After figuring out how to do web design, it's time to get clients to work for. This is fairly challenging in the beginning so this will give you a place to start. Continue on and you'll have new clients rolling in soon!
Create a pitch for your business. This is what you need to say to potential clients to get them interested in you. Allow them to know what exactly it is that you're going to help them with and also include example sites you've worked on, if possible. You're going to need your pricing and also testimonials or reviews from people that have already used your service.
Business cards are something that you can easily order and make online. You can also get a local printing company to help you. These are great for when you run into someone that needs your information. They are less likely to be lost than a scrap of paper too.
If you're not meeting potential clients online and you need to go to an office, dress professionally as a sign of respect. It's pretty much your job interview, so you need to clean up as best you can. Make sure to show a lot of respect and do not start saying too much until you are asked about it. You don't want to say you're starting price is this when theirs was a lot higher.
Get on Craigslist and start posting. Use your business pitch but remember to keep your e-mail somewhat obscure. There are a lot of spammers on that site as well as people that will try to waste your time. Only look for realistic offers from potential clients, and make sure you're going to get paid. It's hard to network online without some kind of upfront payment first, so try to be reasonable but ask for a little money first before you start to be sure they're legit. Otherwise, Craigslist is okay for a little bit of business.
Get yourself on popular social networking websites to promote what you do. Since these are more popular now than ever, it's easy to reach millions of people without even needing to do much. They give you a few forms to fill out and your site goes live. Since this is your business and not your personal page, keep conversations friendly and business related.
Visit local places and have your business cards on hand. People that operate local business usually don't have the cash to get a giant site built, but they still wish to be online. You could ask for a little bit of money, but depending on the size of the store this could also be a great chance to build your first few sites for a trade of a service or product they sell.
After looking for clients using the tips above, you should have success if you have web design skills. There shouldn't be a problem getting them if you just try your best. Take these tips and get out there!