Client Acquisition 101: How to Find Copywriting Clients as a Newbie
It’s tough being a new copywriter!
With everything pulling you in all directions – gurus to follow, the AI robots, social media, and even life – you’ve got a lot to balance as a new copywriter.
But the most important thing to focus on is finding your next client.
Now, “client acquisition” sounds ✨ fancy ✨. But it’s just another way to say you’re looking for your next copywriting client.
If you’re a newbie, you may think organic marketing – like blogs and social media content – is where you should start. As a coach for copywriters, I see it all the time. But those strategies take time and consistency to pay off. When you’re new, you need clients. Like yesterday.
Finding copywriting clients is something that even experienced copywriters go through. It’s a necessary part of the process. But once you get into the habit of doing it, things get way easier. (BYE, pressure to find clients asap. See you never.) And when you have a solid system set up, you can turn it on and off as needed.
The best part?
You don’t have to stick to just ONE way.
Top 8 Ways to Find Copywriting Clients for New(ish) Copywriters
Maybe you’re brand new and looking for your first paying gig.
Or you’ve been in the game a while and you want to fill your calendar with new projects. There are so many different ways to find clients! And spoiler alert – that’s actually good news, because with all those options you can find the one that suits your time AND energy.
Here are eight different methods to find your next copywriting client.
1. Cold Email
Cold emailing gets a bad rap, but it’s a time-tested strategy that’s proven to be super effective in getting clients – fast. You never know when your email might pop up at juuuust the right time for someone. So go for it. Shoot your shot! You never know when it will be the right time for your client.
Who it’s good for: Copywriters willing to put themselves out there and willing to try to stick to something consistently.
Who it’s not good for: Copywriters who feel gross cold emailing. ← Stop right there. Cold emails don’t have to be icky and salesy. They can come from a place of giving – and I can help you if you’re stuck.
2. Social Media
Virtually “stalk” your ideal copywriting clients on Instagram – or wherever they hang out online. (Don’t actually stalk them, obviously, but definitely check out what they’re about!) You can use social media to scope out their vibe and discover what needs they might have.
The most important thing is to engage with them BEFORE you slide into their DMs with a pitch. Work your way into their circle and get in front of them by liking and commenting on their posts. Once you understand their business and make that initial connection, you can craft a personalized and meaningful pitch in their DMs.
Who it’s good for: Social sleuths not afraid to play the long game. ‘Carmen San Diego’ types.
Who it’s not good for: Anyone who thoroughly despises social media.
3. Facebook/Online Networking Groups
There are tons of different groups you can join – ones for copywriters, marketers, local businesses, and groups specific to the niche you serve. Engage and provide valuable insights. When you share your skills and expertise, your next copywriting client could be paying attention.
But because it starts to feel like a tight-knit community, the biggest thing to remember is to maintain your boundaries. A lot of these groups encourage trading services, but it’s important to have a contract in place with firm boundaries and deliverables. What I’m really saying is… Don’t let scope creep happen and make it clear what you would normally charge. Okay? Cool.
Who it’s good for: Copywriters who work with small business owners or solopreneurs (they tend to hang out in these groups). People who like to engage with others regularly, or don’t mind being active in an online groups setting.
Who it’s not good for: People pleasers, anyone who really likes to throw a pitch out whenever possible. (You need to know when to provide value, and when to pitch your services.)
4. Use Your Own Personal Network
You know those people you talk to every day?
Your gym friends, the owner at your favorite taco stand, the doggy daycare you frequent, your kid’s friend’s mom – all those people. If you know they have a business, they most likely have copy needs. They already know and like you, so it wouldn’t be hard to gain their trust. Ask around and *actually* tell people what you do. You probably know someone or THEY know someone who needs help.
Who it’s good for: Everyone has their own little network.
Who it’s not good for: Copywriters that work in a specialized niche. If you’re a ghostwriter in the financial niche, the taco stand owner might not be your ideal client. 🙃 On the other hand, if you know your local bank owner, go for it.
5. In-Person Networking Events
Conferences, happy hours, summits, seminars, career fairs – these are perfect opportunities to get into a room full of potential clients. All you have to do is show up, introduce yourself as a copywriter, and tell them what you do. Connections are your best friend as a business owner. So don’t hide behind your keyboard wishing away the hours. Get up and get out there if you want real life clients. And remember – you’ve got this! It just takes practice.
Who it’s good for: Outgoing copywriters with a solid elevator pitch in hand. (Pssst. If you immediately told yourself this isn’t you, I can help with that! You CAN have a solid elevator pitch, and once you know it by heart, it gets easier and easier to say. This can totally be you if you want it to be.)
Who it’s not good for: Introverts and copywriters who find in-person events way too nerve-wracking. Buuut you’ll never know unless you give it a shot. 🤗
6.Use Referrals
Look to your professional network and ask if people need help. Reach out to your past clients and current clients – ask them if they know anyone who could use your copywriting services. Reach out to your copywriting friends and see if THEY need help or have any clients they can refer to you.
Just remember to try to sound confident when you do this. “Hey, friend! Just wanted you to know that I’ve opened up some space in my calendar. If you know anyone, send them my way!” sounds way better than “I really need some clients. Do you know anyone who needs help?” See what I mean?
Referrals are a powerful way to get copywriting clients. When someone they trust refers you, it’ll be easier to sell them on your services.
Who it’s good for: Every. Single. Copywriter. (Who has had at least some clients.)
Who it’s not good for: Super new copywriters who haven’t had clients or met any other copywriters. Get yourself out there, girl! You’ve got this!
7. Look on Job Boards
Now, job boards aren’t my favorite thing in the world. I don’t like to encourage my clients to use job boards like Fiverr because most of the clients you find on there won’t be the best fit for you.
Not to say that there aren’t amazing clients there. But if you properly position yourself and be very picky about who you choose to work with, you can find success.
Who it’s good for: Newbie copywriters looking to get a few quick jobs under their belt. Experienced copywriters looking to fill up some space on their calendar.
Who it’s not good for: Copywriters with consistent clients and a solid lead gen strategy. Your efforts are best focused elsewhere.
8. Work With an Agency
Big marketing firms and agencies are often looking for copywriters, new and experienced. You can join their team as a full-time employee or a contractor and get paid hourly or per project.
The biggest perk of working with an agency? You get experience working with a team and the chance to see where copy fits in the grand scheme of things. (I see a strategist in your future!)
Who it’s good for: Newer copywriters who want to get their foot in the door and gain a little bit of experience. Anyone who loves working with a team and doesn’t mind being in touch with multiple point people.
Who it’s not good for: Experienced copywriters with a steady stream of clients, prefer full autonomy in their time, and more control over the work they accept.
How to Find Copywriting Clients YOUR Way
Don’t get overwhelmed! You don’t have to try ALL of these strategies right this second. Pick one that feels easy for you and give it a try.
And remember, you don’t have to stick with that one strategy forever. Feel out different ones that might be worthwhile, and you’ll be able to narrow down which ones best fit your time and energy.
No matter what, if you’re new and need copywriting clients, you’ll need to be consistent in your efforts. That means consistently looking and actively seeking opportunities. Consistency above everything else is what will get clients on your virtual doorstep.
As a coach for copywriters, I’ve helped tons of new copywriters find the best-fit strategy on how to find copywriting clients. If you’re struggling a little bit with how to find the right one for you, or you’re overwhelmed and don’t know where to start, contact me here. I’m here to help.
And I’ll be rooting for you no matter what.
