How to Get Clients as a Creative Professional

The Offline Strategy That Started Everything

I still remember the first time someone paid me for my creative work.
It wasn’t from Instagram, Fiverr, or LinkedIn.
It happened at an offline event — one of those local creative meetups where small business owners, designers, and students came together to network.

That one event changed how I thought about acquiring clients.
It made me realize that sometimes, one doesn’t always need followers, ads, and viral content; sometimes, all that may be needed is to simply show up where real people are and talk with passion about what you do.

How I Got My First Client from an Offline Event

Back then, I had just commenced my college in animation and multimedia. I already had five years of business and marketing experience. I understood one thing well back then: business happens when people trust you.

At that event, I also wasn’t trying to “sell” my editing or 3D skills. I was just talking to people, showing what I was working on, and discussing creative ideas. I had my laptop with me, showing a few short projects I had done for fun.

“You seem really passionate about what you do. Can you help me with something similar for my brand?”

That one conversation turned into my first paying client.

• No portfolio website.
• No Instagram followers.
• No fancy pitch deck.

It was just a real conversation with a real person, someone who could see my excitement and trust my intent. That’s when it hit me: if you are one of those creatives who wonder how to get clients, well, you can’t just hide behind your screen forever. Sometimes, the best method is still the oldest: just go out, meet people, and let your work talk for itself.

Why Offline Networking and References Still Work in 2025

We’re living in an era where people want everything instant, but attention does not necessarily convert into a client.

What actually works in 2025 and will keep working forever is trust and connection, which you build fastest offline.

Let me explain with something I’ve seen over and over again:
Whenever you meet any person physically, whether at some event, seminar, exhibition, or workshop, they will be able to feel your personality, energy, and intention.

Online, you’re just one message among hundreds. Offline, you’re a human being with a story.
That’s why offline networking and references are still gold for anyone learning how to get clients.

Here’s How It Works:

1. You meet people at offline events.
2. You talk about your work naturally.
3. Someone remembers you when they or their friend need a service.
4. You get a reference call.
5. That reference leads to your next client.

It’s a trust chain, and it compounds faster than most social media strategies.

Even today, most of my big projects come through references. Someone I worked with three years ago tells their friend about me.
No outreach, no marketing — just trust doing its magic.

So if you’re serious about learning how to get clients, start attending local business events, design meetups, or creative workshops.
Carry your work on your phone or laptop. Be curious, not salesy.
You’ll be surprised how often opportunities appear when people see your passion live.

Lessons I Learned from Face-to-Face Interactions

Those offline interactions shaped how I deal with clients even to this day, be it from LinkedIn, Discord, or Germany.

Here are the biggest lessons I learned that changed my approach to how to get clients and retain them:

1. Your Energy Sells More Than Your Portfolio

When someone meets you, they’re not immediately judging your skills; they’re feeling your attitude. If you’re confident, positive, and genuinely interested, they’ll remember you.

2. Talk Less About Services and More About Solutions

Don’t say to people, “I do 3D animation.” You should instead say, “I help brands explain complex ideas through visuals.” Immediately, it changes your positioning.

3. Always Follow Up After an Event

Most people only collect visiting cards or “follow” each other on LinkedIn and rarely follow up. Follow through with a simple text the next day:

“Hey, great meeting you yesterday! Loved our talk about [topic]. Would love to explore if we can collaborate.”

That one follow-up can open doors.

4. Long-Term Value Comes from Offline Clients

People you meet in person seem to trust you quicker and continue to work with you longer. My offline clients tend to become brand advocates — they refer others to me before I even ask them to.

5. Face-to-Face Helps You Practice Communication

When you meet people regularly, you naturally get better at explaining your work and pitching ideas. That communication skill later helps you win projects even online.

Offline networking may be “old school,” but it’s one of the smartest and most underrated answers to how to get clients as a creative professional in 2025.

The truth is, most freelancers and agency owners are hiding behind screens, while real opportunities exist in events, meetups, and conversations happening everywhere around them. Once you realize that, your whole strategy changes.

How Discord Changed My Freelance Career

If someone told me a few years ago that Discord — essentially a gaming platform — would change the way I understand how to get clients, I probably wouldn’t have believed them. But it did.

It became one of the most unexpected yet powerful tools for my creative journey — not because I was “networking” intentionally, but because I was doing what I loved: creating live, sharing progress, and connecting with people who genuinely cared about the same things.

The $45/Hour Turning Point

Well, here’s how it happened.
One evening, I was working on a personal 3D project — nothing commercial, just something I was experimenting with for fun. I was active in a few creative Discord servers where people shared art, animation, and design work.

Rather than just posting up the final output, I decided to stream my workflow live — showcasing how I modelled, textured, and animated everything from scratch.

A few people joined in asking questions, and before I knew it, it turned into a casual creative discussion. I wasn’t trying to impress anyone; I was just enjoying the process.

Days later, I received a DM from a man who had been silently watching that live stream. He was actually a project manager at a gaming company. He said:

“We’ve been looking for someone who understands both animation and storytelling — and we saw your live project. Would you be interested in a contract?”

