Starting in web development can be daunting, especially if you’re a freelancer trying to land that first client. My journey began with basic skills, determination, and a unique approach to client acquisition and project management. Here’s how I grew from struggling to close any deal to managing a successful freelancing model with clients worldwide.
1. How I Find My Clients: Cold Emails and Niche Focus
Finding clients is often the biggest challenge. I honed in on cold emailing as my primary strategy, reaching out to businesses within a single niche. Here’s the breakdown:
Cold Emails: I send roughly 1,000 emails daily using Instantly AI, which filters replies into positives and negatives. This cuts down time spent sifting through responses and keeps everything organized.
Targeting Niche Needs: Focusing on businesses without websites or those with outdated designs, I create free drafts for them. This approach piques interest since clients can visually see the improvements.
Manual Approach Option: If software isn’t available, 10 emails daily (300 per month) is manageable for a manual start. I’d reach out with a personalized free draft offer to demonstrate value upfront.
Sample Cold Email Template:
2. How I Manage Client Projects: Delegating to Freelancers
In the beginning, I worked alone, creating websites with tools like WordPress and Webflow. But I soon realized outsourcing allowed me to take on more clients and stay focused on business growth.
Finding Freelancers: I vet freelancers based on work quality, reliability, and communication. After testing several candidates, I now delegate projects with confidence.
Cost Efficiency: By hiring freelancers for a fixed price (often €150-€300 per site), I can charge clients significantly more, creating a profit margin that scales my business.
3. Building an Email List
An email list is essential for any outreach strategy. Here’s how I developed mine:
Outscraper for Data: Initially, I used Outscraper to find Google My Business (GMB) emails, securing around ten interested leads daily.
Database Purchases: As I expanded, I began buying databases tailored to my niche, though I learned to be wary of outdated lists that could harm my email reputation with high bounce rates.
4. Closing Deals and Client Follow-Up
Once clients express interest, I aim for a closing price of about €700, a good starting point for beginners. Here’s my approach:
Be Transparent: Honesty is essential, especially as a beginner. I let clients know I’m new but passionate, often offering a free service (like an initial ad run) as added value.
Finalizing Projects: I ensure everything is on my domain for easy transfer once approved. For clients who want immediate previews, I include screenshots in the emails rather than PDFs to make things smoother.
FAQs and Answers
Q: Don’t your emails land in spam?
A: Not if you manage your email volume. I keep my email limit to around ten per day for each account, rotating through multiple addresses.
Q: What email software do you use?
A: I use Instantly AI. It’s intuitive and helps filter responses efficiently.
Q: Do you use a professional email address?
A: Yes, I always use a professional email address. It builds credibility and prevents the need for extensive warming.
Q: How do you deliver the completed website?
A: I initially host it on my server for review. After approval, I transfer it to the client’s domain.
Q: Do you work with local clients only?
A: No, I work globally, which broadens my opportunities. However, for those preferring local business, in-person meetings can help build trust and close deals faster.
Q: How do you build a portfolio if you’re new?
A: For those just starting, create sample sites or choose existing sites as examples (mentioning these are examples) until you’ve built a solid portfolio.
Q: Do you earn passive income from hosting?
A: I don’t focus on hosting revenue, but this could be a great addition for those looking for recurring income.
If you’re on a similar path or have insights, share your experience!
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