Finding your ideal client -and keeping them- is one of the biggest challenges of freelance life.
It’s also the main reason many full-time employees hesitate to go freelance: marketing yourself can feel like the hardest part of the job.
In this guide, we’ll cover proven strategies for finding and attracting clients, whether you’re just starting out or trying to grow your freelance business.
TL;DR
- Define your target audience and ideal client profile
- Use freelance job boards and platforms strategically
- Build a strong online presence with a portfolio and social proof
- Leverage networking, both online and offline
- Offer value first through free resources, tips, or consultations
- Send tailored, well-researched proposals
- Follow up consistently without being pushy
1. Use Freelance and Job Platforms
One of the simplest ways to find new projects is by using online platforms designed to connect freelancers with clients. These generally fall into two categories:
Freelance marketplaces: Sites like Upwork, Fiverr, and Freelancer let you create a profile, browse available projects, and submit proposals.
While these platforms can help beginners get experience quickly, competition is fierce, and many clients choose the lowest bid over the best quality. If you already have experience and a solid portfolio, you may find better opportunities elsewhere.
Job boards: Websites like We Work Remotely, FlexJobs, and Remote OK post listings for both full-time and freelance work.
Many job boards now feature remote or contract roles in creative fields. This can be a great entry point when you’re just starting out, but be aware that you’ll have less room to negotiate rates when responding to a public listing.
2. Attract Clients Through Content Marketing
The most reliable way to get discovered online is to create content that showcases your expertise.
Social media can give you a quick start, but for long-term growth, you should have your own personal website with a blog.
A website acts as your professional hub -something you control- unlike social platforms whose algorithms or rules can change overnight. Publish blog posts, tutorials, and case studies that your ideal clients would find useful. Over time, this builds authority and drives organic traffic.
Pro tip: Add an email newsletter sign-up to your site so potential clients and followers can stay connected. This gives you a direct line to your audience, unaffected by social media changes.
You can also guest-post on relevant industry websites for extra visibility. Always link back to your own site, where people can learn more about you and your services.
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3. Build a Professional Network
Networking is still one of the most powerful ways to find clients. Many people hire freelancers through recommendations and personal connections.
Attend industry events, workshops, and meetups when possible. Don’t limit yourself to only networking with potential clients, building relationships with other freelancers can lead to referrals and collaborations.
If you can’t attend events in person, participate in online communities and LinkedIn groups. Share valuable content, comment thoughtfully on others’ work, and stay active without spamming.
4. Send Targeted Proposals
If there’s a brand or company you’d love to work with, don’t wait for them to post a job listing, pitch them directly.
Research their business, identify a problem you can solve, and outline your solution in a concise proposal. Email is often the best first contact method; if you don’t hear back, a polite follow-up call can work too.
While the response rate may be low, landing just one high-value client this way can be a game-changer for your career.
5. Turn Happy Clients into Repeat Business and Referrals
The easiest client to get is one who’s already worked with you.
Deliver quality work on time, communicate clearly, and -if possible- go slightly beyond what’s expected. A delighted client is far more likely to recommend you to others.
Consider offering a referral incentive: for example, a discount or bonus for clients who refer new business to you.
One of the ways I’ve found to make clients happy, is to become an efficient one-man studio.
Last Words
You don’t need to quit your full-time job to start building your freelance client base. Apply these strategies consistently, and you can grow your network and attract steady work over time.
In today’s competitive market, the idea that “my work is good, so clients will find me” doesn’t hold up. You have to actively market yourself. And the best time to start is now.
FAQ
What’s the best way to find clients as a creative professional?
The best way to find clients is to combine online visibility with active outreach. Build a strong portfolio, share your work consistently on platforms where your audience spends time, and use targeted networking to connect with potential clients.
Do I need a portfolio to get clients?
Yes, a portfolio is one of the most important tools for attracting clients. It showcases your skills, style, and previous work, helping potential clients understand the value you offer.
Which platforms are best for creatives to find clients?
It’s different for every industry. You should be where your customers are. But relying solely on social media and platforms not owned by you, will always involve risks. So investing in a website -and maybe an email list- is a must.
