How to Land Clients for Free and Fast!

When I first started freelancing, I went over two months without landing a single client. Why? Because I was too afraid to approach potential clients. I felt like an imposter, terrified of rejection, and just not fully ready. But eventually, I realized that without risking that first "no," I’d never get a "yes." It was either stay in my safe bubble, posting online with no results, or put myself out there, risk a few awkward moments, and start getting clients.

So, I got out of my comfort zone, braved a few rejections, and in less than two weeks, I landed my first client. From there, doors started opening up.

• How Did I Do It? How Do You Get Clients Physically?

It’s simple; you just have to get a little crazy! Here’s how:

Step 1: Get Business Cards

I asked my mom for a 30,000 TSH loan to design and print some business cards. These cards were my introduction tool.

Step 2: Design a Digital Flyer

I created a digital flyer outlining my services, why I do what I do, and what clients could gain from working with me.

Step 3: Take a Walk in Your Local Area

Take a walk around your neighborhood with your phone’s notes app open, and start noting down businesses that could benefit from your services. Aim for a list of 20-25 potential clients.

Step 4: Research

Once you’re back home, do some deeper research on each business to confirm they could really use your help.

Step 5: Set Up a Meeting with the Boss, Not the Secretary

Visit or cold-call the business and request a meeting. Tell the receptionist it’s a business matter and you'd like to speak directly with the manager or owner. Never mention you're offering services, as they may brush you off. Often, they might let you in immediately; if not, you may be scheduled to return another day.

Step 6: The Meeting

In the meeting, explain what you do, how you understand their problems, and how you can solve them. When they ask for pricing, say it "starts from" a certain amount. Avoid quoting a fixed rate until you know the full scope of work.

Pre-Meeting Checklist:

• Hygiene: Shower, apply deodorant, and use a breath freshener.

• Dress Smart: Look clean and professional.

• Research: Know everything about the business you’re approaching.

• Have a Strong Offer: Consider offering a “can’t say no” deal, like a free one-week trial, to build trust.

After the Meeting:

• Leave your business card.

• Ask for their email.

• If they don’t respond within three days, follow up via email.

• Don’t write a proposal until they specifically ask for one.

Repeat this process with the other 24 businesses. If you’re still client-less after that, we’ll figure out what might need tweaking.

• How to Get Clients Online

Here’s a quick guide:

First Method: Cold Calling

1. Research: Identify your ideal client industries and find contact information.

2. Cold Call: This is an unsolicited call to offer your services to people who haven’t reached out first.

If you need more on cold calling, let me know!

Second Method: Online Platforms

Here are some sites where you can find clients as a Tanzanian:

• Upwork

• Freelancer.com

• Fiverr

• LinkedIn

• Facebook Groups

These platforms aren’t always easy at first, but with persistence, you can make it work.

These are the strategies I used to get clients without referrals or a portfolio. Some of them, like cold calling and online sites, are still part of my routine today.

What’s Coming Up Next

The next blog will be about how I discovered digital marketing was my true calling.

Posting Schedule

• Blog: Every Monday

• TikTok and Instagram: Monday through Friday

• YouTube: Every Friday

P.S: And hey, I offer free consultations via Zoom. If you want to chat, have questions, or want to work together, feel free to email me. Catch you in the next post!

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