HOW to Attract Clients When You're Just Starting Out
Starting a business is exhilarating, but one of the toughest challenges is securing those first few clients. When you're a new and unknown entity, why would anyone take a chance on you? Thankfully, businesses and individuals willing to work with fresh startups do exist—but finding them can be a daunting task.
At Zyla Accountants, we work with many ambitious entrepreneurs who are just getting started, and we understand the hurdles involved in acquiring those crucial early clients. If you’re struggling to land your first few deals, here are some tried-and-tested strategies to help you gain traction.
1. Focus on a Niche
Trying to appeal to everyone when you’re starting out is a surefire way to get lost in the crowd. Instead, narrow your focus to a specific niche where you can solve a particular problem better than anyone else.
For example, if you’re launching an accounting firm, instead of positioning yourself as a generic service provider, consider specialising in a sector with unique accounting needs, such as e-commerce startups or freelancers.
This way, you can deeply understand their pain points, tailor your messaging, and build a loyal customer base. Once you’ve established a foothold, you can always expand your services later.
2. Leverage Your Agility as an Advantage
One of the biggest mistakes new businesses make is pretending to be larger or more established than they really are. The reality is, your early clients often appreciate working with a small, agile business. They like that you can provide personalised service, adapt to their needs quickly, and genuinely care about their success.
Instead of hiding your startup status, embrace it. Let potential clients know they have the opportunity to work directly with the founder or key decision-makers. Many early adopters are excited by the chance to influence the direction of a product or service, so highlight that collaboration as a benefit.
3. Identify and Play to Your Strengths
You may not have years of experience or a huge portfolio, but that doesn’t mean you have nothing to offer. Here are three advantages startups can leverage:
Exceptional Customer Service – Small businesses can provide hands-on, dedicated support that larger firms often struggle to match. Make it clear to potential clients that they will have your full attention and priority.
Adaptability – Unlike larger competitors bogged down by bureaucracy, you can quickly pivot and tailor your service to meet client needs.
Innovative Approach – Position yourself as an industry disruptor offering fresh, modern solutions. Clients who are forward-thinking will appreciate the opportunity to be early adopters of your service.
4. Create an Image of Stability
While you want to embrace your startup status, you also need to instill confidence in potential clients. Here are some ways to do that:
Highlight Your Network – If you have investors, mentors, or advisors, make sure they’re visible on your website and marketing materials. Their credibility can lend weight to your business.
Professional Branding – A well-designed website, a polished email domain, and clear communication can go a long way in establishing trust.
Use Business Tools – Implementing professional invoicing, customer service, and project management software can make your operation look more structured and credible.
Smart Emailing – Even if you’re a one-person team, setting up generic email addresses like support@yourbusiness.com or billing@yourbusiness.com can create the perception of a more established company.
Final Thoughts
Securing your first clients is undoubtedly challenging, but by focusing on a niche, playing to your strengths, and presenting a stable and professional image, you can build credibility and win business. Once you land those first few clients, prioritise exceptional service to turn them into loyal advocates who refer others to your business.
At Zyla Accountants, we work with startups to help them navigate these early stages. If you need support with financial planning, tax efficiency, or business structuring, we’re here to help.
Happy client-hunting!