Hi,

 

I'm not sure which forum I should be posting this in as none of them seem to fit the bill. I'm relatively new to web design and I don't have much of a portfolio so I'm looking to build one that I can use as a marketing tool.

 

I've been told that doing work for charities free-of-charge or for a nominal fee may help to expand my portfolio. But where do I start? I'm having a hard time getting started in this business. I know I've got the ability but I just can't seem to get my act together. I need advice on what steps I need to take to get this show on the road. I'm going a bit stir-crazy staring at 4 walls the whole time. Can anyone relate to this and possibly give me some useful pointers. It would be very much appreciated, thanks.

 

Keith

It is in the wrong section buddy! Buuuttt, starting out, it is always good to target local companies, and local start-ups, and like you mentioned charities are always a good bet for building up not just your portfolio but your reputation too in your local area.

 

Try and find out some lists for new start-ups in your area, there are companies online that provide this type of information, some of it Free if you go looking. Then maybe drop them an email or send out a mailshot, and sell yourself!!

 

Going down the charities route, there is every possibility that this will be unpaid work, but you will potentially start to build a good portfolio, and hopefully the client will mention your name to other people that they meet, the old 'word of mouth' advertising is one of the strongest forms you can find...and it's free!!

 

Good luck!

It is in the wrong section buddy! Buuuttt, starting out, it is always good to target local companies, and local start-ups, and like you mentioned charities are always a good bet for building up not just your portfolio but your reputation too in your local area.

 

Try and find out some lists for new start-ups in your area, there are companies online that provide this type of information, some of it Free if you go looking. Then maybe drop them an email or send out a mailshot, and sell yourself!!

 

Going down the charities route, there is every possibility that this will be unpaid work, but you will potentially start to build a good portfolio, and hopefully the client will mention your name to other people that they meet, the old 'word of mouth' advertising is one of the strongest forms you can find...and it's free!!

 

Good luck!

Thank you slimboyfatz33. This is just the kind of advice I'm looking for. I'll get working on this right away.

 

Keith

No problem mate, glad to help!