Building new markets

One quick way is to participate in online discussion forums for that market. Don't confuse chat rooms with forums. In chat rooms, content of little value is exchanged. In discussion forums, people who need help post questions - and others reply with ideas, hints, resources and links to sites with more information.

Prospects often turn to these forums times of need. When they see your messages offering advice (which positions you as an expert in your field), they may go further and contact you about a project.

Also, writers go to discussion forums looking for information, sources and subjects for their articles and books. Regularly dedicate time to forums. They're a great way to establish your expertise -- both within and beyond the online community.