{"id":272530,"date":"2026-10-28T11:03:08","date_gmt":"2026-10-28T05:33:08","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.digitalnest.in\/blog\/?p=272530"},"modified":"2026-10-30T16:00:26","modified_gmt":"2026-10-30T10:30:26","slug":"5-ways-to-get-first-client-as-a-freelancer","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.digitalnest.in\/blog\/5-ways-to-get-first-client-as-a-freelancer\/","title":{"rendered":"Top 5 Strategies to Get Your First Client as a Freelance Digital Marketer"},"content":{"rendered":"<div id=\"bsf_rt_marker\"><\/div><div class=\"et_pb_section_0 et_pb_section et_section_regular et_block_section preset--module--divi-section--e1027fc9-4522-42a7-aeff-993df0aa0425\">\r\n<div class=\"et_pb_row_0 et_pb_row et_block_row\">\r\n<div class=\"et_pb_column_0 et_pb_column et_pb_column_2_3 et_block_column et_pb_css_mix_blend_mode_passthrough\">\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<div class=\"et_pb_module et_d4_element dsm_breadcrumbs dsm_breadcrumbs_0\">\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"et_pb_module_inner\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<nav class=\"dsm_breadcrumbs_wrap\">\n\t\t\t\t<ul class=\"dsm_breadcrumbs\" itemscope itemtype=\"https:\/\/schema.org\/BreadcrumbList\">\t\t\t<li class=\"dsm_breadcrumbs_item dsm_home_item dsm_home_item_custom\" itemprop=\"itemListElement\" itemscope\n\t\t\titemtype=\"https:\/\/schema.org\/ListItem\">\n\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/www.digitalnest.in\/blog\" itemprop=\"item\" target=\"\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<span class='dsm_home_text_wrapper'>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"et-pb-icon dsm_home_icon\">\ue009<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"dsm_home_text\" itemprop=\"name\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tHome\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t<meta itemprop=\"position\" content=\"1\" \/>\n\t\t\t<\/li>\n\n\t\t<li class=\"dsm_breadcrumbs_separator\"> <span class=\"et-pb-icon dsm_separator_icon\">5<\/span><\/li><\/ul>\n\t\t\t<\/nav>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<div class=\"et_pb_text_0 et_pb_text et_pb_bg_layout_light et_pb_module et_block_module preset--module--divi-text--default\"><div class=\"et_pb_text_inner\"><h1>Top 5 Strategies to Get Your First Client as a Freelance Digital Marketer<\/p>\n<\/h1>\n<\/div><\/div>\r\n\r\n<div class=\"et_pb_post_title_0 et_pb_post_title et_pb_bg_layout_light et_pb_module et_block_module\"><div class=\"et_pb_title_container\"><p class=\"et_pb_title_meta_container\">by <span class=\"author vcard\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.digitalnest.in\/blog\/author\/sakshi\/\" title=\"Posts by sakshi\">sakshi<\/a><\/span> | <span class=\"published\">Oct 28, 2026<\/span><\/p><\/div><\/div>\r\n<\/div>\r\n\r\n<div class=\"et_pb_column_1 et_pb_column et_pb_column_1_3 et-last-child et_block_column et_pb_column_empty et_pb_css_mix_blend_mode_passthrough\"><\/div>\r\n<\/div>\r\n<\/div>\r\n\r\n<div class=\"et_pb_section_1 et_pb_section et_section_regular et_block_section\">\r\n<div class=\"et_pb_row_1 et_pb_row et_pb_row_3-4_1-4 et_block_row et_block_row_3-4_1-4\">\r\n<div class=\"et_pb_column_2 et_pb_column et_pb_column_3_4 et_block_column et_pb_css_mix_blend_mode_passthrough\">\r\n<div class=\"et_pb_text_1 et_pb_text et_pb_bg_layout_light et_pb_module et_block_module preset--module--divi-text--f3dcb2e5-e71b-4405-b33a-6f2fbad3ced7\"><div class=\"et_pb_text_inner\"><h3>Summary<\/h3>\n<p style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Getting your first client as a freelance digital marketer becomes easier when you focus on building trust, showcasing your skills, and connecting with the right audience. Start by creating a strong portfolio with sample projects in SEO, social media marketing, Google Ads, or content marketing. Use platforms like LinkedIn, Instagram, and freelancing websites to find potential clients. Offer your services to small businesses and local brands that need help improving their online presence. Build relationships through networking, provide valuable marketing suggestions, and communicate your results clearly. Most importantly, start with manageable projects, deliver quality work, and collect client testimonials to build credibility and attract more clients.