That’s how I landed my first $45 per hour project, which eventually turned into a 20-video deal spanning around 50 days of work.

• No cold email.
• No marketing campaign.
• No fancy portfolio site.

Nothing but raw passion, visible consistency, and the right community. That project not only boosted my income but also changed how I look at online spaces. It really showed me that sometimes, showing your work is more powerful than talking about it.

⚙️ What Made It Work

After that experience, I reflected on what really worked and why that client contacted me — and it boiled down to three simple things:

1. Authenticity Over Advertising

I wasn’t trying to “get clients.” Rather, I was genuinely sharing my process, and the trust came in naturally. Clients can tell the difference between passion and desperation.

2. Visibility in the Right Place

Instead of competing for someone’s attention on Instagram, where everyone is yelling, I was in a niche Discord server full of people who truly understood and valued what I was creating.
The environment matters in learning how to get clients.

3. Community, Not Competition

On Discord, you’re part of a community, not an audience. That means people notice your consistency, they ask questions, they remember your work.
It’s slow but incredibly effective for long-term growth.

🧩 How to Use Discord to Get Clients

If you’re serious about learning how to get clients using Discord, or any online community, here’s a framework that worked for me and still does:

1. Join Niche Servers

Don’t join random “freelance” servers. Join communities built around your craft — whether it’s 3D art, editing, sound design, or animation. Often, there are clients silently lurking there, observing active creators.

2. Contribute First

Help others, give feedback, share knowledge. When people see you helping selflessly, they start trusting you — and that trust often turns into paid work later.

3. Show Your Process, Not Just the Result

Post your workflow, WIP (work in progress) updates, or even challenges you’re facing. It shows that you’re serious and transparent — that’s how the right people come to notice your potential.

4. Keep Conversations Natural

Never pitch directly unless it makes sense. Most of my Discord clients came to me because I focused on sharing ideas, not selling services.

5. Build a Mini Portfolio in Your Profile

Showcase what you do in your Discord bio or pin some messages and link to your best work. It’s subtle but very effective when someone clicks on your profile after seeing your post.

📱 Why Discord Works Better Than Instagram (For Some Creatives)

I’ve spent years testing what actually works to get clients. Here’s what I found:

• On Instagram, people follow you for visuals — not all of them are potential clients.
• What connects people on Discord is shared interests — they’re part of your creative world.
• Instagram needs algorithms. Discord needs authenticity.

If you don’t have thousands of followers, then Discord is one of the best ways to build credibility fast — because what really matters isn’t your reach, it’s your impact.

I’ve seen creators with 200 Discord connections earning more than people with 20k Instagram followers. Why? Because relationships on Discord are built on value, not vanity metrics.

🌊 The Ripple Effect

After that very first gaming project, I continued staying active on Discord. I joined more specialized servers — motion design, indie film, game development, NFT art (back then), and editing communities.

In due time, more messages turned up like:

“Hey, I saw your last render — can you help us with something similar?”

These weren’t random requests. They were high-quality clients who respect the craft, pay good money, and allow creative freedom.

That’s the beauty of Discord — it filters people automatically. If you’re consistent, helpful, and visible, your audience becomes your inbound lead generator.

✨ Key Takeaways

If you’re a creative freelancer or agency owner wondering how to get clients in 2025, remember this:

• You don’t need to chase; you need to show.
• Communities like Discord reward authenticity.
• Sharing your process is more powerful than posting polished results.
• Passion attracts projects more than pitching.

That’s how, from Discord, I didn’t just get a $45/hour client — I gained a new perspective on what it truly means to market yourself without marketing.

💼 LinkedIn: My Secret Client Magnet

While Discord gave me global creative exposure, LinkedIn gave me consistent, long-term, professional clients.

And the best part? I didn’t use LinkedIn in a “traditional” way — I barely comment, I don’t apply through the hiring section, and I don’t spam people with cold pitches.

Yet today, I manage two powerful LinkedIn profiles:

• Agency Account: 24,000 followers
• Personal Account: approximately 2,900 followers

Both bring in regular work, especially from Indian brands and international agencies looking for creative freelancers and 3D project specialists.

So, if you’ve been wondering how to get clients on LinkedIn as a creative professional, let me break down what actually works — and why my approach is the complete opposite of what most people teach.

The First Truth About LinkedIn: It’s Not a Job Portal

Most people use LinkedIn as if it were a job board — apply, wait, and hope. That’s the biggest mistake.

LinkedIn isn’t built just for job hunting; it’s built for building trust. The magic happens not in the comments or posts, but in direct conversations.

When I started seriously using LinkedIn, I stopped focusing on likes or engagement. Instead, I treated my profile like a landing page for clients.

Here’s How I Structured It:

Headline That Resonates with Clients

Instead of “Video Editor | Designer | Animator,” mine says something like:
“Helping brands tell better visual stories through editing & 3D.”
It instantly tells people how I help, not just what I do.

Profile Banner That Builds Trust

A clean visual with my brand name and tagline; no clutter.

