How to Get Web Design Clients in Cameroon (Even If You're Just Starting)
If you’re a web designer in Cameroon and you’re struggling to get clients, I understand. I’ve been there.
I remember sitting in my small rented room in Douala, staring at my laptop, hoping someone would WhatsApp me to ask for a website.
Nothing came.
Then I realized something: clients won’t come unless you go out there and find them. It doesn’t matter how good your designs are.
If nobody sees your work, it’s like hiding a beautiful shop in the forest. No one will buy.
In this blog post, I’ll show you the real ways I’ve used to get web design clients in Cameroon.
These are not tricks. They are simple steps that actually work if you stay consistent.
1. Create and Optimize Your Google Business Profile
If you don’t already have a Google Business Profile (formerly called Google My Business), create one today.
When someone types “web designer in Douala” or “website for my business in Cameroon,” Google shows local results. That’s your chance to appear.
Add your name, business name (e.g., Weblim), phone number, location (even if it’s just your town), services, and some nice pictures of your past work.
Very important: Ask your happy clients to leave a review. Even just 3 to 5 reviews can build trust fast. When people see you’re real, they’re more likely to contact you.
2. Build a Strong Portfolio Website
This one is non-negotiable.
Your website is not just a place to show off. It’s proof that you know what you’re doing.
If your site is slow, broken, or ugly, don’t expect clients to hire you. Build a clean, fast, mobile-friendly site that shows:
Who you are (a simple about page)
What you do (web design, SEO, etc.)
Samples of your work (live websites or screenshots)
A clear way to contact you (phone, WhatsApp, email)
On my personal site, I made sure it loads fast, has real reviews, and shows examples of my past work. This alone has brought me clients from Yaoundé, Bamenda, and even the U.S.
If you don’t have a website yet, you’re playing small. Fix that first.
3. Use Social Media the Right Way
Most Cameroonian designers post one logo after another. That’s not how to get clients.
Instead, create content that solves problems. Here’s what works:
“5 Mistakes to Avoid When Creating a Website for Your Business”
“Why Your Business is Invisible on Google”
“This is What a Professional Website Should Look Like”
When someone sees helpful posts like this on Facebook or TikTok, they see you as the expert. That builds trust. And trust leads to sales.
You can also share short behind-the-scenes videos, like before-and-after website redesigns. Or record voice notes explaining simple web tips. That builds connection.
4. Run Small Ads to Attract Serious Clients
If you wait for organic reach only, you’ll move too slow. Run small ads on Facebook or Google even 2,000 to 5,000 FCFA per day.
Don’t run random ads. Target business owners in Cameroon who need a website. Your ad should have:
A clear problem (“Your business is not getting clients online?”)
A simple solution (“We build fast websites that bring results.”)
A strong call to action (“Send us a WhatsApp now.”)
I’ve run ads like this and got leads who paid 200,000 to 500,000 FCFA. But you must follow up fast.
Many people will message you but not be sure. Your job is to educate and close.
5. Visit Businesses and Pitch in Person
Yes, it sounds old-school. But walking into an office and pitching still works.
Pick one street. Walk into the businesses that don’t have a good website or have no website at all. Be polite. Don’t push.
You can say something like:
“Hi, I’m Lesly. I help businesses like yours get more customers with professional websites. I took a quick look at your online presence, and I think I can help. Would you be open to seeing how your website could look?”
Have your phone or tablet with examples of your work. Print one simple flyer. Leave your number. Most people won’t say yes immediately. But some will call later. Follow up.
6. Ask People Who Already Know You
Your friends. Your old classmates. Your uncle with a school. Your friend with a company. Your sister working in an NGO.
These people already trust you. But many of them don’t know what you do.
Tell them. Then ask them to connect you with someone who needs a website. Even one lead can turn into more work.
I once built a free site for a friend’s NGO. That friend later introduced me to someone in Europe who needed a medical assistance site and they paid me in euros.
Don’t underestimate small favors. They open doors.
Also Read: Freelance Web Design Clients to Avoid
7. Cold Calls and Emails (If Done Right)
Cold outreach can work if you’re strategic.
Don’t just say: “I’m a web designer, do you need a site?”
That sounds like begging.
Instead say:
“Hi, I’m a local web designer, and I noticed your business doesn’t appear well on Google. I help businesses like yours fix that with fast websites. Can I show you how that would work for you?”
Keep it short. Respect their time. Send a link to your portfolio. Follow up once or twice if they don’t reply.
Target local businesses with poor websites, schools, clinics, law firms, restaurants, etc.
Also Read: How to Use the 80/20 Rule to Improve Website Conversion
Final Thoughts
The truth is, most web designers in Cameroon fail not because of talent, but because they wait.
They wait for the perfect website.
They wait for the perfect client.
They wait to feel ready.
Stop waiting.
Start taking action, even if it’s small. Every client you get leads to experience, referrals, and more confidence.
I’m Bobvalla Lesly, and I’ve used all these steps to grow my web design journey from zero. You can too. But only if you stop hiding.
If you’re serious about turning your web design skill into a business, go get your next client today.