When you’ve just started your new job as a freelance web designer, chances are that you would be relying on word of mouth to get more clients. It must be said though, that you cannot depend on this method alone to direct more traffic to your web site.
Personally I would recommend AGAINST making cold calls, and instead you should first begin by writing a proper business plan and marketing plan. A business plan outlines the objectives you want to achieve. Be it increasing sales through your site, boosting profits by a certain percentage or just maintaining your current cash flow, you should stick to it while adjusting it according to your needs. On the other hand, a marketing plan contains the essential actions that will help realise your business plan.
Next, you should also consider branding your company. Even if you are a one-man show, nobody has to know about it. Make it so that you are a fully reliable outfit by being consistent. You can create a visually pleasing package of your company using the same colors in your logo and site layout. You can also build loyal customer base by formulating affiliate programs and rewarding them with discounts if they recommend your services to others.
Lastly, you may provide articles or tutorials on web design. This will not dampen your business as customers do appreciate little gestures like this, and they know that you are confident enough to offer services such as these. And remember, if you aren’t ready to be a “total solutions provider” it is advisable that you concentrate on providing only the services you can manage.