TechWhirl (TECHWR-L) is a resource for technical writing and technical communications professionals of all experience levels and in all industries to share their experiences and acquire information.
For two decades, technical communicators have turned to TechWhirl to ask and answer questions about the always-changing world of technical communications, such as tools, skills, career paths, methodologies, and emerging industries. The TechWhirl Archives and magazine, created for, by and about technical writers, offer a wealth of knowledge to everyone with an interest in any aspect of technical communications.
Questions:
I. Consider your 15 most recent clients:
1. How many resulted from cold calls, soliciting new business?
None
2. How many resulted from advertisement? What kind of
advertisement?
One...a 1/4 page ad in a concert program. I bought the ad to support the
nonprofit group giving the concert. The contract inquiry was a fluke.
3. How many resulted from previous business with that company?
Four
4. How many resulted from referrals by satisfied customers?
Four.
5. How many resulted from contacts in your business or
professional network, for example from a previous career or
though friendships away from business?
Four.
6. How many resulted from new acquaintances, who brought
business to you after discovering your profession?
One.
II. Consider your business in general:
7. Do you advertise? How? Would you evaluate the success of
advertising?
Not any more.
8. What do you consider the most successfull source of
business?
Satisfied customers, both for repeat business and referrals.
9. What do you consider the most successful source of new
business?
Professional association contacts. These have resulted in the most lucrative
contracts.
