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No More Cold Pitches: How I Get Writing Jobs Without Reaching Out

Freelance SOS: What Do You Do When You Need Gigs, Like, Now

By Ashley Foster Published about a year ago 4 min read
No More Cold Pitches: How I Get Writing Jobs Without Reaching Out
Photo by Thought Catalog on Unsplash

I don’t know about you, but cold pitching never really sat well with me. I’d spend so much time writing these perfect emails, trying to sound professional and convincing, only to hear… nothing. Silence.

It got to the point where I started dreading it. Isn’t freelancing supposed to be about doing what you love, not chasing after clients all the time? So, I decided to try something different.

Instead of reaching out, I wondered: what if I could get writing gigs without the cold emails or pushy follow-ups? Well, it worked. I found a way to make it happen, and it’s been such a relief.

I’m not saying cold pitching is useless, but if you're tired of the constant grind, this might be the change you’re looking for. Let me share what I’ve learned, and maybe it’ll save you some time and frustration.

Why Cold Pitches Are So Last Year

Cold pitching is the freelancing equivalent of speed dating—awkward, exhausting, and usually not worth the effort. You spend hours crafting the perfect pitch, only to hear the deafening sound of crickets. Been there, done that, got the rejection emails.

But here’s the thing: you don’t have to rely on cold pitches to build a thriving freelance writing career. Over the years, I’ve discovered strategies that attract clients like bees to honey. You won’t need to chase after them—they’ll come to you.

The Power of Networking and Relationship Building

Let’s get one thing straight: networking isn’t about schmoozing or throwing business cards around like confetti. It’s about genuine connection. Think of it like planting seeds. You nurture relationships, and over time, they grow into fruitful opportunities.

Join Facebook groups or LinkedIn communities for writers, attend virtual meetups, or even engage in forums where your potential clients hang out. The magic happens when you’re authentic. Comment on posts, share your expertise, and celebrate other people’s wins. You’ll be surprised how often these small interactions lead to big opportunities.

Oh, and a little secret? People love writers who are easy to talk to. Being approachable is half the battle won.

Leveraging Social Media: The Silent Salesperson

Social media might seem like a never-ending scroll of memes and baby photos, but it’s a goldmine for freelancers. LinkedIn is especially powerful for connecting with decision-makers, while Twitter is a great place to join conversations in your niche.

Post regularly about your expertise. Share tips for writing killer headlines, improving website copy, or crafting engaging emails. Show off your wins, whether it’s a new project or a client testimonial. Trust me, the right people are watching, and they’ll reach out when the time is right.

Pro Tip: Don’t just broadcast—engage. Comment on others’ posts, reply to questions, and be part of the conversation. It’s not about shouting into the void; it’s about creating connections.

Referrals: The Gift That Keeps on Giving

Referrals are like a box of chocolates—they’re delightful, and you never know what you’re going to get. Happy clients are often your best advocates. Don’t be shy about asking for referrals. A simple, “If you know anyone else who might need help with writing, feel free to pass my name along,” can work wonders.

It’s a ripple effect. The more value you deliver, the more people will talk about you. And trust me, word-of-mouth is the best kind of marketing—it’s free and effective!

A Little Boost That Helped Me Get Started

When I first started freelancing, I felt like I was trying to solve a puzzle without all the pieces. I had no idea where to find good-paying writing gigs, let alone how to position myself to get hired. Then, one day, while browsing online, I came across something called Paid Online Writing Jobs.

At first, I was skeptical (because let’s be honest, there’s a lot of fluff out there). But what caught my attention was how straightforward it was. It wasn’t about “get rich quick” schemes or empty promises—it just gave me practical advice and connections to real writing opportunities.

I’ve used it to land some steady gigs and learn how to market myself better as a writer. Honestly, it felt like having a roadmap when I needed it most. If you’re in that “what now?” phase like I was, it might be worth checking out. No pressure, just sharing something that genuinely helped me when I needed it.

Consistency and Growth: The Long Game

Here’s the thing: success doesn’t happen overnight. It’s the result of showing up consistently and putting in the work. Post that LinkedIn update. Polish your portfolio. Take that online course. Little by little, these efforts add up.

Celebrate your wins, even the small ones. Landed a new client? Treat yourself to that fancy latte. Finished a tough project? Take a well-deserved Netflix break. Freelancing is a marathon, not a sprint, so pace yourself and enjoy the journey.

Conclusion: Writing Your Own Rules

The freelance writing world is evolving, and cold pitching is slowly becoming obsolete. By focusing on relationships, building an irresistible portfolio, and leveraging tools like Paid Online Writing Jobs, you can attract clients effortlessly.

So, take a deep breath, put that cold pitch template aside, and start building the freelance career you’ve been dreaming of. You’ve got this—and hey, your next writing gig might just be one click away.

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About the Creator

Ashley Foster

Mom of two, freelance writer, and blogger sharing stories on motherhood, life tips, and more. Coffee-fueled, inspired by chaos, and loving every word!

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  • Wes Peersmanabout a year ago

    ‘Cold pitching is like speed dating’—yep, that sums it up. The grind is real.😅

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