Pitching 101: How to Start Landing Clients Without Prior Experience

When you're just starting as a freelancer, it can feel intimidating trying to land those first few clients with little of an online presence or portfolio yet. But perfecting your pitching skills can help new and experienced freelancers alike secure more work.

When I first began as a freelancer, I didn't know what to pitch and how to pitch. Heck! I didn't even know what kind of professional services I'd want to offer.

My first pitch was to a sub-editor, asking for a chance to write a guest post. My cold pitch email was for 1000 words nearly (yeah!) and I wrote all my qualifications ????♀?, to camouflage my lack of experience.

Naturally, I didn't get a reply back ??

According to Upwork’s 2022 Impact report, the freelance workforce has gained greater momentum than ever. Here are a few vital stats from the report

• 39% of the U.S. workforce (60 million Americans) performed freelance work in 2021.
• 61% of freelancers earn as much or more than they would with a traditional employer.
• 74% say freelancing gives them greater control over their life.
• U.S. freelancers contribute approximately $1.35 trillion in annual earnings to the economy, a $50 billion increase since 2021.

With the rise of remote work, the market for quality freelancers continues to grow. But you need to set yourself apart with solid pitching skills.

Don't worry - perfecting your pitching skills is one of the best ways for new freelancers to kick start their businesses. You can start pitching like a pro and securing work with the right strategy.

Research Companies in Your Local Area

First, list small businesses and startups in your city or area that align with your skills and expertise. Browse sites like Crunchbase to find prospects. Look for smaller companies and startups that may need more internal resources for tasks you can provide.

For example, if you're a writer, you could search for local publications, agencies, and nonprofits with poor blogs or websites. They may need writing help but don't have a full-time staff writer.

You can also use Craigslist to scout for small-time gigs. These will help you gain the foothold you need as a freelancer. After gaining confidence and some solid recommendations in your kitty, you can move on to bigger projects.

Craft a Compelling Yet Concise Pitch

When you reach out to prospects, please keep your initial pitch short and focused. Long emails are less likely to get opened or read.

You can start by introducing yourself and stating your relevant background and skills up front.

For example: "Hi, my name is [your name], and I'm a [your expertise] with over [X] years of experience in [niche]."

Then, explain why you're reaching out and how you can help them specifically. Provide ideas tailored to their business needs. End with a solid call to action, like offering a free sample or consultation to discuss further.

Suppose you are cold pitching via DMs. Then, analyze the profile of your target audience thoroughly before proceeding.

Don't just barge in. People may consider you as pompous.

For example, if you are a newbie writer and are sending a cold outreach DM to an editor of a magazine, your pitch may be crafted like this:

Hi [name],

I recently read your interview with [influential person] in [magazine] and was impressed by the thoughtful questions you asked. You have a talent for drawing out fascinating stories from your subjects.

My name is [your name], and I'm an aspiring writer looking to break into freelance writing. I specialize in writing interviews and profiles and would love to contribute a piece to [magazine].

I'm reaching out if you are open to new writers or have bandwidth for guest contributions. Even if not, I'd appreciate any advice you may have on how to successfully pitch [magazine] as a new writer.

Thanks so much for your time, and keep up the fantastic work!

[Your name]

Similarly, if you're a newbie writer and sending a cold outreach email to one of your target audiences, pitching to them to consider your services, then you can send an email like this:

"Hi, my name is [name], and I'm an aspiring [your expertise]. I recently completed a certification in [relevant training] and am looking to gain hands-on experience in [niche]. Although I'm new to freelancing, I'm confident I can provide value to your company by [skills/abilities you offer]."

These are just examples. You can pitch in various formats, but there are some key points to consider, which are:

• Introducing yourself
• Stating the skills/training you do have, even if minimal
• Conveying enthusiasm and willingness to learn and grow
• Focusing on the value you can provide rather than experience level

As a new freelancer, emphasize your potential and ability to deliver results, along with any formal or self-education in your field. Offer to do sample/trial work to showcase your abilities.

Proper positioning allows you to pitch yourself effectively, even without a long work history.

Follow Up Consistently

Keep going even if you don't immediately hear back after sending your first pitch. It often takes multiple touches before a prospect responds.

Make sure to follow up within a week after your initial outreach. Send a quick follow-up email and restate your interest in helping their business.

You can also try other contact methods like phone calls, WhatsApp messages, LinkedIn DMs, and email. Multi-channel outreach improves your chances of connecting.

Keep Persisting

It typically takes at least 6-8 total touches before a prospect may convert to a client. The key is politely persisting - you can always follow up while providing new value with each touch.

I once sent 18 LinkedIn DMs before securing a client.

Remember,

Proper Pitching + Polite Persistence + Piquing Interest ==> Greater chance of success.

HubSpot research found follow up emails have response rates 5x higher than initial outreach emails.

With preparation and persistence, pitching is an effective way for any freelancer to build their client roster.

Want more tips? Feel free to reach out!

Pitching is a skill that improves over time ??

My two cents

In summary, perfecting your pitching skills is vital for new and experienced freelancers to secure clients. Do your research to identify prospects needing your skills.

Craft a compelling yet concise pitch showcasing what you can offer them. Follow up consistently across multiple channels until you get a response.

Persistence and continually adding value are key - it often takes 6-8 touches before landing a client.

Any freelancer can start pitching like a pro with the right strategy and mindset. Consistent effort and politely following up leads to freelancing success.