Ask any freelancer what their biggest pain point is with running a freelance business and they'll likely say "I don't know where to find new clients!"

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Because reality is: without clients, your freelance business won't thrive! It's as simple as that.

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And unfortunately, this is the area where most freelancers and social media managers struggle the most. Why?

 

Because they don't know where to look! And you can't just wait around for clients to fall into your lap through your social media profiles.

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You need to have alternative methods of attracting new clients.

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Here are some of my favorite places to find new clients as a freelancer.

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Referrals

 

Announce to your entire network of friends, family, ex-coworkers, etc. that you're starting a new freelance business. You never know who knows someone, who knows someone, who knows someone that needs a freelance social media manager, or graphic designer, or photographer!

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Job Boards

 

Many companies post contractor and part-time positions on websites like LinkedIn or ZipRecruiter. Always do a quick search on those websites if you're actively seeking clients.

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Facebook Groups

 

There's a Facebook Group for everything! Do a quick search for "freelance jobs" or "social media manager jobs" or "freelancers". Join a few groups and turn on notifications for all of those groups. That way, when someone shares a post about them or their client looking for a freelance social media manager (or graphic designer, or photographer), you'll be the first to submit your name! (and make sure you have a good pitch!)

 

Cold Email Outreach

 

Do some research on which companies in your target market need expertise. Make a spreadsheet with their name, contact information, and areas that they need help in.

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Then craft your pitch. Your pitch email should be quick & to-the-point, while still explaining what you do, how you can help their business, and an offer to set up a quick 30 minute call to discuss your potential partnership.

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I'll admit, this is a long and repetitive process; however you just need one client to sign on in order for the outreach to be worth your time!

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Now it's time to put these ideas to action and find new clients as a freelancer!

• Announce to your networks that you've launched your freelance business. Send out emails, share social media posts, text your family & friends. Do it all!

• Set up email alerts for LinkedIn and ZipRecruiter.

• Join 2-3 relevant Facebook Groups. Turn on the notifications for these groups.

• Make a list of 5-10 businesses in your target market that need your expertise and craft a pitch!