1. Brand yourself. Almost any firm or organization falls apart without an established style. Without an impressive personalized logo you will just fade into the background where literally 1000's of freelance designers wander.
2. Create an efficient internet portfolio. It is virtually impossible to be successful in graphic or web design without having an impressive web presence. Any possible clients or bosses will want to see your work and a number of of them will choose to type in a URL and click on what they want to see.
3. Create an equally effective print portfolio, business cards, resume, et cetera. This is somewhat a combination of the other 2 steps. Remember to make a powerful solid portfolio that you can give to those who want to see your work "in person". Also make use of your branding and identity to make business cards, stationery, et cetera. Any time you can put your own personal brand on something, do it.
4. Be brave, bold, and professional. Don't be afraid to call people, offer services, email companies and more. Not too long ago, I was printing a job for a customer and at the printing shop, a man complimented me on the design of the piece. After participating in friendly discussion, he asked me for various tips on the piece he was printing for his own business. Although I was short on time, I was happy to help him and once I got ready to leave, I offered my future services then handed him a calling card. Trust that people will admire your skills.
5. Go the extra mile for your customers. Word of mouth is the most important tool you have. Nothing can help you or hurt you a lot more than rumors and compliments shared by those for whom you may have done work before. About 90% of the freelance work I accomplish comes from word-of-mouth marketing.
6. Take the small jobs first. Doing well at a small job for somebody may also help open doors for your client to do greater, better things. I entered a logo contest for a specific group and out of the four logos I entered, two tied for first place pick. They were so impressed, I offered to make their online page too. Similar offers can be made for a company's stationery, business cards, etc. Find an area of interest and then take courage and offer much more.
7. Don't underestimate yourself. This goes along with Number 4. Remember to believe in yourself. Nobody will ever employ a designer that thinks he may not do as good a job as the other guy. Remember to reflect your self-confidence in your pricing. If your work is good, charge good money for it.
8. Network. Graphic and web design are rapidly changing. Every single day new methods and styles are created and the designer found sleeping on the job is left in the dust. Sign up for social networks similar to twitter, linkedin, fb, digg, and more. Set up a blog and frequently add meaningful comments on others' websites. Making a name for yourself within the design world takes a while but may be done using social networking resources.
9. Practice, practice, practice. Nothing will show you how to increase in self-confidence and talent more than practice. If work is a little slow, nail down a number of those private tasks you've been meaning to finish. Join a group at school or in the community where you'll be able to freshen your own talents. Participate in design forums, contests, and workshops. Nothing could take the place of real life application and experience.
10. Pay attention. I like to bring a little notebook around with me. Whenever I see an advertisement, picture, building, person, etc. that influences my artistic thinking.
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