Replies

1. 
   Guest_ | Jul 27, 2000 04:01am | #1

   *
   Word of mouth. Personal contacts, including those with past clients. Activity in local organizations. Newspaper articles
   i about
   you, rather than
   i by
   you (if newsworthy).

   Jeff

1. 
   Guest_ | Jul 27, 2000 12:38pm | #2

   *You might try talking to guys at lumber yards. They often have people come in and talk to them very early in the home building process. Sometimes Lowes and the other big boxes have a cork board you can put business cards on.

1. 
   Guest_ | Jul 28, 2000 03:02am | #3

   *Terry,You are trying to appeal to the homeowner. Go around and meet some builders, contractors or even us dumb carpenters. They will get you the referrals after you pass their test. Take your portfolio with you. Best of luck.

1. 
   Guest_ | Jul 28, 2000 06:17pm | #5

   *Terry,Contact the local ASID chapter to find out if there are ever any 'designer showcase' homes in you area and volunteer to do the design & build for one of the rooms. Usually the local paper as well as a magazine picks up this work and is what homeowners are looking for - a profile of you and photos of your work. It can cost a bit of time and money, but is tax deductible and is a way to get to know your competition and possibly get referrals. Good luck.

2. 
   Terry_Valencic | Jul 28, 2000 06:17pm | #4

   *
   After 20 years of part-time design and drafting work, with custom homes and additions, I decided to make this a full-time business. I have advertised in local newspapers and have not had much success. The number of jobs I have obtained versus the dollars spent have not been that good. Is there another way to advertise that is more cost effective? Also, I am open for any other advertising suggestions. Thank You.