How to Get Clients as a Freelancer: Learn What Others Won’t Share
Last Updated on April 8, 2025 by mia
Finding clients as a freelancer can be tough, especially when you’re just starting and unsure where to begin.
Almost 60% of freelancers face difficulty with steady work because they lack visibility and business connections.
The good news is, with the right steps, you can attract clients and build a successful freelance career.
This guide will walk you through how to get clients as a freelancer, the best freelance websites to try, and which skills are most in demand today.
For startups and freelancers looking to grow, New Startups is a platform where you can showcase your business, gain exposure, and connect with others facing similar struggles.
If you’re ready to stop stressing, we can help make the process easier and give your business a boost. Register now to list your business and start connecting with other startups.
What Is A Good Beginner Rate For Freelancers?
A good beginner rate for freelancers usually falls between $15 to $30 per hour, depending on your business and level of expertise.
Startups should consider this range because it allows them to work with affordable freelancers while ensuring fair pay for quality work.
If you’re wondering how to get clients as a freelancer, offering competitive rates can be a great way to attract your first few customers.
To set your rate, think about the value you’ll bring to a project and research what others in your niche charge.
Freelancers who can clearly explain their rate and show results are more likely to win clients’ trust.
While offering affordable rates, don’t undersell yourself—instead, focus on building relationships and showing your expertise.
When you consistently deliver, you’ll find it easier to raise your rates and learn how to get clients as a freelancer who value your work.
How Do I Get Clients As A Freelancer?
1. Build a Portfolio That Shows Your Skills
To get clients, you need to show them what you can do. Create a simple portfolio of your past work, even if it’s just projects you did for free or for practice.
A portfolio acts like proof of your skills and helps potential clients trust you. If you don’t have past work, consider working on sample projects that show the type of service you plan to offer.
For example, if you’re a designer, make mock logos or website designs that showcase your abilities.
If you’re focusing on digital marketing for startups, include case studies or mock campaigns that demonstrate real-world results.
Post it on your LinkedIn page, website, or other professional platforms where clients may find you. A strong portfolio makes it easier for people to choose you over others.
2. Use Social Media to Find Clients
Social media is one of the easiest ways to learn how to get clients as a freelancer. Platforms like LinkedIn, Instagram, and even Twitter can connect you directly with potential clients.
Make sure your profiles are up-to-date with your services, experience, and contact details.
Share posts regularly that showcase what you do, such as design samples, writing clips, or testimonials from past clients.
You can also sprinkle in social media marketing tips within your posts to show potential clients how your work could help grow their own brands online.
Interact with people by leaving comments on pertinent posts or joining online communities where your ideal clients hang out.
Don’t be shy about directly messaging people who might need your services. When you use social media wisely, it becomes your free marketing tool for finding work.
3. Join Freelance Job Platforms
Freelance websites, such as Upwork, Fiverr, and Toptal, are built to help freelancers find clients.
You may make a profile on these platforms, bid on projects, and build your reputation through positive reviews.
While competition can be high, if you price your services fairly and deliver good results, you’ll start getting clients quickly.
Take the time to write clear proposals that show you understand the client’s needs and explain how you can solve their problems.
For instance, if a client needs help with SEO for small business, mention your ability to increase visibility, they should optimize their content for search engines.
Be responsive and polite in communications to build trust with potential clients.
Over time, happy clients may recommend you to others, making it easier for you to get more business.
4. Network Online and Offline
Networking is key to understanding how to get clients as a freelancer, especially when you’re just starting out.
Attend meetups, industry events, or seminars related to your field to connect with people who may need your skills.
Additionally, you can network online by participating in forums, Facebook groups, or LinkedIn communities where potential clients spend time.
When you introduce yourself, don’t just say, “I’m a freelancer”; instead, explain how you can help solve a problem they might have.
For example, share how your content marketing strategy could help their brand attract more customers.
Remember to follow up once you’ve met someone as keeping in touch can lead to opportunities.
Consistent networking keeps your name in people’s minds when they need someone with your expertise.
5. Ask for Referrals from People You Know
Sometimes the easiest way to get clients is to start with your personal network. Don’t hesitate to ask your family, friends, or past coworkers if they know someone who needs your services.
Referrals are effective because consumers believe the advice of those they already know.
Additionally, you can get in touch with former customers and ask if they’d be willing to recommend you to others.
To make it easier, offer incentives like a small discount for every new client they refer to you.
When you establish strong connections through your brand positioning strategies, it sets you apart as a reliable professional.
Building a solid reputation through word-of-mouth can bring steady work your way.
6. Offer Discounts or Free Samples to Start
When you’re just beginning, offering a small discount or free sample can convince clients to try your services.
Many people hesitate to hire new freelancers because they lack reviews or testimonials. You can overcome this by letting clients see the quality of your work at a lower risk.
For instance, if you’re a writer, offer a free 300-word sample article, or if you’re a designer, create a simple logo as a demonstration.
Once they’ve seen your skills, they’re more likely to hire you for larger projects.
However, make sure you’re clear about how much time or work you’re offering for free to avoid losing money. This strategy helps build trust and opens doors for paid opportunities.
7. Write Client-Friendly Emails to Pitch Your Services
Cold emailing potential clients is a direct way to introduce yourself and offer your services.
