Create alliances with all the local printers you can. While some of them may have in-house art departments, some of them get dreams of so-called camera-ready artwork that is in no way camera-ready and needs your help. Set up mutual discounts, if you can. Offer to take subcontract work from ad agencies and other design studios in your area.
Commit to your reputation. Some artists develop crazy ideas like, they’re artists! They aren’t expected to show up on time or meet deadlines! Repeat customers are the most valuable asset you will ever have.
Make friends with other designers in your area. I promise that they are allies, not competitors. There will be plenty of work to go around.
Get a website designed and have your portfolio listed in it with description about the project . When the phone rings, smile before you pick it up. The person on the other end of the line will hear it.
Create profiles and be active in social media platforms, designer communities platforms like Behance, Dribble etc.