5 Steps for EdTech Founders to Attract Clients Without Relying on Referrals

Hi, it’s Alex Sardinha and I wanted to share the simplest 5-step process to get clients proactively.

Proactively = not passively relying on referrals and inbound enquiries.

Josh, a nine-figure founder, got us to install this process and in 45 days it outperformed the results of a 12-month campaign with a different and more expensive consultant.

The truth is this:

Relying on referrals or on a founder who is self-generating new opportunities is limiting your edtech business growth.

Without a consistent, scalable lead generation system, your pipeline will dry up, leading to feast and famine cycles.

You can steal these steps and use them to build your own client-getting system.

Want to see a video where I talk you through these steps instead? Click here to watch our on-demand webinar on How To Increase Close Rates, Win New Clients & Drive Profits for Your EdTech Business.

Let's dive in!

Step 1: View LinkedIn like an expo

Just as companies showcase products at expos to attract clients, treat LinkedIn as a virtual expo.

…Except it’s cheaper, open 24/7, and you can be running a stage without needing to be there in person.

This mindset helps you connect with decision-makers and consistently generate leads. Ignoring this approach means missing out on a vast network of potential clients.

Step 2: Build a LinkedIn audience by connecting with decision-makers

• Optimise your LinkedIn profile to appeal to your target audience (turn it into a landing page for clients).

• Consistently send relevant connection requests to decision-makers in your niche.

This proactive networking expands your reach beyond referrals and puts you in control of your lead generation.

Step 3: Create and engage with LinkedIn Groups to build a community

LinkedIn Groups is the single most underrated, underused tool on LinkedIn. If you don’t have a group then you’re losing revenue, plain and simple - they’re that good.

• Create a new LinkedIn Group focused on a desirable outcome that’s relevant to your prospects.

• Engage, facilitate discussions, and encourage connections among members.

• Reach out to relevant prospects offering to walk them through the outcome the group offers in more detail

This positions you as a leader in the field and keeps your audience engaged with your brand.

Step 4: Use content to build trust and authority

Congratulations, you’re now ahead of 99% of people trying to use LinkedIn for business development. Now, you need to capitalise on the attention you’re successfully getting in your group.

• Avoid posting generic content that doesn't resonate. Instead, share story-driven content that addresses specific pain points of your audience.

• Use case studies and how-to guides to demonstrate your expertise and build trust with potential clients.

Step 5: Use LinkedIn Live events to inform and convert warm leads

LinkedIn Live events receive high engagement, with video content being 20 times more likely to be shared.

Hosting live webinars allows you to showcase your expertise, answer questions in real-time, and convert warm leads into clients.

Implementing these 5 steps will help you attract clients faster without relying on referrals.

Want to see me walk through the full process in detail?

Click here to watch our on-demand webinar on How To Increase Close Rates, Win New Clients & Drive Profits for Your EdTech Business.

Until next time,

Alex Sardinha