About Section with a Human Touch

I share a short version of my story — how I started, why I love filming and editing, and what kind of projects I enjoy working on. It’s not robotic or keyword-stuffed; it sounds like me talking.

Pinned Posts with Proof

I keep 2–3 strong posts pinned that show real projects, behind-the-scenes clips, or case studies with short descriptions of what I solved for the client.

Set up properly, this turns your profile into an instant credibility page. So, when someone opens it after your message, they already feel like they know you.

My Two DM Templates That Work Every Time

Most people make the mistake on LinkedIn of copy-pasting a long pitch and sending it to everyone. That never works.

When I message someone, I use only two simple templates — and they have helped me close multiple international and Indian clients.

Template 1 – The Observation Message

For potential clients who post content or run agencies

Hello [Name],

I was checking out your recent work/project, and I really liked how you handled [specific point you noticed].
I have a creative agency where we help brands visualize their stories through video editing, 3D, and design.
Not pitching you on anything, just wanted to say I love the direction of your brand. If you ever need help in [specific area related to their work], I'd love to contribute.
  

This one works because it’s human and specific. You’re not asking for work; you’re starting a conversation.

Template 2 – The Expertise Message

For businesses or agencies in industries I already understand

Hi [Name],

I came across your company while researching [industry/niche]. Recently, I've worked with [competitor or similar brand], and I noticed a few areas where video/3D content could make your campaigns stronger.
I've prepared a small PDF showing what could be improved and how — no strings attached. Can I share it here?
  

This one converts really well because it flips the script: you’re offering value before asking for anything. That is the exact same strategy that earned me the $80,000 German client (as will be discussed later).

Why I Never Comment or Apply Through the Hiring Section

People are always surprised when I tell them this:

“I’ve never gotten a single client through commenting on posts or applying via the hiring section.”

Here’s why — those sections are packed with hundreds of freelancers all saying the same thing. Clients get overwhelmed.

Instead of competing for attention, I take a different route. I research the person or brand, find the decision-maker, and write a personal DM or email — focused on what they need, not what I offer.

This approach not only helps me get responses but also positions me as a consultant, not just another freelancer.

And that’s one of the biggest lessons in learning how to get clients on LinkedIn:

“You don’t win by shouting louder; you win by speaking directly and meaningfully.”

How to Build Long-Term Relationships on LinkedIn

Getting a client is one thing — keeping them is where the real game begins. Long-term relationships are what turn one-time projects into steady growth.

Here’s how I use LinkedIn to stay in touch with clients and keep the work flowing back:

1. Regular Updates

I post short behind-the-scenes stories, creative learnings, or snippets from client successes. These small updates remind people that I’m active, consistent, and dependable.

2. Celebrate Clients

Whenever a client hits a milestone or launches a new product, I make sure to comment or send them a quick congratulations message. It’s a small gesture, but it strengthens relationships and shows you genuinely care.

3. Referrals and Recommendations

After a successful project, I politely ask clients if they’d be open to writing a short recommendation on LinkedIn. Those testimonials work like quiet salespeople — they build credibility and help attract new opportunities naturally.

4. Stay Professional, Stay Personal

I never spam clients with updates or sales messages. Instead, I check in every few months with a friendly message — no pitch, just connection. That simple consistency keeps doors open for future collaborations.

When clients feel that your interest in them goes beyond the transaction, they start seeing you not just as a freelancer, but as a trusted creative partner.

The Results

By following this simple, consistent approach, I’ve built a strong base of clients from India, Germany, the U.S., and several gaming startups worldwide. Each project opened the door to another, not because of ads or luck, but because of relationships.

Through LinkedIn alone, I’ve developed partnerships that lasted months and even years — not just one-time gigs. The best part? It all happened without running paid ads, applying for jobs, or chasing followers.

That’s why I always tell creatives who ask me how to get clients:

“You don’t need to be famous — you just need to be found by the right person.
And when that happens, your clarity, confidence, and genuine intent will do the rest.”

This is the power of using LinkedIn the right way. When you approach it as a place to build trust instead of chasing engagement, clients start finding you — naturally and consistently.

Key Takeaways

• Treat LinkedIn as a relationship platform, not a job portal.
• Keep your profile clean, client-focused, and visually strong.
• Use short, personalized DMs — they work better than long pitches.
• Don’t chase engagement; build credibility instead.
• Never underestimate the power of consistent follow-ups.

LinkedIn works best when you use it to build real human connections.
It’s not about the number of likes or comments — it’s about clarity, intent, and consistency.
When you show genuine interest, clients don’t just notice you — they remember you.

The $80,000 German Client Story

Every creative dreams of landing that one big project — the kind that changes everything.
For me, that turning point came when a German company reached out and signed a long-term contract worth $80,000.

But here’s the truth — it didn’t happen because of luck, ads, or followers.
It happened because of research, clarity, and the way I approached them.

It Started with Knowledge, Not Selling

When I first came across that German company, they weren’t hiring.
They weren’t even looking for an editor or 3D artist.
But I had already worked with one of their competitors in the same industry, which gave me insight into their market — the visuals that worked, the mistakes brands made, and what could be improved.

