Many of you are very close to getting your businesses underway. You’ve written business plans, spoken to potential customers, and learned as much as you can about being a successful entrepreneurs. That was me, six months ago – wide eyed, bushy tailed, and ready to snatch my first client.

But after months of pounding the pavement, I was still without a client. Frankly, it was depressing. I wondered if my hard work would pay off. But one day I got that call and landed a contract that would not only give my business a huge injection of cash, it gave me the confidence boost I needed.

The road to winning my first client was bumpy, but ultimately rewarding. It wouldn’t have happened without a little luck and a lot of hard work.  

Here’s what I learned:

• Make meaningful connections - Take opportunities for people to get to know you in meaningful ways. I presented my business plan at the Center for Women and Enterprise to a group of panelists.  One of the panelists connected me to my client.  I would not have the client if I had not presented.

• Be persistent, not pushy - I checked back with my contacts once every two-three weeks. It kept me on their minds without annoying them.

• Be careful donating services and products - I’ve had bad experiences donating my services to potential clients. In this case, I donated my services to a non-profit that my client supported. I was able to show off my talents without undervaluing my services. 
  

• Marketing matters - I never realized how much a great business card, logo, letterhead, thank you card, portfolio, resume, web site, and wardrobe can impact your business until I had those things. I was instantly treated as a professional and serious business owner. And no one quibbled over my prices!