With today’s economy, times are tough for a lot of people.  Consumers are cutting back on all things that are not absolutely essential.  That’s why people like designers and artists need to work extra hard to market their businesses. 

You must find creative and cost efficient ways to promote yourself.  For example, an artist could upload some of his best work and create custom mouse pads or key chains that feature his work.  A photographer could showcase his work by including some recent portraits on a postcard for potential customers.  Designing custom marketing materials is easy and inexpensive.  Simply upload images or customize online templates. 

A quality business card never goes out of style either.