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4. Do some research. Ever have a conversation with a colleague, and "not really know what they’re talking about?" Say they mention ‘viral marketing’- well, you’ve heard
term, sure, but what does it mean, really? "AdSense articles... what is that?" you wonder. Down time is perfect time to get informed and updated! Do a Google search on all those mysterious buzzwords you’ve been hearing. Go through your old emails and catch up on reading. Surf around; bookmark some good sites. You'll be pleasantly surprised at what you learn in just a few hours!
5. Join a Network. Web networking’s way to go... use your "free day" to make some new contacts and maybe even a few friends. Participate in a forum discussion where you can share your knowledge as well as learn from others! If you’re already part of a network, take this time to reconnect with people who might become future clients or business associates. When you least expect it, they’ll come out of hiding with an exciting work proposition... maybe even on your next "slow day!"
6. Update your website. There is nothing more unprofessional than a website that’s only half-built, or not up-to-date. Still have Christmas imagery bedecking your homepage in March? Get rid of it! Thought about raising your hourly rate but never got around to doing it? Now’s time! Whether it’s adding portfolio samples, improving general design, adding legalese or putting together a Testimonials page from satisfied clients, chances are there’s something that can be done to improve your website and increase your credibility!
7. Buy a present for your business. Got a stash of cash in your PayPal account? Invest a little of it in future of your business. Join a freelance website with a good reputation. Take a 2-day course in something you’ve always wanted to know more about. Gifts that will broaden your professional horizons and ultimately increase sales are money well spent!
8. Learn how to become a Website Affiliate. Build business relationships, get exposure, share information and get paid for it! Affiliate Programs are usually free to join, and with a few clicks of mouse, you can supplement your income simply by driving traffic to other people’s websites. How’s that for easy cash?
9. Create a Company Newsletter. If you don’t already have one, downtime is your chance to build a contact list and put together a company newsletter. With a little investigation you'll discover that many websites offer free trial periods where you can learn to use their contact base and newsletter-template software. And there are tons of sites on web that offer free articles that you can print in your publication. Maybe you can even make use of those articles you wrote last time nothing was going on!
Now, what are you waiting for? You’ve only got half-a-slow-day left to get going on these projects. Happy Freelancing!
Copyright 2005 Dina Giolitto. Use with permission.
Dina Giolitto is a New-Jersey based Copywriting Consultant with nine years' industry experience. Her current focus is web content and web marketing for a multitude of products and services although the bulk of her experience lies in retail for big-name companies like Toys"R"Us. Visit http://www.wordfeeder.com for rates and samples.
