“How to Get Your First Freelance Writing Client”

Landing your first freelance writing client can feel like the biggest hurdle—but it’s also the most important. Once you break that barrier, confidence builds and momentum grows. Here’s how to go from zero to paid in the freelance writing world.

1. Start With a Clear Niche

Clients want experts. Even if you’re just starting, pick a topic you enjoy and build around it. It could be health, tech, travel, finance—just make it focused.

• Create 2–3 writing samples in that niche.
• Use personal projects, blog posts, or guest posts as your starting point.

2. Build a Simple, Strong Portfolio

You don’t need a fancy website to start. Use:

• Google Docs (public share links)
• Medium (publish your own articles)
• LinkedIn articles (for a more professional audience)

What matters most is quality and clarity—show that you can write well, organize ideas, and understand an audience.

3. Start With Freelance Marketplaces

These platforms are built for beginners:

• Upwork: Create a sharp profile and bid consistently on beginner jobs.
• Fiverr: Set up services (“gigs”) and focus on SEO for visibility.
• PeoplePerHour, Freelancer, Guru: More options to explore.

Look for entry-level writing jobs and submit customized proposals.

4. Tap Into Your Existing Network

Your first client might already know you.

• Post on LinkedIn: “I’m now offering freelance writing services in [niche].”
• Ask past colleagues or friends: “Do you know any businesses that need content help?”
• Reach out to small businesses: Offer to improve their web copy or blog.

5. Write Guest Posts

Guest posts build authority fast.

• Pitch article ideas to relevant blogs in your niche.
• Include links to your bio and portfolio.
• Share your posts widely for more visibility.

6. Create a Cold Pitch Strategy

Cold pitching is powerful but requires effort:

• Identify businesses that need help with content.
• Visit their site—find content gaps or weak blog posts.
• Send a short, professional email offering a writing solution.

Sample pitch:

“Hi [Name],
I noticed your blog hasn’t been updated in a while. I’m a freelance writer who specializes in [niche], and I’d love to help you drive more traffic with fresh, optimized content. Here’s a sample: [link].”

7. Offer Limited Free or Discounted Work (Strategically)

Don’t work for free forever. But offering your first 1–2 projects at a reduced rate can help you:

• Get experience
• Gain testimonials
• Build a relationship that may lead to ongoing work

Tip: Treat these clients professionally—contracts, deadlines, and all.

8. Respond Fast, Write Better

When opportunity strikes:

• Respond to job posts quickly.
• Communicate clearly and professionally.
• Deliver great work on time, every time.

A great experience with their first job is what makes a client return.

9. Collect Testimonials Immediately

Even one solid testimonial adds weight to your pitches. Ask your first client:

“Would you be open to sharing a quick testimonial I can include in my portfolio?”

Use it on your site, LinkedIn, and job applications.

10. Keep Going—Your First Client Is Just the Beginning

It may take 10–15 pitches to land that first client, but once you do, it gets easier. Stay consistent, keep improving, and never stop marketing yourself.