When I first joined the freelance industry several years ago, I google searched “the best place to find freelance clients?” Can you guess the first two websites that popped up? If you guessed Upwork and Fiverr, than you are correct!
I, like most people created multiple accounts across sites like those and even spent money on the “premium” versions! But nothing ever came of it.
Just a side note -it could have been my fault, I could have been going about those sites all wrong. Just wanted to share my experience on how I have gotten clients, and helped othe people get them to!
What Worked
Email! I have found the best results in throwing it back to good ol cold emailing! This works for this industry because influencers are in their inbox daily, often multiple times a day!
And when it comes to finding their email it is as simple as looking on Instagram!
Go to Instagram.
Pull up an instagram page of someone you would be interested in working with.
Click on their contact button if available.
Type that email name into your email recipient spot.
Find similar creators to reach out to by going to that creators “following” and tap on the suggested column.
Crafting the Perfect Email
When sending the email, the first step is to have a good subject line. I honestly go with “Hi!” as my subject line. This sparks their curiosity and will get them to open up the email. You could also go with “Your Future Virtual Assistant” or “The VA Help You Need.”
From there you just want to craft a few short sentences.
My Example:
“Subject Line: Hi! (Something that catches their attention)
Hey there! My name is Kate Billington and I am a freelance virtual assistant. I specialize in creating graphics, Amazon Storefront, LiketoKnowit posts, and any other tasks you need help with in order to free up your time! I know the influencer world is crazy, so I was just curious to know if you have any openings/are looking for any additional help?!
I attached my portfolio down below if you would like to see more!
Thanks so much,
Kate”
Portfolio
One of the keys to keeping their attention is having all your information in the first initial email. This allows them to decide whether they are interested in working with you.
I have seen people create entire websites for their portfolios, which is unnecessary. All you need is a google slide PowerPoint. I include a picture of myself on the PowerPoint to make it more personable, as my relevant work experience, references, and examples of my work. You don’t have to include examples of your work unless you offer creative services like creating graphics/thumbnails.
Something else you can do to go the extra mile is to create a Youtube introduction for them! Study their account and business, and then pitch yourself in a youtube video. Upload your video as unlisted on Youtube; that way, only people with the link can see it! You can cover the same points you would in an email, but this way, you can make it a more personalized experience.
After the Email
To be transparent I did not send just a few emails to get where I am at today. It took about a month of sending 30+ emails daily to get the awesome full client list that I have now. All it takes is a bit of persistence and patience and you will get to your goal clients as well!
I hope you enjoyed this post and got some valuable takeaways. Feel free to email me any questions at billington.kate@yahoo.com!
Thanks for reading,
Kate
Leave a Reply