How to Get Digital Marketing Clients Fast: 10 Proven Tactics

So, you’ve built a killer digital marketing agency—a sharp website, polished services, maybe even a snazzy LinkedIn profile. But there’s one problem: clients aren’t exactly knocking down your door.

Fear not! Whether you're a fresh-faced startup or an established agency hitting a dry spell, this guide covers proven ways to get digital marketing clients—without resorting to desperate cold calls or shady tactics.

By the end of this post, you’ll have a battle-tested client acquisition strategy, from high-converting lead gen tricks to long-term relationship-building that keeps your pipeline full.

Let’s dive in.

1. Master Cold Outreach (Without Being Annoying)

Yes, cold outreach works—if done right. The key? Personalization and value-first messaging.

LinkedIn Lead Generation: Instead of blasting generic connection requests, engage with prospects’ posts first. Then, send a tailored message like: "Hey [Name], loved your post on [Topic]. We’ve helped [Similar Business] increase leads by 30% with targeted Facebook ads—would love to chat if you’re exploring new strategies."

Email Outreach: Skip the spammy templates. Use tools like Hunter.io or Apollo.io to find decision-makers, then craft short, benefit-driven emails.

Pro Tip: Use video prospecting with tools like Loom to record a 30-second personalized video. According to HubSpot, video emails boost reply rates by 26%. Just keep it under 60 seconds and focus on their pain points, not your pitch.

2. Leverage Paid Ads (Market Your Marketing Agency)

If you’re not running paid ads to get marketing agency clients, you’re missing out on high-intent leads.

Meta (Facebook & Instagram): Target business owners with ads like: "Struggling to get leads? Our done-for-you ad campaigns generate 5X ROAS—book a free strategy call."

Google Ads: Bid on keywords like “best digital marketing agency near me” or “how to get more clients online.”

LinkedIn Ads: Ideal for B2B agencies targeting CEOs and marketing managers.

Pro Tip: Retarget visitors who checked your pricing page but didn’t convert.

3. Build a Lead Magnet That Actually Converts

Want consistent leads without constant outreach? Create a high-value lead magnet—a free resource that captures emails.

Lead Magnet Ideas:
Free Website/Social Media Audit
“5-Step Checklist to Double Your Leads”
Webinar: “How We Got [Client] 200% More Sales”

Pro Tip: Use a tool like Leadpages or ConvertKit to host and automate follow-ups.

4. Network Like a Pro (Online & Offline)

Marketing agency client acquisition isn’t just about ads—it’s about relationships.

Where to Network:
LinkedIn Groups: Engage in discussions (don’t just sell).
Local Business Meetups: Chamber of Commerce events, startup mixers.
Podcasts & Webinars: Guest appearances position you as an expert.

Pro Tip: Partner with complementary businesses (web designers, copywriters) for referrals.

5. Showcase Your Results with Case Studies & Testimonials

Nothing sells like proof. If you’ve helped clients grow, flaunt it.

The Golden Rule: Focus on transformation, not tactics.

How to Showcase Success:
Case Studies: “How We Increased [Client]’s Revenue by 150% in 3 Months”
Video Testimonials: More authentic than text reviews.

Pro Tip: Ask happy clients for a 60-second video testimonial—these convert 4X better than text.

6. Optimize Your Website for Lead Capture

Your website should be a 24/7 sales machine.

Must-Have Elements:
Clear CTA: “Book a Free Strategy Session” (above the fold).
Live Chat: Tools like Drift or Intercom catch hot leads.
Portfolio/Results Page: Show off your best work.
Pro Tip: Add a “Get a Free Proposal” button—low commitment, high conversion.