<\/p>\n<p style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><strong>Key takeaway:<\/strong> Focus on your skills, portfolio, networking, and consistent outreach to turn your digital marketing knowledge into your first freelance opportunity.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\r\n\r\n<div class=\"et_pb_code_0 et_pb_code et_pb_module\"><div class=\"et_pb_code_inner\"><style>\n.dncl{margin:12px 0 0;padding:10px 16px;background:#f3f9fd;border-left:4px solid #0B71C3;border-radius:0 8px 8px 0;font-family:Inter,Arial,sans-serif!important;font-size:16px!important;font-weight:400!important;line-height:1.55;color:#33475b}\n.dncl strong{color:#0f1b2d;font-weight:600!important;font-family:Inter,Arial,sans-serif!important}\n.dncl a{color:#0B71C3;text-decoration:underline;font-weight:600!important;font-family:Inter,Arial,sans-serif!important}\n<\/style>\n<p class=\"dncl\">This blog is written by <strong>Sakshi<\/strong>, based on the real experience of <a href=\"https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/in\/shiva-charan-dummy\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Shiva Charan<\/a>, Performance Marketer.<\/p><\/div><\/div>\r\n\r\n<div class=\"et_pb_heading_0 et_pb_heading et_pb_module et_block_module\"><div class=\"et_pb_heading_container\"><h2 class=\"et_pb_module_header\">Introduction<\/h2><\/div><\/div>\r\n\r\n<div class=\"et_pb_text_2 et_pb_text et_pb_bg_layout_light et_pb_module et_block_module preset--module--divi-text--default\"><div class=\"et_pb_text_inner\"><p style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Starting your journey as a freelance digital marketer can be exciting, but finding your first client can be challenging. With the right strategies, skills, and approach, you can turn your digital marketing knowledge into real opportunities. Whether you're a beginner or looking to start a side hustle, these five proven strategies will help you attract clients, build credibility, and kickstart your freelancing career.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\r\n\r\n<div class=\"et_pb_text_3 et_pb_text et_pb_bg_layout_light et_pb_module et_block_module preset--module--divi-text--default\"><div class=\"et_pb_text_inner\"><p style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Landing freelance work as a beginner is tough. Why? Talk to any client, and the first thing they'll ask is, \"Can I see your work?\" You've only just started; your portfolio's got maybe one thing in it (or nothing), and getting them to say yes feels next to impossible. It isn't, though. With a clear plan and a bit of confidence on calls, you can land that first client.<\/p>\n<p style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Here's a quick summary of what works. Use Instagram to spot local businesses that don't have a website. Check Google My Business listings near you for the same gap. Search for people asking for help on Reddit and Quora. Go through the jobs section on LinkedIn. And sign up on Fiverr, Upwork and the newer freelance sites, but only once you've got something to show.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\r\n\r\n<div class=\"et_pb_text_4 et_pb_text et_pb_bg_layout_light et_pb_module et_flex_module preset--module--divi-text--default\"><div class=\"et_pb_text_inner\"><p style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Let's go through each one.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\r\n\r\n<div class=\"et_pb_heading_1 et_pb_heading et_pb_module et_block_module\"><div class=\"et_pb_heading_container\"><h2 class=\"et_pb_module_header\">1. How Do You Use Instagram to Find Freelance Clients?