From Zero to Fully Booked: How NZ Printing Services Specialists Get Their First 10 Clients
Getting started in the printing services industry in New Zealand can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re trying to land your first 10 clients. But with practical and local strategies that work in Kiwi communities, you can build trust and grow your business steadily. This guide shares 10 friendly, achievable tips specifically designed for printing professionals to attract and secure their first clients.
Here are some tips that you might find interesting:
1. Tap Your Personal and Local Network
Start by offering your services to family, friends, and local small businesses. They’re often eager to support you early on and can provide valuable feedback and word-of-mouth referrals.
A Dunedin print specialist grew their first client base by helping local clubs with flyers and banners at discounted rates.
Weirdly enough, these early jobs frequently turn into steady client relationships.
2. Participate in Local Facebook Groups
Groups like “Wellington Business Network” or “Christchurch Community Market” are hotspots where businesses look for trusted print services.
Share helpful printing tips or showcase recent projects with photos to build credibility without pushing sales hard.
Neighbourly is a slower but thoughtful platform used by many Kiwis for local recommendations.
3. Create a Clear, Mobile-Friendly Website
A simple, professional website showcasing your printing options, pricing, past work, and testimonials instils confidence.
Use easy-to-build platforms like Wix or Google Sites that work beautifully on mobiles and desktops alike.
Highlight your understanding of local NZ business needs and printing challenges.
4. List on Yada and Free NZ Directories
Yada allows printing specialists to connect with local clients without paying lead or success fees.
Its rating system helps build your reputation fairly and lets clients find the right match.
Also get your business listed on TradeMe Services, Localist, and industry-specific directories.
5. Offer Introductory Discounts
Draw in your first clients with limited-time discounts or package deals, such as bundled flyer and poster printing.
A Wellington printer credits introductory offers for kickstarting new business accounts.
Think of it as a win-win to build your portfolio and clients.
6. Network with Local Businesses and Organisations
Attend networking events, business expos, or local markets to meet potential clients face to face.
Offer samples or collaborate on community projects to showcase your print quality and service.
In smaller centres like Nelson, these connections often lead to consistent local work.
7. Collect and Showcase Testimonials
Ask satisfied clients to leave reviews on your site, Yada profile, or social media.
Highlight positive feedback to build trust with new prospects.
One Christchurch printer found testimonials vital for securing corporate contracts.
8. Share Practical Printing Tips
Post useful advice about design, materials, or print preparation on Facebook or Instagram.
This positions you as an expert and keeps you top of mind for potential clients.
A Tauranga printing business gained followers and enquiries by sharing design do’s and don’ts.
9. Advertise with Flyers and Vehicle Branding
Distribute flyers at local libraries, cafes, and community halls to reach people not as active online.
Vehicle magnets and signage act as mobile advertising, helping raise local awareness.
Low-tech methods work well in smaller New Zealand towns alongside digital marketing.
10. Stay Organised and Communicative
Use online tools for scheduling, quoting, and invoicing to keep clients well-informed and projects on track.
Professional communication and timely delivery lead to repeat business and referrals.
A Nelson print specialist credits organisation and clear client interactions for growing her business steadily.