How To Attract Your First
Clients in A New Business
It’s a giant step, but you’ve made your decision. Next, how are those first clients going to come through the door?
Whether you’re a tradesperson who has opted to go at it alone, an IT consultant lured into a contracting career, or a budding entrepreneur who wishes to build the next big tech company, you all have something in common: you need clients.
Chances are, you’ve left behind a career of security, whereby your past employer had a regular stream of said customers. Well, it’s now over to you – where do you start?
Start With Your Network
The first place to start is with your own personal and professional network. This is a group of people you know either through your work, social or personal life. It might be your Great Uncle who operates in a similar profession that could use your services, or it might be a work acquaintance you crossed paths with several years ago.
Your network is a great place to start because you already have a relationship with these people, and they are likely to be more receptive to your new business. Once upon a time, you may have had to scroll through old contact books. Now, with the power of LinkedIn and other similar technology, it’s never been easier.
You’ll be surprised at how willing people are to help. Even if they don’t need your services, they might know someone else who does to get the ball rolling. In other words, you can benefit indirectly.
Give Yourself Credibility
This is going to vary depending on the industry you are involved in. On the most part, most trades have some sort of body you can be attributed to. It might be paying for a general Chamber of Commerce membership, or you might go more specific with becoming CIPR accredited (if you’re involved in public relations, for example). You can also highlight your credibility by having all of the necessary insurance and paperwork that reassures clients that you’re someone who takes their trade seriously and their business is safe with you.
Attend Industry Events
Another suggestion is to attend industry events. These are gatherings of people from your industry, whether it’s accountants, web designers or farmers – pretty much every industry will have one.
Events are a great place to network with other professionals and learn about the latest industry trends. They’re also a great place to market your new business. Many events will have a trade show where you can exhibit your services, and some may also have a speaker program where you can give a presentation on your business.
Showcase Your Work Online
Whether it’s in the form of a website, blog or social media page, it should go without saying that fast growth can be facilitated through a shrewd online marketing approach. Most people start with the free option, but if you’re serious (and desperately need) to land clients, it might be an idea to put some money behind adverts as well.
Your online presence should demonstrate your skills and expertise in your industry. It should also highlight your past work, as potential clients will want to see what you’re capable of.