<\/h2><\/div><\/div>\r\n\r\n<div class=\"et_pb_heading_2 et_pb_heading et_pb_module et_block_module\"><div class=\"et_pb_heading_container\"><h3 class=\"et_pb_module_header\">Why Instagram works so well<\/h3><\/div><\/div>\r\n\r\n<div class=\"et_pb_text_5 et_pb_text et_pb_bg_layout_light et_pb_module et_block_module preset--module--divi-text--default\"><div class=\"et_pb_text_inner\"><p style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Look around and you'll see Instagram is one of the most used apps on the planet. In India, plenty of people spend four hours a day on it, especially young people and business owners. I honestly can't think of another app where people engage this much. So if you use it properly to find clients, I doubt there's a better place to start.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\r\n\r\n<div class=\"et_pb_heading_3 et_pb_heading et_pb_module et_block_module\"><div class=\"et_pb_heading_container\"><h3 class=\"et_pb_module_header\">Search by business type and city<\/h3><\/div><\/div>\r\n\r\n<div class=\"et_pb_text_6 et_pb_text et_pb_bg_layout_light et_pb_module et_block_module preset--module--divi-text--default\"><div class=\"et_pb_text_inner\"><p style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The easiest way in is the search bar. Type a business type and a location. You could try something like \"jewellers in Hyderabad.\" Or try hotels, restaurants, malls, decorators, event organisers, small schools, small dental clinics or beauty parlours in Hyderabad, or whichever city you're in.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\r\n\r\n<div class=\"et_pb_heading_4 et_pb_heading et_pb_module et_block_module\"><div class=\"et_pb_heading_container\"><h3 class=\"et_pb_module_header\">Check the bio before you DM<\/h3><\/div><\/div>\r\n\r\n<div class=\"et_pb_text_7 et_pb_text et_pb_bg_layout_light et_pb_module et_block_module preset--module--divi-text--default\"><div class=\"et_pb_text_inner\"><p style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Open their profiles and see what they've actually got. Then look at the bio. If a business has a website, it'll almost always put the link there. No link? There's a decent chance they don't have one at all.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\r\n\r\n<div class=\"et_pb_heading_5 et_pb_heading et_pb_module et_block_module\"><div class=\"et_pb_heading_container\"><h3 class=\"et_pb_module_header\">Send a pitch that's about their growth<\/h3><\/div><\/div>\r\n\r\n<div class=\"et_pb_text_8 et_pb_text et_pb_bg_layout_light et_pb_module et_block_module preset--module--divi-text--default\"><div class=\"et_pb_text_inner\"><p style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you see room to grow their page and they clearly aren't at that level yet, message them directly with your idea. Tell them how a website or a stronger social media presence can help the business grow. That's how you pick up the clients you want, fast.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\r\n\r\n<div class=\"et_pb_heading_6 et_pb_heading et_pb_module et_block_module\"><div class=\"et_pb_heading_container\"><h2 class=\"et_pb_module_header\">2. Can Google My Business Help You Find Clients Nearby?<\/h2><\/div><\/div>\r\n\r\n<div class=\"et_pb_heading_7 et_pb_heading et_pb_module et_block_module\"><div class=\"et_pb_heading_container\"><h3 class=\"et_pb_module_header\">Everyone searches Google for local stuff<\/h3><\/div><\/div>\r\n\r\n<div class=\"et_pb_text_9 et_pb_text et_pb_bg_layout_light et_pb_module et_block_module preset--module--divi-text--default\"><div class=\"et_pb_text_inner\"><p style=\"font-weight: 400;\">In India, or anywhere really, people go to Google when they need something close by. Want a restaurant? You type \"restaurant near me\". Need a decorator or event organiser in your area? Same thing. Google then shows you a map packed with local businesses, and that map happens to be one of the best client lists you'll ever get for free.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\r\n\r\n<div class=\"et_pb_heading_8 et_pb_heading et_pb_module et_block_module\"><div class=\"et_pb_heading_container\"><h3 class=\"et_pb_module_header\">Search for the kind of business you can help<\/h3><\/div><\/div>\r\n\r\n<div class=\"et_pb_text_10 et_pb_text et_pb_bg_layout_light et_pb_module et_block_module preset--module--divi-text--default\"><div class=\"et_pb_text_inner\"><p style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Start with what you're good at. Maybe it's static websites; maybe it's e-commerce sites. Then search something like \"birthday party decoration services near me\". You'll see most of the decorators in that neighbourhood.