Your First 10 Customers - How to Sell Without Feeling Sleazy

Imagine this: you’ve just launched your dream business. Your website is live, your socials are looking sharp, and your product is ready to roll. But now comes the part no one likes to talk about, selling.

For many young entrepreneurs, selling feels like that awkward moment at a party when you try to talk about yourself too much. You worry about being annoying, salesy or, worst of all, sleazy. 

But what if we told you that selling doesn't have to feel icky at all?

Shift the Mindset: Selling = Helping

Let’s start with the truth: you’re not just selling a product, you’re solving a problem. Whether it’s a skin care product, a coaching session, or a clever new app, what you’re offering is valuable. And when you truly believe that, selling stops being scary and starts feeling like service.

Your First Customers Are Closer Than You Think

Before you panic about paid ads and cold outreach, take a breath. Your first 10 customers? They might already be following you on Instagram. They could be in your group chat. They might be your cousin’s workmate or your mum’s yoga buddy.

Start with the people you know. Let them know what you’re doing, clearly, confidently, but without desperation. A simple “Hey, I’m launching this and thought you might know someone who’d love it” can go a long way.

Solve the Right Problem, the Right Way

Here’s the magic: people don’t buy products, they buy solutions. So don’t just say “I sell fitness coaching.” Say, “I help busy professionals lose weight without giving up their favourite foods.” Boom, clear, specific, and focused on the result.

Whatever you do, make it super obvious what pain point you’re easing and who you're doing it for. That clarity can be your superpower.

Create an Offer They Can’t Refuse

Everyone loves a good deal, but what they love is feeling special. So make your early offer irresistible:

• A discount for your first 10 customers

• A free bonus or extra sample

• A limited-time package that feels exclusive

Don’t overthink it. Even a small extra can tip someone over from “interested” to “I’m in!”

Lean Into Social Proof

If you don’t have paying customers yet, no worries. Get feedback from beta testers, mentors, or anyone who’s tried your product. Capture their words, their reactions, their before-and-afters. Social proof builds trust and breaks down resistance, fast.

Stop Pitching. Start Chatting

Nobody wants to be spammed with “Buy Now!” posts. Instead, ask questions. Start convos. Be curious about what people are struggling with and gently offer your solution as a helping hand.

When you stop trying to sell and start trying to help, your whole energy changes, and people notice.

Your First 10 Are Waiting

There’s no secret formula, no magic script. Just a mindset shift, a clear offer, and a whole lot of showing up. Your first 10 customers are already out there. They’re just waiting for you to invite them in.

So go on, post that launch update, send that message, ask for that referral. 

Because this is just the beginning, and your youngpreneur journey is about to get seriously exciting.

Highlights

• 00:52 Understanding the Sales Mindset

• 01:08 Identifying Your First Customers

• 01:30 Crafting Your Unique Selling Proposition

• 02:01 Creating Irresistible Offers

• 02:27 Leveraging Social Proof

• 02:41 Engaging with Potential Customers

• 03:03 Final Tips and Encouragement