[Alice Salazar]

I’m thinking about starting freelancing and want to turn one of my existing skills into a proper service.
My plan is to create a small portfolio, start reaching out to potential clients, and take on smaller projects initially.
I’m also considering platforms like Upwork and Fiverr, but I’m curious whether direct outreach works better for beginners.
If you’ve started freelancing from scratch, what was the first thing you did that actually helped you land a client?

 

[AnthonyJackson]

When I started freelancing, I spent way too much time building my portfolio and almost no time looking for clients. My first client actually came from a simple message to someone who needed the exact skill I was offering.

 

[bsawyer581]

The first thing that actually helped me was choosing a very specific service. Instead of saying “I do digital marketing,” I offered one clear service with a defined outcome. It made conversations much easier.

 

[JenniferLam]

My experience has been that one good client can lead to several others through referrals, so I always try to finish every project as professionally as possible.

 

[JessicaJackson45]

Platforms are useful for beginners because they give you access to existing demand, but direct outreach can be valuable once you understand who your ideal clients are.