How to Get Freelance Work: 7 Proven Tactics for Finding Clients Fast

If you’re Googling how to get freelance work, you’re probably feeling stuck. Maybe even stressed. Or just unsure where to begin.

I’ve been there—finding freelance clients felt like inching down a long, dark tunnel, hoping there was paid work (and a little light) at the end.

Sure, there's a tunnel—but I like to think of it as the scenic route to something better. Freelancing’s full of twists… and unexpected views.

Real Talk from the Freelance Front Lines

This post isn’t theory. It’s lived experience. Here are 7 tactics I’ve used in the past—or am using right now—to grow my freelance business while traveling abroad.

Tactic #1: Ask for Referrals—But Don’t Ask for Work

One of the fastest ways to land freelance work is to reach out to people who already trust you. The small shift that makes a big difference: Don’t ask these people to hire you. Ask if they know someone who might need what you offer.

Why this works:

• It doesn't make people feel pressured to say yes

• It gently reminds them of your skills

• It frames you as a confident pro—not someone begging for gigs

Start with past employers and colleagues who know your strengths and work ethic. Try something simple like:

“I’ve started offering [insert service]. If you know anyone looking for help with [specific result], I’d be grateful for a referral. No pressure—just keeping you in the loop.”

Pro tip: Include a short, scannable service list or a link to a basic landing page. Make it easy to pass your name along.

Tactic #2: Follow Brands on LinkedIn (and Actually Show Up)

LinkedIn isn’t just a digital résumé. It’s a search engine. A networking tool. A visibility machine.

Here’s how I’m using it to find freelance clients:

• Follow brands I want to work with

• Leave thoughtful comments that add value

• Engage with other commenters (many are decision-makers)

This kind of engagement builds familiarity and credibility. More than once, a single comment led to a DM—and eventually, paid work.

Haven’t touched your LinkedIn in years? Here’s what to do first:

Update your headline to clearly show you're a freelancer and what you help with.

Examples:

• Senior SEO Specialist | Strategic Writer | Helping Brands Rank, Convert and Grow | Travel, Wellness, Education & Tech Expertise | Hire Me for Fully Remote Roles
  

• Remote SEO Specialist | Helping Small Ecommerce Brands Get Found
  

• Freelance Writer & Educator | Helping Purpose-Driven Brands Reach Women Working & Traveling Abroad | Available for Remote Roles

Why this matters: Clients use LinkedIn like Google. If your headline doesn’t say “freelance” or show how you solve a problem, they’ll never find you—even if you’re perfect for the role.

Tactic #3: Work with Creative Staffing Agencies (Yes, Really)

Before freelance platforms were even a thing, creative staffing agencies helped me land real, paying work.

These agencies match freelancers with companies that need help—fast. Some options include:

• Robert Half

• Creative Circle

• 24 Seven Talent

• Aquent Talent

Sometimes you’ll be a contractor. Other times, a temporary W2 employee. Either way—you get paid and gain experience.

Pro tip: Search “creative staffing agency + [your city]” or browse agency job boards for remote opportunities.And don’t skip LinkedIn—you can often find recruiter contacts there, too.

Tactic #4: Look Like a Pro (Even If You’re Just Starting Out)

Wondering how to get freelance work with no experience? This is how to show up like a pro from day one.

1. Create a one-page website.

Use Carrd, Dorik, Wix, or Canva Sites. Include:

• Who you are

• What you offer

• Who you help

• How to contact you

  
  

2. Apply basic SEO

Use Moz Keyword Explorer, Google Keyword Planner, or Google Trends to find terms people search for. Position those keywords into your site headline and intro.

Example: SEO for Travel Brands | Graceful Roamer

3. Make a lead magnet

No 30-page ebook needed. Just create a one-page PDF that solves a small problem.

Example: “How to Build a Website in Under 24 Hours”Upload it to your site or LinkedIn profile to instantly boost your authority.

4. Pitch brands you already love

Buy from a company you admire? Tell them. Post a review, tag them, and then reach out.

Real-life: I once emailed the marketing director at Nordstrom because I loved their customer service. I didn’t get the job then—about 3 months later, an agency placed me at the brand on an ecommerce marketing project.

Tactic #5: QR Codes and T-Shirts: The Unexpected Visibility Hack

Want to stand out offline, too? Print your web address or WhatsApp QR code on a T-shirt, tote, or water bottle.

I’m making a T-shirt with GracefulRoamer.com on the back and a QR code on the front.

It’s low-tech marketing with high-impact potential.

Even if someone just visits your site out of curiosity, it boosts your traffic—which can help you rank higher in Google.

Tactic #6: Want Freelance Work Abroad? Start Local, Think Global

Stopped into this café thinking I’d sip an Apple martini—turns out they only serve draft beer. A branding plot twist and a freelance opportunity. Proof that your next client could be just down the street (and clearly in need of updated messaging).

You don’t have to work for locals—but don’t overlook them either.

Coworking spaces, hostels, restaurants, and tour operators often need help with:

• Social media

• English-language editing

• Website updates

  
  

Introduce yourself with something like:

“Hi, I’m a freelance [your role] staying nearby. If you ever need help with your [content/marketing/site], I’d love to chat. If it’s easier, I can message you directly on WhatsApp—just drop your number and I’ll follow up.”

Tactic #7: Teach What You Know

This might surprise you—but teaching has been one of my most consistent, well-paying client pipelines. I’ve taught in-person and online courses through several community colleges. In addition to the colleges paying me, students who were business owners have hired me for freelance work. 

If you’ve got experience and a desire to share what you know, pitch a short course to continuing ed departments with a topic idea.

Next Step: Pick One and Go

You don’t need a viral reel or a 30-step funnel. Just one clear offer. One brave message. One consistent step forward.

• Ask for a referral (without asking for work)

• Leave a thoughtful comment on LinkedIn

• Apply to a creative staffing agency

• Build a simple one-page website

• Pitch a company you already love

• Wear your website (yes, really—QR code on a T-shirt or tote)

• Offer to teach what you know

You don’t have to do all of these. Start with the one that feels most doable right now—and run with it.

Your friend, Roamy

It’s Your Turn

Have a solo travel question that keeps surfacing to top of mind? Got a doubter you need help shutting down? Don’t keep it to yourself. Reach out and I’ll follow up with you personally. 

You don’t have to do this alone. Not today.