As a business owner, you keenly understand that client and customer connections are a critical first step to increasing your brand's growth and recognition. But these connections are even more vital for small-business owners — especially those who operate as consultants or freelancers.

While freelancers, consultants, and small business owners don't always operate in a traditional workplace, you can still utilize proven marketing tools. The tried-and-true print materials from FedEx Office can help you reach new clients with these three tips.

Networking events are potential gold mines for consultants and freelancers, and a distinctive business card is a must-have for such occasions. Business cards are highly cost-effective, and FedEx Office offers a variety of designs, finishes, and paper thicknesses for every budget. Our value business card collection is full of simple and affordable designs. And from beauty services to finance and insurance, FedEx Office premium business cards have industry-specific designs for your specialty.

Use a brochure to outline freelancers' and consultants' services and highlight why customers and clients should choose to work with you. The tri-fold design of FedEx Office brochures can be easily placed in a folder, set up in a table-side brochure holder, or even mailed out in bulk due to their standard 8.5" x11" size. Since it's fully customizable, you can upload your own design to create a brochure that best showcases your business. Whether that's a caterer's sample menu, stunning photographer images, or even a before-and-after room makeover from an up-and-coming interior designer – the possibilities begin with you.

Saying freelancers and consultants have busy schedules is a pretty massive understatement. For the moments when you are unable to interact with customers and clients directly, direct mail services help you target the right customers while saving valuable time and money.

With our direct mail services, consultants and freelancers can create a postcard, letter, or self-mailer, whichever works for your budget, and the information you want to share with a personalized message. For a more targeted approach focusing on select geographic areas, FedEx Office offers every door direct mail option. Both are simple, cost-effective approaches that deliver your name, services, coupons, specials, and more directly into the hands of the clients you want to work with.

Consultants, freelancers, and small business owners have special needs when marketing their businesses, and FedEx Office has the print options you need to do it right. Visit your local store for an in-person consultation, or get going now with an online order.