How Do I Get New Clients and Leads?

Do you have any ideas for getting new clients? Or business leads? Share..

[antonaf]

Hello everyone.
I'd like to get some advice on getting clients and leads.

1) Which is best? Should I hunt for clients by reaching out to those that may need my services or should I be the hunted and build a web presence that drive traffic to my website?

2) What is your best method for finding new clients or leads?

3) Which works best for you? Short, simple, and to the point or more detailed communications?

Please add anymore advice that may be useful. Thanks for your answers!

[cabowabo]

I would start by joining the Chamber of Commerce. That has been a great lead source for me back when I was taking clients. Also, find a group that is involved in a charity you support with your values. Offer your services at a hefty discounted rate (don't do it for free, you will get into problems there). Get noticed and have them promote you as part of the deal. Get involved in your local community. Shake hands. Talk to people. Be picky and get the good clients.

Good luck!

[Fortune Hunter]

Should I hunt for clients by reaching out to those that may need my services or should I be the hunted and build a web presence that drive traffic to my website?

Both. A good business development strategy involves both hunting and farming. Farming is done through things like a solid web site, direct mail, email marketing, etc. Hunting is things like networking and cold calling. I have personally done items from both of these categories to get and keep my business growing. If you are just starting out you may need to focus more on hunting to get the first batch of clients and then supplement your growth with farming.

[minnapple]

I became the resident internet marketing expert on a specific forum, and that really launched my business.
I never pitched my services, instead I built my reputation.

You could try industry specific forums.

[bilalseo]

i think you should start a marketing campaign and you may need targeted areas where you need to put your efforts... before you leave you have to write first a complete marketing plan. marketing plan would lead your campaign strongly and will be a supporting thumb.