You’ve honed your writing skills, built a few portfolio pieces, and now you’re ready to find your first real clients — but where do you start? Breaking into the freelance writing market can be intimidating, especially when you have no experience or connections.
Fortunately, many successful writers have been in your shoes and paved the way with practical strategies that work. In this guide, you’ll learn how to land your first freelance writing clients with confidence and clarity.
Prepare Before You Pitch
Before diving into job boards or sending cold emails, make sure you’ve checked a few important boxes.
Build a Starter Portfolio
Create 3–5 samples showcasing your writing style and niche knowledge. Publish them on Medium, LinkedIn, or your own blog.
Define Your Services
Clarify what you offer: blog writing, SEO articles, product descriptions, newsletters, etc.
Set Up a Simple Profile or Website
This doesn’t need to be fancy. A Google Docs portfolio or a free site with a contact form and service list will do. Just make it easy for clients to see your work and reach out.
Where to Find Your First Clients
Let’s break down proven sources to find beginner-friendly freelance writing work.
1. Freelance Marketplaces
These platforms are competitive, but they can be a great starting point to build experience and confidence.
- Upwork – Build a solid profile and start bidding on smaller jobs.
- Fiverr – Create niche-specific writing gigs and optimize your titles and tags.
- PeoplePerHour – Good for international writers targeting small businesses.
Tips:
- Apply with personalized proposals, not generic messages.
- Focus on quality over quantity — it’s better to land one solid client than spam 50 listings.
2. Job Boards
Many job boards list freelance writing gigs with clear requirements and pay ranges.
- ProBlogger Job Board
- Freelance Writing Jobs
- BloggingPro
- Content Writing Jobs
- We Work Remotely (writing section)
Check daily, apply quickly, and tailor each application to the client’s needs.
3. Facebook Groups
Search for:
- “Freelance writing jobs”
- “Content writers needed”
- “B2B content writers”
Join the conversations, provide value in comments, and respond to job leads posted by group admins or members.
Caution: Avoid groups that look spammy or where everyone promotes themselves without engagement.
4. Cold Pitching
Cold pitching means reaching out directly to businesses that could benefit from your writing services — even if they haven’t posted a job ad.
Steps:
- Identify companies with outdated blogs or weak web content.
- Find the contact person (usually marketing or content manager).
- Send a short, personalized email offering to help.
Email Template:
Hi [Name],
I noticed [Company]’s blog hasn’t been updated recently, and I had a few content ideas that might help re-engage your audience.I’m a freelance writer specializing in [niche], and I’d love to offer my support. Here’s a sample of my work: [link].
If this is something you’d like to explore, I’d be happy to chat further.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
5. Your Existing Network
Reach out to:
- Friends or family with businesses
- Former colleagues
- Local shops or services
Let them know you’re offering writing services. You’d be surprised how often someone says, “Actually, we need help with that.”
6. LinkedIn
Set up a professional profile as a writer. Use your headline to highlight your specialty (e.g., “Freelance Health & Wellness Writer”). Then:
- Post weekly writing tips or sample content
- Comment thoughtfully on relevant posts
- Connect with small business owners and marketers
Many writers land clients just by being visible and engaging regularly.
How to Stand Out as a Beginner
Getting attention when you’re new can be tough. Here’s how to make yourself more appealing to potential clients:
- Be professional. Respond quickly, meet deadlines, and communicate clearly.
- Offer a trial rate. For the first project only, offer a discount or small sample.
- Deliver more than expected. Add SEO optimization, formatting, or extra research.
- Ask for testimonials. One good review builds trust for future opportunities.
What to Avoid
- Don’t underprice too much. You can start affordable, but don’t sell yourself short.
- Avoid shady “content mills.” If pay is below $0.01/word, it’s likely exploitative.
- Don’t ghost clients. Always communicate — even if you’re running late.
- Avoid poorly defined roles. If a client can’t explain what they need, clarify before accepting.
Keep Pushing Forward
Landing your first client might take time, but each attempt is practice. Every pitch you write improves your ability to sell your skills. Stay consistent, learn from feedback, and keep showing up — your first “yes” is just around the corner.
Once you get that first client, treat it as a foundation to build momentum. Deliver great work, ask for referrals, and expand your reach — one project at a time.