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\r\n\r\n<div class=\"et_pb_heading_9 et_pb_heading et_pb_module et_block_module\"><div class=\"et_pb_heading_container\"><h3 class=\"et_pb_module_header\">Spot the ones without a website<\/h3><\/div><\/div>\r\n\r\n<div class=\"et_pb_text_11 et_pb_text et_pb_bg_layout_light et_pb_module et_block_module preset--module--divi-text--default\"><div class=\"et_pb_text_inner\"><p style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Go through their Google My Business profiles and note which ones don't have a website. Their phone number is right there. Call them and pitch.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\r\n\r\n<div class=\"et_pb_heading_10 et_pb_heading et_pb_module et_block_module\"><div class=\"et_pb_heading_container\"><h3 class=\"et_pb_module_header\">Ask how they get leads<\/h3><\/div><\/div>\r\n\r\n<div class=\"et_pb_text_12 et_pb_text et_pb_bg_layout_light et_pb_module et_block_module preset--module--divi-text--default\"><div class=\"et_pb_text_inner\"><p style=\"font-weight: 400;\">While you're on the call, ask how they're getting leads right now. That one question opens up a proper conversation. You can talk about <a href=\"https:\/\/business.google.com\/in\/google-ads\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Google Ads<\/a> and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/business\/tools\/ads-manager\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Meta Ads<\/a> and explain how these could bring them more customers. You can pitch social media management too.<\/p>\n<p style=\"font-weight: 400;\">This is how you find work as a web designer, a Google Ads specialist or a Meta Ads specialist.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\r\n\r\n<div class=\"et_pb_heading_11 et_pb_heading et_pb_module et_block_module\"><div class=\"et_pb_heading_container\"><h2 class=\"et_pb_module_header\">3. How Do You Find Clients on Reddit and Quora?<\/h2><\/div><\/div>\r\n\r\n<div class=\"et_pb_image_0 et_pb_image et_pb_module et_flex_module\"><span class=\"et_pb_image_wrap\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.digitalnest.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/Screenshot-2026-10-30-144633.webp\" alt=\"reddit vs quora\" title=\"Screenshot 2026-10-30 144633\" width=\"699\" height=\"249\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.digitalnest.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/Screenshot-2026-10-30-144633.webp 699w, https:\/\/www.digitalnest.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/Screenshot-2026-10-30-144633-480x171.webp 480w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 0px) and (max-width: 480px) 480px, (min-width: 481px) 699px, 100vw\" class=\"wp-image-273297\" \/><\/span><\/div>\r\n\r\n<div class=\"et_pb_heading_12 et_pb_heading et_pb_module et_block_module\"><div class=\"et_pb_heading_container\"><h3 class=\"et_pb_module_header\">Where people ask for help<\/h3><\/div><\/div>\r\n\r\n<div class=\"et_pb_text_13 et_pb_text et_pb_bg_layout_light et_pb_module et_block_module preset--module--divi-text--default\"><div class=\"et_pb_text_inner\"><p style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.reddit.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Reddit<\/a> and <a href=\"com\">Quora<\/a> are huge. It's where people go to tell their stories, pick other people's brains and hunt for a good recommendation. If someone's stuck on something personal and wants a second opinion, chances are they'll end up posting it on one of these two.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\r\n\r\n<div class=\"et_pb_heading_13 et_pb_heading et_pb_module et_block_module\"><div class=\"et_pb_heading_container\"><h3 class=\"et_pb_module_header\">Search for the exact request<\/h3><\/div><\/div>\r\n\r\n<div class=\"et_pb_text_14 et_pb_text et_pb_bg_layout_light et_pb_module et_block_module preset--module--divi-text--default\"><div class=\"et_pb_text_inner\"><p style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Say you design websites. Type \"website designer required\" in the search bar. You'll find a lot of posts like \"urgently need a website designer\" or \"is there any website designer in Hyderabad?