I Started Finding Clients Offline And Haven’t Looked Back…
Our feeds are full with “how I increased my revenue with social media!” Yes, our online presence can help us make connections and find work, but…
Generally speaking, we’re seeing a slow shift away from immersion in the online space. Whether people are logging off entirely or just seeking a better balance in their lives, a lot of people are putting more importance on in-person interactions.
So… rather than just shooting off a DM to that local business you’ve been wanting to connect with, here are a few ideas as to how you can get more personal with your potential clients and discover them offline.
Door-to-Door
It may seem like a no-brainer (or even a little nerve wracking!) but putting in some in-person face time with local businesses can leave a lasting impression. Even if they don’t need your services, they may be open to collaborate on something or even just pass your info along to someone who needs it!
Pro Move: Take it a step further by bringing your camera with you and offering them a branding session right then and there for free! When you deliver the photos, they can download one image for free and pay for the rest at a “local biz” rate.
TEar off flyers
Get a little hands-on! Literally. Whip up a pull tab or tear off flyer that prominently features a striking example of your work, a stroll-stopping hook, and quick description/list of your offerings. Don’t forget to add your contact info (IG handle, email, phone, or whatever you wish) to the tabs!
You could just post the flyers up around town, but if you really want to invite people to tear and keep your information, bust out the scissors! Snip each tab to make them easy to tear off and maybe even preemtively remove one or two. (Nothing interests people more than something that others have shown interest in.)
Set up shop at a market
Make a cute little set for a quick, sweet portrait session at a farmers or makers market! Similarly to the door-to-door pro move, offer 1 photo for free to get them to your website and give them a taste of a session with you.
Don’t want to deal with a set? Wander around a market with your camera and offer to snap a free pic or two of the vendors! Just be sure to bring your business cards with you!
Cold calls
When I started work at a casting agency I had to face my fear of cold calls; a total trial by fire. I dreaded this aspect of the job, afraid of rejection and a lot of dead-end calls. But in reality, I discovered quite the opposite!
When you call around and introduce yourself and your offerings to local businesses and fellow photographers, you’d be surprised at the amount of amazing conversations, connections, and support you’ll discover! That’s not to say you won’t get the occasional ice cold call or dead-end, but the connections, genuine conversations, and potential bookings make it well worth the energy.
HOST A NETWORKING PARTY
It’s not as involved as it sounds— promise! Invite a bunch of friends, family members, and/or local connections out to a bar (or backyard party!) to mix, mingle, and network. Share what types of clients you’re seeking and encourage everyone to do the same. Whether or not your invited attendees are in the same industry as you, you never know where there’s potential for overlap (or just some great conversation!)
Similarly, attend some local networking events! They don’t have to be photography-specific. What industries are you adjacent to? Bridal? Branding? Parenthood?