How to start freelancing for free

All you need is a computer and Internet connection to start this side hustle

Author

Diana Kelly Levey
December 11, 2024

Hi Freelancer!

Happy Wednesday!

Feel free to check out the sponsors who help support this content.

(Freelance jobs I found for you at the bottom. ↓)

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Want to Start Freelancing But Don’t Feel Like Parting with a Dime?

You don’t need a budget to start freelancing. Follow these smart strategies, you can land your first client without spending a cent.

We’re walking you through the steps of how to start freelancing for free.

(Yes, you can do this from a public computer at a library perhaps or borrowing a laptop from a friend and utilizing free WiFi access wherever you can. But, I think you’ll find more success if you have your own device to use and easy access to high-speed Internet.)

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Here’s a High-Level Overview of How to Start Freelancing for Free.

You’ll find a lot more details in this article by freelancer Hailee Wilson on BestFreelanceTips.com.

🔍 Where to Find Free Freelance Jobs

  1. LinkedIn: Connect directly with potential clients, join industry groups, and post about your services.

  2. Freelancer.com: Free to join and bid on gigs in writing, design, and more.

  3. Indeed: It’s not just for full-time jobs! Search for freelance and contract opportunities.

🔧 Build a Freelance Writer Portfolio—For Free!

Show off your skills with these platforms:

  • Behance: Great for designers and visual creatives.

  • Journo Portfolio: Perfect for writers and journalists.

  • Contently: Display writing samples and connect with content marketing clients.

📣 Promote Yourself and Your Services

  • Social Media: Share your work on LinkedIn, Instagram, X, Threads or Bluesky. Use hashtags and keywords so clients can find you. Announce that you’re open for business.

  • Referrals: Let friends and family know you’re available for freelance work!

Launch Your Freelance Writer Website for FREE!

Build a professional site with free platforms like Wix, WordPress, Weebly, SquareSpace’s free trial, or HubSpot. Include an “About Me” section, a portfolio, and a contact form so clients can reach you.

Free hosting and domains are a great start—upgrade to a paid plan that looks more professional when you’re ready! ✨

Thanks for reading!

Diana

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What’s Happening in Life and Business Right Now

What I’m reading: The Women by Kristin Hannah (still); Money for Couples by Ramit Sethi (advanced copy)

What I’m working on in my business: A few digital products!

📌 Like a monthly marketing 2025 guide for freelancers.

📌And a list of scripts and templates I use for clients when negotiating rates, following up, and want to find more business.

I’m hoping it’ll be ready for you in the coming weeks.

Feel free to reply to me here if you want more info when it’s available and I’ll add you to the list to get notified.

New article I wrote for a new client: 6 Ways to Buy Nothing New for the Holidays (AARP)

This Best Freelance Tips article features How to Find Freelance Writing Jobs.

Freelance Jobs, Contract Jobs, or Remote Jobs I Found

(These were active and available within a few days of this newsletter going out. I have no connection with them.)

How to work with me