How to Get Your First Freelance Writing Client

by

Starting your freelance writing career can feel overwhelming, especially when you don’t yet have clients, testimonials, or a portfolio. But here’s the truth: every successful freelance writer started with zero clients — and you can get your first one, too.

In this article, you’ll learn exactly how to land your first freelance writing client, even if you have no formal experience. These strategies are beginner-friendly, actionable, and proven to work.

Step 1: Choose a Niche (or a Starting Point)

You don’t have to choose one niche forever, but starting with a clear focus makes it easier to attract clients.

Popular niches for beginners include:

  • Health and wellness
  • Personal finance
  • Digital marketing
  • Tech and SaaS
  • Education
  • Travel
  • Parenting
  • Sustainability

Pick something you’re interested in or have experience with. Clients want writers who understand their audience — your background, hobbies, or career can be an asset.

Step 2: Create 2–3 Strong Writing Samples

Before hiring you, clients want to see what you can do. Even if you don’t have paid work yet, you can create your own writing samples.

Options:

  • Write blog posts related to your niche.
  • Create mock website copy or product descriptions.
  • Share thought pieces on Medium or LinkedIn.
  • Volunteer to write for a nonprofit or small business.

Focus on quality over quantity. Your samples should show:

  • Clear, engaging writing.
  • Structure (headlines, subheadings, easy flow).
  • Understanding of the topic and audience.

Tip: Don’t wait to be hired to prove your skills — show them in advance.

Step 3: Build a Simple Portfolio

You don’t need a fancy website. To start, create a free and professional-looking portfolio using:

  • Contently
  • Journo Portfolio
  • Clippings.me
  • A public Google Doc or Drive folder (as a temporary solution)

Include:

  • A short bio about who you are and what you write.
  • Links or PDFs of your writing samples.
  • Contact information or a link to message you.

Make it easy for potential clients to see your work and reach out.

Step 4: Set Up a Professional Online Presence

Clients often look you up online, so make sure your profiles are aligned and professional.

On LinkedIn:

  • Write a clear headline (e.g., “Freelance Health & Wellness Writer”).
  • Use a friendly, high-quality profile photo.
  • Fill out your “About” section with your niche, services, and how you help clients.
  • Post occasionally about your journey, tips, or industry news.

On social media:

  • Follow editors, marketers, or entrepreneurs in your target industry.
  • Comment thoughtfully and build visibility (don’t spam your services).
  • Share your samples or writing journey.

You don’t need to be on every platform — just pick one or two and show up consistently.

Step 5: Look for Beginner-Friendly Job Boards

Job boards can be a great way to find early clients.

Try:

  • ProBlogger Job Board
  • Freelance Writing Jobs (freelancewriting.com)
  • Superpath (for content marketing writers)
  • Who Pays Writers (for magazine/blog rates)
  • Cult of Pedagogy (for education-related gigs)

Tips for using job boards:

  • Check daily and apply quickly.
  • Personalize your application — don’t copy/paste.
  • Follow instructions carefully.
  • Highlight your relevant experience, even if it’s not paid.

You may need to send many applications before landing a gig — stay persistent.

Step 6: Start Cold Pitching

Cold pitching means reaching out to businesses or websites that aren’t actively hiring — but may need content.

How to start:

  1. Make a list of small businesses or blogs in your niche.
  2. Check if they have a blog, newsletter, or content in need of improvement.
  3. Find the owner or marketing contact.
  4. Send a short, personalized email offering your writing services.

Example:

Hi [Name],

I’m a freelance writer who specializes in [your niche]. I noticed your blog hasn’t been updated recently and would love to help you with fresh content that connects with your audience.

I’ve attached a few writing samples here. If you’re interested, I’d love to talk more about how I can help.

Thanks,
[Your Name]

It takes courage — but cold pitching works, especially when you’re proactive and polite.

Step 7: Let People Know You’re Available

Don’t keep your new career a secret!

Tell your network:

  • Post on your personal social media that you’re offering writing services.
  • Let friends, family, or former coworkers know what you’re doing.
  • Ask if they know anyone who could use help with content.

Many freelancers get their first client from someone they already know.

Step 8: Be Ready to Say “Yes” and Deliver

When someone shows interest:

  • Respond professionally and quickly.
  • Ask about the project’s goals, tone, audience, and deadline.
  • Agree on scope, price, and terms in writing (email is fine at first).
  • Deliver excellent work on time.

Your first client experience will shape your confidence and future success — give it your best.

Step 9: Collect Testimonials and Referrals

After a successful project:

  • Ask your client for a short testimonial.
  • Request permission to feature the work in your portfolio.
  • Ask if they know anyone else who needs a writer.

Testimonials build trust and help you land your second, third, and tenth client.

Final Words: Your First Client Is Just the Beginning

Getting your first freelance writing client is a milestone — and a confidence booster. It proves that you’re capable and that people will pay for your words.

Stay consistent, keep improving, and know that every freelance writer started right where you are now. Your next client could be one pitch, one post, or one sample away.

Leave a Comment