One of the challenges that we see with a lot of our clients is that they are overly focused on Social Media and are ignoring some more effective offline tactics. When you meet people offline, you have the opportunity to create an even stronger relationship with them. You can also find potential clients you wouldn’t have found online and because you have had a dialog with them, you have a better opportunity to position your firm as a trusted advisor.

Events and Meet-ups

Find networking events and meet-ups that are related to the services you offer. Look for conferences, exhibitions, trade shows, talks, and other events where you’re likely to encounter your potential clients and get ready to network. Prepare materials to pass out and an elevator pitch to deliver, and follow up with everyone you meet afterward by phone or email.

You can also gain clients from ordinary community events. Any event could be an opportunity. When you attend community events, make yourself visible and come prepared with materials explaining what you do.

If there aren’t many events in your area, you can try creating your own. Create an event that will deliver a fun and exciting experience to those who attend. Put yourself in the shoes of your potential client and try to determine what sort of event they’d be excited to attend. Your event doesn’t have to be huge; it just needs to attract the right people and offer them something valuable. For example, consider starting a mastermind group or CEO roundtable.

Your Local Chamber of Commerce

If you’re not already a member of your local chamber of commerce or other business groups, you should join. The chamber of commerce is a group of local business people whose aim is to promote economic growth in the community. This is an excellent opportunity for networking and meeting potential clients. However, these organizations charge for membership, so it is an expense for your business.

Membership in your chamber of commerce brings you visibility and credibility in the community, which can lead to more clients in the future. You’ll also get referrals, as many individuals and organizations contact the chamber of commerce when looking for services in a local area.

For the price you pay to join your local chamber of commerce, there are other business benefits as well beyond just finding new clients. You’ll have access to members-only discounts and services and other benefits, including discounts and exclusive access to networking events.

To learn more tactics for gaining more clients, check out our report titled Get More Clients for Your Professional Service Business.