7 Proven Ways to Get More Freelance Clients Without Fiverr or Upwork (2025 Guide)

When you think of getting freelance clients, the first places that probably come to mind are Fiverr and Upwork. But here’s the thing: it doesn’t always have to be that way. A lot of freelancers believe that these platforms are the only reliable sources for clients. While they may work for some, there are plenty of ways to find clients outside of these marketplaces. In fact, relying solely on Fiverr or Upwork might even be holding you back from growing your freelance business the way you want.

How to Get More Freelance Clients Without Using Fiverr or Upwork

So, if you’ve been wondering how to land more clients without using Fiverr or Upwork, keep reading! There are smarter, more sustainable ways to build your client base and take control of your freelance career.

1. The Problem with Relying on Fiverr and Upwork

Let’s be honest: Fiverr and Upwork can be great platforms, but they come with their own set of challenges that might not suit everyone. First off, you’re competing with hundreds, if not thousands, of other freelancers for the same gigs. It’s like trying to stand out in a crowded marketplace where prices are often driven down to rock bottom. Not only does this make it harder to get noticed, but it also means you might end up with clients who expect a lot for very little in return.

Moreover, both platforms take a cut of your earnings—sometimes up to 20%. That’s money that could be going into your pocket, but instead, it’s taken out by the platform. Plus, these platforms limit your ability to build direct relationships with clients. You’re essentially stuck within their ecosystem, which could restrict your growth potential.

This is where the power of diversifying your approach comes in. By looking beyond Fiverr and Upwork, you open yourself up to a whole new world of opportunities. Whether it’s through networking, personal branding, or other strategies, there are plenty of ways to get freelance clients without these platforms. And that’s exactly what we’ll dive into next.

2. Build Your Personal Brand

One of the best ways to get more freelance clients without using Fiverr or Upwork is by building your personal brand. It’s all about positioning yourself as an expert in your field, and this doesn’t require you to rely on freelancing platforms at all.

Start by creating a professional online presence. If you don’t already have a portfolio or website, it’s time to set one up. Showcase your best work, highlight your skills, and make it easy for potential clients to find you. A clean, well-organized website not only shows that you’re serious about your freelance career, but it also builds credibility and trust.

When it comes to social media, LinkedIn is your best friend. It’s a fantastic platform for freelancers because it allows you to connect with business professionals and potential clients directly. Regularly post updates showcasing your expertise, whether it’s a blog post, a case study, or a testimonial from a happy client. By engaging with others in your niche, you’ll start building a reputation as a go-to freelancer.

Instagram can also work wonders, especially if you’re a creative freelancer. Post pictures of your work, behind-the-scenes shots, or even client success stories. Instagram is a visual platform, so make your content visually appealing to grab attention. Use relevant hashtags like #freelancerlife or #freelancework to increase your discoverability.

Don’t forget about client reviews and testimonials! These can be the difference between landing a client or being passed over. Make sure to ask your previous clients for testimonials that highlight your skills, work ethic, and the results you delivered. Add these to your website and social media profiles so potential clients can see that you’ve already made others happy.

3. Networking: Your Secret Weapon

Many freelancers believe that finding clients is all about having a great portfolio or getting noticed on platforms like Fiverr or Upwork. But here’s the truth: networking can be just as powerful—if not more so—when it comes to landing clients. The idea that networking is only for corporate jobs is a myth. In fact, for freelancers, building relationships and making genuine connections is one of the best ways to get freelance clients without using Fiverr or Upwork.

Let’s explore how you can start networking in a way that actually gets results.

Online Networking: Platforms That Work for You

One of the first places to start is online networking. Yes, platforms like LinkedIn are goldmines for freelancers looking to build a network and find clients. But it’s not just about sending connection requests and hoping someone notices you. Networking on LinkedIn means engaging with others in your industry, sharing valuable content, and commenting on posts that catch your attention.

You can also join LinkedIn groups or Facebook groups that cater to your niche. These groups are full of business owners, professionals, and fellow freelancers who may need your services. Participate in discussions, share your expertise, and offer help where you can. This type of visibility builds trust, and over time, people will start reaching out to you for work.

It’s not all about promoting yourself either. Don’t be afraid to show interest in other people’s work, and remember that networking is a two-way street. It’s about building relationships, not just getting clients. Trust is key, and when people see that you’re genuinely interested in them, they’ll be more likely to refer you to others.

Offline Networking: Meetups and Conferences

Now, don’t forget the power of offline networking. While online methods are great, face-to-face networking can create deeper, more personal connections. Look for local events, conferences, or meetups where you can meet potential clients. This could be industry-specific conferences or even general business networking events.

