Re: FN-FORUM:Advice

date posted 20th February 2007 15:58

pam wrote:
> To all of you professionals out there.
>
> 1) How many of you are freelance web designers
> 2) To the freelancers how did you start out, I am finding it difficult to
> find people to do free or very cheap designs for. I have sent out letters,
> flyers etc but no one seems to reply.
> My experience is pretty slim at the moment that is why I am willing to do
> free or cheap so that I can build up a portfolio and of course experience.
>
>
> Any tips ?? other than give up
>
> Pam Gould
>
>
>
>
Sort out your "shop window". People will judge you on it first. Act on
any constructive criticism.

Improve your skills through online tutorials or doing a course. W3
schools is a good start. Tizag
are decent to and buy a decent book.

A bigger portfolio improves your skills and experience and makes you
more marketable. Do sites on topics/hobbies of your own. Offer local
voluntary groups, churches etc a site.

Depending on your situation build CSS and some PHP by doing themes/skins
for Firefox, Opera, Wordpress etc. Contribute a design to CSS Zen Garden
and other gallerys. Design sites for a
templating site. You can contribute "skins" to any number of
applications. Most won't directly earn cash but they'll improve your
skills, showcase them and may generate traffic to your site.

Network network and network. Business Link
is a good starting point. Groups of
local businesses also meet up for presentations on relevant
topics-they're a good way to make contacts.

Get in touch with local web designers and agencies for work experience
or freelancing work.

Re the nursery not giving you info-you could always offer to write it
for them-we've all done it but "coming soon" doesn't look good unless it
happens. Frames are generally not recommended-and you can save images on
the navigation on the nursery site by making it a list and styling the
list in your css with the image you want-get in touch off list if that
makes no sense.

Re: Martin suggesting 1&1 for hosting-I'm with Vidahost
. They're cheaper & include add on domains.
They're very helpful and I've had no problems-though don't quote me if
you have problems ;-) Mention my name if you like.

HTH. Good luck and don't give up and don't beat yourself up-we all have
to start somewhere

Paul
www.Innovative Future.co.uk


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