First of all, you shouldn’t find clients – clients should find you.
So you’ve got skills. Maybe even a killer portfolio. But no clients?
Welcome to freelancing.
Getting clients isn’t about luck, followers, or being “discovered.” It’s a process, a mix of positioning, outreach, and consistency.
If you want real projects and real money, you need a real plan.
Here’s how we did it, and how you can start doing it too.
1. Get Clear on What You Actually Offer
No one is searching for “a freelancer who does everything.”
They’re searching for someone who solves their problem.
Instead of saying:
“I do logos, websites, social media, and illustrations.”
Say:
“I help beauty brands develop powerful packaging and standout branding.”
When you’re clear, you’re easier to hire.
Tip:
Start narrow. Pick one problem you solve well and one industry you like.
That’s your entry point. You can expand later.
2. Create a Portfolio That Shows You Solve Problems
Pretty mockups won’t get you paid. Case studies will.
Your portfolio should prove:
- What was the client’s problem?
- What solution did you create?
- What results did it bring?
Even if you don’t have real clients yet, create concept projects that solve real business problems.
Add a fake brand, explain your thinking, and walk through your process.
Template idea:
Use this structure:
Project Goal → Strategy → Visual Outcome → Client Quote (or your insight)
3. Use Social Proof, Even If You’re Just Starting
People hire people they trust. If you’re new, build trust with:
- Testimonials (from clients, peers, even teachers or collaborators)
- Recommendations on LinkedIn
- Before/after visuals showing your impact
Social proof makes people feel safe spending money on you. Don’t skip it.
4. Start With Who You Know
Don’t overthink this. Your first 1 – 3 clients can come from your own circle.
Reach out to:
- Former colleagues
- Friends in business
- People who follow your work
Send a short message:
“Hey, I’ve started offering branding services for small businesses. If you or someone you know needs help with logos, strategy, or packaging – I’d love to connect.”
It’s not begging. It’s networking.
5. Go Where Your Clients Already Hang Out
Stop shouting into the void. Instead, show up in places where your target clients already look for help.
Some examples:
- LinkedIn → for B2B, coaches, consultants, startups
- Instagram → for fashion, beauty, wellness, creatives
- Facebook groups or Discord → niche communities, entrepreneurs
- Behance / Dribbble → great for exposure (but only if your work is outstanding)
But here’s the key: don’t just post and ghost. Comment, message, be visible. Build relationships.
6. Post Valuable Content
Content creates inbound leads. If people see you teaching, they assume you’re capable.
You don’t need to be an influencer. Just share insights like:
- Mistakes clients make with branding
- Behind-the-scenes of a project
- Tools you use as a freelancer
- Branding tips for [your niche]
Rule of thumb:
Show your thinking, not just your output. That’s what clients pay for.
7. Send Outreach That Doesn’t Sound Desperate
Cold DMs or emails can work – if you do them right.
Bad outreach:
“Hi, I’m a freelancer. Do you need a logo?”
Better outreach:
“Hey, I saw your product on Instagram – love the concept.
I help brands like yours create packaging that stands out and sells more. Want me to send over a few ideas?”
Customize every message. Focus on them, not you.
And don’t attach your entire portfolio – just enough to spark interest.
8. Build a Simple Website or Landing Page
You don’t need a $10k site. You need a place to:
- Show your offer clearly
- Display your work
- Let clients contact you
It’s quite easy to build a website with Divi, like we do – drag and drop, tons of templates, no code needed.
Keep it clean, clear, and fast to load.
Bonus points if you add a CTA like:
“Book a free discovery call”
“Request a brand audit”
“Let’s build your brand”
9. Don’t Stop When It’s Quiet
Most freelancers quit too soon. The secret to getting clients?
Keep showing up – especially when it feels slow.
Set weekly habits:
- 3 new DMs to leads
- 1 new post or tip on social media
- 1 portfolio update
- 1 email follow-up
Consistency beats talent every time. Outwork your doubts.
Final Thoughts
Clients aren’t falling from the sky. They’re out there – scrolling, struggling, looking for help.
If you show up with clarity, confidence, and a solution, you’ll win.
And if you want to fast-track that process, learn branding properly.
Because once you understand how to build brands that sell, you stop chasing clients. They start coming to you.
Want help?
That’s what Armeanu Academy is for.
We teach branding the way we built our studio – strategic, practical, and profitable.
Grab our free course on how to get clients:
