How to Get Your First 100 Customers for a New Business

Entrepreneurship is very attractive, however, attracting the first customers to your business can be extremely hard for a startup company.

Fortunately, you do not have to spend thousands of dollars on marketing in order to attract the first 100 clients. Having the knowledge of your target audience, doing the proper marketing, and creating an unforgettable customer experience will allow a small business to slowly create a customer base.

Below, you will find practical tips which will help you attract your first 100 customers in the USA.

1. Define Your Ideal Customer

Before seeking for customers, you should determine exactly what type of customers you want to attract.

Here are some questions you can answer before you go searching:

* Who is the customer I need to attract?
* What problem can I solve for the customer?
* Where does my target customer spend his time?
* How much money does he have?
* Why would this customer choose me?

For example, a local cleaning company might target busy homeowners, landlords, property managers, or small offices instead of trying to market to everyone.

A specific target audience makes your marketing more focused and effective.

2. Start From Your Network

You may get some of your first clients from people you personally know.

Tell your friends, relatives, former workmates, and other connections about your new company. However, do not just sell yourself out. Tell them what you do and ask if they know anybody who may need your services.

Word-of-mouth recommendations may work great since people tend to trust businesses more when their work was recommended to them by somebody they know.

3. Develop Your Professional Online Presence

Customers are likely to look you up online before getting in touch with you.

At least think about having:

* An official website;
* An email of your company;
* Social media profiles relevant to your target audience;
* A Google Business Profile if applicable;
* Contact information clearly indicated.

Your website should quickly tell your potential client what you offer, who your target audience is, where you work, and why they should use your services.

4. Do Local Marketing

If you have a business that operates only in certain locations, then local marketing would be very helpful.

Establish contacts in the local businesses, network in the local events, join the local activities, and get along with other businessmen.

Another option here is creating the location-oriented content online.

For instance, a landscaping business can create the relevant content that will be helpful for the homeowners in their area.

The idea here is to become noticeable to the potential customers.

5. Ask for Referrals

Customers that were satisfied with your work can become your best source for attracting more business.

Once you provided the customer with something valuable, ask them if they happen to know anyone who needs your service.

In addition, you can implement a referral program in which satisfied clients will get some kind of reward for bringing you new clients.

The main point here is to simplify the process of referral as much as possible.

6. Make a Strong Offer for New Customers

Your new customer has something holding them back because they cannot yet trust you.

That's when a limited offer for new customers is a powerful tool to break through this wall.

It might be:

* A discount on first-time service
* Free consultation
* Trial offer
* Starter package
* Free quote

But avoid competing purely by the price. Your offer must show the benefits of your product or service.

7. Choose Social Media Wisely

Not all social media channels should be used.

Select those which are more likely to attract your target audience.

Instead of pushing your company on every single day, share interesting content showing off your knowledge.

For instance, a home improvement company may share useful maintenance advice, before-and-after projects, common mistakes people make.

Interesting content is an excellent way to build trust even before being a customer.

8. Build Business Partnerships with Other Businesses

Partnerships may assist you in reaching people whom you cannot normally reach.

Select companies that target a similar clientele but do not compete against you.

For instance, the wedding photographer may partner with the wedding planner, venue, florist, and other event companies.

A real estate services provider may partner with property managers, contractors, mortgage experts, or home inspectors depending on the situation.

The right partnerships will allow you to have a regular stream of referrals.

9. Get Reviews and Testimonials

Social proof is critical when it comes to a startup.

Once you deliver a good service to your client, request a review from him.

You should have authentic reviews on your website and other business pages.

They will give your potential clients an idea of what to expect from your business.

Do not manufacture fake reviews or testimonials.

10. Pay Attention to the Customer Experience

Reaching the hundredth customer is just the start.

If customers have an unpleasant experience, they might not buy from you again or refer you to others.

Pay attention to small but important details:

* Fast responses
* Clear communication
* Deliver on your promise
* Transparency of costs
* Professional problem solving
* Follow-ups after the sale

The good experience of the client will ensure the future of your business and its recommendations.

Monitor What Worked

It should be noted that all marketing techniques won't yield identical results.

You need to monitor the source of your clients.

For instance:

* 25 customers by referrals
* 20 via Google
* 15 via social networks
* 20 via local contacts
* 10 by networking
* 10 by advertising

Having determined the most effective ways to find customers, you'll know where to put your efforts and money.

Conclusion

Acquiring the first 100 customers does not demand much money to spend on advertising. It needs an accurate knowledge of your target audience, persistent work with the audience, customer support, and patience.

Begin from your own contacts, create a professional online representation, conduct referrals and local advertising, produce valuable content, and collaborate with complementary firms.