What’s the Fastest Way to Land Your First Client?

Author

Andy at Growth Catalyst Club
December 24, 2024

In partnership with

Sometimes it’s frustrating. 

It’s really frustrating to put yourself out there and hear nothing back.

You’ve sent pitches. You’ve polished your portfolio. You’ve joined the groups, read the articles, and still… nothing.

You’re stuck wondering, “What exactly am I doing wrong?”

And the worst part? Everyone keeps giving you the same tired advice:
“Just start pitching.”
“Build your personal brand.”
“Work for free to get experience.”

But none of that feels right, yeah? Exactly!

You want a real answer. A step you can take today that actually works.

Right now, you will find the most honest answer you will ever see anywhere.

Because I've been there before and I know exactly how it feels. 

So this is going to be based on my personal experience

Ready?

Good! 

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Now, listen, getting your first client isn’t as complicated as it seems. You don’t need a fancy website, a massive portfolio, or even years of experience. 

Like you see everywhere!

You need just one thing, just one thing and that’s the ability to think on your feet and get things done as fast as you can. 

Because the truth is, you’re going to learn more and achieve faster doing it than planning to do it. 

I’ve had instances where I aced an interview just because I was faster than the other candidates.  

While they were busy perfecting their portfolios, I was already doing interviews!

Most new copywriters overthink everything. They get stuck in this loop of:

  • “Should I pitch this client or wait until my portfolio looks better?”

  • “What if they say no? Maybe I’m not ready.”

  • “Do I need a website first?”

I was guilty too. 

But what I’ve discovered is the copywriters who land clients are doing one thing differently.

They’re reaching out anyway.

They’re sending that pitch, writing that sample, and showing up even when they feel unprepared.

And that’s why they’re winning.

That’s the unfair advantage that people who get clients get faster than people who do not have.

Now, how can you do the same? Here’s a practical approach to that;

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Here’s the approach;

  1. Pick 5 dream clients {or more!}

Look for small businesses, e-commerce stores, or coaches who clearly need better copy.

  1. Write a tailored sample.

Rewrite their homepage headline. Suggest a better email subject line. Show them you understand their needs.

  1. Send a short, human pitch.

Drop the generic, robotic pitch templates and add human touch. Something like:

Hi {Name}

How are you doing today? 

I went through your website and I must say that you’re doing a great job at {Company’s name}. 

I noticed something on the about us section (Or anything you want to write for) and thought I should call your attention to it. 

I wrote a quick example to show you what I mean.

{Insert Link}

 If you’re open to it, I’d love to help with your next project!

{Your Name}

  1. Follow up.

Most clients are busy. If they don’t reply right away, follow up politely in a week.

Emphasis on the “politely”. Don’t feel entitled to their time. Everyone is busy. 

What if the client you chose to write for does not need the sample you wrote? 

Put it in your portfolio and use it to pitch your next client!

Now, I’ll have to admit that these steps just skimmed the surface. I also want to tell you everything right now but if I start now, this is going to be the longest email ever. 

Because as I said earlier, I will be talking based on my own experience. 

So I’m going to talk more about it in my subsequent emails. Let me know if you’re interested by voting here:

Should I Talk More About How You Can Get Clients?

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One more thing…

In case you’re starting immediately after dropping this email, I want you to know this

Not every pitch will work. 

Some will say no. Others won’t reply. And that’s okay. Don’t be discouraged.

Because the more you pitch, the faster you’ll learn what works, and the closer you’ll get to that first “yes.”

Your first client is out there. You just need to reach out.

Until next time,

Chao! 

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