\" or \"looking for a social media manager in Hyderabad\". (I keep saying Hyderabad because that's where I'm from.) Search for whatever you offer, social media management, website design, anything, and comment on the posts where people are asking.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\r\n\r\n<div class=\"et_pb_heading_14 et_pb_heading et_pb_module et_block_module\"><div class=\"et_pb_heading_container\"><h3 class=\"et_pb_module_header\">Post your work so clients come to you<\/h3><\/div><\/div>\r\n\r\n<div class=\"et_pb_text_15 et_pb_text et_pb_bg_layout_light et_pb_module et_block_module preset--module--divi-text--default\"><div class=\"et_pb_text_inner\"><p style=\"font-weight: 400;\">There's a slower route as well. Build a freelancer profile and post regularly. Share things like \"I designed this\" or \"here's how I fixed this problem\". Someone scrolling past might like what they see and message you first.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\r\n\r\n<div class=\"et_pb_heading_15 et_pb_heading et_pb_module et_block_module\"><div class=\"et_pb_heading_container\"><h2 class=\"et_pb_module_header\">4. Does LinkedIn Actually Work for Landing Freelance Gigs?<\/h2><\/div><\/div>\r\n\r\n<div class=\"et_pb_heading_16 et_pb_heading et_pb_module et_block_module\"><div class=\"et_pb_heading_container\"><h3 class=\"et_pb_module_header\">Why LinkedIn treats beginners fairly<\/h3><\/div><\/div>\r\n\r\n<div class=\"et_pb_text_16 et_pb_text et_pb_bg_layout_light et_pb_module et_block_module preset--module--divi-text--default\"><div class=\"et_pb_text_inner\"><p style=\"font-weight: 400;\">I think <a href=\"https:\/\/in.linkedin.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">LinkedIn<\/a> is one of the best and most reliable places for a freelancer to find work, because it's where the professionals are. Most of them don't care whether you're new or experienced. They're looking for someone with the right skills. If you can show what you can do and you've got a decent portfolio, nobody's going to brush you off. People there know how the work actually gets done.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\r\n\r\n<div class=\"et_pb_heading_17 et_pb_heading et_pb_module et_block_module\"><div class=\"et_pb_heading_container\"><h3 class=\"et_pb_module_header\">Use the jobs section<\/h3><\/div><\/div>\r\n\r\n<div class=\"et_pb_text_17 et_pb_text et_pb_bg_layout_light et_pb_module et_block_module preset--module--divi-text--default\"><div class=\"et_pb_text_inner\"><p style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Go to the jobs option and search \"freelance website designer\" or \"freelance social media manager\". Many small businesses can't afford a full-time hire. So they look for someone for two, three or four hours a week and pay by the hour. Local businesses do this, and so do companies abroad.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\r\n\r\n<div class=\"et_pb_heading_18 et_pb_heading et_pb_module et_block_module\"><div class=\"et_pb_heading_container\"><h3 class=\"et_pb_module_header\">Hourly work gives you a steady base<\/h3><\/div><\/div>\r\n\r\n<div class=\"et_pb_text_18 et_pb_text et_pb_bg_layout_light et_pb_module et_block_module preset--module--divi-text--default\"><div class=\"et_pb_text_inner\"><p style=\"font-weight: 400;\">It works a lot like a long-term contract, which is great for a freelancer. Sometimes the hourly rate is on the lower side. But when you're starting out, a fixed amount coming in every month, with no roller coaster, leaves you free to try riskier projects on the side.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\r\n\r\n<div class=\"et_pb_heading_19 et_pb_heading et_pb_module et_block_module\"><div class=\"et_pb_heading_container\"><h3 class=\"et_pb_module_header\">Search for people with a problem<\/h3><\/div><\/div>\r\n\r\n<div class=\"et_pb_text_19 et_pb_text et_pb_bg_layout_light et_pb_module et_block_module preset--module--divi-text--default\"><div class=\"et_pb_text_inner\"><p style=\"font-weight: 400;\">You can also use the search box to find people asking for specific help. A colleague of mine did exactly this. One company's website had been penalised by Google, and they posted, \"My website has been penalized, can someone help?