How to Get Your First Freelance Clients (Without Crying Into a Spreadsheet)

So, you’ve taken the leap. You’ve said goodbye to office small talk and maybe bought yourself a new mug that says “Boss Babe” or “Don’t Talk to Me, I’m Freelancing.”

But now what?

You’re staring at your laptop, realising that being your own boss means also being your own sales team 🤯 and honestly, finding those first clients feels… terrifying.

Don’t panic. We’ve all been there.
Here’s how to get your first freelance clients without burning out, giving up or falling into the “I just need to redesign my website again” trap.

You’ve got the mug though, right?

Step 1: Know Who You Actually Want to Work With

Before you start chasing clients, you’ve got to figure out who you actually want to work with. This is your ideal client, aka your “hell yes” people.

Find Your Niche

Think about:

• What you’re good at (your zone of genius)

• What kind of projects light you up

• What problems you’re great at solving

You're not here to be everything to everyone, you're here to be brilliant for someone specific.

Build Your Client Wish List

Ask yourself:

• What industry are they in?

• Are they a solo founder or part of a small team?

• What keeps them up at night?

• What would make them say, “Ugh, finally…this is exactly who I need”?

This isn’t about boxing yourself in, it’s about making it easier for dream clients to find (and choose) you.

Step 2: Start Talking to Humans (aka Networking, But Fun)

I know. The word “networking” gives LinkedIn-in-2012 energy.
But here’s the truth: people hire people they know, like, and trust. “How do you build trust?” I hear you cry…well, trust is built through connection, not cold pitching.

Go Where Your People Are

Look for:

• Low-key meetups or coworking events

• Women in business communities (online or IRL)

• Slack groups, Instagram comments, virtual coffee chats

No awkward pitching. Just vibes and value.

Be a Real Person, Not a Walking Elevator Pitch

Instead of “Hi, I’m a [insert boring job title]…” try:

“I help people stop feeling overwhelmed by [insert thing you solve]”
or
“I’m figuring out this freelance thing…are you self-employed too?”

Biggest tip? Ask questions. Listen. Be curious.
People remember how you made them feel…not your job title.

Step 3: Use Social Media Without Wanting to Throw Your Phone

You don’t need to go viral. You just need to be findable and show people what you do.

Start With LinkedIn

• Optimise your profile (make it about your client’s problems)

• Share tips, tiny wins, or honest reflections

• Comment on posts like a normal human — not a bot

• Show your face now and then, even if it feels awkward

Other platforms like Instagram, TikTok, or Threads can totally work too…especially if your audience is hanging out there. But don’t try to do them all. Start with one. Be consistent. Be kind to yourself.

Step 4: Show Off a Bit (aka Build Your Portfolio)

Listen, if you don’t tell people what you do, how are they supposed to know you’re brilliant?

You don’t need 10 years of experience to show your value.
You just need:

• A couple of great examples

• Clear explanations of what you did (bonus points for results or testimonials!)

Not sure what to include?

• Do a mock project

• Offer a small freebie in exchange for a case study

• Ask a friend if you can help them for portfolio use

And keep it fresh. Outdated portfolios are like expired oat milk…they seem fine until someone takes a closer look.

Step 5: Dip Your Toe Into Freelance Platforms (Just Don’t Live There)

Freelance platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, or PeoplePerHour can be good places to get started, but they’re not the whole picture.

Here’s how to use them without losing your soul:

• Create a killer profile with your niche and value clearly stated

• Start with small projects to build trust and reviews

• Don’t race to the bottom on pricing

• Use your wins to springboard into direct clients

Eventually, you’ll outgrow these platforms. That’s the goal.

Bonus: Get a Mentor Who’s Been There

Sometimes the best thing you can do is get someone else’s brain on your business. Someone who’s been through it, figured it out (messily), and can show you the shortcuts.

That’s exactly what you’ll find on HeyHopscotch, mentors who’ve walked the freelance path before you and genuinely care about helping you succeed.

🎯 Browse mentors and book a Power Hour >>> £99, one hour, all the clarity.

TL;DR?

• Know your dream client

• Talk to actual humans

• Show your work

• Be findable

• Don’t try to do it all

• Ask for help when you need it

This freelance life? It’s totally possible. One brave step at a time.
And if you ever need a margarita-level pep talk… well, you know where to find us. 💻🍸