Instead of pitching my services, I did something most freelancers never do — I researched their brand deeply.
I studied their videos, website, and messaging, and created a short, research-based PDF that showed:

• What they were already doing well
• What could be improved visually
• How storytelling could make their product stand out
• Examples from competitors and trends in their industry

It wasn’t a sales document — it was a value-driven presentation. And that’s when I sent them an email.

The Email That Changed Everything

Subject: Quick creative research I did for [Company Name]

Hi [Name],

I recently worked with one of your competitors and came across your brand while studying this industry.
I noticed a few creative opportunities that could help you stand out in your upcoming campaigns.
I’ve put together a short PDF with ideas specific to your brand — including practical storytelling and design improvements you could apply right away.
Would you like me to share it here?

Best,  
Ayush
  

That was it — no pitch, no pricing, no “please hire me.” Just curiosity and genuine effort.
Within 24 hours, they replied: “Sure, share it. This sounds interesting.”

Turning Curiosity into Trust

Once they saw the PDF, they were impressed — not because it looked fancy, but because it showed I understood their business better than most people who tried to sell to them.

We scheduled a call, and instead of talking about myself, I asked questions like:

• “What’s your biggest challenge with your current video campaigns?”
• “Are you focusing more on emotional storytelling or technical presentation this year?”
• “Which kind of engagement matters more to you — retention or conversions?”

Those questions shifted the tone completely.
They saw me not as another freelancer, but as a partner who understood their goals.
And that’s what won the deal — not design skills, but clarity and curiosity.

The Power of Not Talking About Money

Here’s what I learned — if your first message mentions money, your chances of landing a high-ticket client drop instantly.
When you lead with value and understanding, clients naturally trust you more.

I never mentioned rates during the first few conversations.
Once trust was built, they set the budget themselves — and that’s how the $80,000 deal happened naturally.

What Made This Client Say “Yes”

• Industry Knowledge: I had experience with a competitor, which gave me credibility.
• Research-Based Proposal: I didn’t send a portfolio link — I sent insights tailored for them.
• No Money Talk: The conversation was about value, not cost.
• Right Questions: I made them feel understood, not sold to.

Lessons That Apply to Every Creative

• Stop pitching. Start researching.
• Focus on clients who value expertise, not low prices.
• Ask questions that make clients think.
• Never underestimate the power of a simple, well-written email.

This project wasn’t just about money — it was about proof that creativity, when combined with business thinking, can compete globally.

“Don’t try to impress. Try to understand.”
— That’s the real secret to getting high-value clients.

When you understand your client’s problems and priorities better than anyone else, your pitch writes itself — and high-paying clients will start finding you.

What I Learned Working with Clients from 5+ Countries

Working with clients from over five different countries — India, Germany, the U.S., the U.K., and across Asia’s gaming industry — completely reshaped how I see creative work and client relationships.

Each project taught me something new about communication, culture, and professionalism. These lessons didn’t come from theory — they came from late-night calls, timezone chaos, endless revisions, and the joy of hearing, “This is exactly what we wanted.”

If you want to understand not just how to get clients but how to keep them, these lessons matter more than any technical skill.

1. Communication Is the Real Currency

Your skills get you noticed, but your communication keeps you in business.
I’ve seen brilliant editors and designers lose projects, not because of weak work, but poor communication.

• Always reply quickly — even a simple “Got it, will send by tomorrow” builds trust.
• Summarize what you understood after every meeting to avoid confusion.
• Never assume — confirm. Small misunderstandings can turn into big reworks.

Clients value reliability more than perfection. Clear, calm communication is your strongest asset.

2. Understand Cultural Differences

Different countries, different client mindsets:

• Indian clients value flexibility — they love when you can multitask or suggest options on the go.
• German clients prefer structure — fixed timelines, detailed breakdowns, and precision.
• U.S. clients love energy — they appreciate enthusiasm, initiative, and fresh ideas.

Learning to adapt your communication style across cultures is a superpower.
Understand their mindset before their brief — that’s how you build global trust.

3. Time Zones Aren’t a Problem — Lack of Planning Is

Time differences scare many freelancers, but once you set systems, it’s easy. Here’s how I handle it:

• Use Notion or Google Sheets for shared updates so clients can see progress anytime.
• Schedule weekly check-ins, even for 10 minutes — it keeps alignment strong.
• Deliver one version before their workday starts — it creates a sense of flow and reliability.

When working with international clients, your ability to plan ahead is what earns you repeat projects.

4. Professionalism Beats Perfection

Clients appreciate consistency more than flawless output. If a deadline is tight and you can’t deliver the full version, send a near-final version with a quick note:

“Here’s the near-final version — a few small details will be refined by tomorrow morning.”

That small act of professionalism builds trust faster than one perfect delivery ever could.

5. Long-Term Projects Are Built on Small Habits

My $80,000 German contract — which lasted 1.5 years — wasn’t built on one big moment. It was built on small daily habits:

• Document every creative decision to avoid confusion later.
• Share updates even when not asked.
• Respect their process, even when it feels slow.
• Stay positive during tough feedback rounds.

