-employment is a realistic option. If you are lucky enough to be a graphic design pro or plan to become one you should know about the freelance opportunities in this field.

Freelancing means you get your own clients, set your own hours, and choose the projects that you want to complete. It’s the ultimate in professional freedom, and more graphic design pros are starting their own services to experience it.

To Start Your Graphic Design Service

1. Get Your Graphic Design Degree. Graduating from a graphic design degree program can give you credibility when you are breaking into a new field and starting a new business. In addition, you will learn how to do the next 5 steps, from portfolio creation and marketing to doing the best work you are capable of in graphic design school.
2. Create Samples. You will need a variety of samples of your best work to show potential clients when they call for information.
3. Market Yourself. A professional web site is an absolute must if you want your graphic design service to take off. Launch a personal marketing campaign via web and phone letting businesses and organizations know who you are.


Once you have the foundation of your graphic design service in place it’s time to grow your business. There are proven methods for increasing your business and bringing in more leads.

To Grow Your Graphic Design Service

4. Always Follow-Up. The difference between a graphic design service that succeeds and one that fails has a great deal to do with prompt follow-up.
5. Find New Leads. Actively seeking out new projects will help keep you busy and earning money throughout the year.
6. Do Good Work. The power of recommendations can grow your business exponentially. Do good work and people will talk.

Starting a graphic design service can be incredibly rewarding for independent, creative people. Put this six step plan into action and you could be loving your work and raking in profits .

About the Author

Kelly Richardson covers the local education and technology scenes in major cities across the country. His articles appear in educational journals, periodicals, and e-zines.