Okay, so this isn’t directly about photography, but please bear with me.
This year marks my sixteenth year since starting life as a professional freelance photographer. I’ve learned a lot of lessons along the way, and one of the biggest has been the importance of having a great network around me; of colleagues, of support businesses, of friends and contacts. Ultimately, it’s that network that makes my business succeed. It’s those people who refer work to me, who give advice when I need it, who recommend me to strangers, who … basically .. keep me sane. That network extends into the area I live and (mostly) work, and the sense of community that I feel a part of. That’s what’s inspired me to put on an event at the start of the year.
It’s going to take place in Altrincham in a couple of weeks’ time, on Thursday 23rd January starting at 5.30 pm. It’s at the Cresta Court hotel, because it’s a great location – easy to find, plenty of parking and accessible by public transport.
The evening will be in two parts. There’s the opportunity to network and meet new businesses in the Expo section. Several service providers will be there, with advice and information on the kinds of support that small businesses and freelancers rely on. But mostly it’s a chance to turn up, catch up with old faces and meet some new ones. There will be time to mingle, chat and introduce yourself to others there, so please bring plenty of business cards with you.
I’ve also arranged six short presentations, all on different aspects of marketing. When I talk to other small business owners, the common subject is the same: where’s the next job coming from? So, I’ve tried to address that with these short presentations. We’ll look at Marketing Quick Wins; using PR effectively, no matter the size of your budget; how to take and use photos like a Pro; how to improve your presentation skills for that next pitch or networking event; how to win on social media, and how to place yourself to attract the kinds of clients you really want to work with. They’ll be short and sharp, but you’ll take points away from each one that you can immediately start to introduce into your own marketing plans.
Please note that the event is free, but I’m asking you to make a contribution to the Trafford Food Bank by buying a visitor ticket on Eventbrite.
If you’ve any questions about the event, would be interested in exhibiting in the Expo, or just want to know more, feel free to email me at info@martinhambleton.com
I hope to see as many of you as possible there!
