How to Get Web Design Clients When You’re New

How to Land Your First Web Design Clients (Even as a Beginner)

Starting a web design business can feel overwhelming, especially when you're still building your confidence and trying to land those first few clients. The pressure to prove yourself, create high-quality work, and stand out in a saturated market is real. But here’s the good news: with the right strategies and a mindset that prioritizes growth over perfection, you can absolutely build a solid client base—even as a beginner. In this post, I’m breaking down simple, actionable steps to help you attract your first web design clients and begin growing your business with clarity and confidence.

1. Build a Portfolio (Even If You Don’t Have Clients Yet)

When you're just getting started, your portfolio becomes your golden ticket—it’s the visual proof of your skills, creativity, and style. But what if you haven’t landed any paid work yet? That’s okay. You can still create a strong portfolio that impresses potential clients. Start by designing mock websites for imaginary businesses or redesign websites for existing brands just for practice. You could also offer free or discounted web design services to family, friends, or nonprofits in exchange for testimonials and permission to showcase your work.

The key here is quality over quantity. It's better to have three solid, well-executed projects than a bunch of rushed or unfinished ones. Make each sample site reflect the kind of work you want to attract, and don’t forget to explain the thought process behind your designs—that’s what sets you apart as a strategic designer, not just a decorator.

2. Leverage Freelance Platforms

Websites like Upwork, Fiverr, and Toptal can be great places to land your first few gigs and start building your credibility. Yes, competition is high—but that doesn’t mean you can’t stand out. The trick is to create a profile that clearly communicates your value. Use your best mock designs or early projects to show what you’re capable of. Write a strong bio that speaks directly to the problems you solve and how you make your clients’ lives easier.

When you're just starting out, offering competitive rates can help you build up your reviews and trustworthiness. It might feel like a slow climb at first, but every completed job and satisfied client is a stepping stone to bigger and better opportunities.

3. Niche Down and Define Your Target Audience

Trying to be everything to everyone will water down your message. Instead, think about the kinds of businesses or people you actually want to serve. Do you love working with restaurants, fitness coaches, bloggers, or local service-based businesses? Great—start there.

When you niche down, it’s easier to create content, portfolios, and pitches that speak directly to your audience’s specific needs. You can learn their pain points, figure out what kind of design works best for them, and become the go-to web designer in that space. It’s way more effective than casting a wide net and hoping for the best.

4. Network in Relevant Communities

There’s power in people. Building real relationships in the right communities can lead to your first clients—and some of your best ones too. Join Facebook groups, LinkedIn communities, or other online forums where small business owners and entrepreneurs hang out. Participate in conversations, offer free tips, and build trust by being helpful and consistent.

If you're comfortable, attend local networking events, vendor fairs, or small business expos in your city. Even chatting with someone at a coffee shop or co-working space can lead to a new opportunity. People do business with people they know and trust, so show up genuinely and stay visible.

5. Create a Killer Website for Yourself

Your website is your digital storefront—it’s often the first impression people get of you. So make it count. Your website should show off your portfolio, clearly outline your services and offers, and include a compelling “About” page that helps people connect with your story and expertise.

Use your site to demonstrate what you can do for others. That means making sure it’s beautifully designed, mobile-responsive, and SEO-optimized. Don’t forget to include clear calls to action like “Book a Free Consultation” or “Get a Quote”—you’d be surprised how many designers leave this out. Make it easy for people to take the next step with you.

6. Offer Introductory Deals or Packages

When you're new to the game, offering a few strategic discounts or special packages can give people that extra push to take a chance on you. Think of it as a short-term investment to build long-term credibility. Maybe you offer a discounted rate for your first five clients, or throw in a free month of maintenance for every new site built. You can also create tiered packages that make it easy for clients to say yes, even if they’re on a budget.

Just remember: your time and skills have value. Make sure your deals are strategic, not desperate. You're providing a service that solves real problems—stand on that.

7. Leverage Social Media Marketing

Social media is one of the best (and free) ways to showcase your work, build trust, and attract potential clients. Share behind-the-scenes content, before-and-after website makeovers, client testimonials, and web design tips that show your knowledge. Reels, carousels, and mini tutorials can work wonders for engagement and visibility.

Platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and LinkedIn each have their own vibe—so tailor your content based on where your audience is hanging out. Don’t be afraid to show your face and talk about your process. You’d be surprised how many clients hire designers simply because they like them and feel connected to their personality.

8. Collaborate with Complementary Professionals

Sometimes the best way to get clients isn’t direct—it’s through partnerships. Reach out to other creatives or professionals who serve the same audience as you. Think: graphic designers, content writers, brand strategists, photographers, and marketing coaches. You can offer bundled services or refer each other when a project calls for additional support.

This type of collaboration is great because you’re all growing together, and you each bring unique strengths to the table. When someone trusts their photographer and that photographer recommends you for web design? That’s a warm lead already halfway sold.

9. Ask for Referrals

Once you’ve worked with even one happy client, you have a powerful marketing tool: word-of-mouth. Don’t be shy about asking your clients to refer you to others in their circle. Make it easy for them by giving them a simple message to pass along or create a referral incentive—like a discount or bonus if their referral becomes a paid client.

Referrals are gold because they come with built-in trust. A warm intro from someone who loves your work can be the key to landing your next big project.

10. Keep Learning and Growing

Web design is constantly evolving, so your skills should be too. Stay curious and committed to learning. Invest in courses, attend webinars, read design blogs, and follow industry leaders. The more you grow, the more value you can offer—and the more confidence you’ll have in your work.

Staying updated on design trends, SEO best practices, and user experience (UX) strategies will keep your skills fresh and give you an edge when you’re pitching to clients. You don’t have to know it all, but every new thing you learn makes you more valuable.

Final Thoughts

Landing your first web design clients might take some hustle and patience, but it’s completely possible—even if you’re starting from scratch. The key is to focus on building real relationships, consistently showcasing your value, and trusting that the right clients will come when you keep showing up.

If you’re ready to kickstart your web design journey and want a little extra guidance, I’d love to help you out. Book a free 15-minute consultation with me to chat about your goals, your vision, and how to get those first few clients in the door.

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Now over to you—what strategies have worked for you in finding web design clients? Drop a comment below and let’s support each other!