Kimberly's comments

Hi Melanie. Welcome to Biznik! I've actually been subscribing to your blog the past few months, trying to learn more about public relations. It's been a wonderful resource, thanks!

-kim dow

Thanks for the article, Stephanie. I try to limit my number of pro bono jobs to 3-4 per year. This way, I can change which non-profits I decide to work with and I get better variety (and usually more creative freedom as well).

In addition, I have started offering a non-profit discount to my design clients. So far, it has really paid off in both portfolio quality work and referrals for bigger (and ultimately better paying) jobs. As Timothy mentioned above, I did have to start outlining my normal fee along with my non profit discount fees, so clients 1) know they are getting a discounted rate and 2) know what my "real" rates are in case they refer anyone my way. So far, this has worked out great for me and my small start-up design firm.

-kim dow

Thanks for this article Rick! I especially like the way you tie in your linkedIn contacts with your BNI group! I am going to try to start doing that with my 1:1's as well. Thanks so much for the suggestion!

Tara, this is a great article! I had never heard of the term innerpreneur before, and I love the concept! Since I started my own graphic design studio earlier this year, I've felt my life has made a huge shift and I've never been more content with my work and my life. It's because I have a passion for what I do now, it's not just a paycheck. I love the fact that I am able to help businesses and organizations who have similar ethics and goals of my own, while being creative at the same time! Thank you so much for this article, I enjoyed reading it and all the posts above!

Thanks John. Your article couldn't have come at a better time for me. Sometimes we just need reminders of how to manage the stress and not to sweat over the small stuff. I'm still working on Numbers 6 & 7, though!

thanks for a great article dani. I started my linkedin profile a year before i ventured off on my own, just as an alternative means of getting my new business on the web. I will definitely use some of your suggestions in order to get the most out of it as an actual networking tool.

thanks for the article, wendy! cold-calling gives me the shivers, but i will definitely keep your list in mind for what "not" to do. thanks again!

Hi Blake. Welcome to Biznik and welcome to the East Coast!

Kim Dow, Kalico Design

Hi Karin. Greetings from Maryland and welcome to Biznik! We're not just from the Pacific Northwest community! I checked out your website and love the eco-friendly products you offer!

Thanks Jennifer. It's so useful to just have them all listed out like this. And you've listed a few that I need to go explore...

this is a great way to visually see your web network. Thanks for sharing! (only problem was the site wouldn't work on my mac—boo!)

Hi Calie. Welcome to Biznik from the other side of the country! It's great to meet a fellow designer. Your work is beautiful. I especially like how you included some mood boards to show where the inspiration for certain brands came from...that was great, I've never seen that actually shown in someone's online portfolio before. Great work!

John, thank you so much for this overview of some important tax information. As a new small business owner, I think taxes have been something I've stressed about the most! There is just so much you have to be aware of and forms you need to fill out. I get nervous just thinking about it! Your article was very easy to understand...thanks again!

Thanks so much, Lori. These tips are priceless. And, as a new freelance designer, it's good to know I'm on the right track with many of these! Thanks again.

-kim, kalico design www.kalicodesign.com

I wish I could have made it to the How conference this year! I am hoping to get to next year's in Texas. Glad to hear you had such a great turn-out for your session and book signing.

Thanks Joel. These tips were easy to understand and seem fairly easy to implement. I appreciate all the information and links.

I work on the design side of web marketing, so it is always great to extend my knowledge with some programming and SEO tips.

-kim, www.kalicodesign.com

Kristen, thanks so much for the article. I am going to try to write more personal notes, not just rely on emails. I know how much I enjoy getting hand-written notes, so I'm sure others will as well. It will hopefully help me stand out from the crowd. Thanks so much for all your advice!

That is a great analogy, thanks! i may have to borrow that one, if you don't mind! I agree, it is hard to balance patience with perserverance...knowing when to keep pushing (without being pushy) and when to stop. i am a new business owner, so I'm still trying to work on this one as well!

Hi Nicholas. Welcome to Biznik. As Jeff said above, it's great to see another designer here! I am also working in the DC-Metro area, targeting small businesses. I find I am having a hard time convincing small businesses that their branding and marketing is an investment, not just another start-up cost. A lot of them think if they have a computer they can do their branding and design work on their own. Any advice on how to weed out the businesses with that mindset? I find myself getting caught up in too many meetings or phone conversations that don't go anywhere once an estimate is presented (and my prices are more than fair).

thanks for the article. i recently started my own graphic design studio and have been trying to network as much as possible. I also find the smaller events are better as well b/c 1-i feel like i am able to make more of a connection with people and 2-it is less intimidating in a smaller group. I will definitely keep your networking secrets in mind next time i go to an event!

Thanks for the article, Mark. I found it extremely intersting!

As important as it is to have a website in today's age, I also want to add that the website has to be user-friendly and approachable as well. I find so many websites cluttered with hard to find information that it makes me NOT want to contact someone, even if they've been referred to me. Just having a site doesn't solve the problem, it's best to hire a professional (like me, "plug, plug") who knows how to present your information in the most organized and presentable way, so referred clients will want to call on you asap.

Thanks for the article. Do you find there is a differece in response whether you do an email vs. a phone call. I know phone calls are more personal, but sometimes people don't really have the time for a phone conversation in the middle of the work day. Emails are less personal, but so much quicker and easier to stay on top of. I was just curious whether you would recommend one or the other. Thanks!

Thanks for the article. I recently started my own business and have been starting to do a lot of networking. It was a little scary at first, but the more networking events I go to, the more comfortable I feel.

Great article! I have just started attending weekly networking events, so this is extremely good advice. I especially like the idea of using your name tag as a marketing tool! I have always been conscious of including my name and company, but next time i have to fill one out, i'm going to use it to market myslef even more (maybe do a quick rendering of my company logo). I'm a graphic designer, after all, so it would be a quick and easy way to show my skills, and use as a conversation starter. thanks for your advice!