Take your business cards (or digital ones) and be ready to talk about what you do. Don’t be pushy or sales-y; instead, focus on engaging in conversations and listening. The goal here is to make connections and get your name out there in the real world. Building relationships at these events can lead to clients who trust you because they’ve met you in person.

The Power of Referrals

Once you’ve built up a network, it’s time to use it. One of the most effective ways to get freelance clients is through referrals. After completing a successful project, ask your clients for referrals. Happy clients love to share their positive experiences, and they may know someone who needs your services.

You can also set up a referral program. Offer a discount or a small bonus to clients who refer new business to you. Word-of-mouth referrals work wonders, and they’re often more trustworthy than a profile on a freelancing platform.

Expanding Your Network with Strategic Partnerships

Strategic partnerships are another great way to grow your freelance network. Reach out to professionals in complementary industries who could benefit from your services. For example, if you’re a web designer, partner with a content writer, or if you’re a photographer, team up with event planners. These partnerships can help you access new clients and create a steady flow of referrals. Working together opens doors for both parties, and these mutual collaborations can be a game changer for your freelance career.

4. Leverage Email Marketing

Okay, now we’re diving into a strategy that might surprise you: email marketing. It’s often overlooked by freelancers, but when done right, email marketing is one of the most effective ways to connect with potential clients and build long-term relationships. The beauty of email is that it allows you to nurture leads, build trust, and ultimately, land clients without using Fiverr or Upwork.

Building Your Email List

The first step in email marketing is building an email list. This is critical because your email list is essentially a direct line to people who have already shown interest in your services. You don’t need a massive list to start—quality over quantity is key. Collect emails from your website visitors, blog readers, social media followers, or even at networking events.

Consider offering something valuable in exchange for someone’s email address, like an ebook, a free consultation, or access to an exclusive newsletter. This “lead magnet” can be the perfect incentive to get potential clients to sign up. Once they’re on your list, you have the opportunity to start building a relationship with them.

Crafting Effective Emails

When it comes to email marketing, crafting the perfect email is crucial. You want to keep things short, engaging, and value-driven. Start with a compelling subject line that grabs attention—something that makes the reader want to open the email. Avoid sounding too sales-y in your subject line; instead, offer something that piques their curiosity.

In the body of the email, focus on offering value. For example, you could share useful tips or insights related to your industry. Don’t just talk about yourself or your services—show that you understand the reader’s pain points and offer solutions. The goal here is to position yourself as an expert who can help them solve their problems.

Cold Emailing for New Clients

Cold emailing may seem daunting, but it can be incredibly effective when done right. Research potential clients and send personalized emails offering your services. Start by introducing yourself and highlighting how you can help them with their specific needs. Focus on the benefits they’ll gain by working with you, not just the features of your service.

The key to successful cold emailing is personalization. Don’t send generic emails that look like they were mass-produced. Tailor each email to the recipient, referencing something specific about their business or needs. Personalization increases the chances of getting a response and starting a conversation.

Following Up with Leads

After sending your initial email, don’t just sit back and wait. Follow up with leads who haven’t responded. Many people need a gentle reminder before they take action. Keep your follow-up emails friendly, professional, and concise. A quick, polite message asking if they had a chance to look at your previous email can often get you the response you need.

If you’re not hearing back after a few follow-ups, it’s okay to move on. But always leave the door open for future conversations. You never know when they might need your services down the line.

5. Use Content Marketing to Attract Clients

A lot of freelancers believe that simply having a strong portfolio and a few clients is enough to keep the work coming in. But here’s the truth: content marketing is one of the most effective ways to attract clients without relying on platforms like Fiverr or Upwork. If you’re not already using content to market your freelance business, you’re missing out.

Creating Valuable Content

Let’s be clear: creating content isn’t just about writing blog posts or making videos. It’s about providing value. Think of it as giving potential clients a sneak peek into what you do and how you can help them. Whether it’s a blog post, an article, a video, or a podcast episode, your content should answer questions, solve problems, or offer new insights in your niche.

For example, if you’re a web designer, you might write a blog post about “5 Common Mistakes Businesses Make on Their Website” or create a tutorial on “How to Build a High-Converting Landing Page.” If you’re a photographer, consider sharing tips on how to take better photos or the best ways to prepare for a photoshoot. By creating this type of helpful content, you position yourself as an expert, and people will start to trust you more.

SEO: Optimizing Your Content for Search Engines

Now, you might be wondering how to get that content seen. Well, that’s where SEO (Search Engine Optimization) comes in. It’s not enough to just create great content if nobody can find it. To rank on Google, your content needs to be optimized for relevant keywords. These keywords should be naturally woven into your content, helping search engines understand what your article is about.

