The Business: Getting Clients

And now part 3 of my mutliple part series about my business, JLC Web Design. Often times people (fellow web developers or friends) ask me how I get clients. Of course the most important thing for a business to do is develop a client base or a niche. Select who you want to market to, who you want your clients to be. For me, it is small businesses and organizations. Businesses that might not have a website, but want one, or want their start up one redone. I did this for a few reasons- When I first got started, I still needed to build my general skills as a web developer. By offering my services to smaller companies, it would give me the chance to practice my skills, as well as offer them a nice website at an affordable price. Also, as one guy running a small business himself, my choosing to work with small businesses would give me the chance to work one-on-one with the owners, as well as network a little.

So, I have selected my niche, but that does not guarantee me clients. Basically, I have gotten all of my clients by word-of-mouth. But that is because I put my name out there as a developer. My first client came when these people I knew said our parish was looking for a website and they knew I was good with computers. Since then, I set up a website, made business cards, etc. Because of that, I have gotten clients at home, at school and even in NYC. And of course the more clients you get, the more people see your skills and know your name.

Of course, to keep getting clients, you have to do a good job- even the smallest job can lead to greater things. You have to leave your clients with the feeling that you really helped them and gave them your best. Then they will recommend you to a friend or fellow business person. My friend’s father wanted a website- I gave him a good deal, gave him my best work and he has recommended me to a number of people.

So to recap- Select a niche, put yourself out there, always do your best work. Building a client base takes time, but you will find that it is well worth it in the end. Later.