These quiet habits turn projects into partnerships.

6. Clients Remember Energy, Not Just Output

Clients remember how you make them feel during the project — calm, reliable, or chaotic. Every message, call, or feedback session shapes your reputation.

Your energy is your brand. When clients enjoy working with you, they’ll refer you without hesitation.

7. The Global Lesson

After working with clients from multiple countries, I’ve realized one universal truth:

“No matter where they’re from, all clients want one thing — peace of mind.”

They want to know their project is in good hands. They want to feel heard. They want progress without stress.

If you can deliver that, your nationality and competition don’t matter — clients will keep coming back, again and again.

Final Thought

Global work taught me something simple yet powerful — the best marketing isn’t about shouting louder, it’s about showing you care more.

When clients feel your genuine care and professionalism, they trust you — and that trust becomes the most valuable currency in your creative career.

Real Strategies You Can Apply Today

If you’ve made it this far, you already know I don’t believe in empty theory.
Everything here — from my first offline event to my $80,000 German client — came from real-world methods anyone can apply.

Here are practical strategies you can start using today to get clients, whether you’re an editor, designer, 3D artist, or agency owner.

1. Build Visibility Where It Actually Matters

Most people think being visible means being everywhere — but real visibility means being seen by the right people.

Ask yourself: “Where are my clients actually spending time?”

• LinkedIn: For professional collaborations and high-value projects.
• Discord: For networking with creators, startups, and indie studios.
• Offline Events: For trust-based, long-term relationships.

Focus your effort where potential clients already exist. Consistency in the right place is worth more than noise everywhere else.

2. Create a Mini Portfolio That Converts

You don’t need a big, expensive website. You just need something clear and easy to scroll — something that says,
“I understand your problem and can solve it.”

• Show only 5–7 of your best projects.
• Include one line of context for each — what it was and who it was for.
• Add a short description of the result, like “helped increase engagement by 20%.”
• End with your contact info and at least one testimonial.

Clients don’t have time to explore. Keep it clean, confident, and fast-loading.
That’s all you need to make a strong impression.

3. Use Discord the Smart Way

Treat Discord like your creative workspace, not a casual chat app.

• Join 3–5 niche servers related to your craft (editing, 3D, motion design, etc.).
• Engage weekly — help others, share your progress, and answer questions.
• Post short WIP clips or screenshots. People love seeing how things are made.
• Be curious, not salesy. When people see your consistency, they’ll reach out first.

Discord is slow to start, but once it clicks, you’ll get high-quality, trust-based leads.

4. Use the LinkedIn System That Works

LinkedIn rewards quiet consistency, not constant posting.
Here’s my simple system:

• Post once a week — share learnings, results, or short case studies.
• Use personalized DMs (like the ones I shared earlier).
• Update your banner and headline every few months to reflect your growth.
• Pin your best 2–3 posts showing proof of work.

It’s not about frequency — it’s about focus. A profile that looks alive and credible will always attract the right kind of clients.

5. Do Research-Based Outreach

This is the secret that landed my $80K client — and it works for everyone.

• Research your target company’s brand, visuals, and messaging.
• Identify 2–3 specific areas for improvement.
• Create a short PDF with suggestions and visual examples.
• Send a message:
  

  “Hey [Name], I did a quick creative review of your brand and found a few areas that could make your visuals stronger. Would you like me to share it?”

That single, thoughtful message opens more doors than 100 cold emails.
It’s not about asking — it’s about offering insight first.

6. Keep Your Reference Chain Alive

Your past clients are your strongest marketing channel.
After completing a project, reach out with something like:

“If you know any brand or team that might need similar 3D or video work, feel free to connect us — I’d love to help.”

Stay in touch every 2–3 months with a simple “Hope all’s going well!” message.
These friendly check-ins lead to repeat work and organic referrals — the best kind of leads.

7. Be a Partner, Not a Vendor

Stop asking, “What do you need me to do?”
Start asking, “Why do you want to do it?”

That one question shifts the relationship from transactional to strategic.
Clients start seeing you as part of their vision — not just someone executing tasks.
That’s how you get long-term contracts, not one-time gigs.

8. Create Value Content, Not Viral Content

In 2025, everyone’s chasing virality. The truth? Viral posts don’t bring clients — valuable posts do.

• Share insights that solve real creative problems.
• Show your process — how you think and work.
• Document lessons, not perfection.

Value-driven content builds authority and trust.
That’s what attracts clients who respect your craft.

9. Follow Up Without Being Pushy

Most freelancers lose opportunities simply because they don’t follow up.
A simple system works best:

“Hey [Name], just checking in to make sure my last message didn’t get lost.
No rush at all — happy to share more details if you’re interested.”

Professional follow-ups show persistence, not desperation — and clients respect that.

10. Turn Every Project Into a Case Study

Don’t just deliver — document.
After completing a project, note down:

• The challenge
• The solution you provided
• The results achieved

Turn that into a one-page summary or short post.
Proof sells faster than promises — and case studies are your most powerful proof.

