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How to Find Your First Five Clients as a Freelancer (Without Feeling Salesy)

Updated: 6 days ago

Starting your freelance business is exciting - until you realise you actually need clients.


And not just any clients, but the right ones who value your work and are willing to pay for it.


If the thought of selling yourself makes you cringe, don’t worry. You don’t need to be pushy, spam your friends, or feel like you’re constantly in “sales mode.”


The key to landing your first five clients is to focus on relationships, value, and visibility.


Here’s how to find freelance clients without feeling like a used car salesperson.



Open laptop sitting on a desk with a green office chair


1. Start with Who You Know (Without Feeling Awkward)


Your first clients are likely closer than you think. Instead of cold-pitching strangers, tap into your existing network. Let people know what you do in a natural, confident way.


  • Update your LinkedIn, Instagram bio, or Facebook profile to reflect your new business.

  • Post about your services and share why you’re passionate about helping clients in your niche.

  • Reach out to former colleagues, friends, or acquaintances and let them know what you’re offering.


Example message: “Hey [Name], I just launched my [freelance service] business, helping [ideal client] with [specific problem]. If you know anyone who might need this, I’d love an introduction!”


No pressure. No hard sell. Just opening the door.


 

2. Show Up Where Your Ideal Clients Are (Strategically)


Instead of chasing clients, position yourself where they already hang out.


  • Join Facebook groups, LinkedIn communities, or Reddit threads where your audience is active.

  • Offer value by answering questions, sharing insights, and engaging in discussions.

  • When relevant, mention your services - but always lead with value first.


The goal is to be helpful and visible, not spammy. People will take notice and naturally start reaching out.


 

3. Offer a Beta Test or Introductory Package


If you’re struggling to land those first few clients, consider offering a “beta” version of your service at a discounted rate (or even for free, but only for a limited time). This builds confidence, creates testimonials, and gives you real-world experience.


Make it clear this is a limited-time offer.


For example:


“I’m launching a new [service], and I’m looking for 3 business owners who want [specific result]. Since I’m building my portfolio, I’m offering this at a special rate of [$X] for the first few clients. If you’re interested, let’s chat!”


This makes the offer feel exclusive and time-sensitive, which encourages action.


 

4. Leverage Testimonials and Case Studies


Once you’ve worked with even one or two clients, use their feedback to build credibility.


  • Ask them for a short testimonial.

  • Write a case study about their results.

  • Share snippets of their success story on social media.


Social proof builds trust. Even if you don’t have official clients yet, you can use past work (from your job, school, or personal projects) to showcase your skills.


 

5. Make It Easy for People to Say Yes


Sometimes, the reason clients don’t book isn’t because they don’t need you - it’s because they’re confused about the next step.


  • Have a clear offer: What problem do you solve, and how do you help?

  • Make booking simple: Use a scheduling link or a quick “DM me to get started” approach.

  • Remove risk: Offer a small starter package, a free consultation, or a money-back guarantee.


People love clarity. The easier you make it, the faster they’ll hire you.


 

My Final Thoughts


Finding your first five freelance clients isn’t about hard selling - it’s about connection, visibility, and proving your value. Focus on building relationships, showing up where your clients are, and making it easy for them to work with you. Before you know it, those first five clients will turn into ten, then twenty, and beyond.


 

Struggling to land your first clients?

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