September 3, 2025 – When you’re starting out, it feels like you need ads to get customers. But your first 10 often come from personal connections.

Start with your circle—friends, family, and colleagues. Not to sell to them, but to ask for introductions. Referrals carry instant trust. The importance of just talking about your idea generates momentum. You just can’t fathom the connections you can make. Here’s an example. When I was first starting YBL, I came across a landscape company flyer at my home which was located in a large neighborhood. As soon as I saw the flyer, I knew I could help this person grow their business. The flyer was an 8 ½ X 11 white sheet of printer paper, grammatically incorrect, and by today’s standards completely sub-par. So, with this terrible first impression, why was I still interested in helping….. the flyer showed me that he was willing to do whatever he had to, to make his business a success. He just lacked the plan to execute. I did reach out, and then I further realized how much help he needed because the quote for the work that he gave me was way less than it should be. I simply asked him, by the way, how are you finding being self-employed? How has the experience been? That simple question opened the door for a great dialogue and the rest is history as they say.

Show up where your customers already are. That might be community groups, online forums, or networking events. Share value, answer questions, and let people know how you can help.

Offer an irresistible first deal or “beta version” to generate early traction. Those first customers become testimonials and word-of-mouth ambassadors.

And don’t forget follow-up. Many potential clients say yes on the second or third touch, not the first.

Your first 10 won’t come from fancy marketing. They’ll come from hustle, connections, and conversations.