5 Simple Ways to Get Your First Web Design Clients

Hi all — I know getting web design clients can feel confusing when you're just starting out.

I came across a video that shared 14 proven strategies — no cold pitching, no fancy portfolio needed. These 5 stood out the most to me:

Build First, Reach Out After

Find a local business with a bad website. Rebuild it using their real content and photos, then send it to them. If they’re not interested, just tweak it for a similar business.

First 100 People

2. Write down 100 people you know — friends, coworkers, neighbors, anyone. Tell them you’re offering web design and ask them to keep you in mind if someone needs a site. It works because they already trust you.

Loom Video Feedback

3. Pick a business with a decent but outdated site. Record a Loom video giving 1–2 simple suggestions (like slow speed or missing CTA). Be helpful, not salesy. Just end with “happy to help if you ever need support.”

FIG Portfolio

4. Don’t wait for clients to build your portfolio. Use ChatGPT to create 3 fake businesses in your niche, then design full websites for them. It shows what you’re capable of — even without client work.

Local Profile Setup

5. Create a Google My Business profile. Upload screenshots of your work (even fake projects), and ask a few friends to leave honest reviews. People in your area will find you if you do this right.

There are more methods in the video, but these are a great place to start — especially if you’re trying to get your first 3–5 clients without chasing people online.

Let me know if you want the full video or some templates (Loom scripts, outreach ideas, etc). Happy to share 🙏

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