Nine Tips For Building Your Client Base From Scratch

When starting out as a freelancer, the toughest step is often finding your first client. Not only do you have to convince them to take a chance on working with you when you may or may not have extensive experience in your field, but you also have to figure out where to find them in the first place.

However, by following the tips provided by the members of Young Entrepreneur Council, you can make the experience a little less daunting. Here, they advise new freelancers on how to build up their client base from scratch and secure that first paycheck.

1. Connect With Other Freelancers

Connecting with more experienced freelancers is a great first step. They’ll be able to provide insight into which strategies and resources have proven effective for them and will likely keep you in mind for work they don’t have bandwidth to take on. No one likes to turn down a client without offering a solution, and by getting yourself on an overextended freelancer’s radar, you become that solution. – Samuel Saxton, ConsumerRating.org

2. Keep Your Prices Low

When getting started as a freelancer, keeping your service charges a bit lower than the market can help. Clients are generally reluctant to offer work to new freelancers. So, starting out with a low fee can help make clients consider your profile—especially small companies or ones with a limited budget. As you grow, you can steadily increase the amount you charge for your services. – Chris Klosowski, Easy Digital Downloads

3. Maintain An Optimized Social Media Presence

Finding your first freelancing client isn’t easy, but you can easily land on one if you can make yourself and your work stand out. The best way to do that is to maintain a solid social media profile that not only reflects your work but your personality too. Leverage relevant keywords and hashtags to optimize your profile for better reach. – Thomas Griffin, OptinMonster

4. Focus On Building Relationships

Focus on building relationships with potential clients. Networking is key to finding new customers, so make sure you attend industry events and reach out to people in your field. Additionally, don’t be afraid of cold calling or emailing potential customers. You should also consider joining websites like Upwork or Fiverr. Finally, make sure that you create a portfolio. – Kristin Kimberly Marquet, Marquet Media, LLC

5. Keep An Eye On LinkedIn

Freelancing is not easy, especially if you’re starting your journey. My No. 1 tip for building up your base and getting your first paycheck is to keep an eye on LinkedIn. I see people asking for freelancers every day. You’ll want to follow relevant people so you get suggestions from potential clients that match your skill set. – Daman Jeet Singh, FunnelKit

6. Leverage Freelance Marketplaces

Freelance marketplaces like Upwork, Fiverr and Freelancer.com can help you connect with clients who are looking for freelancers. To secure your first check, make sure you communicate clearly with your client about your services, deliverables and rates. Be professional, responsive and reliable, and make sure to invoice them promptly once the work is complete. – Adam Preiser, WPCrafter

7. Offer Something For Free

When starting out as a freelancer, offering free resources can help you find your first client. For example, if you’re a writer, mention that you’d write the first blog for free. This would get more eyeballs no matter the platform you use to find clients. Since they have nothing to lose, people might consider trying your services out, and that gives you an opportunity to showcase your skills. – Stephanie Wells, Formidable Forms

8. Create Work Samples For Your Portfolio

Showcase your skills by creating work samples and case studies for your portfolio. Create samples for imaginary clients in industries or types of businesses that you would like to work with, highlighting your unique approach and style. Showcase these to your prospects as this demonstrates your capabilities, competencies and skills and, most importantly, eases their buying decision by building trust in you. – Devesh Dwivedi, Devesh Dwivedi

9. Try Cold Emailing

Mass cold emailing can be an effective way for freelancers to find their first client. A freelancer will need to use mass emailing tools and lead generation tools, and they need to research their target client carefully. Finally, they have to send tailored, personalized messages. By reaching out to the right number of people, they’ll find their first high-paying client. – Blair Williams, MemberPress