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In an uncertain economy or recession ... those two things are even more important.

First things first; do you know that there is a market for your service?

Next question; are your skills good enough where you can do the work well?

If there is a market and you are good at what you do; then I would say give it a shot solo. Keep all your costs to a minimum and get out there and plug away; here is how I suggest doing that:

1. Work with what you have. In other words, use the computer and software that you currently have. Even if it means not taking on more complex jobs (that may pay more) ... stick to jobs that you can do well working with the equipment you have now. Don't go out and spend any money that you don't have to. Later on once you have some jobs done, can ask for referrals and testimonials from clients you've done a good job for and have some cash built up; then you can consider upgrading equipment to go after more complex and/or better paying jobs.
2. Do spend money on simple business cards. Inexpensive business cards can be ordered for less than $30. As a graphics designer you can probably do a good job on your own cards but I recommend keeping them simple and to the point. Don't dress them up with a bunch of graphics or illustrations. Keep it business like and, again, to the point.
3. Do not spend money on advertising. Market your self directly by contacting business owners, churches, any other organization that comes to mind that has a routine need for sending out materials to their customers or members. If they don't need your services always ask for referrals for any work that you can do to get you started.
4. Contact larger graphic design firms and see if you can help them with any over-flow (jobs too small for them or that they can't get to because they are booked up). It helps if you have a portfolio of work (does not need to be jobs you've done for others ... if need be create your portfolio using work that you have done for your own training or pleasure ... just make sure that it is work that would show your commercial capabilities).
5. Never work on spec (that means doing the work without getting paid anything up front and expecting to get paid on completion). Always charge at least 1/3 of the total as the initial payment in order to start the project; then 1/3 at the preliminary draft and 1/3 balance on completion.

Whichever way you go, good luck and best wishes to you.

Dennis Lowery

Adducent, Inc.