How do I find my first client?

Finding your first client can be both daunting and exhilarating. It’s a pivotal moment that validates your leap from the corporate world into freelancing. Here’s how you can navigate this journey:

1. Leverage Your Network: Start with people who already know, like, and trust you. Reach out to former colleagues, friends, or family who might need your services or know someone who does. During my transition, I reached out to a former colleague who needed some freelance work done and secured my first gig this way.

2. Showcase Your Work: Create a portfolio that highlights your strengths and expertise. Even if you haven’t landed a client yet, develop sample projects or case studies. Follow the Capture, Develop, Expose framework: Capture your idea, develop it into something tangible, and expose it to potential clients. For instance, when I pivoted from engineering to creative work, I created content that merged my analytical skills with design.

3. Utilize Freelance Platforms: Sign up on platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, or Freelancer. These platforms are competitive, but they offer a way to build a portfolio and get those first few testimonials. Start with small projects to build your reputation and gain confidence.

4. Offer Complimentary Services: Consider offering your service for free or at a reduced rate in exchange for a testimonial or referral. But set clear boundaries around this to ensure mutual respect and understanding. When I first started, I offered complimentary consultations to understand client needs better and establish trust.

5. Create and Share Valuable Content: Establish yourself as an expert by blogging, podcasting, or creating videos related to your niche. Share insights that resonate with your potential clients’ pain points. This approach allowed me to build authority in my field and attract clients organically.

6. Attend Networking Events: Attend conferences, workshops, or local meetups in your industry. Real-life connections often lead to job opportunities and collaborations. During my journey, attending a local creative conference introduced me to a client who valued my unique perspective as an ex-engineer.

7. Redefine Success Gradually: Remember, this process takes time. Redefine what success looks like for you in the short term. Celebrate small victories, like completing your portfolio or sending out your first batch of cold emails. Understand that the messy middle is part of the process, and your first client is just the beginning.

Stay patient and persistent. With each step, you’re closer to building the freelance career you envision.