How Finding Social Media Marketing Clients is Like Making Friends
It is so hard to make friends as an adult.
Before moving to DC, I lived in Northern Virginia for 12 years- the longest I’ve lived anywhere. Even still, I didn’t go to school on the east coast so the friends I’ve made have mostly been through work.
And when you work for yourself? It’s even harder to make friends.
But it only takes one.
One friend to introduce you to their friends. One friend to start getting invited to events, to find interests you have in common, and to build a network you can rely on.
The same is true of finding social media marketing clients.
It only takes one.
My First Client: Ann Beck
I honestly don’t remember who my very first client was.
I started offering social media services on the side while I was still working my last office job- but my first client after I put in my two weeks notice to go full time with my own social media marketing business?
My first client that I was so nervous to deliver my proposal, for fear she wouldn’t think my skills and value were worth the money?
That was Ann Beck. Ann is a real estate agent at the brokerage office I was the Direct of Social Media for before starting Ink & Olive.
While I was working that job, I offered office hours each week, where I would make myself available to help real estate agents update their social media profiles, help them plan content, or just answer their social media marketing questions.
Most weeks, I would sit in the conference room, working on other projects because no one would show up.
That is, unless Ann attended. She always praised my knowledge and said how lucky the office was to have me. And when I told her that I was leaving the office to start my own business, she said she’d been waiting for the day that she could hire me.
And when I went to her house the following week to deliver my proposal, she hired me on the spot.
The Snowball Effect of Finding Your First Social Media Marketing Client
Once I signed Ann, everything changed.
I had more confidence sending out proposals. I had tangible results to showcase, which made it easier to pitch my services to others. And not only that, Ann continued to be one of my biggest cheerleaders. She left glowing reviews, referred me to her colleagues, and said kind things about me whether I was in the room or not.
“Working with Ink & Olive is an experience that you should not deny yourself or your business! Sarah works more as a business coach first and then leverages her unique insights on digital marketing and graphic design to develop compelling content that gets results! It is rare to find a professional who truly listens; understands the outcomes her clients desire and then goes on to deliver!”
-Ann Beck
One client soon became two, then three. And before I knew it, I had a thriving social media marketing business that allowed me to work from anywhere.
How to Land Your First Client
If you haven’t signed your first social media marketing client yet, don’t give up. You’re closer to a breakthrough than you think!
Here’s how to get started:
1. Niche Down
Finding your first client starts with knowing exactly who you want to work with. When you niche down, you can focus your messaging on a specific audience, making it easier for potential clients to see you as the solution to their problem.
For example, my niche started with real estate professionals because of my background working within the real estate industry. I could speak directly to their pain points, like not having time to manage their social media or not knowing how to turn listing appointments into engaging content.
If you’re struggling to choose a niche, think about:
✨ Your professional experience
✨ Your hobbies and interests
✨ The industries or demographics you enjoy working with
Remember: You’re not stuck with this niche forever, but starting with a focused audience makes it much easier to find your first social media marketing client.
2. Network Strategically
Another way building your social media marketing business is a lot like making friends? You have to put yourself out there and be open to opportunities.
Here are some ways to network:
Attend industry events: Whether in person or online, events are a great way to meet potential clients.
Leverage your existing connections: Let your friends, family, and professional network know what you do. Referrals often come from unexpected places!
Engage on social media: Comment on posts, join conversations in Facebook groups, and DM potential clients to introduce yourself.
Remember, your goal isn’t just to sell. It’s to build relationships.
3. Create Content That Shows Your Value
Potential clients need to know, like, and trust you before they’ll hire you. The easiest way to build that trust is through valuable content.
Start by sharing:
Case studies or testimonials (even if they’re from past jobs or free projects you’ve done to gain experience).
Tips and tricks related to your niche (e.g., “How to Optimize Your Instagram Bio for Real Estate Leads”).
Behind-the-scenes content that highlights your expertise and work process.
Consistency is key. Even when it feels like no one is watching, keep showing up.
Don’t Give Up
I know how discouraging it can feel when you’re just starting out and haven’t landed your first social media marketing client. Yet.
But here’s the truth: You’re closer than you think.
Your next email, Instagram post, or networking event could be the one that lands you that first client. And once you do, the confidence and momentum will follow.
Remember, just like making friends, finding clients takes time. But all it takes is one to start the snowball effect.
Ready to Start Your Social Media Marketing Business?
Whether you’re working to land your first client or ready to grow your social media marketing business to six figures, the key is to stay consistent, keep learning, and never give up.
And if you need a little extra help, I’m here for you.
My free masterclass, Choosing Your Profitable Niche can help you narrow your focus and sign that first (or your next) client! Sign up below to watch on demand: