Landing your first few freelance writing clients is often the biggest challenge for new writers. You’ve got the skills, you’ve written some strong portfolio pieces, but no one’s hiring — yet. The truth is, getting those first clients isn’t about luck. It’s about using the right strategies, building trust, and being persistent. In this article, we’ll walk through proven methods to help you find and land your first freelance writing gigs — even if you’re starting from scratch.
Why It’s Hard at First (and Why That’s Normal)
Starting out, you face a classic dilemma:
You need clients to gain experience, but clients want you to have experience first.
But here’s the truth: every experienced freelance writer started with zero clients. What separates successful freelancers from the rest is consistency, confidence, and the ability to show value — even without a long resume.
Let’s look at actionable steps you can take today.
Step 1: Use Freelance Job Boards
Freelance job boards are a great place to find beginner-friendly writing gigs. These are websites where clients post jobs and writers apply directly. Some of the most trusted platforms include:
- ProBlogger Job Board (problogger.com/jobs)
- Freelance Writing Jobs (freelancewriting.com/jobs)
- Content Writing Jobs (contentwritingjobs.com)
- We Work Remotely
- BloggingPro
When applying, don’t just say “I’m available.” Craft a short, enthusiastic email with:
- A personalized greeting
- A few sentences about your background
- A couple of links to relevant writing samples
- A clear call-to-action (like: “I’d love to write this piece for you — let me know how to move forward!”)
Step 2: Leverage Freelance Platforms
Websites like Upwork, Fiverr, PeoplePerHour, and Freelancer.com can help you get started. Yes, they’re competitive — but with the right approach, beginners still get jobs every day.
Tips for standing out:
- Write a strong profile summary explaining what you write and how you help clients
- Add writing samples (even unpaid ones)
- Keep your rates competitive but fair — don’t undercharge too much
- Send personalized proposals that mention the client’s goals
Even a few small $30–$50 jobs can give you reviews that build momentum.
Step 3: Tap Into Your Personal Network
Many new freelancers overlook this — but friends, family, and professional contacts are often your best first clients.
Let people know what you do:
- Post on your personal LinkedIn, Instagram, or Facebook
- Tell former coworkers or classmates
- Ask small businesses or local blogs if they need help with content
Even if they don’t need a writer, they might refer you to someone who does.
Step 4: Cold Pitching (Yes, It Works!)
Cold pitching means reaching out to companies, bloggers, or entrepreneurs you’d like to work with — even if they haven’t posted a job ad.
Here’s how to do it:
- Identify businesses that have a blog but post inconsistently, or whose content could be improved
- Find their contact info (LinkedIn, contact page, email)
- Send a short, respectful email like:
Subject: Help with blog content?
Hi [Name],
I came across your blog and really liked your article on [topic]. I noticed you haven’t published new content in a while, and I’d love to help.
I’m a freelance writer who specializes in [niche], and I can create content that helps bring in more organic traffic and engage your readers. Here are two examples of my writing:
[Sample 1]
[Sample 2]
Would you be open to chatting about how I could help with content?
Best,
[Your Name]
Cold pitching takes effort but can lead to high-paying, long-term clients.
Step 5: Write Guest Posts
Guest posting means writing free articles for blogs in your niche in exchange for a byline (your name and a link to your portfolio or website).
This builds:
- Credibility
- Experience
- Exposure to potential clients who read those blogs
Search Google for opportunities like:
- “write for us + [your niche]”
- “guest post guidelines + [your topic]”
Even one or two quality guest posts can make your portfolio look more professional.
Step 6: Offer a Time-Limited Discount or Package
As a beginner, offering a first-time client discount or bundle can encourage people to give you a chance. For example:
- “First 2 blog posts for $50”
- “Email series package – 20% off for first-time clients”
Just be sure to set clear terms and deliver great quality so you can use the work in your portfolio and ask for a testimonial.
Step 7: Join Facebook Groups and Online Communities
Many writing jobs are posted in freelancer groups on Facebook, Reddit, and Slack channels. Some are public, others are private but easy to join.
Try searching for:
- “Freelance writers group”
- “Content writing jobs”
- “[Your niche] freelance group”
Engage with others, answer questions, and look out for job posts. Often, opportunities appear in the comments rather than public announcements.
Step 8: Create a Simple Portfolio (If You Haven’t Yet)
If you skipped this in the previous article — now’s the time. You need a place to showcase your writing samples.
Your portfolio can be:
- A free site like Medium or Contently
- A personal blog or website
- A simple Google Doc with links to your work
Clients are far more likely to hire you if they can see what you can do.
Step 9: Stay Consistent — It Pays Off
You might need to apply to 10, 20, or even 50 jobs before getting a “yes.” That’s totally normal. Rejection isn’t personal — it’s part of the process.
Each pitch you send improves your writing and confidence. Many freelancers get their first job after weeks of trying — and their second one right after.
Final Words: Your First Clients Are Closer Than You Think
The first few clients are the hardest to get — but once you land one or two, your freelance writing journey gets much easier. Each piece of work builds your portfolio. Each client opens doors to new opportunities.
You don’t need to be perfect — just reliable, honest, and ready to learn.