\" He replied saying he could. He saw it as a chance to win a client, and he works with them now.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\r\n\r\n<div class=\"et_pb_heading_20 et_pb_heading et_pb_module et_block_module\"><div class=\"et_pb_heading_container\"><h2 class=\"et_pb_module_header\">5. Should You Sign Up on Fiverr and Upwork?<\/h2><\/div><\/div>\r\n\r\n<div class=\"et_pb_image_1 et_pb_image et_pb_module et_flex_module\"><span class=\"et_pb_image_wrap\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.digitalnest.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/Fiverr-vs-Upwork.webp\" alt=\"fiverr vs upwork\" title=\"Fiverr-vs-Upwork\" width=\"1500\" height=\"1000\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.digitalnest.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/Fiverr-vs-Upwork.webp 1500w, https:\/\/www.digitalnest.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/Fiverr-vs-Upwork-1280x853.webp 1280w, https:\/\/www.digitalnest.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/Fiverr-vs-Upwork-980x653.webp 980w, https:\/\/www.digitalnest.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/Fiverr-vs-Upwork-480x320.webp 480w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 0px) and (max-width: 480px) 480px, (min-width: 481px) and (max-width: 980px) 980px, (min-width: 981px) and (max-width: 1280px) 1280px, (min-width: 1281px) 1500px, 100vw\" class=\"wp-image-273217\" \/><\/span><\/div>\r\n\r\n<div class=\"et_pb_heading_21 et_pb_heading et_pb_module et_block_module\"><div class=\"et_pb_heading_container\"><h3 class=\"et_pb_module_header\">Expect heavy competition<\/h3><\/div><\/div>\r\n\r\n<div class=\"et_pb_text_20 et_pb_text et_pb_bg_layout_light et_pb_module et_block_module preset--module--divi-text--default\"><div class=\"et_pb_text_inner\"><p style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Most people already know about these marketplaces, and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.fiverr.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Fiverr<\/a> and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.upwork.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Upwork<\/a> are the two big ones. They're a great place to look for freelance work. The catch is the competition. Make a profile and wait, and I doubt anything comes of it. Too many people are already in that race.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\r\n\r\n<div class=\"et_pb_heading_22 et_pb_heading et_pb_module et_block_module\"><div class=\"et_pb_heading_container\"><h3 class=\"et_pb_module_header\">Generic DMs won't get you hired<\/h3><\/div><\/div>\r\n\r\n<div class=\"et_pb_text_21 et_pb_text et_pb_bg_layout_light et_pb_module et_block_module preset--module--divi-text--default\"><div class=\"et_pb_text_inner\"><p style=\"font-weight: 400;\">People post their requirements there, and for a single job, hundreds of freelancers message that person. If everyone sends the same generic DM, you won't hear back. Plenty of those freelancers are already very skilled and experienced, and they'll get picked before a newcomer does.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\r\n\r\n<div class=\"et_pb_heading_23 et_pb_heading et_pb_module et_block_module\"><div class=\"et_pb_heading_container\"><h3 class=\"et_pb_module_header\">Show what makes you different<\/h3><\/div><\/div>\r\n\r\n<div class=\"et_pb_text_22 et_pb_text et_pb_bg_layout_light et_pb_module et_block_module preset--module--divi-text--default\"><div class=\"et_pb_text_inner\"><p style=\"font-weight: 400;\">So you've got to stand out. Show the websites you've built, how you worked with clients, how you kept them happy and how you helped a business grow. Show your skills. A profile on its own won't bring you leads. A good portfolio will.