How I’d Get Clients Without a Social Media Presence

If I were starting from scratch today no followers, no audience, no platform I wouldn’t wait for clients to find me. I’d go find them. But not like a desperate beggar. I’d approach as a solution-provider. As someone who sees a gap and knows how to bridge it.

Let’s be real social media is a great tool, but it’s not the only path. Visibility can be built. But while you’re building it, you still need income. You still need results. So here’s what I’d do.

1. Search for 20–30 Potential Brands Daily

The internet is full of business pages, small brands, product owners, and service providers. Every day, I’d pick 20–30 of them especially those that align with my skillset. If I design packaging, I’ll look for product brands. If I create logos or social media templates, I’ll find startups or creators.

And I won’t just look. I’ll research. What do they sell? How do they currently show up? What’s missing?

Because the truth is, most people aren’t even aware of what’s broken in their presentation until someone shows them.

2. Polish My Profile to Look Premium

You can’t approach someone looking like you need help yourself. So even without social media, I’d optimize my bio, email signature, WhatsApp business profile, or portfolio link to reflect who I am and what I do clearly.

I’d use tools like ChatGPT to refine my bio, create a compelling headline, and structure my messaging to sound confident and trustworthy.

Even a simple line like:
“I help small brands grow through thoughtful design and clear strategy.”
…already shifts the perception.

People need to know you’re not just skilled you’re intentional.

3. Send Cold DMs That Focus on Solving a Problem

Not every message needs to be long and dramatic. But it has to be clear, personal, and relevant.

Sample Cold DMs That Offer Real Value

Here are two examples of how I’d reach out to clients not with desperation, but with confidence and strategy:

Example 1: For a Product-Based Business (e.g. Skincare Brand)

Hi John,

I stumbled across your brand today and was genuinely impressed by your product range and vision. Your offer is strong, but I noticed your product presentation could use a touch of visual strategy especially in packaging design.

A well-designed label not only makes your product stand out but also strengthens credibility and brand recall. It’s often the difference between scrolling past and clicking "add to cart."

If you're open to exploring how this can help boost your shelf presence and online engagement, I’d love to share a few ideas and mockups with you.

Let me know what works for you.

Example 2: For a Service-Based Brand (e.g. Personal Coach or Consultant)

Hey Samantha,

I’ve been following your work and I truly admire the value you offer. One thing that stood out, though, is the lack of consistent visual branding across your platforms especially in your promotional materials.

A cohesive visual identity builds trust faster, attracts the right audience, and positions you as a premium brand.

If you’d like, I can show you a few examples of how a refined brand touch could elevate your current offers and help drive conversions.

Looking forward to possibly collaborating.

4. Follow Up Gently and Strategically

Not everyone will respond. That’s okay. But I won’t send one message and disappear. A few days later, I’d follow up politely. Just checking in, sharing a sample, or asking for feedback.

This shows commitment, not desperation. And it keeps you top of mind without being annoying.

5. Repeat the Process Consistently

It may not feel glamorous, but this is how visibility is built from zero. You knock on doors. You offer value. You present like a solution. And when done with grace and strategy, doors will open.

Many creatives are waiting to “blow” before they show up. But the truth is, the blowing comes from the consistent, quiet work behind the scenes.

If I were a beginner today, this is what I’d do. And honestly, even now with experience and platforms this still works.

When no one knows you yet, don’t be silent and don’t wait. Don’t send 100 generic messages. Instead, research. Be intentional. Show up as a solution, not a salesperson.

Clients aren’t always looking for the most popular person they’re looking for someone who understands their pain point and offers a clear solution.

Show up like that — and you’ll never be invisible for long.

If you found this helpful, you’ll enjoy this related post: Show Up. Engage. Build Real Relationships . It’s a reminder that Showing Up is key.