The Core Idea

People often ask me, “What’s your real secret to getting clients?”
My answer is simple:

“It’s not one secret — it’s ten small habits done consistently and authentically.”

• Talk less, observe more.
• Don’t pitch — research.
• Don’t chase — connect.
• Don’t overpromise — overdeliver.

When you apply these habits daily, you won’t have to find clients — they’ll start finding you.

Mistakes I Made (And What You Should Avoid)

Looking back on my creative journey — from doing offline marketing in college to landing international clients — it wasn’t smooth or perfect.
I made plenty of mistakes. Some cost me clients, some cost me time, and a few cost me confidence.
But each one taught me something real about how to get clients, manage them, and build a long-term creative business.

Here are the biggest mistakes I made and the lessons you can use to skip years of trial and error.

1. Trying to Be Everywhere Online

In my early years, I thought being active on every platform — Instagram, YouTube, LinkedIn, Behance, Upwork, Facebook — would help me get more clients.
The result? I was visible everywhere but effective nowhere.

When you spread your focus too thin, you don’t build real connections anywhere.
Now, I focus only on platforms that actually bring value:

• Discord — for creative communities and networking
• LinkedIn — for professional collaborations
• Offline — for genuine relationships and referrals

If you want to get clients effectively, stop chasing platforms — focus on people.
Be where your ideal clients already are.

2. Underpricing My Work

Like most freelancers, I started small — and that’s okay.
But my mistake was staying small for too long.

In the beginning, I underpriced my work just to get more clients. But low-paying clients often expect premium quality, instant delivery, and unlimited revisions.
That leads to burnout and frustration.

“Low prices attract low-value clients.”

Once I started pricing based on value instead of hours, everything changed.
Clients respected my time and treated me like a professional, not an option.

3. Over-Editing and Over-Delivering

I used to spend hours adding extra effects or doing unnecessary reworks just to “prove” my talent.
Clients didn’t notice — or worse, they got confused by the unnecessary polish.

“Professionalism is about precision, not perfection.”

Now, I deliver exactly what matters — nothing more, nothing less.
Focus on results, not extras.

4. Saying “Yes” to Every Project

In the beginning, I said yes to everything — weddings, corporate ads, random edits, even low-budget projects.
I thought saying no meant losing opportunities, but it was the opposite.

Every “yes” to the wrong project is a “no” to the right one.
Now, before accepting work, I ask myself:

• Does this align with my goals or niche?
• Will this improve my skills or credibility?
• Is the client respectful and clear?

If not, I politely decline.
That discipline doubled my income and cut my stress in half.

5. Ignoring Contracts and Payment Terms

When I started, I trusted verbal promises. “I’ll pay after delivery,” sounded safe — until I got ghosted.
Now, my rule is simple:

“No contract, no work. No advance, no project.”

Even a simple written agreement or email confirmation protects both sides.
It also makes you look more professional — and clients take you more seriously.

6. Focusing Too Much on Tools

I used to chase every new software update or plugin, thinking it would make me better.
But tools only multiply what’s already there.
Without storytelling, design sense, or client understanding — no plugin can save you.

Now, I focus on clarity and communication — the fundamentals that never go out of style.

7. Working Alone for Too Long

I tried doing everything myself — editing, designing, emailing, invoicing.
It made me feel “dedicated,” but it slowed my growth.

Once I started collaborating with others, outsourcing small tasks, and building a team, everything changed.
My output increased, my creativity improved, and my projects scaled faster.

If you want to grow, learn to delegate. Real agency growth begins when you stop doing everything alone.

8. Forgetting to Show My Process

For a long time, I only shared final results. But clients love seeing how things are made.
When I started posting behind-the-scenes clips and project breakdowns, engagement — and client inquiries — skyrocketed.

“People don’t just buy your output; they buy your method.”

Show your process. It builds trust faster than any polished reel.

9. Not Following Up

Early on, I assumed that if a client didn’t reply, they weren’t interested.
But people are busy — sometimes they just forget.

Now I always follow up politely after 3–4 days, and again a week later if needed.
About 80% of my successful deals came after the second message.

Following up isn’t being pushy — it’s being professional.

10. Not Documenting Wins

I used to complete projects and move straight to the next one.
But every project is a story — proof of your growth and credibility.

Now, I record testimonials, results, and learnings from every client.
When new clients ask for proof, I don’t have to explain — I just show.

Final Thought on Mistakes

Every mistake came from the same root — trying too hard to chase clients instead of understanding them.
Now, my approach is calm and clear:

• Listen more than you talk.
• Research before you pitch.
• Deliver before you promise.
• Follow up professionally.

Mistakes are part of growth — repeating them isn’t.
If you can avoid even half of these, you’ll move years ahead with clarity, confidence, and consistency.

My Personal Client Approach Philosophy

After working with over 50 clients, completing more than 100 paid projects, and collaborating with teams across 5+ countries, I realized something simple yet powerful:

“Clients don’t pay for editing, designing, or animation.
They pay for clarity, comfort, and confidence.”

Once I understood this, everything about how I worked — and how I communicated — changed.
I stopped selling what I do and started focusing on why it matters to them.
That shift — from service provider to problem solver — completely transformed my business.

