Acquiring clients and offering our services

[#1]

How can we find our first client, offer our services, and make our agency known? We would appreciate advice and suggestions. Thank you in advance!

[#2]

Hi Yolaine,

 I shared some of my discussion summary in my other post on this topci. Just bringing it here too for your reference -  Based on discussion with some successful agency owner, I understand this goes in a strategic manner as many client prefer freelancer over agency. Some have shared their strategy as to working with client as a freelancer and prove your expertise. When further dialogue initiate then you can look for adding people from agency, if client require.

You can do the  proposal submission for your services to different job post that requries agency.. 

I think you can also try to bring your clients to Upwork and work through direct contract if they do not have Upwork account..

There is lots of knowledge available in forum and you will definitely find many strategy to expand your agency work.. Hope this helps..

[#3]

Thanks so much for your kindly response!!

[#4 · Accepted solution]

Finding your first client on Upwork and making your agency known requires a strategic approach. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you get started:

1. Create an Impressive Profile:

   • Complete your agency's profile with a professional description, portfolio showcasing previous work, relevant skills, certifications, and any other pertinent information.
   • Use keywords related to your services to enhance visibility in search results.

2. Select the Right Niche:

   • Identify a specific niche or industry where your agency excels. This helps in targeting clients looking for specialized services.

3. Start Small and Build Your Reputation:

   • Consider taking on smaller projects initially to build a track record and gain positive reviews. These initial projects can serve as testimonials for your agency.

4. Craft Compelling Proposals:

   • Tailor each proposal to the client's needs. Showcase how your agency can solve their problems and add value to their project.
   • Highlight your agency's unique selling propositions (USPs) to stand out from competitors.

5. Network and Engage:

   • Engage actively in Upwork's community forums, participate in discussions, and offer valuable advice. This can increase your visibility and credibility.
   • Connect with other freelancers, clients, and agencies. Networking often leads to referrals and collaborative opportunities.

6. Offer Competitive Pricing and Packages:

   • As a new agency, consider offering competitive rates or introductory packages to attract clients initially. Once you build a reputation, you can adjust pricing accordingly.

7. Utilize Upwork's Features:

   • Use Upwork's features like Upwork Pro or Upwork Enterprise to gain access to higher-paying clients or larger projects.

8. Maintain Professionalism and Communication:

   • Respond promptly to client inquiries and maintain professional communication throughout the hiring process.

9. Optimize for Search:

   • Continuously optimize your profile by updating skills, adding new certifications, and incorporating client feedback.

10. Ask for Feedback and Reviews:

    • After completing projects, ask clients for feedback and reviews. Positive reviews significantly impact your agency's credibility and visibility on Upwork.

Remember, building a reputation and gaining traction takes time. Consistency, persistence, and a focus on delivering high-quality services will eventually help your agency gain recognition and attract more clients on Upwork.

[#5]

thanks so much for these helpful tips!!