How to get clients for your IT business

Starting your own IT business takes a range of skills, work experience, and personal qualities.

However, a modern economy that’s increasingly reliant on digital services and technological expertise has a growing demand for specialist IT services – meaning now is an opportune moment to try.

While many IT contractors will find work via established networks and reputation – whether they go direct to a client or use a recruitment agency – getting to that point takes considerable effort.

It’s imperative to chase leads and market your services through a range of techniques and channels, particularly at the outset.

From there, knowing how to find clients for your IT company will determine its success.

How do IT contractors get clients?

IT contractors will typically obtain work from several sources, including networking, referrals, and targeted marketing strategies.

They may also attend industry-specific events or conferences, and become members of professional groups with a view to building direct relationships with potential clients and partners.

If seeking work directly, it makes sense to understand where potential clients can be found, what their pain points are when it comes to IT, and how you as a contractor can provide a remedy.

However, the majority of IT contractors use websites that advertise vacancies posted by recruitment agencies.

Many companies will collaborate with ‘preferred suppliers’, that is agencies acting on their behalf, and it makes sense to identify these through research.

How to find clients for IT company start-ups

When you first start out as a self-employed IT contractor, or IT company start-up, the most obvious place to find clients initially is among people you know already.

Leveraging your existing network, perhaps by talking to former employers, colleagues, friends, and even family, may provide valuable leads.

Beyond that, developing a marketing strategy is vital to ensure your search is targeted.

Consider marketing channels that could prove most productive, whether that’s social media, advertising, digital marketing techniques, or direct outreach.

Most IT contractors will usually use a combination of approaches to find work, often with experimentation to find which is the most effective for them.

Where does Umbrella Tracker fit in?

As an IT contractor, being employed by an umbrella company can free up more time to chase leads, market your services, and grow your business.

At Umbrella Tracker, we understand the importance of doing your research, which is why we offer contract workers across the UK free and personalised umbrella company comparisons.

You can rest assured the umbrella companies we match you with have been vetted using our comprehensive assessment process which includes our own due diligence, current client testimonials, and Preferred Supplier Lists (PSLs) from recruitment companies.

To learn more about how umbrella companies work, and to start a search for one that suits your circumstances, don’t hesitate to contact our knowledgeable team today by dialling 0203 026 3303.