Starting something new—especially something close to your heart—can stir up all kinds of emotions. You feel excited. Nervous. Hopeful. But if you’re stepping into ministry or launching a service that helps others, there’s one part that often feels uncomfortable: getting your first clients.

You know you’re called. You’ve prepared. You’ve prayed. But when it’s time to share what you do, you hesitate. Not because you’re unsure of your gifts, but because you don’t want to come across as salesy, pushy, or self-promoting.

I get it. Many of us were raised to believe that humility means staying quiet about what we have to offer. But the truth is, when God has given you something that can change lives, hiding it isn’t humility—it’s withholding a blessing.

Finding your first clients doesn’t have to feel awkward or forced. It can be as natural as having a conversation. As relational as offering support. As sacred as walking in obedience.

Here’s how you can begin that journey with grace, authenticity, and peace of mind.

Attract Clients Authentically: 5 Steps to Start Strong

1. Start With Conversations, Not Campaigns

When you’re just starting out, it’s tempting to think you need fancy marketing, a polished brand, or a long email list. But often, the most powerful connections come from simple, heartfelt conversations.

Think about the people already in your life—your church family, your coworkers, your circle of friends. Many of them may already trust you. Some might be struggling with the very thing you’re called to help with. You don’t have to “pitch” them. Just share your story. Talk about what you’re doing. Ask about what they need.

Sometimes it’s as easy as saying, “I’ve started offering [coaching/healing/prayer support/etc.], and I’m looking for a few people to serve. Do you know anyone who might be helped by something like this?”

You’re not selling. You’re inviting. When Jesus sent the disciples out, He told them to bring peace and healing—not pressure (Luke 10:5–9). That same spirit of peace can guide you in how you talk to others about what you offer.

2. Serve First—The Rest Will Follow

One of the best ways to grow your ministry or business is by doing what you’re already gifted at: serving. Offer a free workshop, host a prayer call, start a support group, or simply show up for someone in need.

People remember how you made them feel. When you lead with service, trust begins to grow. And when people trust you, they’re more likely to invest in what you offer.

This doesn’t mean you give everything away forever. But especially in the beginning, a small act of service can open doors to meaningful relationships and potential clients.

Jesus washed the disciples’ feet before teaching them deeper truths (John 13:12–17). He didn’t rush to promote Himself. He served. And people followed because they experienced His heart before hearing His words.

So give generously. Love deeply. Be available. Not for the sake of growing your list, but because it’s who you are—and who you were created to be.

3. Use Your Testimony to Build Connection

You don’t need to have all the answers to be helpful. Your testimony—the story of what you’ve walked through and how God brought you out—can be the bridge someone else needs.

When you share what you’ve overcome or what you’re learning, people don’t feel like you’re talking at them. They feel like you’re walking with them. That’s what draws people in.

It’s not about presenting yourself as an expert. It’s about being real, honest, and relatable. You can say, “I’ve been there,” or “I know what that pain feels like,” or “God is still showing me things too.”

People connect with people, not perfection. So don’t be afraid to be open. Your story carries power. Revelation 12:11 reminds us that “they overcame by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony.”

Your story might be the very thing someone else needs to feel seen, heard, and hopeful.

4. Ask for Referrals with Confidence, Not Apology

Here’s something that might surprise you: people want to help you succeed. But sometimes, they don’t know how unless you tell them.

After you’ve served someone or had a meaningful conversation, don’t be shy about asking them to share your name. Not in a pushy way, but in a confident, grateful way.

Try saying something like, “If you know anyone who might be looking for this kind of support, feel free to pass my name along.” Or, “I’m building something new, and I’d love your help getting the word out.”

It’s not about chasing people. It’s about inviting others into the story God is writing through you.

You’re not a burden. You’re a blessing. And people who care about you will often go out of their way to connect you with those who need what you offer.

So stand tall in your ask. You're not begging. You’re planting seeds.

5. Trust God With the Growth

Sometimes the biggest block to finding your first clients isn’t a lack of skill—it’s fear. Fear of being judged. Fear of being ignored. Fear of failing.

But here’s the truth: this isn’t all on you. Yes, you have to show up and do your part. But the outcome? That belongs to God.

1 Corinthians 3:6 says, “I planted the seed, Apollos watered it, but God has been making it grow.” That’s your reminder. You do the planting and watering—through conversations, service, testimony, and relationships—but the growth is in God’s hands.

You don’t need to force anything. You don’t need to strive to be seen. Just stay faithful. Keep showing up. Keep offering what you’ve been given.

When you trust God with your gifts, the right people will come. And they won’t feel like “clients.” They’ll feel like connections, like purpose-filled partnerships, like answered prayers.

Final Thoughts

You don’t have to twist yourself into someone you’re not to grow what God has placed in your heart. You don’t have to mimic marketing gurus or pressure your way into people’s lives. What you carry is sacred. It deserves to be shared with dignity and grace.

Finding your first clients is less about selling and more about serving, connecting, and trusting. It’s about showing up authentically and letting God do what only He can do.

So breathe. Keep walking. Keep speaking. Someone is waiting for what you have.

Ready to Go Deeper?

If you’re looking to grow your ministry and want help sharing your story in a way that transforms lives, don’t miss our upcoming masterclass. It’s a powerful session designed to help you step into your calling with boldness and clarity.

Join us—you don’t have to do this alone.