As much as I do not enjoy "selling" anything, you have to sell yourself, your work, your skills, your services etc. to prospective clients or obviously you will probably not get a lot of business.

So how do you market yourself?

There's many different methods and some may work for most writers, while others may not be appropriate or appealing to other freelancers.

One way that I prefer to promote myself to prospective clients is by sending direct mail to new businesses opening in my local area and online companies, publications or corporations that I have not worked with in the past.

You can search for such prospects in your phonebook and through your local Chamber of Commerce or by utilizing search engines, market lists,
media outlets, publishers links,
and writer's resources online.

Consider who needs the type of articles, reports or services you offer.

Some possible clients for writers include:

• corporations
  
• small businesses
  
• advertising agencies
  
• public relations firms
  
• publishing houses
  
• organizations
  
• technical industries
  
• colleges
  
• hospitals
  
• politicians
  
• individuals
  

You should develop a promotional package that clearly describes your services, your fees, your past clients, and perhaps references, unsolicited testimonials or letters of recommendations from past employers, professors or customers.

If you have an established client base, you may want to consider the potential for expanding your business by offering current customers a discount or something free for referring you to another company, which chooses to hire you.

Another good way to get your name out there to prospective clients online is by writing articles or reports and offering them for free publication.
See the subtopic Index of Lists - Databases to Submit Your Free Articles
for a comprehensive collection of resources.

There are numerous ways to find new customers and you may develop the best marketing strategies by using your own creativity and resources. You know better than anyone what types of clients you're seeking and what services you're capable of delivering.

But one thing remains true for all freelance writers. We must market ourselves or we may never develop a successful, profitable career in this business.