Embarking on a freelance career is a thrilling venture. The freedom to shape your professional destiny, choose your projects, and work on your terms is exhilarating. However, stepping into the freelance world can also feel daunting. The absence of a steady paycheck, uncertainty about your next project, and the challenge of building a client base from scratch often weigh heavy on aspiring freelancers.
Yet, with the right strategies and a proactive mindset, landing your first freelance client is achievable. Drawing insights from real-life stories and expert advice, this guide will walk you through proven ways to secure your first freelance gig and set yourself up for long-term success.
1. Start with Familiar Territory: Freelance for Your Old Employer
Transitioning from a full-time role to freelancing can be smoother if you begin by working with your previous employer. This strategy offers several advantages: you already understand their business, know the key stakeholders, and are familiar with their expectations. It’s a practical way to build your portfolio and maintain financial stability as you establish your freelance brand.
For instance, Jacqueline Colley, an illustration and pattern designer, started her freelance journey by working with her old full-time employers. Her advice? “It definitely pays not to burn bridges!” Similarly, Ellen Carroll, the founder of Nellie PR, shared how her employer became her first client after she announced her departure. Sixteen years later, they remain a valued client.
Even if your previous role was unrelated to your current freelance aspirations, it’s worth pitching your new services. As illustrator Vicky Hughes shared, she transitioned her old non-creative job into an opportunity by proposing her skills when she learned they needed an illustrator.
2. Leverage Professional Contacts
Your old workplace isn’t the only source of opportunities. The contacts you’ve built during your career are a goldmine for potential clients. Reach out to former colleagues, supervisors, and business acquaintances to inform them about your freelance services.
Jenny Holliday, a freelance coach, recalls emailing her professional network after redundancy, letting them know she was available for freelance work. This proactive approach helped her secure her first few gigs. Similarly, growth strategist Darnell Brown reached out to his past clients, letting them know he was open to new opportunities outside his previous role.
Pro Tip: When reconnecting with contacts, personalize your message. Highlight how your freelance services can solve their specific challenges or add value to their projects.
3. Build and Nurture a Network
In freelancing, relationships matter as much as skills. Building a strong network can open doors to new opportunities. Start with those closest to you—friends, family, and acquaintances—and gradually expand your circle.
Graphic designer Dave Wright attributes his first freelance job to a recommendation from a designer friend. His advice? “Build a network of people you like and want to work with.” Similarly, Sarah Fisher, another graphic designer, landed her first client through a friend of a friend. The lesson here is to let people know about your freelance services; you never know who might need them or can refer you to someone who does.
However, be selective about the clients you take on through personal networks. Illustrator Ben O’Brien warns against taking on projects that might be more trouble than they’re worth, such as favors for unprofessional acquaintances.
4. Be Generous and Helpful
Sometimes, helping others without expecting immediate returns can lead to unexpected opportunities. Being active in communities, sharing knowledge, and contributing your expertise can position you as a go-to person in your field.
WordPress developer Paul Truong found his second client through an online Slack community. He wasn’t actively seeking clients but was simply answering questions and being helpful. Similarly, designer Katie Price attributes her first freelance project to the connections she made while volunteering in the youth sector.
The takeaway? Your generosity can be your greatest asset. Engage in communities, participate in discussions, and lend your expertise—potential clients will take notice.
5. Create and Share Personal Projects
Showcasing your creativity through personal projects can be a powerful way to attract clients. Platforms like social media, personal websites, and online communities are excellent avenues to display your work.
Illustrator Tim Easley’s first significant client, Nike, discovered him through personal work shared on Tumblr. Similarly, designer Hylton Warburton landed a project for a Nike Halloween campaign after uploading his monster-themed artwork on Flickr. These stories underscore the value of sharing your passion projects—they act as a portfolio and an invitation for clients to collaborate.
When showcasing personal work, focus on projects you’re proud of and want to pursue professionally. As freelance designer Sophie O’Connor advises, “Only show work you’re proud of and want to do more of. Your portfolio should be the greatest hits, not everything but the kitchen sink.”
6. Tailor Your Approach to Potential Clients
Once you’ve identified potential clients, take the time to research and personalize your outreach. Generic pitches rarely make an impact. Instead, demonstrate that you understand their business and can offer tailored solutions to their challenges.
For instance, graphic designer Thomas Foley landed his first project through a casual conversation. By understanding the client’s needs and presenting a solution, he turned a chance encounter into a professional opportunity.
7. Utilize Online Platforms and Communities
Online platforms like LinkedIn, Behance, and Dribbble are invaluable for freelancers. These platforms allow you to showcase your portfolio, connect with potential clients, and join professional communities.
Engage with these communities by sharing insights, participating in discussions, and offering advice. Your active presence can position you as an expert in your field and attract clients organically.
8. Stay Resilient and Adaptable
The journey to your first freelance client may involve rejection and setbacks. However, resilience and adaptability are key to overcoming these challenges. Keep refining your skills, expanding your network, and exploring new avenues for opportunities.
Remember, every freelancer’s journey is unique. What worked for one person might not work for another. Experiment with different strategies, learn from your experiences, and remain open to growth.
Take the Leap
Starting a freelance career is as much about courage and determination as it is about strategy. While the path may be uncertain, the rewards of autonomy, creativity, and professional growth are well worth the effort.
Begin with the strategies outlined here: reconnect with former employers and contacts, build a strong network, showcase your personal projects, and stay active in online communities. Most importantly, believe in your abilities and take that leap of faith.
Your first client is just the beginning of an exciting journey. Embrace the challenges, celebrate the victories, and remember that with persistence and passion, the freelance life can be as fulfilling as it is freeing.