Last week we covered getting your first client and what that process will probably look like (https://hashnode.com/post/clis7604j000509kz55cg3t6v). Today I will go over how to get the most out of each completed website. My goal is to help you see how each client is a catapult into your next client.
The most valuable currency
After getting your first client, you have not only made money, but you have gained something far more valuable. TRUST. You have established a beacon in that client's location that lets others know that you are reputable. If you aren't using this to your advantage then you are missing a massive amount of opportunities.
The ripple effect
It's time to make a new hitlist with businesses around your beacon client. When reaching out to those potential clients, you should work this into your pitch. I would recommend something like this:
"Hey, my name is {yourName}. I'm a software engineer specializing in web development. I am wrapping up a project with {beaconClient} down the road and I thought that you could also benefit from {selling points for beacon client}. "
It doesn't have to look exactly like this, but here are some of the key points to take away:
Somebody they know trusts you
Their competition is actively growing
You highlight issues that they could be tackling with your help
The sign in the yard
Security systems always come with a little sign that goes in the yard. These signs serve multiple purposes. They let intruders know what's up, but they also let the neighbors know who to call for a security system. While doing door-to-door sales, we would sometimes ask the house on the corner if we could put the sign in their yard. This would help us sell the rest of the neighborhood a security system.
If you find yourself struggling to get paid clients in your area, then it might be time to donate a landing page to a store in a good location just to get that beacon client. I'm not one for doing free work, but it is a strategy to consider.
Conclusion
I hope that this helps some of you create a larger network that will eventually start to bring in clients by itself. You will be surprised how quickly your reach grows. Feel free to drop some feedback in the comments, and let me know if you find this kind of stuff valuable.