How to Get More Clients in 2025 : Pay To Play Strategy

We are almost halfway through 2025, and if you're anything like the entrepreneurs and business owners I talk to daily, you’re feeling the weight of an economy that’s dancing in a state of constant flux.

Clients ask the big questions: “How do I build my portfolio when everyone clutches their wallets a little tighter?”Is it even possible to grow right now?”

The answer is YES — but it requires a smart, intentional pivot.

And here's the one big piece of advice I want to shout from the rooftops: You often need to pay to play.

Let's research the strategies on how to get more clients

in 2025.

Accept That “Paying to Play” Is the New Normal

Gone are the days where organic reach alone could fuel a thriving business. Whether you are a coach, consultant, or service provider, you need to invest to expand your reach and credibility. Think of this not as an expense, but as an investment in your growth.

Where should you invest?

• Lead Generation Platforms: Thumbtack, for example, has become a powerhouse for service-based professionals. You pay to bid on leads, but when done strategically, one job can lead to repeat business, referrals, and long-term relationships.

  
  

• Digital Advertising: If you’re not allocating a portion of your budget to ads on Facebook, Instagram, or LinkedIn, you are leaving opportunities on the table. These platforms offer hyper-targeted ad options, meaning your services can land directly in front of your ideal client, not just random browsers.

  
  

• Networking Events: In-person relationships still matter — maybe more than ever. Pay to get in the room. Find events that gather your ideal clients or strategic partners. Whether it's a niche conference, local chamber mixer, or a curated mastermind, being physically present can shortcut the "know, like, trust" factor that leads to new contracts.

  
  
  
  

  SHOW ME THE MONEY

  
  
  
  

How and Where to Allocate Your Money

When it comes to allocating your marketing dollars in 2025, think strategically, not emotionally. Start by designating a portion of your budget toward lead generation platforms like Thumbtack, where you can directly connect with clients actively seeking your services. Next, invest in targeted digital advertising on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn, focusing on campaigns that are clear, direct, and tied to measurable outcomes like lead generation or website conversions. Reserve funds for high-impact networking opportunities — specifically curated events, conferences, or masterminds that gather your ideal clients or strategic partners in one place. Finally, allocate a slice of your budget for ongoing brand building: this includes website updates, professional photos, content creation, and social media management, all of which strengthen your digital credibility. The key is to invest where you can directly track results, and cut ruthlessly where the return isn't clear.

How to Use Thumbtack Properly (and Profitably)

Thumbtack is one of the most powerful tools for service-based businesses looking to grow their client base in 2025, but it has to be used strategically to get the best results. Rather than throwing money at every opportunity, it’s crucial to be selective about the jobs you bid on. Focus on leads that match your ideal client profile and services, and craft personalized, compelling responses that quickly showcase your value and expertise. Speed matters too — responding promptly (often within minutes) dramatically increases your chances of being hired. To stand out even further, invest time in building a strong Thumbtack profile with professional photos, detailed service descriptions, and a steady stream of five-star reviews. Thumbtack rewards active, high-quality providers, so the more consistent you are in maintaining your presence and closing jobs, the more visibility you’ll earn — and the more your client list will grow.

✅ Thumbtack Success Checklist:

• Target Wisely: Only bid on leads that align with your ideal client and services.

  
  

• Respond Quickly: Aim to reply within minutes to show professionalism and urgency.

  
  

• Personalize Your Pitches: Tailor each message to address the client’s specific needs.

  
  

• Polish Your Profile: Use high-quality photos, detailed service descriptions, and highlight what sets you apart.

  
  

• Collect Reviews: Proactively ask happy clients for reviews to boost your credibility and ranking.

  
  

• Track Your ROI: Monitor which types of jobs and bids are converting best — double down on what works.

  
  

• Stay Active: Consistency wins; the more you engage, the more the platform rewards you with top visibility.

  
  

  

  Audit What’s Working — Ruthlessly

  
  

Mid-year is the perfect time to stop guessing and start knowing.

Ask yourself:

• Where are your leads coming from?

  
  

• Which marketing activities are yielding true ROI?

  
  

• Are you spending hours on things that don't move the needle?

Cut the fluff. Double down on what works. If Thumbtack is bringing in paying clients, scale your efforts there. If a certain networking group is dead, move on without guilt.

Create a Results-Driven Digital Presence

Clients are savvier than ever. They're Googling you, checking your social media, and stalking your reviews before even sending that first inquiry.

Your action items:

• Refresh your website: Clear offers, strong testimonials, and easy navigation.

  
  

• Optimize your LinkedIn: Treat it like a personal landing page, not a résumé.

  
  

• Showcase case studies and real client wins on Instagram Stories, Highlights, and Reels.

  
  

Visibility + Credibility = Clients.

Become Relentlessly Consistent

In an uncertain economy, people invest in trust, and trust is built through consistent action.

Post regularly. Show up at events consistently. Follow up with prospects diligently. Momentum doesn’t happen overnight, but in 2025, the businesses that stay top of mind are the businesses that will survive — and thrive.

ENTREPRENEUR HACKS

It’s easy to feel like tightening up your marketing budget is the safe move when times get weird. But the brave ones-the(the ones willing to invest wisely), to show up when others shrink back — will be the ones stacking wins by the end of the year.

2025 belongs to the bold.

Don't forget to nominate an entrepreneur who is changing the world for the Cre8ive Con Icon Awards! We will showcase the winners LIVE at our event in 2026 and celebrate their unique vision with our audience.

Nominations Are Open