HOW TO RESEARCH AND USE POTENTIAL CLIENTS...

1. Make a note of publishers/producers when looking at books, magazines or cards.
2. Look through illustrator website such as Behance or Under-Consideration to see what others are doing to get themselves exposed.
3. Look in art directories such as AOI and Bikini Lists.
4. Don't be shy to contact companies that produce one's favourite books/cards/plushies/etc.
5. Find contact details for art directors or editors and if the information seems out of date then e-mail or phone to check if the details have changed.
6. Only send to a company work that would be appropriate for its needs.
7. If you are unsuccessful with one client, don't be afraid to ask where you would be suitable for and who you could possibly contact.
8. It doesn't hurt to swap a few clients and contacts with friends in the business too. If you were unsuccessful, there's no point in keeping a client hidden.
9. Try and focus your profession into conversations where appropriate.
10. CARRY BUSINESS CARDS/CONTACT DETAILS ON YOU AT ALL TIMES!
11. Make a strong online presence. Comment on blogs and communities and promote pages.
12. Keep positive connections with clients who have used you in the past or have helped to refer you to other clients.
13. Small freebies don't hurt to send to your most reliable clients.
14. Enter competitions and ALWAYS aim for first prize!
15. Consider charity work/commissions too. It doesn't pay but it gets you exposed.