Freelancers: Why You’re Stuck (And the Uncomfy Step That Gets You Clients)

Publication Date

March 7, 2025

Summary

Sometimes, the thing that will actually move the needle in your freelance business is also the thing you’ve been avoiding

Are You Really Doing EVERYTHING You Can to Make This Work?

Or is there something you've been avoiding that you know could probably get you out of that rut?

Something uncomfy but proven.

That thing you've seen me talk about a million times.

That you tried (sending 10 connection requests counts as trying!!)

But didn't commit to long enough to see results...

Yesterday, one of my Pop Clubbers came to our 1:1 strategy session feeling stuck.

She'd heard from other freelancers that freelancing is HARD right now.

And she really felt like it was for her too.

She felt like there was nothing else she could optimize.

She made over her profile, created a bangin' website, posted a bunch, filled out her portfolio, applied to tons of gig posts and newsletter featured gigs...

But she still wasn't really getting anywhere.

She got her first 6 clients. But those contracts ended. And now she REALLY needs money but she can't seem to get new clients...

Here’s the Kicker: There Is Something Else

She could do direct outreach.

But sales gives her the ICK.

She didn't realize the Get Clients Guidebook (📙 comment if you want your own copy – it's free!!) was designed to not be "salesy" or pushy.

And that it's actually the FASTEST way to get freelance clients.

She felt uncomfy DMing people at the companies she wanted to work at – even though she has over 100 connections at her ideal clients already. Connections that requested HER!! Because of her killer content on here.

So – she left with a commitment to get on a Getting Clients Routine (🗓️ doing a workshop about this in Pop Club soon!!! Comment if you want more deets).

And a renewed hope in her freelance biz.

The Reality:

Sure, freelancing might be kinda difficult right now. More difficult than it used to be. That's super valid.

But that doesn't mean you can't get clients right now.

Or that work isn't out there.

It does mean you might have to push yourself outside your comfort zone to shoot your shot in a way you never have before.

That's scary! Your brain is constantly worried about what others (esp. your ideal clients) will think about you.

That's natural – humans are social creatures.

But that doesn't mean that scary thing won't work. It just means you're gonna have to push through some discomfort to get to the part where you have proof it works.

And that will PROBABLY take 1–3 months of consistent effort + a mini routine after that to get out of the feast/famine cycle.

YOU are completely capable of that.

And I'm here to support you every step of the way. Always. 💖

FAQ: Getting Clients When You're Stuck

Why isn’t my website/content/portfolio bringing in clients?

Those tools build trust after someone finds you. If no one’s seeing them, you have a visibility problem—not a quality one.

What is direct outreach and why does it work?

It means personally connecting with people at companies you want to work with—usually via LinkedIn DMs or email. It works fast because it puts you in front of decision-makers directly.

How do I make sales feel less icky?

Reframe it as offering help. You’re not pitching—you’re starting a conversation. The Get Clients Guidebook walks you through how to do this without being pushy.

How long does it take to see results from direct outreach?

Most freelancers start to see traction in 1–3 months if they stay consistent. It’s not instant—but it is fast compared to waiting for inbound leads.

What if I get ignored or rejected?

Totally normal. Most outreach won’t get a response. But the ones that do? That’s where the magic starts.

Looking for something else?

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