Starting a new freelance gig, agency, or service-based business? You’re probably asking the question we all start with:
“How do I get my first client?”
It’s a fair question. And yes—it can be intimidating. But the truth is, that first client doesn't have to be the hardest. You just need to approach it with a combination of strategy, confidence, and consistency. Here's how:
1. Start with Who You Know
Before trying to attract strangers on the internet, think:
“Who already knows, likes, and trusts me?”
It could be:
- Former co-workers
- Friends or family
- Your Instagram or LinkedIn network
- Past customers (if you’re pivoting from another business)
Don’t overthink it. A simple message like:
“Hey, I just started offering [your service]. Do you or anyone you know need help with this?”
This personal, honest approach often works faster than cold outreach.
2. Offer a "Beta" or Pilot Project
You can position your first few gigs as a “beta launch” or founder’s rate.
This takes the pressure off both sides—your client gets a deal, and you get experience/testimonials.
Example:
“I’m offering this at a discounted founder’s rate for the first 3 people who want to work with me in exchange for feedback/testimonial.”
This approach also creates urgency and builds credibility.
3. Make it Stupid Easy to Say Yes
Your first offer should be:
- Clear
- Low risk
- High perceived value
Think:
- One simple package
- Clear pricing
- Fast results
For instance, if you're a Shopify expert, offer a “store audit + 3-day turnaround + simple improvement checklist” for a flat price. Boom—instantly more appealing than vague hourly rates.
4. Get Active in Communities
Join Facebook Groups, Reddit threads, Discord servers, and Slack communities where your ideal clients hang out.
But here’s the catch:
Don’t just pitch—give value first. Answer questions, share tips, and subtly showcase your skills.
People notice helpfulness. Clients come to you once they see you consistently show up as an expert.
5. Cold Outreach (But Make It Human)
Yes, cold emails or DMs still work—if you do them right.
Here’s a super simple formula:
- Start with a compliment or personal note
- Identify a problem they might be facing
- Offer a quick, tailored solution
- Keep it short
- End with a soft call-to-action (not “salesy”)
Example:
“Hey Sarah, I saw you just launched a Shopify store—looks awesome. One thing I noticed: your order tracking page is generic. I help stores personalize that to boost customer loyalty and reduce support tickets. Want me to send you a few examples?”
This is where something like Rush comes in handy. If you're working with ecommerce stores, suggesting tools like Rush for order tracking adds value to your service offering—and opens the door to monetizing even your advice.
6. Leverage Your Own Website or Social Profiles
Post about what you’re offering. Create simple content that educates your audience and shares results.
Even one or two client results (even if they’re discounted or beta clients) can build momentum fast. Show your process. Share before/after shots. Talk about the results—not just the work.
7. Get Testimonials Early
Even if it’s a free or heavily discounted gig—ask for a testimonial.
That first piece of social proof gives you massive leverage. Use it everywhere—on your website, your proposals, your social profiles, even inside cold emails.
Bonus Tip: Add Extra Value with Tools Like Rush
If you’re helping clients in ecommerce or anything post-purchase related, adding tools like Rush to your service stack can increase your perceived value and client results. Rush helps Shopify stores offer branded order tracking pages, upsells, and proactive delivery updates.
Even just recommending Rush to a store owner can lead to:
- Better client results
- More repeat business
- Extra income (yes, they offer an affiliate program too)
It’s a smart move to align your services with tools that do heavy lifting for your clients.
Final Words: Just Start
Getting your first client isn’t about having the perfect website or polished portfolio—it’s about starting conversations, showing up, and delivering real value.
Don’t wait until everything’s perfect. Start with what you’ve got. The first client opens the door to the second... and then it gets easier (promise).
Affiliate Disclaimer: Some links in this article may be affiliate links. That means if you decide to use a service I recommend—like Rush—I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. I only recommend tools I believe are genuinely helpful. Your support keeps this content free and real—thank you!
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