Your first freelance client is often the hardest to find. Once you have one, you have a portfolio piece, a testimonial and proof that someone will pay for your skills. Here is how to get there.
Step 1: Define one clear service
“I do marketing” is hard to buy. “I write weekly newsletters for small wellness brands” is easy to understand. Choose one service and one type of client to start with. You can always expand later.
Step 2: Start with your network
Your first client is most likely someone who already knows you, or knows someone who knows you. Make a list of:
- Former colleagues and managers.
- Friends and family who run businesses.
- People in your industry you have met at events.
- Online communities you are already part of.
Let them know what you are offering. A simple message works:
“Hi Sarah, I have started freelancing as a newsletter writer for small businesses. If you know anyone who needs help with their emails, I would love an introduction.”
Step 3: Create simple proof
If you have no freelance work yet, create examples. Write a sample newsletter, redesign a mock website or offer a small project to a local business in exchange for a testimonial. Our guide to building a simple freelance portfolio shows what to include.
Step 4: Pitch directly
Look for businesses that clearly need your service, then send a short, personal pitch:
- Show you know their business.
- Name one specific way you could help.
- Suggest a simple next step, like a short call.
Keep it brief. A thoughtful five-sentence email beats a long one.
Step 5: Be visible
Share your work on LinkedIn or Instagram, talk about what you are learning and mention that you are available for projects. Visibility builds slowly, but it compounds.
Step 6: Follow up
Many clients do not reply to the first message simply because they are busy. A polite follow-up a week later is professional, not pushy.
Frequently asked questions
Where do freelancers find their first clients?
Most first clients come from your existing network: former colleagues, friends with businesses and communities you belong to. Direct pitches and freelance platforms can help too.
What should I include in a freelance pitch?
Show that you know their business, suggest one specific way you could help and propose a simple next step, like a short call. Keep it to about five sentences.
Should I work for free to get clients?
Not in the long run. At the very start, a small, low-cost project in exchange for a testimonial can help you build proof, but set a fair price as soon as you can.
Once you land the client
Agree on the scope, price and deadline in writing before you start. Our Freelance Launch Checklist covers the basics, How to Price Your Freelance Services helps you choose your rates, and Freelance Contracts and Invoices, Made Simple keeps you protected. Freelance income can be uneven, so read How to Budget With Irregular Freelance Income too.
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