How to do client acquisition the right way

For service-based businesses, client acquisition is down and churn is on the rise.

If you’re feeling the heat, you’re not alone.

But here’s the thing: even in tough times, there are strategies that still move the needle. Let’s break down what’s working right now, so you can take action and turn things around.

In-person meetings are still a game-changer
Everyone’s focused on digital, but the power of in-person meetings is still real. There’s something about face-to-face interactions that builds trust faster than anything else.

Take your prospects out for lunch or dinner, have real conversations, and build relationships that can’t be replicated online.

This strategy works, especially for high-ticket clients, so don’t write it off just because we’re in a “digital world.”

Nurture leads with online events
Webinars are still a great way to generate leads and build authority.

But don't just stop at hosting your own—partner up with other businesses in your space to host joint webinars. Collaborating expands your reach and taps into new audiences.

If you're not already doing webinars or virtual events, you're missing a huge opportunity to nurture leads and stay top of mind.

Short-form content is your friend
Short-form content is still a massive win.

Quick, engaging, snackable content on platforms like TikTok, Instagram, or LinkedIn can help you connect with a larger audience.

But the key here is consistency and relevance. If you're creating short videos or posts, make sure they offer value that resonates with your target audience.

Repurpose long-form videos everywhere
Got a long-form video or podcast? Don't just drop it on YouTube and call it a day. Break it up and distribute it across your social channels.

Clips, highlights, and quotes from your podcast can be repurposed into bite-sized pieces for Instagram, Twitter, and LinkedIn.

Posting natively across different platforms amplifies your content and helps you reach more people, without creating new content from scratch.

Cold emailing still works—when you do it right
I know, I know, cold emailing can feel like a waste of time. But done right, it’s still a powerful tool.

Your cold emails need to have a strong offer and, most importantly, personalization.

Don’t send a generic message—show that you’ve done your homework and understand their pain points. Offer them a solution, not just a pitch.

Follow up with lost leads
Not every lost lead is lost forever.

Reconnect with leads you’ve neglected or deals that fell through in the past. People’s circumstances change, and what didn’t work six months ago might be exactly what they need now. A well-timed follow-up could reignite those opportunities.

Know what’s moving the needle and figure out how to turn these challenges into wins.

To staying top of mind,

Eric Siu

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