How to Get Your First Lead on LinkedIn or X This Week

Actionable steps for real results

Getting that first lead can feel like a hurdle.

Everybody wants to get their first lead, but few are actually thinking about what it takes to hit that milestone.

Here’s a straightforward plan to land your first lead by the end of this week.

1. Profile Optimization: Set Yourself Up for Success

First, make sure your profile says exactly who you are and what you offer. Think of it as your storefront—people need to know they’re in the right place right away.

  • Headline: Use a headline that speaks to your target audience. It should be clear and direct. For example: “Helping SaaS founders increase revenue through strategic marketing.”

  • Banner: Your banner is the first thing visitors see, so make it count. Use a clean, visually appealing image that reinforces your brand. Include a tagline or a brief statement that highlights what you do or the value you bring. On LinkedIn, this could be a simple phrase like "Driving revenue growth for SaaS companies" or an eye-catching graphic with your website or contact info.

  • About Section: In 3-4 lines, explain your unique value, what you specialize in, and who you’re looking to connect with. Although an about section is only available on LinkedIn, you can put something similar in a pinned tweet on X.

  • Clear Call to Action: Guide visitors on what to do next—whether it’s a call, DM, or link. If you’re open to booking calls, include a link to your calendar here.

With an optimized profile, potential leads will immediately understand who you are and why they should connect.

2. Content: Build Trust with Relevant Posts

With your profile set, the next step is content that draws in your ideal audience. Use this as a way to establish your authority, add value, and get potential leads interested in what you offer.

  • Day 1: Share a mini case study or testimonial about a client success. Keep it short but impactful, e.g., “In just 3 months, we helped [Client] increase their inbound leads by 40% by focusing on [specific action].”

  • Day 3: Post a how-to or checklist relevant to your niche. Try something like, “5 Steps to Boost Product Visibility on LinkedIn” or “3 Ways to Maximize Conversions in Your First 5 Seconds.” Giving away actionable insights builds trust and credibility.

  • Day 5: Share a personal insight or industry observation. People connect with genuine stories or reflections, so keep it real. Think about a recent challenge or lesson learned that your target audience can relate to.

Posting valuable content positions you as a helpful resource, keeping you top-of-mind for anyone in need of your expertise.

3. Outreach: Connect with Intention

Content is great for inbound, but direct outreach helps you start meaningful conversations faster. Begin with people who engage with your posts, and don’t be afraid to expand your network with a quick search for target profiles.

  • Engage First: Start by commenting on the posts of people you’d like to connect with. Add real thoughts or ask questions that reflect your knowledge. This makes you stand out more than a simple “like.”

  • Personalized Connection Requests: Send a connection request that feels personal. Example: “Hi [Name], I enjoyed your post on [topic]. I’d love to connect and learn more about your work in [industry].”

  • Follow-Up Message: Once connected, send a quick follow-up offering a relevant resource or inviting them to book a call. Mention how you can help in a way that feels natural and not too salesy. Example: “I thought you might like our recent guide on [topic]. Let me know if you’re interested in the link!”

Intentional outreach lets you build valuable relationships, turning new connections into meaningful conversations.

4. Qualify Leads: Streamline Your Scheduling

As responses start coming in, use a scheduling tool with questions to pre-qualify leads before your call like Calendly. This saves you both time and keeps things organized. Consider adding questions like:

  • “What’s your biggest challenge with [problem you solve]?”

  • “What would you like to achieve in the next 3-6 months?”

  • “What’s your MRR?”

These questions make it easy to focus on real prospects and prepare for a valuable conversation. They also help you make sure you’re not wasting your time.

I had too many calls where their MRR was $50 lol.

Wrapping It Up

Give yourself every chance to get a lead this week. Keep it simple:

Optimize your profile to clearly state your value.
Create content that adds value and builds trust.
Reach out and start conversations with potential leads.

Action, consistency, and some thoughtful strategy—that’s what gets results.

If you’re looking for a little help getting your content game up and building a personal brand that actually pulls in leads, I’m here for you. I offer ghostwriting services to boost your presence and attract the right people. Check out my website or reply to this email!