1. Clients Don’t Pay for Creativity — They Pay for Clarity

Most creatives love talking about their art. But clients don’t think in creative terms — they think in outcomes.

When a client says, “I want a cinematic video,” they don’t mean “add more effects.”
They mean, “I want people to feel something powerful when they see our brand.”

That’s where clarity comes in. Before starting any project, I always ask:

• What’s the main goal of this project?
• Who’s your audience?
• What do you want them to feel or do after seeing it?

When you align creativity with purpose, clients don’t just like your work — they trust your thinking.

2. Be the Partner, Not the Vendor

If you see yourself as someone who just “delivers files,” clients will treat you that way.
But when you become part of their decision-making — when you think, question, and add ideas — you become a partner.

I approach every project as a collaboration, not a transaction.
When a client gives me a brief, I don’t just say “okay.” I ask why —
“Why this approach?” or “What’s the story behind it?”

That’s how you go from a $100 gig to a $10,000 partnership — by becoming a trusted thinker, not just a worker.

3. Listen More, Talk Less

In my early days, I used to over-explain everything.
Now, I listen first.
When clients feel heard, they open up about their goals, fears, and expectations — giving you everything you need to deliver better results.

Trust doesn’t start with showing talent — it starts with listening with intent.

4. Ask the Right Questions

Most freelancers ask, “What do you want me to make?”
I ask, “What do you want to achieve?”

That one change makes all the difference. When you ask deeper questions — like:

• “Is this project meant to sell or to build awareness?”
• “Should we focus on emotion or clarity?”
• “Do you want more engagement or conversions?”

— you stop being a vendor and start being a consultant.
And consultants don’t compete on price — they compete on understanding.

5. Always Lead with Value

Every interaction — whether it’s a message, call, or delivery — should make the client feel you add value beyond the brief.

Sometimes it’s a creative suggestion they didn’t expect.
Sometimes it’s a small design improvement.
Sometimes it’s just sending them a trend idea that fits their brand.

Clients remember care — and care builds loyalty faster than discounts ever will.

6. Stay Calm During Chaos

No project is perfect. There will always be last-minute changes, creative conflicts, or delays.
What defines you is how you handle those moments.

When things go wrong, don’t panic — communicate.
Ask questions like: “What made you want this change?” or “Let’s find a middle ground that works for both of us.”

Professional calmness during chaos is one of the strongest trust signals you can send.

7. Communication > Talent

You can be incredibly skilled, but if your communication is unclear, clients won’t stay.
Clarity, punctual updates, and empathy turn one-time clients into repeat ones.

• Confirm deadlines clearly.
• Share progress regularly.
• Explain creative decisions briefly.

Reliability often beats raw talent in the long run.

8. Solve Before You Sell

Whenever I reach out to new clients, I don’t try to sell immediately.
I try to understand their problem first and offer insight.

That’s how I landed my German client — by solving before selling.
Clients don’t remember who sold to them — they remember who helped them first.

9. Respect Their World

Every client operates in a unique industry — tech, fashion, gaming, education, or travel.
Before working with them, I study how they talk, what matters to them, and how success is measured in their world.

This empathy makes collaboration smoother and more effective — because respect earns respect.

10. Deliver Emotion, Not Just Output

After every project, I ask myself:
“Did this make the client feel something?”

Because people don’t remember files or deliverables — they remember how your work made them feel.
Whether it’s a logo, film, or 3D render, aim to evoke emotion — that’s what makes your work unforgettable.

My Philosophy in One Line

“Don’t chase clients. Understand them.
Don’t talk too much. Listen more.
Don’t sell your skill. Sell your clarity.”

This mindset took me from small freelance gigs to international collaborations — and it’s still the foundation of how I work today.

Creator’s Note — Why I Still Love This Journey

Sometimes when I look back — from my first offline marketing project in college to now working with international brands — it feels unreal.
Not because I achieved something extraordinary, but because I built everything step by step, project by project, mistake by mistake.

I’ve seen the days when I had to convince people to give me a chance.
And today, I get to work with brands that trust me with long-term creative partnerships.
That didn’t come from luck — it came from showing up consistently, even when nothing seemed to work.

Why I Never Lost Interest

Even after years in this industry, I still feel that same excitement every time a new project arrives.
For me, this isn’t just editing or animation — it’s storytelling. It’s emotion. It’s connection.

I still get that rush when a render finishes perfectly, or when a client says,
“This is exactly what I imagined.”
That feeling never gets old — and that’s why I’ll always love this journey.

The Truth About Growth

People often ask me, “What’s the secret to getting big clients?”
The real secret isn’t in any algorithm, platform, or pricing trick — it’s in you.

• Your attitude
• Your patience
• Your energy

Those are the things clients remember long after a project ends.
There were times when projects failed, payments were delayed, or deadlines felt impossible.
But every challenge made me more resilient — and that’s the real measure of creative growth.

“The creative journey isn’t about constant success.
It’s about resilience — showing up again and again until things fall into place.”

