Getting my first customers

A typical day... Up at 6am, get kids on the bus, off to my office, then to my day "job".  Although, on this particular day, I had to leave early because my daughter's 6th grade Play starts at 6:00 pm.  I fight through downtown traffic and arrive at 5:47pm.  As I merge with the other parents walking to the cafeteria, I over hear a woman talking to one of her friends.  She was talking about her "hectic" day.  The parents, friends and family all searched for seats and I noticed that the same woman sat behind me.  She reached into a big sack and pulled out a business checkbook (3-part checks).  She began to pay her bills as we waited for the play to start.  While she was writing checks, she was still talking to her friend, complaining that she was overwelmed.  She had a job, but she was also doing the accounting for "The Business".  Finally she said the words I was waiting to hear, "I need a bookkeeper!"  I reached into my purse and pulled out two business cards.  I turned around, smiled and replied, "Ask and ye shall receive."  During the break, I went to my car where I keep a nice supply of presentation materials.  I grabbed an already prepared package and took it inside.  I was introduced to the womans husband who owned an Autobody shop.  They were impressed with my package -  A professional folder with an introduction letter describing my skills and work history, a company brochure, a flyer with a picture of my office, and a free calendar magnet.  We made an appointment to meet and three days later - I signed up one of my most loyal clients.   

Advice for others

Potential clients can be found at any venue, and most people carry business cards, but what impressed my new clients the most was that I was able to give them a professional business package to take home, read later, and discuss.  When we met 3 days later, I did not have to try to win them over.