Beginning as a freelancer is not easy, particularly when it comes to acquiring the first client. New freelancers are often faced with competition, a lack of reviews, and not knowing how to position themselves well. Nevertheless, with the right approach, acquiring the first project on a freelancer platform is within reach.
Why Getting the First Client is the Hardest Step
The hardest client to acquire is the first one because:
You don’t have any reviews or ratings to establish trust.
Competition from seasoned freelancers can be fierce.
Clients might be reluctant to hire someone with no track record.
But once you secure your first project and deliver great results, acquiring more clients becomes a lot easier.
Step-by-Step Guide to Securing Your First Freelancer Client
- Select the Right Freelancer Platform
All freelancer platforms are not created equal. Some are for beginners, while others are for seasoned professionals.
Best Sites for Newbies:
Fiverr – Enables freelancers to post gigs without bidding.
PeoplePerHour – Suitable for small and beginner projects.
Workana – Best suited for Latin American freelancers.
Freelancer.com – Has beginner-friendly contests and small jobs.
Best Sites for Seasoned Professionals:
Upwork – Competitive but has good-quality projects.
Toptal – Demands a screening process for top-level freelancers.
We Work Remotely – Best suited for long-term contracts with companies.
- Build a Strong Freelancer Profile
Your profile is the initial impression that clients get. It must be fantastic.
How to Maximize Your Profile:
Have a professional photo (good headshot with good lighting).
Create an amazing headline highlighting your skills.
Develop a profile summary highlighting how you will solve problems for clients.
Set out relevant skills and certifications.
Include a portfolio with some examples of your work.
- Begin with Small and Simple Jobs
Rather than going for high-paying jobs immediately, work on establishing credibility through small tasks.
Examples of Good Starter Jobs:
Rapid article writing (for writers).
Logo design for startups (for graphic designers).
Basic data entry work (for virtual assistants).
Small bug fixes (for developers).
Although these jobs are not high-paying at first, they allow you to earn reviews and experience.
- Write Personalized and Persuasive Proposals
Generic suggestions are disregarded. Instead, tailor your application to fit the client’s requirements.
How to Create a Winning Proposal:
Salute the client by name (if provided).
Refer to the particular details of their job advertisement.
Emphasize your pertinent experience and expertise.
Provide a distinctive value proposition (e.g., “I will offer a complimentary revision”).
Close with a call to action (e.g., “Let’s discuss how I can assist your project with success.”).
Example of a Strong Proposal:
“Hello [Client’s Name],
I noticed your job ad for website redesign and would be happy to assist. I have done similar work for small businesses and startups, designing contemporary and responsive sites that enhance user experience.
Here’s a recent project I did: [Portfolio Link]
I can provide a clean, mobile-responsive website on a fast turnaround. Let me talk to you about your vision and how I can make it happen. When would you like to talk?
I look forward to hearing from you!
Best,
[Your Name]
- Provide Competitive Pricing (But Don’t Undervalue Yourself)
As you are new, you can quote a fair price to attract clients. Just don’t give low rates, lest the clients start questioning your quality.
Pricing Tips for Beginners:
Compare competitor prices on freelance platforms.
Provide initial discounts (e.g., “First 3 clients save 20% “).
Decide between hourly vs. fixed-payment models depending on the project type.
- Tap into Your Current Network
Occasionally, the very first freelance work derives from acquaintances. Spread the word about your service.
Where to Find Prospective Clients:
LinkedIn – Review and update your profile and join business owner networks.
Facebook Groups – Participate in freelance and business groups.
Twitter – Connect with businesses and entrepreneurs in your niche.
Local Businesses – Provide services to small businesses locally.
- Freelancer Contests and Entry-Level Programs
Some websites have contests where freelancers submit work, and the top entry wins. These are wonderful for gaining experience.
Best Freelancer Contest Sites:
Freelancer.com – Provides design and writing contests.
99Designs – Wonderful for logo and branding contests.
DesignCrowd – Allows freelancers to submit work for client review.
- Work for Free or Discounted Rates (Only When Necessary)
If you’re struggling to get your first job, consider offering a discounted or free service in exchange for a review. However, don’t do this long-term.
How to Offer Free Work Smartly:
Provide a limited free trial (e.g., “First 500 words free”).
Ask for a testimonial or portfolio use in return.
Provide a bonus service (e.g., complimentary social media post with every blog order).
- Keep Active and Use Regularly
Getting the initial client requires hard work, so use for work frequently and learn from responses and adjust your method accordingly.
Number of Applications to Send:
5-10 job applications per day should be made by beginners.
If there’s no response, modify your proposal and experiment with different clients.
Keep yourself active on the site to enhance search ranking.
- Do Outstanding Work and Request Feedback
When you obtain your first job, be sure to do better than clients expect. Positive feedback encourages you to receive more clients in the future.
How to Get an Excellent Review:
Submit work earlier than promised.
Maintain excellent communication and feedback.
Include small extras (e.g., a free extra revision or enhancement).
Ask politely to leave a review after the completion of a project.
Sample Review Request Message:
“Hi [Client’s Name], thanks so much for your cooperation! I would greatly value a review of my profile, if you were satisfied with the service I have provided. Feedback assists me to develop as a freelancer. Would love to do business again in the future!”
Common First Client Mistakes to Avoid
Applying to jobs without having a clear description of the tasks.
Silly proposals that ignore client requirements.
Under-pricing, raising eyebrows about quality.
Quitting too early—consistency is the key.
Not requesting reviews after producing quality work.
Final Thoughts
Acquiring the initial client on a freelancer site takes patience, persistence, and strategy. Through the development of a solid profile, the writing of good proposals, and the active pursuit of jobs, freelancers can easily secure their first project and begin to establish a successful career. After securing the first client, the path becomes much easier, resulting in more opportunities and greater income.