Let’s be honest—starting out as a freelancer can feel a bit like shouting into the void.
You know you’re capable. You’ve got the skills. You’re ready to work hard and deliver great results. But… your profile’s empty, there are no client reviews, and you’re competing with people who look like seasoned pros.
So how do you build a reputation from scratch?
Here’s how—step by honest, doable step.
1. Make Your Own Proof
Before anyone pays you, they want to know you’re worth it. Simple. If you don’t have client projects to show yet, create your own.
Writers? Start a blog, write mock articles, or guest post for websites in your niche.
Designers? Make brand kits, logos, or web mock-ups for fictional businesses.
Developers? Build a basic app, a sample portfolio website, or clone a famous layout.
Marketers? Run a campaign for a hobby project or a local business you know.
🧠 The goal? Show your thought process, style, and capability. That is feedback in its own right.
2. Overdeliver on Your First Few Gigs
If someone does take a chance on you, give them more than they expect.
Fast turnaround? ✔
Friendly, clear communication? ✔
A polished end result (plus maybe one small bonus)? ✔✔
Do it not because you’re being a pushover, but because you’re building your reputation capital. Happy clients often become your best marketing team—leaving glowing reviews and referring you to others.
3. Work with Friends, Family or Local Businesses
You’d be surprised how many people in your network need help and would gladly give you a shot.
Offer to help someone set up a website, create a logo for a friend’s side hustle, or write some blog posts for a small local business. Even if it’s for free or a low fee at the start, get a testimonial, a portfolio piece, and if possible, permission to use the project publicly.
This builds both credibility and confidence.
4. Start on a Platform That Values Newcomers
Freelancing platforms like Fiverr, PeoplePerHour, or Upwork have built-in traffic and allow you to grow through smaller jobs. Start with easy wins—jobs with low competition or that don’t require tons of experience—and rack up reviews.
💡 Pro tip: Be active. Apply daily. Write personalised proposals. Your first few wins are the hardest—but also the most important.
5. Collect Feedback (Even Without a Platform)
Did someone say something nice about your work via email or LinkedIn? Screenshot it.
Did you complete a project for a friend? Ask for a one-line testimonial.
You can showcase feedback on your portfolio, website, or even in proposals.
It doesn’t have to be from “clients” in the traditional sense. It just has to show that someone has trusted you, and you delivered.
6. Share Your Knowledge Publicly
Build trust by showing what you know—before someone hires you.
Write tips on LinkedIn.
Create short tutorials.
Share “behind the scenes” of your process.
Give advice in freelance forums or groups.
You’re not just a faceless profile—you’re a real person showing up, adding value, and standing out.
Final Thought: Everyone Starts Somewhere
No one begins with a wall of 5-star reviews. Everyone starts with zero.
The difference is how you use your first few weeks and months. If you focus on creating proof, being reliable, and communicating like a pro, the feedback will come. Your reputation will grow. And soon, you’ll be the freelancer that others look at and wonder, “How do they make it look so easy?”
📣 Need help getting started or building your freelance presence? Book a 1-to-1 strategy call today for just £99/$99—get honest advice, a plan of action, and answers to all your questions.
