New (or would-be) freelancers often get stuck on what seems like a pretty major hurdle: “How can I find freelance clients?!” It seems like a daunting task. Where are these clients? How can I talk to them? Will I get rejected?
You definitely don’t need to be afraid of reaching out clients (here’s why). And the even better news is that there’s a very simple way to start finding them.
Seriously. It’s incredibly simple. Ready?
Start paying attention.
Stay with me here! Before you let out an epic sigh and leave, let me prove how effective this very simple advice can be.
I bet you spend quite a bit of time online. Conservatively speaking, it’s likely you visit about 20 sites in a day (check your search history if you’re wondering about the actual number!).
Of the sites you visited yesterday, how many did you consider as potential clients? How much time did you invest in evaluating the ways you might be able to be of use to them as a freelance service provider?
Many, if not all of them, are fantastic potential clients!
Prime Opportunities to Find Freelance Clients
Using websites you’ve visited in a given day is just the start.
Imagine you’re in the market for a new dentist. You probably start your search by Googling dentists in your area and checking out their websites. Each one of the search results could be your next client!
And then start looking at dentists from neighboring towns. And peripheral industries (orthodontists, optometrists, ophthalmologists, podiatrists….). Truly, the rabbit hole is endless.
All the companies you come across—via Google search, Facebook or banner ads, or out and about—are opportunities to find freelance clients!
The potential projects and clients you come across every day is astounding. There are work opportunities for you everywhere.
Just start slowing down to notice them—and add them to your pitch list.
Take Your Client Quest A Step Further
For an added challenge—and to increase your odds of success—make a goal for yourself to list out 10 new possible clients each day. Any business you come across, randomly or on purpose, could need the exact kind of help you offer.
Once you really start paying attention, I’m confident you’ll discover a plethora of businesses to pitch. You’ll be well on your way to find freelance clients systematically and intentionally.
So…who’s with me? Are you up to the challenge? I’m not even asking you to reach out to them yet—just make a list of 10 potential clients each day.
If you’re in, post in the comments and let us know how it’s going!
Last Updated on July 1, 2023.
