How to Get Your First Client as a Solopreneur (Even If You Have No Experience)

Landing your first paying client as a solopreneur can feel like a chicken-and-egg problem (I know, I was there once). Clients want to work with someone experienced, but how do you get experience if no one hires you?

Relax, I have some good news for you. You don’t need years of experience to land your first client. You just need the right approach, positioning, and action steps to build trust and show potential clients that you can deliver results.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to landing your first client—even if you’re starting from scratch.

1. Leverage Your Existing Skills and Strengths

You may not have paid experience in your new business yet, but you do have skills.

• Think about past jobs, side projects, or personal experiences where you’ve already helped solve a problem related to your new service.

• Identify what specific outcome you can help clients achieve.

• Package your skills into an offer that clearly communicates the value you bring.

Example: If you’re starting as a freelance writer, but you’ve written reports or presentations in a corporate job, you already have writing experience—you just need to position it differently.

2. Offer Free or Discounted Work for Testimonials

Before landing high-paying clients, you need proof of results. If you don’t have case studies yet, consider:

• Doing one or two free or discounted projects for your ideal clients.

• Asking for a testimonial or referral in exchange for your work.

• Documenting the results so you can use them as portfolio pieces.

Example: If you’re starting a coaching business, offer a free 30-minute session in exchange for a testimonial. Results + credibility = more clients.

3. Use Your Network (Without Feeling Salesy)

Your first client is likely already in your network—you just have to let people know what you do.

• Post on social media (LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter) and share your new business.

• Reach out to past colleagues, friends, and connections who may need your service or know someone who does.

• Offer to help first—giving value before asking for business builds trust.

Example: Instead of saying, “I just started offering social media management services. Do you know anyone who needs help?” try:

"I noticed your business is active on social media but might need some engagement strategies. I’d love to share a few ideas with you—no strings attached!"

When you provide value first, people are more likely to say yes.

4. Get Visible in Online Communities

Find where your ideal clients hang out online and start engaging.

• Join Facebook Groups, LinkedIn Groups, or Reddit communities related to your industry.

• Answer questions and offer genuine help (without spamming your services).

• Share free insights or mini case studies to showcase your knowledge.

Example: If you’re starting a web design business, join groups where small business owners ask for website help. Offer advice freely, and when they’re ready to hire, you’ll be the go-to person.

5. Create a Simple Portfolio or Offer Page

Even if you have no experience, you need a place where potential clients can learn about your services.

• Set up a basic landing page on your website or a free tool like Carrd or Notion.

• Include who you help, what problem you solve, and how to work with you.

• Add any testimonials, sample work, or a clear call-to-action (CTA) like “Book a Free Consultation.”

Example: If you’re a new branding consultant, create a one-page website that explains:

“I help small business owners clarify their brand identity so they can stand out online. Book a free 15-minute strategy session here.”

Keep it simple and professional—clients need to see clarity and confidence in your offer.

6. Pitch Clients Directly (Without Being Spammy)

While inbound strategies (posting content, networking) work, direct outreach can help you land a client faster.

• Find businesses that fit your ideal client profile.

• Send a short, value-driven message that speaks to their needs.

• Offer a low-risk first step (a free audit, a strategy call, or a small starter package).

Example: If you’re a copywriter, instead of saying:

❌ “Hi, I’m a new copywriter—do you need any writing services?”

Try this:

✔ “Hey [Name], I saw your website and love what you’re doing! I noticed a few areas where stronger copy could improve conversions. Would you be open to a free 5-minute audit where I share my suggestions?”

The key? Make it about THEM, not YOU.

7. Turn One Client into More Clients

Once you land your first client, use that success to get even more clients.

• Ask for referrals – Happy clients will gladly recommend you.

• Get a testimonial – Social proof builds credibility for your next pitch.

• Offer a retainer package – Instead of one-time work, create an ongoing offer.

Example: If you start by managing one client’s social media for a month, pitch an ongoing monthly service before the contract ends.

Final Thoughts: Start Before You Feel Ready

Getting your first client as a solopreneur isn’t about luck—it’s about being proactive, positioning yourself effectively, and showing potential clients that you can solve their problem.

• You don’t need years of experience—you need proof of value.

• You don’t need to wait for clients to come to you—you need to put yourself out there.

• You don’t need a perfect portfolio—you need one person to say yes.

Take action today, and your first paying client will come sooner than you think!

And hey, if you need help, I'm always here. You can book a 1:1 call with me to go over your strategy together.