Freelance Writing Portfolio Tips: What You Actually Need to Land Clients

Starting your freelance writing portfolio can feel overwhelming—especially when you’re staring at a blank page, convinced you need dozens of polished samples before you can land your first client.

Here’s the truth: most of my clients never even looked at my portfolio before hiring me. They either sent me a short writing test or commissioned a paid trial piece.

Within my first month of freelancing, I landed two clients and one byline—all with a portfolio I now consider “crappy” and wish I hadn’t spent so much time obsessing over.

The lesson? A perfect portfolio isn’t what gets you hired. A targeted, relevant portfolio is. And it’s easier to create than you think.

The Four Most Common Portfolio Questions (Answered)

1. Can I use my work from college?

Generally, no—unless it perfectly fits your niche and showcases a marketable service.

If your old work is academic, off-topic, or not client-focused, skip it. You’re better off creating brand-new samples from scratch that align with:

• The service you want to offer (e.g., blog posts, newsletters, sales emails, welcome sequences, website copy)
• The clients you want to land
• The audience your client is marketing toward

Your portfolio should speak directly to the kind of work you want more of—not just fill space.

2. How many samples do I need?

You only need 3–5 strong, niche-relevant samples to start pitching clients.

These samples should:

• Match your desired service and niche
• Be written with your client’s target audience in mind
• Show off your skill, clarity, and tone

If you don’t have client work yet, write spec pieces—fictional assignments created as if you were already hired.

3. Should I wait until my portfolio is “done” before pitching?

Absolutely not.

Your portfolio will evolve as you gain more clients and bylines. Start pitching as soon as you have at least one solid sample in your desired niche. You can add to and refine your portfolio as you go.

4. How do I make my portfolio stand out?

A standout portfolio:

• Focuses on a clear niche and service
• Includes only your best work
• Shows results when possible (metrics, engagement, conversions)
• Is easy to navigate and visually clean

You don’t need fancy design skills. A simple, well-formatted page on your website (or even a Google Doc) can get the job done.

Your Action Step

If you’re still stuck, head to Instagram and check out my post on how to create a portfolio piece in 5 easy steps. You’ll learn exactly how to put together a sample that lands clients—without wasting weeks polishing old work that doesn’t fit your goals.

FAQs About Portfolios

Q: How many portfolio samples should I start with?

A: Start with 3–5 strong, relevant samples. Add more as you gain clients and bylines.

Q: Can I use unpaid or speculative work in my portfolio?

A: Yes! Spec pieces are a great way to showcase your skills before you have client work.

Q: Do I need a personal website for my portfolio?

A: A website is ideal, but you can start with a Google Doc, PDF, or free portfolio platform while you’re getting established.