Two foreigners in Japan trying to start a consulting studio — how did you find your first client?
My partner and I are both foreigners living in Japan, and we wish to start our own consulting studio, mainly focused on helping foreign companies enter Japan.
My partner has been working as a global marketing planner for a Japanese company, focusing on BPM SaaS. Recently, she wanted to quit due to toxic micromanagement from her boss. I've been working for a localization company for 3 years, and my work is also very routine — I'm kinda worried about being replaced by AI in the future, so we wish to take action first.
We've done some preparation already, like creating a webpage, buying a domain name, and promoting our service to acquaintances hoping to get referrals.
I would like to ask for advice from someone who has created a small business in Japan — how did you get started and how did you get your first customer? Where can we find those networks? All kind advice and comments are appreciated.