Why I Still Believe in the Long Game

Quick wins don’t build stable careers — trust and relationships do.
When you focus on those three things — trust, reputation, and relationships — clients don’t really leave.
They come back, they refer you, and they grow with you.

That’s what I want every creative to understand:

“Don’t look for shortcuts. Look for direction.”

You may not get your dream client right away, but every conversation, every connection, every small project adds up.
Over time, those invisible efforts turn into visible results.

What Keeps Me Motivated

It’s not about how many clients I have or how much I earn — it’s about what I learn through each story.
Every project introduces me to new ideas, cultures, and perspectives.
That’s the real reward of this journey — growth that goes beyond skill.

Through creativity, I’ve found freedom, purpose, and endless curiosity — and as long as I have those three, I’ll keep creating.

A Message to Every Creative Reading This

If you’re at the beginning of your journey — maybe struggling, maybe doubting yourself — I want you to know this:

“I was once exactly where you are.”

I stopped worrying about who wasn’t hiring me and started focusing on how I could make my work more valuable.
That mindset changed everything.

• Keep learning.
• Keep improving.
• Keep connecting.
• And never lose the reason why you started.

Clients, money, and projects will come — but passion, clarity, and patience are what will make you unstoppable.

Final Thoughts — Building a Sustainable Agency in 2025

By now, you’ve probably realized that building a creative agency isn’t about luck, trends, or even raw skill.
It’s about understanding people, creating systems, and showing consistency day after day.

Anyone can get a single client.
But building something sustainable — something that grows steadily without burning out — that takes mindset, clarity, and patience.

1. The Real Meaning of Sustainability

“Sustainable” doesn’t just mean long-term income — it means long-term balance.
A truly sustainable agency doesn’t take every project that comes its way.
It works with the right clients, on the right projects, with the right energy.

In 2025, the creative world moves faster than ever — AI, automation, trends, new tools every week.
But no matter what changes, three things will always matter:

• Creative thinking
• Human connection
• Clarity in communication

If your agency masters these three, it will outlast every algorithm shift.

2. Systems Build Stability

For years, I handled everything manually — from calls to file delivery to revisions. It worked for a while, until it didn’t.

Now, my agency runs on structured systems.
I use Notion for project tracking, Google Sheets for task planning, and automation for feedback and delivery.

These systems free up creative energy — allowing me to focus on what matters most: building relationships and doing great work.

“Efficiency is the silent backbone of creativity.”

3. Build Reputation, Not Just Revenue

When I started, I chased high-paying projects.
Now, I chase projects that build reputation — because money fades, but trust compounds.

When your name stands for reliability and quality, you no longer have to prove yourself each time.
People already know what to expect — and that’s how you attract long-term clients effortlessly.

4. Evolve with Curiosity

2025 and beyond belong to creatives who stay curious.
Technology will keep changing, but curiosity is what keeps you relevant.

Learn new tools — yes — but also explore new storytelling formats, platforms, and perspectives.
Be open to change, but grounded in your craft.

“Curiosity keeps you relevant. Relevance keeps you in demand.”

5. Treat Your Agency Like a Brand

Your agency isn’t just a service provider — it’s a brand with a voice, personality, and promise.

Ask yourself:

• What emotion do clients feel when they hear your name?
• What values does your agency stand for?
• What promise does every project deliver?

At DehraFlicks, my agency stands for clarity, emotion, and quality.
Every message, project, and interaction reflects those values — and that’s what keeps our clients coming back.

6. Never Stop Doing the Small Things

Even today, after 5+ years and hundreds of projects, I still do the basics:

• Reply personally to every message
• Follow up politely
• Thank clients after delivery
• Share knowledge and insights freely

Because those small, consistent actions build lasting trust — the foundation of every successful business.

7. Consistency Beats Algorithms

Social media algorithms change all the time, but consistency always wins.
Even when engagement drops, consistent professionals keep growing.

Every message, every update, every project — it all compounds.
Success doesn’t come from being loud — it comes from being reliable.

8. The Mindset That Brings Clients Naturally

After years in this field, I’ve learned that everything boils down to three timeless principles:

• Clarity — Know who you serve and what you solve.
• Consistency — Keep showing up, even when growth feels slow.
• Care — Treat every project like it’s your first big one.

When you combine these, you don’t have to chase clients — they start finding you.

9. Building for the Long Run

Everyone wants instant success. But I don’t want to be fast — I want to be stable.
I don’t want hundreds of random clients — I want a few strong, long-term ones.

That’s what a sustainable agency is — a business built on trust, not trends.

10. The Journey Never Ends

Even after years in this field, I still feel like I’m learning every day.
Each project, client, and collaboration adds something new to who I am — not just as a creative, but as a person.

“The best part of this journey isn’t the success — it’s the growth that comes along the way.”

And that’s what keeps me moving forward — the understanding that this journey never really ends.

Final Line

“Success doesn’t come from chasing attention —
it comes from building trust, one conversation at a time.”

Keep building. Keep learning. Keep showing up.
Your consistency will always speak louder than any marketing campaign —
and that’s what makes a creative agency truly sustainable in 2025 and beyond.