First Clients in the United Kingdom: How to get them

Whether you’ve launched a startup, are offering freelance services, or have opened an online shop, getting your first clients is one of the most important—and challenging—steps.

In a highly competitive and professionalised environment like the United Kingdom, it’s crucial to connect with your target audience in a strategic, effective, and locally relevant way.

Here are several practical tips, tailored to the United Kingdom market, to help you land those first clients who will drive your business forward.

1. Clearly define your Value Proposition for your First Clients

Before you start looking for clients, make sure you are clear about what you offer, who it’s for, and why they should choose you. Your value proposition should be well-defined and adapted to the United Kingdom market. Ask yourself:

What problem do you solve?
What makes you different from local competitors?
How can you communicate that clearly and professionally?

Having a strong value proposition will help you build trust and stand out in a market where consumers and businesses value clarity, quality, and efficiency.

2. Use Local Platforms to Gain Visibility for your First Clients

In the United Kingdom, many purchasing decisions begin online. That’s why it’s essential to be present on platforms where British consumers search for products and services. Some of the most effective include:

Google Business Profile – essential if you have a physical presence. It helps you appear in local search results with reviews, opening hours, and location.
Trustpilot or Yelp UK – ideal for building credibility through user reviews.
Bark or Checkatrade – widely used for hiring services (design, cleaning, home improvement, etc.).
LinkedIn – particularly useful for professionals and B2B services.
Etsy or Not On The High Street – great if you sell handmade or creative products.

Make sure your profiles are fully optimised, with quality photos, clear descriptions, and competitive pricing.

3. Start with your Personal Network

Even if you’re new to the United Kingdom, don’t underestimate the power of your personal and professional network, no matter how small. Share what you do through social media, email, or at in-person events.

If you’re part of a local community, university, or coworking space, use those circles as an initial base to promote your services.

4. Attend Local Events and Trade Shows

The United Kingdom has plenty of fairs, local markets, networking events, and entrepreneur meetups. Taking part in these spaces allows you to connect with people, build trust-based relationships, and showcase your offering directly.

Check platforms like Eventbrite, Meetup, or your local Chamber of Commerce to find events relevant to your industry.

5. Build a Simple but Professional Website

Even a basic website is essential. British consumers tend to research before buying, and a well-presented site inspires trust, professionalism, and transparency.

Your site should include:

A clear description of your services or products
Contact form or ways to get in touch
Testimonials or previous work examples
Pricing (if relevant)
Clear terms and conditions or return policy (highly valued in the United Kingdom)

Also, make sure it’s mobile-friendly, loads quickly, and uses a professional domain (e.g. .co.uk or .com).

6. Offer Promotions or Free Services at the Start

A great strategy to attract your first clients is to offer something of value with no obligation—a free sample, a trial session, a short audit, or a discount for early customers.

This helps reduce the initial barrier, lets people try your service, and if they’re satisfied, they’ll likely recommend you or leave a review.

7. Ask for Reviews from your First Clients from Day One

Online reviews carry a lot of weight in the United Kingdom. After every sale or service, kindly ask your early clients to leave a review on platforms like Google, Trustpilot, LinkedIn, or whichever site you’re using.

Good reviews will help you gain the trust of future clients—especially when you don’t yet have much of a visible track record.

8. Be Consistent, Patient, and Professional

Getting your first clients is rarely instant. In the United Kingdom, where consumers tend to be more cautious, reputation and professionalism are everything. Pay close attention to every detail—from your email communication to your punctuality and service quality.

Respond quickly, deliver what you promise, and always provide respectful and transparent service. This can be your most effective long-term customer retention strategy.