oh help - new client wants to see examples of work and I haven't got any

[newrecruit]

I set up a new company about 6 months ago and I've changed industries. I've had some clients but none of them have been very big and they have all been quite short term.

I recently contacted some old contacts about doing some work for them (but in the new thing I'm doing iyswim). This would very much be a step up from the local business clients I've had up until now. They contacted me at the end of last week to say they were very keen but have asked to see my portfolio.

I think I've oversold myself and (whilst not saying anything I shouldn't) don't have the repertoire they think I do. Shall I just send them the small projects or maybe just happy client testimonials?

I know I can do the project - I just need to be able to back it up.

Is there anyway to make this work?

Help!

Umm ... send them what you have, I'm guessing they want to see what you can do so even small stuff will be relevant. But do set up a portfolio, they really are incredibly useful.

Can you send a few small things and then say that you can't send bigger ones due to "business confidentiality" - implying that your former clients wouldn't let you send out what you had done for them, but in fact meaning that you want to keep it confidential that your business has only just started!

It wouldn't work well if you have been designing logos and flyers etc though.

Say you're happy to send them a few small samples of your work, but far better would be to come in and see them to discuss their requirements. And then sell yourself.

You will probably need a portfolio though so it's something to keep in mind for the future.