How to Build a No Code Agency from Scratch - Zubair Lutfullah Kakakhel | EP 04

Introduction

This tutorial provides a step-by-step guide on how to build a no-code agency from scratch, drawing insights from Zubair Lutfullah Kakakhel's experience. Whether you're a freelancer looking to kickstart your career or an aspiring agency owner, these actionable steps will help you navigate the challenges of starting a no-code agency and secure your first clients.

Step 1: Finding Your First Client

• Leverage Your Network: Start by reaching out to friends, family, and acquaintances. Let them know about your services and seek referrals.
• Utilize Social Media: Share your intentions on platforms like LinkedIn, Facebook, and Twitter. Engage in relevant groups and discussions to showcase your expertise.
• Freelance Platforms: Consider using sites like Upwork, Fiverr, or Freelancer to find initial gigs. Focus on smaller projects that align with your skills.

Step 2: Building a Portfolio Without Prior Work

• Create Mock Projects: Develop sample projects that showcase your skills. Use real-world scenarios to demonstrate how you can solve problems with no-code tools like Bubble.
• Offer Pro Bono Work: Consider offering free or discounted services to non-profits or local businesses in exchange for testimonials and permission to showcase the work in your portfolio.
• Document Your Process: Share your journey on social media or a personal blog to create a narrative around your skills and project outcomes.

Step 3: Hiring Your First Employees

• Identify Key Roles: Determine the skills you need based on your agency's focus. Common roles include developers, designers, and project managers.
• Use Freelance Platforms for Hiring: Consider hiring freelancers initially to manage costs. Platforms like Upwork can help you find talent without committing to full-time salaries.
• Evaluate Cultural Fit: During the hiring process, assess candidates for their alignment with your agency's values and culture.

Step 4: Understanding Agency Types

• Service-Based Agency: This model focuses on delivering specific services to clients, such as building applications or websites using no-code tools.
• Productized Service Agency: This involves offering a standardized service or product that can be sold repeatedly to clients, simplifying the sales process.

Step 5: Conducting Discovery Calls

• Prepare Questions: Create a list of questions to understand the client's needs, goals, and challenges.
• Listen Actively: Engage in the conversation by listening more than speaking. This will help you tailor your proposal to their requirements.
• Outline Next Steps: At the end of the call, clarify what the next steps will be, whether it's sending a proposal or scheduling a follow-up.

Step 6: Qualifying Leads

• Assess Fit: Determine if the lead aligns with your agency's expertise and values. This includes understanding their budget, project scope, and urgency.
• Ask Qualifying Questions: Use specific questions to gauge the seriousness of the lead, such as their timeline and decision-making process.

Step 7: Discussing Budget with Clients

• Introduce Budget Early: Bring up the budget during initial conversations to avoid misunderstandings later. This can help manage expectations.
• Be Transparent: Share your pricing model clearly and explain what is included in your services. Provide options for different budgets.

Step 8: Scoping Projects

• Define Deliverables: Clearly outline what you will provide in terms of services and timelines.
• Set Milestones: Break the project into phases with specific milestones to track progress and manage client expectations.
• Document Everything: Create a detailed scope of work document that both you and the client can refer to throughout the project.

Step 9: Evolving as a Business Owner

• Adapt Your Mindset: Transition from a freelancer to a business owner by embracing leadership and management responsibilities.
• Invest in Learning: Continuously seek knowledge about business management, marketing, and the no-code industry to stay competitive.

Step 10: Building Your Brand

• Personal Branding: Consider putting your face out there to build trust with potential clients. Share your story and expertise through content creation.
• Create a Professional Website: Develop a website that showcases your services, portfolio, and client testimonials to enhance your agency's credibility.

Conclusion

Starting a no-code agency requires strategic planning, effective communication, and continuous learning. By following these steps, you can build a solid foundation for your agency, attract your first clients, and establish a strong presence in the no-code community. As you progress, stay adaptable and open to evolving your approach based on client feedback and market trends.