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\r\n\r\n<div class=\"et_pb_heading_24 et_pb_heading et_pb_module et_block_module\"><div class=\"et_pb_heading_container\"><h2 class=\"et_pb_module_header\">What Should You Do Before Pitching Anyone?<\/h2><\/div><\/div>\r\n\r\n<div class=\"et_pb_heading_25 et_pb_heading et_pb_module et_block_module\"><div class=\"et_pb_heading_container\"><h3 class=\"et_pb_module_header\">Build your portfolio first<\/h3><\/div><\/div>\r\n\r\n<div class=\"et_pb_text_23 et_pb_text et_pb_bg_layout_light et_pb_module et_block_module preset--module--divi-text--default\"><div class=\"et_pb_text_inner\"><p style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Don't rush onto Fiverr and Upwork. Put a solid portfolio together first, show it around, and be upfront with clients about what you'd like to do for them.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\r\n\r\n<div class=\"et_pb_heading_26 et_pb_heading et_pb_module et_block_module\"><div class=\"et_pb_heading_container\"><h3 class=\"et_pb_module_header\">Offer a free trial to earn trust<\/h3><\/div><\/div>\r\n\r\n<div class=\"et_pb_text_24 et_pb_text et_pb_bg_layout_light et_pb_module et_block_module preset--module--divi-text--default\"><div class=\"et_pb_text_inner\"><p style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you can, try other ways in too, like a one-week free trial. Give clients a few things for free. They get to trust you, and you get your first real chance.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<div class=\"et_pb_text_25 et_pb_text et_pb_bg_layout_light et_pb_module et_block_module preset--module--divi-text--f3dcb2e5-e71b-4405-b33a-6f2fbad3ced7\"><div class=\"et_pb_text_inner\"><h2>Conclusion<\/h2>\n<p style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Getting your first client as a freelance digital marketer may seem challenging, but with the right strategies, patience, and consistent effort, you can build a successful freelancing career. Focus on developing your digital marketing skills, creating a strong portfolio, networking with potential clients, and showcasing your expertise through real-world projects. Start by helping small businesses improve their online presence and delivering quality results that build trust. Remember, every successful freelancer starts somewhere. Take action, stay consistent, and turn your digital marketing skills into valuable opportunities for long-term growth.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\r\n\r\n<div class=\"et_pb_code_1 et_pb_code et_pb_module\"><div class=\"et_pb_code_inner\"><style>\n.dneb{background:#fff;border:1px solid #e3e8ee;border-radius:16px;padding:24px 28px;box-shadow:0 2px 10px rgba(15,27,45,.05);color:#1f2d3d}\n.dneb,.dneb *{font-family:Inter,Arial,sans-serif!important}\n.dneb h4{margin:0 0 8px;font-size:24px;line-height:1.3;font-weight:700!important;color:#0f1b2d}\n.dneb p{margin:0;font-size:16px!important;font-weight:400!important;line-height:1.7}\n.dneb p a{color:#0B71C3;font-weight:600!important;text-decoration:underline}\n@media(max-width:767px){.dneb{padding:18px}.dneb h4{font-size:20px}}\n<\/style>\n<div class=\"dneb\">\n  <h4>About the Expert Behind This Article<\/h4>\n  <p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/in\/shivacharangv\/\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"> Shiva Charan<\/a> is a Performance marketer with 10+ years\u2019 experience. Managed $5M\u2013$10M in ad spends across Ed-Tech, B2B, Healthcare, e-Com, Spa, Legal & Recruitment. Focused on ROI, conversions, scaling and full-funnel growth.  Our writer consulted him for expert insights, and he reviewed the article for accuracy before publication.\n<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\r\n\r\n<div class=\"et_pb_heading_27 et_pb_heading et_pb_module et_block_module\"><div class=\"et_pb_heading_container\"><h3 class=\"et_pb_module_header\">FAQs<\/h3><\/div><\/div>\r\n\r\n<div class=\"et_pb_toggle_0 et_pb_toggle et_pb_toggle_item et_pb_toggle_close et_pb_module et_block_module\"><h5 class=\"et_pb_toggle_title\">1. How can I get my first client as a freelance digital marketer?