With summer drawing to an end and farmer’s markets bursting with produce, it’s easy to remember to buy local. But the local movement can apply to much more than supporting local farmers. Why not give your freelance career a ‘local’ push?

Sure, one great part of freelancing is the ability to do work with any client, anywhere. After all, there’s no shortage of jobs if your market spans the globe! But at the same time, building a name right in your own hometown can become your mainstay. Once you’ve done business successfully with a few local clients, word of mouth takes over.

Begin your own local push to build your name in and around your hometown. Here are six ways to get started:

Print Stationary

Print some notepads with your logo and basic contact information. Use this anytime you need to leave a good, old-fashioned paper note: teachers, mailman, dentist. Give the notepads freely to friends and family members (holiday gifts?). Don’t forget to consider local printers for your materials.

Auction Your Services

Auctions have become a popular fundraiser at many schools. When you hear of a school or other good cause holding an auction, put your services up for auction. Donate something specific: a free web site consultation, three hours of training, preparation of a basic, or a one-page mailer.

Advertise

Think outside the box–advertising isn’t just for newspapers and TV. Your local high school usually sells ad space in their sports flyers or yearbooks. Even if you don’t have a student, send in an ad and get your name before dozens of parents, school administrators, and teachers.

Sponsor a Team

Their jerseys aren’t emblazoned with the name of their sponsor anymore, but youth sports teams still depend on contributions from local businesses to keep them going. They’ll typically thank their sponsors on the team web site or in the game programs. Or who knows? Maybe you will see your logo on the back of a jersey.

Be an Activist

Find a local cause you believe in – historical commission, school committee, planning board – and become involved. You won’t make money directly, but you will meet people and open opportunities, while hopefully doing something satisfying.

Teach

One of the best ways to establish yourself as a local expert in your field is to teach. Approach your local community center or evening school and suggest a course related to your field. Present it from both ends of the spectrum: a basic introduction for newcomers, and a more experienced class for those already in the know.

- by Debbie Swanson