For example, if your target audience is searching for “how to hire a freelance web designer” or “best freelance web design services,” you want those phrases in your title, headers, and throughout the content. But remember, don’t stuff your content with keywords—make sure it still reads naturally. The goal is to create content that answers the searcher’s question while using the right keywords to improve your visibility.

If you’re not sure which keywords to target, use tools like Google Keyword Planner, SEMrush, or Ahrefs. These tools can help you find the best keywords for your niche, giving you insight into what potential clients are searching for.

Guest Posting and Collaborations

Guest posting is another great way to boost your content marketing strategy. By writing articles for other blogs or websites in your industry, you can expand your reach to a wider audience. When you contribute valuable content to other reputable sites, you also build credibility and get backlinks, which can improve your own site’s SEO.

For instance, if you’re a freelance writer, guest posting on a marketing blog could introduce you to business owners looking for content creators. And for photographers, contributing a guest post to a travel blog might attract clients who need professional photos for their business or events. Guest posting is a win-win situation where you get exposure, backlinks, and the chance to land clients.

Video Content to Increase Engagement

Video content is another fantastic way to connect with potential clients. Video is engaging, and it helps you stand out in a crowded market. Consider creating how-to videos, behind-the-scenes content, or client success stories. Upload them to YouTube and share them on social media platforms like Instagram and LinkedIn.

The beauty of video content is that it allows you to showcase your personality and expertise in a way that text-based content can’t. It’s a great way to build trust, and it allows potential clients to see how you work and what you’re about before they even contact you. Plus, YouTube videos rank well on Google, so they can help you attract more traffic to your site.

Repurposing Content Across Platforms

Content marketing doesn’t stop at writing blog posts or creating videos. Once you’ve created a piece of content, find ways to repurpose it. For example, you can turn a blog post into an infographic, or a video into a podcast episode. This way, you get more mileage out of the content you’ve already created, making it easier to reach different audiences on various platforms.

You can also share snippets of your content on social media. Share a quote from your latest blog post on Twitter, or use an excerpt from your YouTube video on Instagram. Repurposing content saves time and effort while increasing your chances of being discovered by potential clients.

6. Direct Outreach: Don’t Be Afraid to Pitch

Many freelancers hesitate to pitch their services directly to potential clients. They worry it might come across as too forward or pushy. But here’s the thing: cold outreach, when done right, is a powerful tool for getting freelance clients. You don’t have to wait for opportunities to come to you—you can go out and create them.

How to Find Potential Clients

The first step in direct outreach is identifying potential clients. This might mean businesses, startups, or individuals who could benefit from your services. You can find potential clients by searching online, looking through social media platforms, or attending networking events. If you’re a designer, for example, you could search for businesses with outdated websites that could use your skills.

Once you’ve identified a potential client, do some research. Learn about their business, what they offer, and their pain points. Understanding their needs will help you craft a personalized pitch that speaks directly to them.

Crafting Your Pitch

A great pitch isn’t just about selling your services; it’s about offering a solution to a problem. When you reach out to a potential client, show that you’ve done your research and understand their needs. Explain how your services can solve their specific challenges and help them achieve their goals.

Start with a compelling subject line. Make it clear and concise—something that sparks interest. In your email or message, briefly introduce yourself, explain why you’re reaching out, and highlight how you can help. Focus on the benefits they’ll get by working with you, not just the features of your services.

It’s important to keep your pitch short and to the point. Busy business owners and managers don’t have time to read long emails, so keep it clear, friendly, and professional. Avoid using jargon or overly technical terms—aim to be relatable and approachable.

Follow Up with Potential Clients

Don’t be discouraged if you don’t hear back right away. Follow up! People get busy, and emails sometimes get lost in the shuffle. A polite follow-up email can remind them of your initial message and give them the opportunity to reconsider your offer.

In your follow-up, briefly remind the client of who you are and what you offer. Keep it short, and don’t be pushy. Just a friendly reminder that you’re still available and eager to help. If they’re not interested, that’s okay! Leave the door open for future opportunities.

The Power of Personalization

One of the most important aspects of pitching is personalization. Don’t send out generic messages. Take the time to customize each pitch for the recipient. Mention something specific about their business or how you can solve a particular problem they’re facing. Personalization shows that you’re genuinely interested in their business and not just sending out a mass email.

Personalized outreach builds trust, and it increases the chances of you landing a client. It shows that you’re committed and ready to go the extra mile to help them succeed.

7. Local SEO and Offline Strategies for Client Acquisition

There’s a common misconception that the only way to get clients as a freelancer is through online platforms like Fiverr or Upwork. But what if I told you that focusing on local SEO and offline strategies could also bring in a steady stream of clients? That’s right—by tapping into your local market, you can create strong connections and build relationships that lead to consistent freelance work.

