Starting out as a freelance writer can be both exciting and overwhelming. You’ve polished your portfolio, refined your writing style, and you’re ready to take on clients—but where exactly do you find them?
This article will guide you through the most effective strategies and platforms for landing your first freelance writing clients, even if you have no prior experience. These are actionable steps that can help you build momentum, confidence, and income.
Start With Your Existing Network
Your first client might be closer than you think. Friends, family, former colleagues, or even old classmates may need writing help—or know someone who does.
How to Tap Into Your Network:
- Post on your personal social media accounts (Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram)
- Let people know you’re now a freelance writer and available for hire
- Be specific about the kind of writing you do (e.g., blog posts, product descriptions, email content)
Example Post:
“Hey friends! I’ve officially started offering freelance writing services. If you or someone you know needs content for a blog, website, or email campaign, I’d love to help. Message me anytime!”
Join Freelance Marketplaces
Freelance platforms are a goldmine for beginners, offering access to thousands of job opportunities. While competition is high, new writers can still succeed with a standout profile and well-crafted proposals.
Top Platforms to Explore:
- Upwork: Great for long-term projects
- Fiverr: Ideal for selling defined writing “gigs”
- PeoplePerHour: Project-based work with flexible pricing
- Freelancer.com: A mix of writing and other freelance tasks
- Workana: Popular in Latin America but open to global freelancers
Tips to Stand Out:
- Use a professional photo
- Write a compelling bio that explains your value
- Add writing samples—even self-published ones
- Apply only to jobs that match your skill level
Facebook Groups for Freelancers
Facebook is filled with niche groups that connect freelancers with potential clients. Look for writing-specific groups or groups for entrepreneurs and small businesses.
Recommended Groups:
- Content Writers Hub
- The Copywriter Club
- Freelance Copywriters Collective
- Blogging Boost
How to Use Groups:
- Engage before promoting yourself
- Comment helpfully on others’ questions
- Watch for job postings and respond quickly
Cold Pitching: It’s Not as Scary as It Sounds
Cold pitching is the practice of reaching out to businesses that don’t yet know you but could benefit from your writing services. It’s one of the most direct and rewarding ways to find quality clients.
How to Do It:
- Identify small businesses, startups, or blogs in your target niche.
- Find a contact email or use LinkedIn.
- Write a personalized, concise pitch email.
Sample Cold Pitch Email:
Subject: Blog Content to Help [Business Name] Reach More Customers
Hi [Name],
I’m a freelance writer specializing in [your niche], and I love what your company is doing in [specific product/service]. I’d love to contribute engaging blog content that helps you grow your audience and authority.
I’ve attached a few samples of my work and would be happy to brainstorm topics tailored to your brand.
Looking forward to hearing from you!
Best,
[Your Name]
Create a Free Listing on Job Boards
Freelance job boards are updated daily with writing gigs—some for beginners, others for advanced writers.
Popular Job Boards:
- ProBlogger Job Board
- BloggingPro
- Contena (paid access)
- We Work Remotely
- Remote OK
- Superpath (content marketing jobs)
Set a daily reminder to check and apply to a few listings. Quick responses increase your chances of getting noticed.
Use LinkedIn Strategically
LinkedIn isn’t just a digital resume—it’s a place to showcase your writing and attract clients.
What You Should Do:
- Optimize your headline (e.g., “Freelance Content Writer for Tech & SaaS Brands”)
- Post regularly—writing tips, links to your samples, or industry insights
- Connect with editors, marketers, and founders
- Use the search function to find “Hiring freelance writer” posts
You can also publish your own blog posts directly on LinkedIn to demonstrate expertise.
Pitch to Online Publications or Blogs
Many blogs and digital publications accept guest contributions—and some even pay for them. Use these opportunities to build credibility, gain visibility, and sometimes get paid.
How to Find These Opportunities:
- Search “[your niche] + write for us” on Google
- Use platforms like Who Pays Writers or Freedom With Writing
- Follow content editors on Twitter/X and LinkedIn
Offer a Launch Discount or Free Trial (With a Limit)
If you’re really struggling to get started, you can offer a limited-time discounted rate or a free trial article. Just make sure you:
- Set clear boundaries (e.g., one free 500-word article)
- Emphasize that this is a promotional offer
- Ask for a testimonial or referral in return
This is not something to rely on long-term, but it can break the ice with your first client or two.
Collaborate With Other Freelancers
Freelancers often get more work than they can handle. Connect with web designers, social media managers, and virtual assistants—many of them need or know someone who needs a writer.
You can find collaboration opportunities in:
- Freelance communities (Slack, Discord, Reddit)
- Twitter/X
Build a Simple Website or Landing Page
Having your own space online makes you look more professional. Even a single landing page that includes:
- Your bio
- Writing samples
- Services offered
- Contact form or email address
…can make a big difference when pitching or applying for jobs.
Keep Going: Success Is About Momentum
It’s completely normal not to get responses right away. Rejection—or silence—is part of the game. The key is to keep showing up, improving your pitch, and writing consistently.
Track Your Outreach:
- Use a spreadsheet to log where you’ve pitched
- Note who responded and what they said
- Follow up after 5–7 days if you don’t hear back
You’re Closer Than You Think
Your first client may not be the highest paying, but they’re your stepping stone. They give you experience, feedback, and proof that you’re ready for more.
Stay visible, stay active, and stay focused on providing value—and soon, you’ll have not just one client, but many.