Starting a freelance writing career is exciting, but landing that first client can feel like a huge challenge.
The good news is that with the right strategies and a clear action plan, you can start building your client base and get paid to write sooner than you think.
In this guide, we’ll walk through each step you need to follow to find and secure your first freelance writing client.
Define Your Writing Niche
Before you start pitching to potential clients, it’s crucial to know what type of writing you want to offer. Choosing a niche helps you stand out, position yourself as an expert, and attract clients looking for specialized skills.
Some popular freelance writing niches include blog writing, copywriting, technical writing, ghostwriting, SEO content writing, and social media content creation.
Think about your interests, past experience, and what topics you enjoy researching or writing about. Having a clear niche makes it easier to target clients and tailor your pitches effectively.
Build a Simple Portfolio
Even if you don’t have client work yet, you can still create a portfolio that showcases your writing skills. Write 3 to 5 sample articles in your chosen niche.
These don’t have to be published pieces — you can publish them on your own blog, LinkedIn articles, or platforms like Medium.
Make sure your samples demonstrate different styles, tones, and formats. If you want to write blog content for businesses, show samples that follow SEO best practices and clear formatting. A strong, relevant portfolio will help potential clients feel confident in hiring you.
Set Up a Professional Online Presence
Having a basic online presence helps clients find you and trust that you’re a serious professional. You don’t need a fancy website at first — a simple one-page website, a polished LinkedIn profile, or even an online portfolio page can work.
Make sure to include: a short bio that highlights your niche and experience, links to your writing samples, clear contact information. A professional profile photo and clean layout can make a strong first impression.
Start with Freelance Marketplaces and Job Boards
Freelance marketplaces and writing job boards are great places to start when you have no clients. Websites like Upwork, Fiverr, Freelancer, and PeoplePerHour can help you find entry-level writing gigs.
Niche-specific job boards like ProBlogger, Freelance Writing Jobs, and BloggingPro regularly list writing opportunities. Create thoughtful profiles on these platforms, highlight your niche, and start applying to jobs with personalized proposals.
Write Personalized Pitches
When you apply for jobs or reach out to potential clients, avoid using generic templates. A personalized pitch shows that you’ve researched the client and understand their needs.
In your pitch: address the client by name if possible, mention something specific about their business or website, explain how your skills can solve their problem, link to 2-3 relevant writing samples. Keep your pitch concise, clear, and professional.
A well-written, personalized pitch can dramatically increase your chances of getting a response.
Leverage Your Existing Network
Don’t underestimate the power of your current network. Friends, family, former colleagues, or classmates may know someone who needs writing services.
Let people know you’re starting a freelance writing business and what kind of clients you’re looking for. Sometimes, your first client comes from a warm connection rather than a cold pitch.
Offer a Limited-Time Discount or Free Trial Piece
To build trust and attract your first client faster, you can offer a limited-time discount or a free trial article (under clear conditions). For example, offer a 10% discount for first-time clients or write one short blog post for free to showcase your skills.
Make sure to clarify the scope and expectations of any free or discounted work, so it doesn’t turn into unpaid labor. This can be a powerful way to get that crucial first testimonial and build momentum.
Ask for Testimonials and Referrals
Once you complete your first client project, always ask for a testimonial. Positive reviews help you build social proof and attract future clients more easily.
You can also ask happy clients if they know anyone else who needs writing services. Referrals often lead to warm, high-quality leads that trust you from the start.
Keep Improving Your Skills
Freelance writing is a competitive field, so continuous improvement is key. Take time to read articles about SEO, content marketing, and writing techniques.
Consider investing in online courses or workshops to sharpen your skills. The better your writing and business abilities, the easier it becomes to attract and retain high-paying clients.
Stay Consistent and Patient
Landing your first client doesn’t always happen overnight. Stay consistent with your efforts: keep pitching, improving your portfolio, and networking. Track your progress and celebrate small wins along the way. With patience and persistence, your first client will soon become your first of many.
Final Thoughts on Getting Your First Client
Securing your first freelance writing client is an exciting milestone that sets the foundation for your business. By choosing a niche, creating samples, building a simple online presence, and pitching consistently, you’ll open doors to paid opportunities. Stay confident in your abilities, keep learning, and soon you’ll have a thriving freelance writing career.
Mauricio Dutra is a freelance writer focused on helping others start and grow their careers in writing. At Kallynx, he shares practical tips and insights for aspiring writers who want to work independently and succeed online.
