Are you a content writer thinking about taking the leap into freelancing, or have you recently started freelancing full-time or part-time? Chances are, you’re wondering how to get clients for freelance writing and how to build trust with freelance clients once you land your first project. Getting a client and fulfilling their requirements might seem easy until you really get down to business However, there are many good reasons to pursue freelance content writing. Every content writer’s journey is different. Some find it easy, while to others it can be a gruelling process but don’t lose hope- there are ways to meet your client’s goals and build a long-term relationship with them. Read along to learn more on how to get Clients and build trust in Freelance Content Writing.
Types of Content Writing
Regardless of current writing skill level, there’s a type of freelance writing suited for you. You just have to understand your skill sets and apply them accordingly to the type of content writing fit for you. And if you don’t want to stick on to a single niche, feel free to experiment and explore multiple types of content writing. Given are the different types of content writing niche you could potentially specify in and earn money:
- Technical writing
- Copywriting
- Website/blog writing
- Ghost writing
- Business writing
- SEO writing
- Social media writing
- Newsletters
- Product description writing
How to Get Your First Client in Freelance Writing
Getting your very first client can feel intimidating, especially when you’re figuring out how to get clients for freelance writing in a competitive market. How do you communicate effectively with you client? How would you make you client understand your skill set? What if your writing style doesn’t meet their standards? But your first question would be on how to get your first client and acquire a project.
Friends and family
First and foremost, inform your friends and family about your start of freelance journey, explain to them clearly, so you could also have a practice before you meet your clients. Don’t underestimate this chance because there’s a high possibility that your close ones know of someone (or themselves) who would potentially need help from a content writer. This way, you could get your first project, have a reference for your portfolio and provides an opportunity for you to grow.
Build your portfolio
As a fresher, you must think if you don’t have an experience then how could you build a portfolio? Your portfolio doesn’t have to include only paid work. It can also feature volunteer pieces or small projects you’ve done for friends or family.
Create a website and be up to date on LinkedIn
This is an obvious one, creating a website so you could put yourself out in the market. Your website should clearly showcase your writing style, niche, portfolio, and contact information in a professional way. LinkedIn is the best place to advertise yourself and find your potential clients. Be active on your LinkedIn profile, so it shows you are open to work and attract your clients.
Use freelancing platforms and search your opportunities
Explore freelancing platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, Freelancer and Indeed, where there are vast opportunities to reach out or get freelancing opportunities. Avoid blending in — highlight what makes you stand out from other writers in your field. Join communities and groups with freelancers and connect with them. They could help you by sharing tips and getting you clients. Build connections with experienced freelancers, even if networking feels outside your comfort zone. In addition, don’t shy away from reaching out to find work. Be consistent with it.
How to build trust with your freelance client
Now that you have gotten your first client, Congratulations! So, the next step would obviously be to complete the client’s work, submit and be done with it. Wrong. You are forgetting the most important step, that is, to build trust with your freelance clients and turning that relationship into a long-term one. It’s a rigorous and slow process, but if you stick with it you could turn your one term client into a long-term one. But right now, you have your first client, and this is how you would build a trusting relationship with your customer.
Turn your work on time & don’t ghost
Your work should be submitted within the agreed deadline. That doesn’t mean you should set an unrealistically short deadline (like 24–48 hours). Keep your deadlines long, take your time and submit a high-quality work. Many freelancers give up or ghost clients under pressure — don’t make that mistake. Instead, communicate and ask questions when you need clarity. Questions that would help you write their work better. Be curious about their preferences and show interest. Ensure you are on the same page as your client.
Understand your clients & their needs
Understanding your clients is one of the most important part of building their trust, step by step. Some clients already know exactly what they want — listen carefully and absorb their ideas. Let them finish their thoughts and at the end give your inputs or add to their ideas to make it better, this shows that you are serious and attentive, so they would automatically trust you with the work. As a freelancer, your client’s needs should always come first. Be patient, schedule meetings and emails, and don’t jump on them with your ideas, instead incorporate your ideas with theirs.
Set boundaries
Set clear boundaries and expectations before accepting any project. It’s easier to express the excitement of getting a client, but don’t let that interfere in the professional settings. Let your clients know your deadline, your work timings, availability, payments and weekends. Explain to them your service beforehand so it doesn’t complicate during the contract. This protects both you and your client’s interests and helps prevent misunderstandings.
Overcommunicate
Let your client in with every update and process you are on. Inform your client on your progress and clear confusions if any. This removes their doubt of the work being stalled and shows your commitment. This helps especially when the project is a long-term contract.
Take criticism seriously
You work diligently to meet your client’s demand and produce high-quality content. There’s a chance your client might not like some aspects of the produced product, prepare yourself to take the criticism and change the output. Doing so shows that you respect, understand and value your client’s ideas.
Conclusion
Freelancing may seem scary at first, but once you master how to get clients for freelance writing and build trust with freelance clients, you’ll soon become an expert in your field. It’s a long rigorous process, so be sure to take consistent steps towards your goals. If you get stuck, ask help from a fellow freelancer, join communities, create connections and experiment. Don’t be intimidated — the world is your canvas. Pick up your brush (or keyboard!) and write your heart out. Start today by reaching out to one potential client. Your next project could be one message away!