From Zero to Fully Booked: How NZ Business Consulting Specialists Get Their First 10 Clients
Starting a business consulting practice in New Zealand can feel challenging when you’re aiming to land those first 10 clients. But with practical, local strategies that emphasise genuine relationships and Kiwi business culture, you can grow your client list steadily. This guide presents 10 actionable tips designed specifically for business consulting professionals to help you build trust, showcase your expertise, and secure bookings.
Here are some tips that you might find interesting:
1. Tap Into Your Existing Network
Friends, family, and past colleagues can be your biggest advocates early on. Let them know about your consulting services and ask if they or their contacts need help.
For example, a Wellington consultant landed her first steady clients through former work connections and referrals.
Weirdly enough, these trusted networks often provide ongoing work and valuable testimonials.
2. Engage in Local Business Groups
Join Facebook groups like “Christchurch Business Network” or “Auckland Entrepreneurs” where local business owners share challenges and seek advice.
Share insights, success stories, and practical tips to build credibility without overt selling.
Neighbourly is also a great platform for deeper community engagement and trusted recommendations.
3. Create a Professional Website
Build a clean, mobile-friendly website outlining your consulting services, past successes, client testimonials, and contact details.
Platforms such as Wix or Squarespace make it easy for NZ consultants to establish an effective online presence swiftly.
Including case studies relevant to New Zealand industries can enhance your local appeal.
4. List Yourself on Yada and NZ Directories
Yada connects consultants with local clients without lead or success fees, ideal for building your client base fairly.
Its rating system rewards high-quality service, helping you stand out.
Also list on TradeMe Services and other New Zealand business directories to boost visibility.
5. Offer Introductory Consultations
Entice prospects with free or discounted initial consultations to showcase your value and build trust.
A Tauranga consultant credits trial sessions for converting prospects into long-term clients.
Think of it as a risk-free way for businesses to test your expertise.
6. Network at Events and Workshops
Attend local business expos, seminars, and meetups to connect directly with potential clients.
Offer to speak or volunteer at events to showcase your knowledge.
Smaller towns like Nelson often provide excellent opportunities for meaningful connections.
7. Collect and Promote Testimonials
Request feedback and permission to showcase glowing client testimonials on your platforms.
In New Zealand, word-of-mouth and peer reviews carry significant weight.
One Auckland consultant highlighted client testimonials as key drivers of her business growth.
8. Share Business Tips Online
Post genuinely helpful business advice, case studies, and updates on social media or LinkedIn.
This type of content positions you as a trusted expert and nurtures ongoing relationships.
A Christchurch consultant grew her network with regular, localised posts.
9. Advertise Locally and Online
Distribute flyers or business cards at community hubs, cafes, and co-working spaces.
Use targeted Google or Facebook ads to reach NZ businesses seeking consulting help.
In regional areas like Whanganui, combining traditional and digital marketing works best.
10. Stay Organised and Professional
Use CRM, scheduling, and invoicing software to manage your client relationships and deadlines effectively.
Consistent communication and professionalism encourage repeat clients and referrals.
A Tauranga consultant attributes much of her success to her organisational skills.