How to Generate Income as a Private Investigator

Contemporary private investigators must also be savvy marketers.

The popular image of the private investigator who sits by the phone -- waiting for clients to call -- has more in common with movies than real life. A current-day private investigator knows that sitting idly -- waiting for a customer to call or send an email -- means he is wasting time better spent marketing his services. Free, online marketing opportunities frequently help private investigators generate income.

Instructions

1. Update your website. Web crawlers love new content. Add a photo, list new investigative services and promote free techniques for readers. .

2. Launch a blog that shows you "in action." Add posts about recently solved cases, or state-of-the-art tools used in your practice.

3. Utilize social networking sites to generate income. According to a 2009 study by the University of Maryland's Robert H. Smith School of Business , 61 percent of businesses engaged new clients via social media. Keep posts brief, link to your investigative website and blog and use opportunities to network with other investigators and potential clients.

4. Publicize your services. Free, online public relation services provide templates and instructions for writing customized PR releases. Plug new services you're offering, highlight how you solved a complex case or announce the hiring of a new associate.

5. Join forums geared toward private investigators; ask your professional peers for recommendations. After joining a forum, introduce yourself and your services; stay engaged in professional conversations. Check in at least once a day to develop business contacts and potential clients.

References

• "University of Maryland: Robert H. Smith School of Business"; Social Media Adoption by U.S. Small Businesses; February 2010