Starting an video agency

[zerocool22]

Hi guys,

So I finally quit my job and decided to start my own video agency. After 10+ years of experience in video (allthough the last 6 years or so after having children the pacing was lower then before but I’m taking the leap and going all in.

There’s just one small problem:

I currently have 0 clients.

I’ve got the experience, the gear, a maybe dated portfolio and I know how to produce videos from start to finish. But now I need to turn that into an actual business, and preferably make it work pretty quickly.

So I’m curious:

What actually works in 2026 to get your first clients? Cold outreach? Networking? LinkedIn? Instagram? Agencies? Referrals? Something completely different?

I’d especially love to hear from people who recently started a creative business or agency and managed to get clients without already having a massive network.

Thanks a lot!

[fuzzynormal]

Do a ‘spec’ job for a non-profit that has board members with deep pockets and active businesses.

Do something simple and over deliver.  Make a great first impression.

It’s just networking and word of mouth. 

[zerocool22]

Maybe a stupid question. what about Social Media. Do I need an facebook account? Do I need an instagram account? An Tiktok account? Twitter? Linkedin?

I do have an instagram that I never use. But I might be making a mistake not using all these social media platforms? Best to do it under my name I think? Anyone on here who built out a great network on social media? What is the best strategy here?