115: How I Got My First Freelance Writing Client

115: How I Got My First Freelance Writing Client

Author: Michael Leonard: Copywriter & Freelance Writing Coach July 29, 2020 Duration: 14:53

On this Writer's Wednesday podcast, I take a trip down memory lane to tell you how I landed my first freelance writing client. Landing that client was a game-changer as it gave me the confidence to go pitch more clients that eventually led me to find success as a full-time freelance writer. 

A question I get asked all the time is if Upwork is a scam. I have debunked that rumor many times: on my blog, on YouTube and even a recent podcast. I know that Upwork does work because it is how I found my first paying writing client!

If you are a new freelance writer, landing a client on Upwork is a great place to gain confidence and further your writing skill set. While they do take a percentage of the earnings, it is wise to keep in mind, that they too are running a business. Upwork can be a great place to create your free profile and start searching for writing jobs in your niche today.

FREE TRAINING - 3 Ways to Land Freelance Writing Clients: inspireyoursuccess.com/training

Apply for 1:1 Coaching with Michael: inspireyoursuccess.com/coach


Michael Leonard was a professional copywriter earning a solid salary before he walked away from that career in 2017. With no safety net, he built a thriving online writing business from the ground up. In his Inspire Your Success podcast, he gets into the real work behind that transition, moving beyond simple inspiration to offer a practical roadmap. Each conversation is grounded in his experience as a freelance writing coach, focusing on the actionable steps needed to build a sustainable independent career. You’ll hear honest discussions about the mental shifts required to leave a traditional job, the systems that actually generate income, and how to navigate the common pitfalls of entrepreneurship. This isn't about vague motivational talk; it's a detailed look at creating a business that affords more freedom, whether that means paying off debt, traveling, or simply designing a life with more flexibility. Tune in for a blend of strategic business advice and personal development insights, all drawn from Michael’s own journey from a structured 9-5 to successful self-employment. The podcast serves as a direct mentorship for anyone feeling stuck, providing the tangible tools and mindset needed to turn professional aspirations into a working reality.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

Inspire Your Success
Podcast Episodes
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117: The #1 Tip to Start Writing in 2022 [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

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113: How Kathrine Became a Top Writer & Quit Her 9-5 [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

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Learn how one of my Freelance to 5K students became a top writer on Medium.com and quit her 9-5 (in only 5 months)! Kathrine is a writer and mindset coach. She helps people with insecure attachment, in life and relations…
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111: How to Beat Overwhelm As a Freelancer [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

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In this Monday with Michael episode, we talk about overwhelm versus busyness and go over five tangible action steps to keep your freelance business moving forward. The Difference Between Being Overwhelmed and Being Busy…
109: 5 Ways to Upgrade Your Life During This Pandemic [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

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When the world nearly ended 12 years ago, I was an immature 20-year old drifting through life. As I had nothing invested (as I had pretty much no money) and my job was delivering pizzas, the recession didn't affect me mu…
108: From Dream Job at Google to Full-Time Medium Writer [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 35:17
In this episode of Inspire Your Success podcast, I got to interview Omar Itani. Omar was working a dream job at Google a few years ago before he decided to pursue his entrepreneurial passions and quit his corporate job.…