Strategies for Acquiring Freelance Clients from Scratch

Sep 25, 2023 | Freelancing | 32 comments

Strategies for Acquiring Freelance Clients from Scratch




How I’d Get Freelance Clients (Starting from 0)

Freelancing has become increasingly popular in recent years, offering professionals the freedom to work independently and on their own terms. Whether you’re a graphic designer, writer, marketer, or any other type of freelancer, one of the biggest challenges is finding clients to work with. But, don’t worry, with a strategic approach and a little bit of persistence, you can build a reliable clientele. Here’s how I would get freelance clients, starting from scratch.

1. Define your niche:
First and foremost, it’s vital to identify your niche. Determine the specific type of work you excel at and are passionate about. Focusing on a particular niche allows you to showcase your expertise and set yourself apart from the competition. Clients are more likely to hire a specialist rather than a generalist.

2. Create an online presence:
Establishing and maintaining a strong online presence is crucial for attracting freelance clients. Start by building a professional website that showcases your portfolio, services, and contact information. Optimize your website with relevant keywords to improve its visibility in search engine results. Additionally, create and regularly update profiles on freelancing platforms, such as Upwork, Freelancer, and Fiverr.

3. Build a strong portfolio:
Even if you’re just starting out, it’s important to have a portfolio that demonstrates your skills and showcases your best work. If you don’t have any client projects to showcase, consider undertaking pro-bono work or create mock projects to showcase your abilities. Remember to include diversity in your portfolio to appeal to a wider range of potential clients.

4. Leverage social media:
Harness the power of social media platforms to expand your reach and attract potential clients. Identify the platforms that align with your niche and target audience, such as LinkedIn for professionals or Instagram for visual artists. Share your work, engage with relevant communities, and establish yourself as an expert in your field. Networking on social media can lead to valuable connections and client referrals.

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5. Guest blogging and content marketing:
Offering your expertise and industry insights through guest blogging on relevant websites can help you position yourself as an authority in your field. Providing valuable content not only showcases your knowledge but also boosts your online visibility. Additionally, consider creating your own blog where you can share tips, insights, and case studies to attract potential clients.

6. Attend industry events:
Networking is a powerful tool for freelancers, and industry events are the perfect place to make connections and meet potential clients. Attend conferences, workshops, trade shows, and local Meetups to engage with professionals in your field. Be prepared to introduce yourself, discuss your work, and exchange contact information to nurture potential business relationships.

7. Ask for referrals:
Once you start working with clients, don’t hesitate to ask for referrals. Satisfied clients are often more than willing to recommend your services to others. Word-of-mouth recommendations are a powerful marketing tool and can help you establish a solid client base.

Remember, building a clientele takes time and effort, especially when starting from scratch. Stay persistent, maintain a professional image, and consistently deliver high-quality work. With time and dedication, you’ll see your freelance client list grow, and your freelance career flourish.


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32 Comments

  1. rhutula jadhav

    @rachelhow .. Its been month i have been watching your channel a lot . one thing i have understood freelancing requires a lot of hardwork….

    Reply
  2. Rusheen

    Really great breakdown! Didn’t even feel like a 7 minute video

    Reply
  3. TD

    So…how do we find clients ?

    Reply
  4. Turquoise  Lizzie

    Well thank you for this its going to come handy for me in the near future ❤

    Reply
  5. Dendy Darin

    Hi Rachel, this is very helpful video. I just start to create my online business as web designer and your steps are clear and amazing.

    Reply
  6. Dendy Darin

    Hi Rachel, this is very helpful video. I just start to create my online business as web designer and your steps are clear and amazing.

    Reply
  7. Bash

    Omg thank you

    Reply
  8. Inga Urumyan

    Thank you Rachel for useful video,sharing important info and advices, suggestions, transparency.
    It is greatly appreciated❤ I am beginner, hope it will help me to reach success

    Reply
  9. Storm Productions

    Thank you so much for your valuable insights. Really productive video ❤

    Reply
  10. Blissful Y

    Hi, I would like to know for improving an existing website and send them your work with your solution, how do you get the assets from the webpage for redesign?

    Reply
  11. bnagelt

    Awesome insight. You are making an impact in my journey. Thank you!

    Reply
  12. Sagar More

    Nice video but I suggest you to remove that slowly white light moving effect from that bottom text because It's distracting and User not able to focus much more on what are you talking

    Reply
  13. Clytax

    Wow honest and detailed, thank you!

    Reply
  14. BB131

    what is a figma plugin ? can you elaborate on that a little more. Im new to this

    Reply
  15. GeishaTheSerpantClan

    Question here!
    Before you memeber to freelancer, where you a junior or senior? 🙂
    Just recently subbed because you are so honest youtuber! Thank you for sharing

    Reply
  16. TRUE LIFE

    I love it! Thank you for putting great work into this video, so much good stuff!

    Reply
  17. John Gomes

    Wow I appreciate and learn so much from your channel ! Thank you so much

    Reply
  18. By Jean Yu

    Hi Rachel, if ever I follow your suggestion on choosing an app or website online and come up with solutions on how I can possibly improve the problems identified using my design (treating it like a project), will that be okay to include in my portfolio? If yes, What's the best way to label it? Hope to hear your suggestions.

    Reply
  19. liz zheng

    Hi Rachel, how do you know that the user experience redesign will improve conversion? Is this through a course or some sort of data analysis you have done prior?

    Reply
  20. Joshua Azumah

    I taken notes of all the points. I will come back here next month 23 March 2023 give an account of myself. In case I forget remind me.

    Reply
  21. Yoga Bliss Dance

    Thre are PEOPLE ON FIVERR who make five and even six figures: Alex Fasulo is one and there are others- esp if one is in a foreign it can work well via exchange rate.

    Reply
  22. Kesh Udana

    This video is a goldmine

    Reply
  23. Sachin Sabu

    Hi . Can you share the chair that using for a long time if possible share it's link also

    Reply
  24. Franklin Mayoyo

    I love how honest you are. Unlike many other youtubers who will tell newbies to just join freelance platforms and they'll get clients instantly. What I'll add on is that, whoever thinks freelancing is easy sorry because you'll encounter some really bad clients. Another thing, make sure you deliver as per your promises. Some clients know how to do the job they're offering only that they're busy with some other stuff.
    continue learning.

    Reply

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