How I’d Get My First 5 MSP Clients Today
No fluff. No ads. Just a simple way to start conversations and land real clients.
This is part 6 of a 6-part series on starting your solo MSP business.
If you’ve made it this far, here’s what we’ve built together:
A validated solo model backed by real math
A focused service that’s easy to sell
A product you can deliver without drowning
A clear offer with messaging that lands
And a delivery system that won’t burn you out
Now there’s just one thing left:
→ How do you get your first clients—and bring this thing to life?
🔑 Sales Is Matching, Not Chasing
Getting clients isn’t about convincing anyone.
It’s about finding the right people, with the right problems, who are ready for the right solution.
Focus on matching, not convincing—and watch what happens.
Getting Your First Clients Isn’t Easy—But It Is Straightforward
If you’ve built a simple, productized service with clear messaging, landing your first few clients doesn't require magic.
It just takes consistency—and the right moves.
There are three things you should focus on:
Reach out to your existing network
Start local—map it out, show up, and build your list
Drop into your ideal clients DMs consistently
No paid ads.
No SEO.
No complicated funnels.
Just conversations with the right people at the right time.
🎯 3 Tactics to Land Your First 5 Clients
Let’s break down the three simplest, most effective tactics for getting those first wins.
1. Reach Out to Your Existing Network
You already know people.
And some of them know your future clients.
Who to reach out to:
Old coworkers, vendors, and peers
Clients from past roles or side projects
Friends or family who work with your ideal client.
How to do it:
Use text, email, or LinkedIn
Keep it personal, short, and casual
Example message:
“Hey [Name], I’m building something new for [type of business]. If you know anyone who might need help with [pain point], I’d love an intro.”
Pro Tip: Don’t ask for the sale—ask for a referral.
It lowers the pressure and opens doors.
2. Start Local: Map It Out, Show Up, Build a List
You don’t need to be everywhere.
Just start where you are.
Who to target:
Small businesses that match your Ideal Client Profile (ICP) within 5–10 miles
Firms with 5–25 employees
Steps:
Use Google Maps, the Chamber, or just drive around
Build a list of 50–100 businesses
Show up in person or call them directly
Leave behind something simple and useful (like a 1-pager)
Example script:
“Hey, I’m a local IT pro helping [X] businesses with cloud and compliance. Just wanted to leave this in case it’s helpful.”
Pro Tip: Offer a quick audit or consult.
It’s low commitment and builds trust fast.
3. DM Your ICP on Social Media
You don’t need a huge following—you just need to start conversations.
Where to look:
LinkedIn
Small business Facebook groups
Followers of industry-specific creators
How to start the convo:
Be relaxed, helpful, and human
Offer value, ask for input, or invite a quick chat
Example DM:
“Hey [Name], I saw you work in [industry]. I’m putting together a simple IT toolkit for small business owners. Would love to get your take on it—if you're open to a quick chat.”
Pro Tip: Use DMs to start conversations—not close deals.
The goal is a discovery call, not a pitch.
🎬 Wrap-Up: Just Start
Getting your first clients doesn’t take a fancy strategy.
It just takes a clear offer and the courage to show up.
Talk to people.
Be real.
Focus on solving one problem they actually care about.
That’s it.
No magic.
Just momentum.
So what’s stopping you from starting today?
Thinking about launching your Solo MSP?
If this series got your wheels turning and you're ready to make a move, I’d love to hear what you’re planning.
Drop me a line (I answer every email): me@robleon.com
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