Finding clients: a guide for freelancers
Building a business is hard! Trying to connect with new clients (without sounding salesy) is a struggle.
Stop pushing it to the bottom of the to-do list. The time to show up for yourself is NOW.
Take the time to set up these steps. It will be WORTH it.
01/ Build a strong portfolio
Something magical happens when you put your creativity out into the world. Showcase your best work. The projects you’re REALLY proud of. Display them on your personal website, or on a portfolio platform like Behance. High-quality visuals can help to attract potential clients.
Note: If you’re looking for mockups, I have a free resource that you’ll LOVE.
02/ Network like a boss
Create your own creative crew. Attend industry events, conferences and meetups. I know its scary, but everyone else is scared too… You never know who you’ll meet, and these creative connections could help refer work to you down the track.
03/ Become the go-to X (insert your job title)
Become the go-to (Brand Designer / Art Director / Visual Storyteller etc) in your particular niche. By positioning yourself as an expert in your industry, you’ll become top of mind when potential clients are looking for your specific skillset.
04/ Offer free workshops or resources
What do your ideal target audience STRUGGLE with? Host free workshops, webinars, or create informative content related to the thing that they need help with. This builds trust, and establishes you as an authority in your field.
05/ Ask for referrals
Did you do a project that your client LOVED? Screenshot their feedback and post that on your website or socials. Satisfied clients are a great source for gaining new business. And make sure that asking for referrals or testimonials is part of your off-boarding process.
06/ Freelance communities
Join online forums and communities related to graphic design and freelancing. Give more than you take. Ask questions and absorb everything like a sponge. This will also help you to gain visibility in the industry.
07/ Sort out your SEO
Optimise your website and online profiles for search engines (SEO), so potential clients can find you when they’re looking for graphic designers.
8/ Keep learning
Is there something your clients keep asking for, but you don’t have the skills yet? Or is there an area you’d LOVE to learn more about? Find a course and up-skill in that area. Your investment will end up paying for itself once you can then offer it as a service to your clients.
9/ Clear comms & contracts
Do NOT start any creative work without a clearly defined brief and contract. Trust me on this. Outline the project scope, deadline and payment terms to avoid misunderstandings with clients. And take a deposit before you begin.
10/ Excellent customer service
Go above and beyond every single time you interact with a client. Providing exceptional service will create a great experience for your client, and will likely lead to repeat business and referrals.
11/ Make more money
Diversifying your income by offering complimentary design services; like consulting, design templates, or fonts. These additional offers can capture new clients, and provide financial stability between projects.
12/ Big reputation
Building up your client base takes time. I know you want it to happen right now. But you can’t propose on the first date. Your potential clients need to know, like and trust you before they’ll even consider working with you. Keep putting out work that you’re proud of, and you’ll build a big reputation before you know it!
If you don’t show up for yourself, who will? Putting your work out into the world can be scary. But, the more you do it, the easier it will become, and you’ll attract clients who are in complete alignment with you.