Research small businesses, startups, or individuals who might need help with tasks you specialize in.
Start your email by addressing them by name and mentioning something specific about their work or business.
For example, you could say, “I saw your website and noticed it’s beautifully designed, but I think I could help improve its SEO.”
Then, explain how your expertise adds value without overwhelming them with too much information.
End the email with a simple call to action, like asking for a quick meeting to discuss their needs. Keep it professional but friendly, so they feel comfortable responding to you.
8. Create Valuable Content to Attract Clients
One of the best answers to how to get clients as a freelancer is creating content that showcases your expertise.
Start a blog, YouTube channel, or social media account focused on your niche. For example, if you’re a web developer, you could create tutorials about website design tips.
When people find your helpful content, they’re more likely to trust you and reach out for your paid services.
Use keywords related to your work in your content to make it easier for clients to find you online.
Sharing valuable information not only builds your credibility but also lets clients know you genuinely care about their needs. Over time, this content acts as a magnet for new clients.
9. Show Testimonials or Reviews From Current or Past Clients
Clients want to feel confident they’re making the right choice before hiring someone. If you have happy clients, ask them to leave a review about your work or provide a short testimonial.
You can display these reviews on your portfolio, website, or social media profiles. Positive feedback can give new clients the trust they need to hire you, even if you’re just starting.
If you don’t have testimonials yet, focus on delivering excellent results and asking for reviews once the job is complete.
The more positive feedback you collect, the easier it becomes to attract more clients over time. It’s a small step, but it leaves a big impact.
10. Stay Patient and Consistent
Getting clients as a freelancer doesn’t happen overnight, especially when you’re new.
Consistency is key, so keep applying these strategies and focus on improving your skills. Some days may feel slow, but every small effort you make adds up over time.
Celebrate the little wins, like landing your first client or getting positive feedback, as these motivate you to keep going.
The more consistent you are, the more chances you’ll have to showcase yourself to potential clients.
Remember, patience pays off when building a freelance career. Keep pushing forward, and eventually, you’ll see your client list grow.
What Is The Best Freelance Website?
The needs you have will determine which freelance website is appropriate for you, but platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, and Toptal are great options for startups.
Upwork offers a wide range of talent for different budgets, making it a good choice if you’re starting small but want quality work.
Fiverr is perfect if you need quick and affordable services, such as logo design or social media help, with freelancers offering fixed prices.
Toptal is ideal if you’re looking for top-tier professionals, especially for tech and development projects.
These websites also give freelancers tips on how to get clients as a freelancer by showcasing their skills, reviews, and work portfolio.
For startups, these platforms save time and ensure you find the right freelancer who fits your project needs.
Try exploring their categories and filtering based on your budget to make the hiring process easier and faster.
Which Skill Is Best For Freelancing?
The best skill for freelancing depends on what clients are most willing to pay for, but learning something like writing, graphic design, coding, or digital marketing is a great starting point.
Skills that help businesses grow, like creating websites or managing social media, are always in demand and can bring steady work.
If you’re wondering how to get clients as a freelancer, offering a skill that solves a problem for their business gives you an edge.
For instance, a small business might need a writer to explain their services or a designer to make their logo stand out.
Once you’ve chosen a skill, mastering it and building a strong portfolio will help show clients what you can do.
Learning how to get clients as a freelancer also means networking, sharing your work online, and reaching out to businesses that need your services.
The more you focus on a useful skill and connect with potential clients, the more your freelancing business will grow.
How Can New Startups Help My Business?
New Startups can help your business by guiding you on how to get clients as a freelancer, making it easier for you to increase revenue and cultivate a devoted clientele.
It provides practical tips and tools, like marketing advice and strategies, to help your startup stand out and attract more customers in a highly competitive market.
You’ll find step-by-step guidance to improve your outreach skills, which is especially useful if you’re wondering how to get clients as a freelancer or if your team is just starting out.
The platform also connects startups with valuable resources, such as networking opportunities and partnerships, to assist your company in gaining the respect and confidence of prospective customers.
By using New Startups you can also discover ways to communicate your brand message effectively, which is a key part of learning how to get clients as a freelancer or as a business owner in general.
On top of that, they share practical ideas to increase sales by focusing on the appropriate clients and turning visitors into paying clients.
Whether it’s through learning how to grow a strong client base or making smart business decisions, New Startups helps you focus on what matters most for your business success.
Conclusion
Finding out how to get clients as a freelancer doesn’t have to feel like a mystery when you’re clear about your skills and take steps to make them known.
Focus on building a strong portfolio because it’s one of the best ways to show potential clients what you can do, and don’t forget to share it on places where your ideal customers hang out online.
Networking is also key, whether it’s through social media, attending events, or even joining online freelancer groups, as many connections lead to opportunities.
Remember to always deliver high-quality work on time because happy clients are likely to recommend you to others or hire you again.
Providing excellent communication throughout a project reassures clients they’re in good hands, which can lead to lasting relationships.
For startup owners and budding freelancers who want a little extra help, New Startups is a fantastic resource for finding tools, guidance, and platforms to grow your freelance career effectively.
With a bit of effort and the right strategies, you’ll see your client list grow steadily over time.