How to get the first customers for a new business

The first customers are the hardest: you have no references and no reviews. The good news is that a small, carefully made start is enough.

1. Tell people what you do

Start with your own circle: tell friends, relatives, former colleagues and neighbours what you do and in which area. One word in the right place can bring the first job.

2. Make yourself easy to choose

The customer chooses a provider they understand and trust. Write a short, clear description of what you do, in which area and how. On Palvelunyt.fi the description and services in your application are shown to the customer.

3. Take requests that suit you

Choose jobs you can do well. The first customers' job is to succeed, not to earn the most. Reply only to requests where you can give an honest quote.

4. Reply quickly

A new business can win on speed. When a request comes in, reply within the day and write the quote so that the customer understands what they get.

5. Ask for the first review

When the job is done and the customer is happy, they have the chance to leave a review. Say thank you and mention that a review helps a new business. Do not push.

6. Keep your promises

A small but the most important thing: do what you promise, within the schedule and price. A satisfied customer recommends you, and a recommendation is a new business owner's best marketing.

7. Document your work

Take before and after photos if the customer allows it. Photos help in the next quote and in your own presentation. Ask permission first.

What you do not do

• Do not give an underpriced quote just out of fear. It makes it harder to raise your price later.
• Do not promise too much.
• Do not sit and wait: check open requests regularly.