How To Get Your First Client In Freelancing

Introduction.

Getting started as a freelancer can feel exciting and a little overwhelming. You’ve picked your skills, maybe set up your profiles, and now you’re asking, “How do I find my first client?” Trust me, you’re not alone.

Almost every freelancer starts at this same point. But here’s the good news: landing that first client isn’t as hard as it might seem if you approach it with a plan.

In this article, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know to secure your first freelancing client.

From building a strong foundation to practical tips for reaching out and sealing the deal, I’ve got you covered.

Let’s get straight into it.

Why Landing Your First Client Matters

The first client is a milestone. It’s not just about the money—it’s proof that someone values your skills enough to pay for them.

Once you’ve worked with that first client, you’ll gain confidence, build your portfolio, and start creating a path for future opportunities.

Plus, that first client often opens doors to referrals and testimonials, both of which can make finding new clients much easier.

How Do I Get My First Client In Freelancing?

Step 1: Know Your Skills and Value

Before you go hunting for clients, take a moment to define what you’re offering. What skills do you have? How do they solve someone else’s problems? For example:

Are you a writer? Focus on creating blog posts or web copy that converts readers into customers.
Are you a graphic designer? Showcase logos, branding, or visual content that stands out.
A coder? Maybe you specialize in creating fast, user-friendly websites.

Clients need to see how you can help them achieve their goals. Focus on making your value crystal clear.

Step 2: Build a Portfolio (Even Without Clients)

A portfolio is like your freelancing resume, but instead of listing jobs, you’re showing off your work. If you’re starting from scratch, don’t worry—you can create portfolio samples yourself. Here’s how:

Mock Projects: Make up projects that showcase your skills. For instance, design a fake logo, write a sample blog post, or create a website for an imaginary business.
Work for Friends or Family: Offer to do a small project for someone you know.
Volunteer Work: Look for nonprofits or small businesses that might need your skills.

The key is to show what you can do, even if you haven’t had paying clients yet.

Step 3: Choose the Right Platforms

Freelancing platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, or Toptal can be great places to start. Here’s how to make the most of them:

Set Up a Strong Profile: Include a clear photo, a headline that highlights your skills, and a bio that speaks to your ideal client’s needs.
Start Small: In the beginning, focus on simpler jobs. It helps build reviews and ratings, which are crucial on these platforms.
Be Proactive: Don’t just wait for job invites. Apply to postings regularly and tailor your proposals for each one.

Outside of freelancing platforms, don’t overlook social media. LinkedIn, Twitter, and even Instagram can be excellent ways to connect with potential clients.

Step 4: Network

Sometimes, the best opportunities come from simply talking to people. Here’s how to network effectively:

Tap into Your Existing Network: Let friends, family, and former colleagues know you’re freelancing.

Join Online Communities: Facebook groups, Reddit forums, or niche Slack channels often have people looking for freelancers.
Attend Events or Webinars: Whether in person or online, events are a great way to meet potential clients or people who can refer you.

A simple message like, “I’m starting as a freelance graphic designer and looking for small projects. Do you know anyone who might need help?” can work wonders.

Step 5: Send Great Pitches

Once you find potential clients, the next step is reaching out. Here’s how to write a pitch that gets noticed:

Personalize It: Use the client’s name and mention something specific about their business.
Focus on Their Needs: Don’t just talk about yourself. Explain how you can help solve their problem.
Keep It Short: Most clients won’t read long messages, so get to the point quickly.
Include a Call to Action: End with something like, “Can we schedule a quick call to discuss this further?”

For example:

Hi [Client’s Name],
I noticed you’re looking for someone to improve your website. I specialize in creating fast, user-friendly sites that help businesses increase sales. I’d love to chat about how I can help. Would you be open to a quick call this week?

Step 6: Don’t Be Afraid of Rejection

Not every pitch will land a client, and that’s okay. Treat rejection as a learning experience. If a potential client responds with a “no,” you can politely ask for feedback:
“Thanks for letting me know! Is there anything I could improve for future opportunities?”

This not only shows professionalism but might give you useful insights.

FAQs

1. Do I need a website to get started?

No, you don’t need a website right away. A strong profile on platforms like Upwork or a good LinkedIn page can work just fine. However, having a website can make you look more professional as you grow.

2. How do I price my services?

Start by researching what others in your field are charging. As a beginner, you might charge slightly lower rates to attract clients, but don’t undervalue yourself.

For example, writers might charge $0.05–$0.10 per word starting out, while graphic designers might begin around $20–$30/hour.

3. What if I don’t have reviews yet?

If you’re on a platform where reviews matter, focus on completing a few smaller jobs first. Overdeliver on quality to earn great feedback.

4. How long does it take to get the first client?

It varies. Some freelancers land their first client in days, while others take weeks. The key is consistency—keep refining your pitch and reaching out.