If you’re a freelance copywriter, it can be difficult to land new clients when you’re just starting out. Networking can feel like an uphill battle, and if you don’t have any existing connections in your industry, it might feel like getting anywhere at all is impossible. Fortunately, there are plenty of tactics available that are guaranteed to help you find clients and eventually bring in new business.
What To Look For In A New Client
When scoping out new clients, it’s important to have a few key determining factors in mind for picking the right ones. As a freelance copywriter, it’s important not to sign a client just for the sake of having new business. Alight with businesses or individuals that fit your professional needs and align with your own brand identity.
So, here are some things to consider before agreeing to new business.
- Make sure the brand or company aligns with your goals.
- Figure out the scope of work ahead of time.
- What kind of budget do they have?
- Will they be a good fit for your portfolio?
How to Find New Copywriting Clients
Apply to Copywriting Job Boards
One of the best ways to find new clients is by applying to job boards. These online platforms are a great way for freelancers in any industry, including copywriting, to get their name out there and find work. Many of these sites have categories that you can search through as well as a space where you can post your resume and portfolio.
Add your profile information on websites like Fiverr that allow you the freelancer (rather than hiring managers) to find projects. Search Google for specific phrases like copywriter needed or freelance writer wanted. Join local networking events at co-working spaces where entrepreneurs gather. Attend trade shows where you can meet people in your field of expertise; this is especially good if you’re trying to find clients in a specific industry or region of the country.
Try Guest Posting
Guest posting is one of the best ways that freelance copywriters can find new clients. There are a lot of companies and blogs looking for experts in your field, so if you’ve got something worth saying, it’s well worth putting it out there.
Even if you don’t have any guest post ideas lined up right now, here are some ways that you can think about finding opportunities.
- Start by looking at the websites of the companies you want to work with and see if they have any blog posts or other content that isn’t written by their staff.
- Attend events where your target audience is likely present and speak with people about their projects and needs for copywriting services.
Attend Conferences
Attending conferences is a great way to expand your network and increase your exposure in the field. You’ll be able to meet potential clients, see what’s new in the industry, and learn about trends that you may not have known about otherwise. Conferences can also give you advice from industry leaders and experts about how best to grow your business.
The key to making the most of conference attendance is to come prepared. Do your research and find out who will be attending the conference and what kind of projects they may be looking for.
You might also want to put together a portfolio or pitch deck of your work that you can show potential clients. This will give them a good idea of your writing style and the types of projects you can handle.
Join Facebook & Social Media Groups
If you’re not already doing so, join Facebook and LinkedIn groups related to your industry. These are great places to network, share your work, and find new clients.
Before joining any groups, it’s important to do your research first. Read through the rules of each group, check out the posts and conversations to get an idea of what type of people are in the group, and be sure to keep in mind that these are professional forums – no spamming or pitching!
In addition to finding new business, you can also use these groups to chat with fellow freelance copywriters. Learn from them, ask questions, share tips and advice. By taking the time to find and join relevant Facebook and social media groups, you’ll be setting yourself up for success when it comes to finding new clients as a freelance copywriter. It may take some time and effort, but it can really pay off if you stay active and engaged in the community.
Boost Your Own Social Presence
One of the simplest and cheapest ways for freelance copywriters to find new clients is by boosting their own social presence. Whether it’s on Twitter, LinkedIn, or even Facebook, sharing your content and establishing yourself as an expert in your field is a great way to meet people who might need your services in the future.
When In Doubt, Cold Pitch
Cold pitching is a great way to practice and hone your skills as well as find new clients who might not have otherwise found you. Plus, when you’re first starting out, it can be hard to know where to begin when it comes to finding work. One of the best things you can do is cold pitch people — basically sending them an email explaining why they should hire you. It’s a great way to start a conversation, and often leads to your new client asking for more information.
For some ideas and help on how to get started with cold pitching, check out our tips here.
Build Up A Referral Network
As a freelance copywriter, it’s important to stay connected with the industry. One of the best ways to do this is by building up your referral network. A referral network is essentially a group of contacts who recommend you for potential jobs and opportunities. This type of network not only helps you find new clients but also helps spread the word about the quality of your work.