Optimizing Your Website for Local Searches

The first step in local SEO is making sure your website is optimized for local searches. This means including location-based keywords in your content, such as “freelance writer in [your city]” or “web designer in [your location].” If you’re targeting a specific area, use geographic modifiers throughout your site.

For example, if you’re a photographer in New York, use keywords like “New York freelance photographer” or “photography services in NYC.” By doing so, your website will show up when someone in your area searches for freelance services.

Don’t forget to set up your Google My Business profile! This free tool helps your business show up on Google Maps and local search results. When clients in your area search for freelancers, your profile will appear with your contact info, services, and even customer reviews.

Local Networking: Building Relationships in Person

Local networking is just as important as online networking. Attend local meetups, business events, or even workshops where you can connect with potential clients face-to-face. Many businesses still prefer working with local freelancers because it feels more personal, and it allows for in-person collaboration if needed.

Look for local business networking groups or professional associations in your area. These groups are full of entrepreneurs who may need your freelance services. Whether it’s a local chamber of commerce or an industry-specific meetup, getting involved in these groups will give you a platform to connect with others in your community.

Offline Marketing Materials: Flyers, Business Cards, and More

Sometimes, going offline is exactly what you need to stand out. Invest in marketing materials like business cards, brochures, and flyers to distribute at local events or places where your target clients frequent. For example, if you’re a web designer, leave your business cards at local coffee shops, bookstores, or coworking spaces.

Additionally, consider using posters or flyers in places like local coffee shops, libraries, or community centers. Not only will these materials put your name in front of potential clients, but they also help establish you as a local expert in your field.

Partnering with Local Businesses

Building partnerships with local businesses can be a game-changer for your freelance career. Let’s say you’re a graphic designer. You could partner with a local printing shop, or if you’re a photographer, you could team up with event planners or wedding venues. These businesses often need freelancers, and by forming mutually beneficial partnerships, you get access to their network of clients.

By offering your services to local businesses, you can tap into a steady stream of clients who trust referrals from companies they already know. Local businesses often prefer working with freelancers in their area because it feels more personal, and there’s the added benefit of working with someone who understands the local market.

8. Conclusion: Start Applying These Strategies Today

By now, you should have a clear understanding of how to get more freelance clients without relying on Fiverr or Upwork. From building your personal brand to networking both online and offline, using email marketing, and optimizing your website for local SEO, these strategies are all within your control. And don’t forget the power of direct outreach and building relationships with local businesses—these approaches can lead to long-term success for your freelance career.

But here’s the key: don’t wait to start implementing these strategies. The sooner you take action, the sooner you’ll see results. Whether you’re reaching out to clients directly or optimizing your website for local searches, every step you take moves you closer to building a thriving freelance business.

9. Next Steps for Growing Your Freelance Business

So, now that you’ve got these strategies in your arsenal, what’s next? Here are some additional steps you can take to keep the momentum going and ensure long-term success.

Keep Learning and Evolving

The freelance world is always changing, and staying ahead means continuously learning new skills and tools. Consider taking online courses to improve your skills, whether it’s a course on content marketing, SEO, or mastering the latest design software. The more you learn, the more valuable you become to your clients.

Don’t stop at the basics. As you grow, keep adding new strategies and tools to your business toolkit. This will make you more competitive and open up more opportunities.

Diversify Your Income Streams

As your business grows, think about diversifying your income streams. For instance, you can create digital products like ebooks, courses, or templates to sell on your website. You could also offer consulting services or create a membership site for recurring income. By diversifying, you can reduce reliance on one-off freelance jobs and create a more stable, predictable income.

Focus on Client Retention

While attracting new clients is essential, don’t forget about the clients you’ve already worked with. Building long-term relationships with your existing clients can lead to repeat business and referrals. Make sure you’re always delivering excellent results, and don’t hesitate to reach out periodically to check in, offer new services, or ask for feedback.

Client retention is just as important as acquisition, so nurture those relationships and they’ll keep coming back.

Measure Your Success

To ensure you’re on the right track, make sure you’re measuring your success. Track your leads, conversion rates, and client feedback. What’s working well? What could be improved? By regularly assessing your strategies, you’ll continue refining your approach to get even better results.

Scaling Your Freelance Business

As you start landing more clients and expanding your network, it’s time to think about scaling. This could mean hiring other freelancers to help with projects, or automating parts of your business to save time. Whether it’s hiring an assistant or using tools to manage your social media, scaling your business will allow you to take on more clients without burning out.

Wrapping It Up

You now have all the tools and strategies to land freelance clients without Fiverr or Upwork. By focusing on personal branding, leveraging networking both online and offline, and using strategies like email marketing and local SEO, you can attract a steady stream of clients and build a sustainable freelance business. Keep applying these techniques, stay committed, and always look for new ways to grow your business.