Let me guess , you’ve just learned digital marketing (or you’re still figuring it out), and now you’re thinking:

“Okay… but how do I actually get clients? Who’s going to trust me when I don’t even have experience?”

I felt the same way when I started. I had no fancy portfolio, no client testimonials, not even a proper LinkedIn profile. But slowly, with a little strategy (and a lot of courage), I found my first few clients and you can too.

Here’s how I made it work ; step by step.

Step 1: Start small. Start with yourself.

The best way to learn marketing is to market yourself first.
I began by creating posts for my own Instagram and sharing simple marketing tips, testing Canva designs, and explaining what I was learning in my course. Nobody asked me to do it but that content became my first portfolio.
You don’t need a client to get started.
You need a laptop (or just your phone), a bit of creativity, and the courage to show up.

Step 2: Create a Portfolio ; Even If You’ve Never Had a Client

I remember Googling, “How to make a portfolio with zero experience?” 
Here’s what I did:
• Created a mock Instagram strategy for a café (just for fun)
• Designed 5 posts in Canva
• Wrote a short content calendar for a makeup brand (imaginary)

And guess what? Those “fake” projects helped me land my real first client. Because they showed my skills, not my resume.
Tip: Offer your help to a friend or a small local business even for free at first. You’ll gain confidence and proof.

Step 3: Talk About What You Do (Even If You’re Still Learning)

Don’t wait until you’re an expert to start sharing. I used to post things like:
• “3 free tools I use for content creation”
• “What I learned about hashtags this week”
• “Small businesses: please don’t do this on Instagram ”

And slowly, people started noticing.
You don’t need 10K followers , just the right 10 people who trust you.

Step 4: Put Yourself Where Clients Are

I created simple profiles on:
• Fiverr
• Upwork
• Internshala

And wrote gig titles that were super clear:

“I’ll help manage your Instagram for 10 days and improve engagement.”

Nothing fancy. But it worked because I was offering something specific and doable.

Step 5: Start Small, But Overdeliver

My first paid project? I earned ₹700 for creating Instagram posts. It wasn’t much , but I treated it like a ₹70,000 project.

That client referred me to two more people.
People remember how you make them feel , so always show up like a pro.

Step 6: Ask for Testimonials (Don’t Be Shy)

After the project, I simply messaged:

“Hey! Would you mind writing a quick review I can share on my page? It really helps me build my freelance profile.”

Most people said yes , and their kind words became my social proof.

Step 7: Keep Going (Even on the Days You Feel Like Giving Up)

Some days will be quiet. Some posts will flop. Some clients might ghost you.
Keep going anyway. Because freelancing is not about overnight success.
It’s about showing up consistently, learning as you go, and remembering that even the best marketers started with no clients too.

FAQ – Real Questions I Had When Starting Freelancing (You Might Too!)

1. Can I actually start freelancing with zero experience?

Yes ,100%. I started the same way.
Everyone begins with no clients, no projects, just a skill they’re trying to master. You don’t need to be an expert and you just need to start. Practice, show what you’re learning, and things will build from there.

2. What do I even put in my portfolio if I haven’t worked with anyone?

Great question! Here’s what I did:
• Created mock content for imaginary brands
• Shared my own Instagram posts as “proof of work”
• Made a few Canva designs just to showcase style
• Wrote short captions and sample strategies

You don’t need “real” clients , just real effort. Show what you can do.

3. How did you get your first client?

I posted about my services on WhatsApp and Instagram. I also offered to help a small business for free in exchange for a testimonial.

They were happy, and then they referred me to someone else.
Simple things. Honest work. That’s how it begins.

4. Is it okay to work for free at first?

Yes , but only for the right reasons.
Do it to gain confidence, experience, or a testimonial not because you think you’re not good enough. One or two free projects are fine, but after that, you deserve to get paid.

5. How do I decide how much to charge?

Start with small, friendly rates , something you’re comfortable with.
Example:
• ₹300–500 for 5 Canva posts
• ₹1000 for 7-day Instagram handling

It’s not about charging high at first — it’s about proving your value. Raise your prices as your skills and confidence grow.

6. Why would someone hire a beginner like me?

Because they need help, and you’re offering it with honesty and energy.
Most small businesses don’t need a fancy agency , they want someone consistent, creative, and easy to work with. That could be you.

7. What skills should I focus on first?

Pick one to start. Here’s what helped me:
• Canva design
• Instagram post writing
• Content planning
Later, you can explore Meta Ads, SEO, and email marketing. Don’t rush ; grow one step at a time.

8. How long will it take to get clients?

Some get them in a week. For others, it takes a month.
But if you keep showing up, sharing your work, and offering help ,you’ll get there. Don’t stress over the timeline. Focus on the action.

Final Thoughts:

If you’re at zero right now , that’s okay. It means you’re just getting started.
So post that tip. Create that Canva design. Offer your help. Talk about your journey.
Clients don’t just hire skills. They hire people they connect with.

And there’s someone out there right now, looking for exactly what you offer.
You got this…..

 Let’s Chat:

Are you planning to start freelancing soon? What’s holding you back