Landing your first freelance client can be a daunting task. You are starting from scratch and need to make a great impression to get the job. How can you make sure that you stand out from the competition and land the gig? This blog post will give you 9 tips to help you land your first freelance client!
1. Create a strong portfolio that showcases your skills and experience
As a professional freelancer, one of the best ways to get new clients is by having an online portfolio that showcases your work. An online portfolio lets potential clients see your work and understand your style and abilities.
Creating an online portfolio can be a daunting task, but there are a few simple steps you can follow to make the process easier.
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1. Choose a platform
The first step is to choose a platform for your portfolio. There are many different options available, so spend time researching and finding the one that best suits your needs.
2. Select your work
Once you’ve chosen a platform, it’s time to select the work you want to showcase. Choose your best and most recent work, as well as a variety of projects that show off your range.
3. Organize and present your work
Once you’ve selected the work you want to include, it’s time to organize and present it as engaging and visually appealing. Make sure your portfolio is easy to navigate and includes all the essential information potential clients need to know.
4. Promote your portfolio
The final step is to promote your portfolio so potential clients can find it. Use social media, online directories, and other marketing channels to get the word out.
No matter your skill level or expertise, creative and unique freelance projects are always waiting for you. Check out our list of 33 freelance ideas that can be started today!
2. Sign up for SolidGigs
One of the best ways to land your first freelance client is to sign up for SolidGigs. SolidGigs is a freelance lead generation service that delivers fresh, pre-vetted leads to your inbox weekly. And best of all, it’s free to sign up! Simply create a profile and start applying to gigs that interest you. With SolidGigs, you can say goodbye to the tedious process of scouring job boards and cold-contacting potential clients. And you can focus on what you do best: doing great work that helps your clients achieve their goals.
3. Offer your services on a freelance marketplace
There’s no doubt that freelance job sites are a great way to get clients. Many freelancers prefer them to traditional job boards because they offer a more targeted audience and a better selection of jobs. However, with so many different freelance job sites out there, it can be tough to know which ones are worth your time and which ones aren’t. To help you out, we’ve compiled a list of some of the top freelance job sites you should use to land your first freelance client as a beginner.
1. Upwork
Upwork is one of the most popular freelance job sites, and for a good reason. It’s a great place to find high-quality clients, and new jobs are always posted.
2. Fiverr
Fiverr is an excellent option if you’re looking for lower-priced jobs. It’s also an excellent place to start if you’re new to freelancing, as the jobs tend to be less competitive than on other sites.
3. PeoplePerHour
PeoplePerHour is another popular freelance job site, and it’s a great place to find long-term projects.
4. Toptal
Toptal is a bit different than other job sites, as it’s invite-only. However, it’s worth applying as it’s a great way to find high-paying clients.
5. Guru
Guru is another good option for finding long-term projects.
6. Freelancer
Freelancer is a bit similar to Upwork, but it tends to have lower-quality clients. However, it’s still worth checking out, as new jobs are always posted.
7. 99designs
99designs is an excellent option if you’re a designer or illustrator. It’s also an excellent place to find one-off projects.
8. Glassdoor
Glassdoor is an excellent place to look for freelance jobs if you’re in a specific industry, such as marketing or sales.
9. Indeed
Indeed is a job board that includes both traditional and freelance jobs. It’s an excellent place to search if you’re open to either type of work.
These are just a few excellent freelance job sites out there. So be sure to check them out and see which ones fit you and your business best.
Tips to get started on freelance job sites
When creating your profile on a freelancing marketplace, be sure to include information about your skills and experience. You should also include examples of your work so potential clients can get an idea of what you’re capable of.
Once you’ve created your profile, take some time to browse through the projects that are posted and see if there’s anything that you feel confident you can do. When you find a project that interests you, send a proposal to the client outlining your rates and why you’re the best person for the job.
If you land your first freelance client, deliver high-quality work that meets the client’s expectations. This will help you build a positive reputation in the freelancing marketplace, making it easier to get future clients.
4. Ask your friends/family/network
If you want to get started as a freelancer, one of the best ways to land your first freelance client is to ask people you know. Your friends, family, and professional network can be excellent resources for finding your first client. Here are some tips on how to ask them:
1. Make a list of everyone you know who might be able to help you find a freelance client. This includes family, friends, acquaintances, co-workers, etc.
2. Reach out to each person on your list and explain that you’re looking for your first freelance client. Let them know what type of work you’re looking for and ask if they know anyone who might need your services.
3. Follow up with each person who responds positively and send them any additional information they might need, such as your resume or portfolio.
4. Be persistent and don’t give up if you don’t get a positive response immediately. Keep reaching out to people on your list until you find a client.
5. Finally, don’t forget to show appreciation to anyone who helps you find a client. A simple thank-you note or small gift can go a long way.
5. Offer discounts or other incentives to potential clients
Discounts and incentives always help seal the deal when getting new clients. Here are some ideas on how you can offer discounts or other incentives to potential clients to sweeten the deal and increase your chances of being hired:
Offer a discount for referrals
If a potential client knows someone needing your services, offer a discount to both parties for referring you.
Offer a freebie
This could be a small sample of your work or an additional service.
Offer a money-back guarantee
This shows potential clients that you are confident in your abilities and willing to put your money where your mouth is.
Offer a discount for prepaying
This shows that you are committed to the project and willing to work with the client to get the job done right.
Be creative and think of other ways to offer discounts or other incentives to potential clients. The more attractive your offer, the more likely you are to get hired!
