I’ve recently started a design agency and I’m currently in that weird phase where everything is set up portfolio, branding, website but the real challenge is getting those first few clients through the door.
I’m not completely new to design, but this is my first time trying to turn it into something serious and scalable. Right now, I’m trying to figure out what actually moves the needle early on.
I’ve been exploring things like cold DMs, reaching out to founders, posting content, and tapping into my existing network—but I’d love to hear what genuinely worked for you when you were starting out.
What was the thing that got you your first 1–3 clients?
Was it outbound, inbound, referrals, or something unexpected?
Not really looking for generic advice, more interested in real experiences, what worked, what didn’t, and what you’d do differently if you had to start again.
Appreciate any insights