<\/h5><div class=\"et_pb_toggle_content clearfix\"><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">You can get your first client by building a portfolio, networking on LinkedIn, joining freelancing platforms, contacting small businesses, and offering digital marketing services that solve their problems.<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\r\n\r\n<div class=\"et_pb_toggle_1 et_pb_toggle et_pb_toggle_item et_pb_toggle_close et_pb_module et_block_module\"><h5 class=\"et_pb_toggle_title\">2. Which skills are most important for a freelance digital marketer?<\/h5><div class=\"et_pb_toggle_content clearfix\"><p style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Important skills include Search Engine Optimization (SEO), social media marketing, Google Ads, content marketing, email marketing, keyword research, and performance analysis.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\r\n\r\n<div class=\"et_pb_toggle_2 et_pb_toggle et_pb_toggle_item et_pb_toggle_close et_pb_module et_block_module\"><h5 class=\"et_pb_toggle_title\">3. Where can beginners find freelance digital marketing clients?<\/h5><div class=\"et_pb_toggle_content clearfix\"><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Beginners can find clients through LinkedIn, Upwork, Fiverr, Freelancer, Facebook business groups, local business directories, and direct outreach to small businesses.<br \/>\n<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\r\n\r\n<div class=\"et_pb_toggle_3 et_pb_toggle et_pb_toggle_item et_pb_toggle_close et_pb_module et_block_module\"><h5 class=\"et_pb_toggle_title\">4. Do I need experience to become a freelance digital marketer?<\/h5><div class=\"et_pb_toggle_content clearfix\"><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">No, you do not need professional experience to get started. You can create sample projects, work on your own website, perform SEO audits, or develop sample social media campaigns to demonstrate your skills.<br \/>\n<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\r\n\r\n<div class=\"et_pb_toggle_4 et_pb_toggle et_pb_toggle_item et_pb_toggle_close et_pb_module et_block_module\"><h5 class=\"et_pb_toggle_title\">5. How much should a beginner charge for digital marketing services?<\/h5><div class=\"et_pb_toggle_content clearfix\"><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Beginner pricing depends on the service, project scope, and client requirements. In India, you might start with small projects costing around \u20b92,000\u2013\u20b95,000 or offer monthly packages starting at \u20b95,000, adjusting your rates as you gain experience.<br \/>\n<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\r\n\r\n<div class=\"et_pb_heading_28 et_pb_heading et_pb_module et_block_module\"><div class=\"et_pb_heading_container\"><h3 class=\"et_pb_module_header\">Course Recommendations<\/h3><\/div><\/div>\r\n<\/div>\r\n\r\n<div class=\"et_pb_column_3 et_pb_column et_pb_column_1_4 et-last-child et_block_column et_pb_css_mix_blend_mode_passthrough\">\r\n<div class=\"et_pb_code_2 et_pb_code et_pb_module\"><div class=\"et_pb_code_inner\"><style>\n.dn-share-wrap {\n  display: flex;\n  align-items: center;\n  gap: 12px;\n  flex-wrap: wrap;\n  padding: 12px 0;\n}\n\n.dn-share-label {\n  font-size: 15px;\n  font-weight: 600;\n  color: #333;\n  white-space: nowrap;\n}\n\n.dn-share-icons {\n  display: flex;\n  align-items: center;\n  gap: 10px;\n  flex-wrap: wrap;\n}\n\n.dn-share-btn {\n  display: flex;\n  align-items: center;\n  justify-content: center;\n  width: 36px;\n  height: 36px;\n  border-radius: 50%;\n  background: #f5f5f5;\n  transition: transform 0.2s ease, background 0.2s ease;\n  text-decoration: none;\n  flex-shrink: 0;\n}\n\n.dn-share-btn:hover {\n  transform: translateY(-2px);\n  background: #e8e8e8;\n}\n\n.dn-share-btn svg {\n  display: block;\n}\n<\/style>\n\n<div class=\"dn-share-wrap\">\n  <span class=\"dn-share-label\">Share on:<\/span>\n\n  <div class=\"dn-share-icons\">\n\n    <!-- WhatsApp -->\n    <a class=\"dn-share-btn\" href=\"https:\/\/wa.me\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" title=\"WhatsApp\" aria-label=\"WhatsApp\" onclick=\"this.href=&#039;https:\/\/wa.me\/?text=&#039; 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