6. Use social media to network
Social media is a powerful tool that can be used to land your first freelance client. It can help you connect with potential clients, build relationships, and show off your work. Here are some tips for using social media to get your first freelance client:
1. Use LinkedIn to connect with potential clients
LinkedIn is a great platform for connecting with potential clients. You can search for clients by industry, job title, or location. Once you find some potential clients, send them a connection request and include a personal message.
2. Use Twitter to build relationships
Twitter is a great platform for building relationships with potential clients. Follow clients that you’re interested in and interact with their tweets. Retweet their content and reply to their tweets.
3. Use Facebook to show off your work
Facebook is a great platform for showing off your work. Create a portfolio or website page and share your work on your profile. You can also join relevant Facebook groups and share your work there.
4. Use Instagram to get creative
Instagram is a great platform for getting creative with your work. Share behind-the-scenes photos, infographics, or short videos of your work process. Use hashtags to reach a wider audience.
5. Use Pinterest to drive traffic to your website
Pinterest is a great platform for driving traffic to your website. Create boards for your work and pin your images and infographics. Include a link to your website in the description of each pin.
6. Use Tumblr to show off your personality
Tumblr is a great platform for showing off your personality. Write blog posts about your work, and share behind-the-scenes photos and infographics. You can also use Tumblr to showcase your work more creatively.
7. Use YouTube to create video tutorials
YouTube is a great platform for creating video tutorials. Share tips and tricks, how-to videos, or behind-the-scenes footage of your work process. You can also use YouTube to drive traffic to your website or blog.
8. Use Periscope to give live demonstrations
Periscope is a great platform for giving live demonstrations of your work. You can also use Periscope to answer questions from potential clients or give behind-the-scenes tours of your work process.
Social media allows you to connect with potential clients, build relationships, and show off your work. These tips will help you start using social media to get your first freelance client.
7. Join a professional organization
If you are unsure where to start, many online directories list professional organizations in various fields that can help you land your first freelance client. You can also ask colleagues or other professionals in your network for recommendations. Once you have joined a professional organization, participate in as many activities and events as possible. This will help you make the most of your membership and increase your chances of getting your first freelance client.
There are a few key reasons why joining a professional organization can help get your first freelance client:
1. It can help build your credibility as a freelancer.
2. It can give you access to a network of other professionals who may be able to refer you to potential clients.
3. It can provide valuable resources and information that can help you in your freelancing business.
4. It can offer discounts on products and services you may need as a freelancer.
5. It can allow you to attend workshops, conferences, and other events to help you learn more about the freelance industry and network with other professionals.
Overall, joining a professional organization can be a great way to get your freelance business and set yourself up for success.
8. Cold pitch potential clients
If you’re having trouble finding gigs, don’t hesitate to reach out to potential clients directly. This is known as a “cold pitch,” which can be a great way to get your foot in the door.
You should write a standout proposal that outlines your qualifications and why you’re the best person for the job. Be sure to tailor each proposal to the specific client’s needs.
Here are some tips on how to cold pitch potential clients and get your first freelance gig:
1. Research the client thoroughly
Make sure you know everything you can about the company or individual before reaching out to them. This way, when you contact them, you can show that you’re knowledgeable about their needs and how you can help solve their problems.
2. Personalize your pitch
Take the time to write a unique message that speaks to the specific client’s needs. Generic pitches are a major turn-off, so make sure yours is tailored to the company or individual you’re reaching out to.
3. Highlight your relevant experience
If you have any previous experience that’s relevant to the client’s needs, be sure to mention it in your pitch. This will show them you have the skills and experience necessary to do the job well.
4. Offer a solution
Don’t just list your qualifications; offer a solution to the client’s problem. Show them that you’re not just another freelancer but someone who can provide value and help them reach their goals.
5. Offer a free trial or sample of your work
Many clients will want to see what you can do before they commit to hiring you. Offer to provide a free trial or sample of your work so that they can see your quality for themselves.
6. Be professional and courteous
This may seem like a no-brainer, but it’s important to remember that you’re representing yourself and your business when you contact potential clients. Be sure to always be professional and courteous in your communications.
Following these tips will help you craft a strong proposal that will increase your chances of landing the job. But even if you don’t get the gig, don’t give up! Keep applying and pitching until you find the right client for you.
9. Be professional and courteous, both online and offline, at all times
When starting as a freelancer, it’s essential to be professional and courteous at all times, both online and offline. This will help you build a good reputation and increase your chances of getting your first client.
Here are some tips on how to be professional and courteous:
1. Be punctual
If you say you’re going to deliver something by a specific date, make sure you do it.
2. Be responsive
If a client contacts you, respond as quickly as possible.
3. Be polite
Always remain polite and respectful even if you disagree with a client’s request.
4. Be honest
If you’re not sure about something, don’t try to fake it. Just be honest and tell the client that you’re not comfortable with that particular task.
5. Be grateful
Always thank your clients for their business.
6. Follow up with potential clients after your initial contact to keep yourself top of mind
A little persistence can go a long way in securing a new client.
Following these tips will help you build a good reputation as a freelancer, which is essential for getting your first client.
Takeaway
That’s it! Those are 9 impactful tips that will help you land your first freelance client as a beginner. Comment below and let us know how they worked for you or if you have other questions about finding clients. And don’t forget to check out our other blog posts for more helpful advice on freelancing and marketing yourself as a creative professional.
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