Getting my first customers

This is the story of how I got my first customer just a few days after starting my business and receiving my business cards.

I was so excited about my new venture that I carried my business cards with me at all times, even when at home.  One day by husband and I went next door to talk to our neighbor out in her yard.  During our conversation I mentioned that I had started by own bookkeeping business and had just received my new cards.  I asked her if she would like one and if she could please spread the word.  She took my card, read it, looked up into the sky and thanked God.  She owns a clothing manufacturing company and had just lost her bookkeeper.  She was in great need of a replacement.  So, by keeping my cards on me and telling everyone, I got my first customer quickly and it turned out to be a huge one!

Advice for others

Tell everyone you meet you are a bookkeeper and offer your card.  You never know when you are going to meet someone who needs a bookkeeper right away or knows someone who does.  I know this sounds obvious but sometimes we forget to do the simpliest thing.

Don't have your rates written in stone.  I offer a discount for the first month as I'm getting used to the new client's books.  I make sure to note the regular rate and the discount on the invoice so that they can see proof of their special "new client" rate.  I also discount my rates for non-profit agencies as they run off of limited funds and tightly controled grants.