• Getting the most out of your LInkedIn Profile

    On: September 18, 2013
    In: News
    Views: 1002
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    Most of us have a LinkedIn profile, but only a few of us have them set up correctly.  Here is a quick guide for you to get a fully optimized and useful LinkedIn profile to maximize your  connections. 

    1)    Complete that profile – this step is the only way that others can find you effectively on LinkedIn.  LinkedIn search looks for 100% completed profiles first so if your profile is incomplete, you fall at the bottom of the search.  Your current status will show on the right hand side of your profile.  Your goal should be an “all star” status.

    2)    Give yourself a great subject line – The headline is the first line of text people see in a search and on your profile page.  Use words that would appeal to your ideal clients and don’t be afraid to change them up to see which ones generate the best outcome for you. 

    3)    Photos count – please use a professional headshot which are 7 times more likely to be viewed than profiles without one. 

    4)    Use of keywords – LinkedIn’s algorithm values keywords in certain sections more than others.  These sections include:  headline, summary, current work experience, past word experience, skills and experience.  Choose your descriptions wisely.

    5)    Referrals and recommendations – yes, you need them and it’s always easier to get a recommendation from someone after you’ve given them one not to mention good karma.  When writing recommendations remember short and sweet is fine but be sure to include specific results the person helped you achieve.

    Katrina Noble

    Media Director

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  • 7 Ways Designers Get the Clients They Want

    On: September 2, 2013
    In: Design
    Views: 1011
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    shutterstock_130607576

    It’s a dog-eat-dog world in the realm of Graphic Design. You’re constantly working to keep your clients satisfied, but no matter how hard you work, there are times when you lose clients to your worst enemy. On the flip side, when you play your cards right sometimes you’re able to land the clients you’ve been striving towards. If you haven’t gotten this last part mastered yet, here are a few tips that can help you get the clients you want!

    1. KNOW YOUR COMPETITORS Whether they’re freelancers or design firms, be aware of where clients are going for work instead of coming to you.

    2. KNOW WHY THEY’RE SUCCESSFUL It doesn’t help to know your competitors unless you know why they’re successful. Is it their strategy? Their ideas? Their pricing?

    3. EAVESDROP I’m not talking about going undercover or becoming a Nosy Nancy… but go out and find the gossip! Attend parties and other social events with people in the industry. These events are where you will find out which competitor is doing what.

    4. MAKE THEIR WEAKNESSES YOUR STRENGTHS Figure out where your competitors suffer and (if it’s doable) make their weaknesses your strengths… then show those strengths to your potential clients.

    5. BE DIFFERENT You won’t get clients if you’re the same as everyone else. Make yourself different and go shine!

    6. SPECIALIZE Become well versed in a particular area… brand identity, print design, outdoor advertising, etc.

    7. CARE Win your clients over by good behavior. Listen to your client’s needs, make them feel important, get the projects done on time!

    Kristen Oaxaca, Graphic Designer

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