Business Development

At the marketing stage of your business development, your goal is to increase your client base. To do this, there are certain strategies to take including arranging in-person appointments to drop off your portfolio. Many photographers don’t make appointments insisting that nobody does personal introductions anymore. This is totally unfounded. While it may be difficult to get a foot in the door, many photographers & agents are doing this each and every day. The latter gives the prospective client an opportunity to view your work before there is a need for it. But if you or your agent leaves a good impression, then when the time comes for a particular job, the client will remember you. And you never know, they just may book you for that next assignment.

I know it sounds logical but remember to leave your contact details with the portfolio & if you have a website, then leave the details of that in the portfolio too.

After the appointment, don’t just leave it at that. After a few days, send them a quick follow up email, again with all your contact details, just acknowledging how appreciative you were of them taking the time to meet with you & to say thank you. Even an e-Card will do. They will appreciate your courtesy and you will be kept in their minds again.

At the meeting, try to find out as much information about the client as you can….family situation, hobbies etc & use this information as a mention in your next contact. If you can find out when their birthday is, send them a card. If they play sport, offer to photograph their next event for them at no cost for taking the time to meet you. You never know who their associates or teammates are. They may require the services of a photographer in the near future & it is a way of increasing your client base.

QUICK TIP

As well as sending your portfolio out cold to prospective clients, it should also be used as a marketing tool to be sent as a response to a request from a client who may have you in mind for their next assignment.

More tips....

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