If you’re a digital nomad aspiring to land freelance clients and earning a steady income while exploring the world, becoming a virtual assistant (VA) might be the perfect solution. But with platforms like Fiverr and Upwork crowded with talented freelancers, standing out can be tough. That’s where my tried-and-tested 3-step strategy comes in—designed to help you land clients quickly, build long-term relationships, and keep your business running smoothly no matter where you are.
Build a Professional and Eye-Catching Online Presence
Your first step to land freelance clients is to make sure your online profiles on platforms like Fiverr and Upwork shine. This means writing engaging descriptions that highlight not only your skills but also how you can solve client problems (e.g., saving them time or reducing their workload). Make it about the client rather than yourself—this creates an instant connection with potential buyers.
In the beginning, pricing competitively will attract more interest and allow you to collect those all-important early reviews. You can also offer add-ons like expedited delivery to make your gigs more attractive. If you’re just starting out, aim for smaller tasks first to build momentum. The goal here is to create an attractive profile and build credibility through reviews as quickly as possible.
Pro Tip: Share your gig links on relevant social media groups to attract outside traffic to Fiverr or Upwork, bypassing the competition on the platforms themselves. You can also engage with potential clients through community boards and messaging features.
Use a Multi-Platform Strategy for Outreach
Don’t rely solely on freelancing platforms. Start building your own “hitlist” of contacts—fellow freelancers, friends, former clients, and anyone who might refer work to you. Reaching out for referrals instead of direct work can feel more natural and often opens doors to unexpected opportunities. A simple message like, “If you know anyone needing VA services, please keep me in mind,” can go a long way.
Pitch Creatively
On platforms like Upwork, avoid sending generic proposals. Instead, tailor each pitch to the specific client by addressing their business needs and offering a quick piece of value—like a short improvement suggestion for their website or process. This approach not only shows initiative but also helps you stand out from the crowd of copy-pasted proposals.
Organize and Impress with Tools
The key to freelancing while traveling is organization. I use Monday.com to manage all my client communications, tasks, and deadlines in one place. This tool helps me stay on top of multiple projects—even when I’m in a new time zone—and ensures that clients receive updates promptly.
Maintaining clear communication is essential. Clients appreciate transparency, so be sure to update them regularly on progress. Over-delivering on expectations—whether it’s completing work ahead of schedule or offering a surprise bonus service—can also lead to glowing reviews and repeat business. Your goal is to build long-term relationships where clients think of you first when new tasks arise.
By combining an optimized online presence, smart outreach strategies, and tight organization with Monday.com, you’ll be well on your way to landing clients quickly—no matter where your adventures take you. Freelancing can be unpredictable, but with these strategies, I’ve consistently landed clients within two weeks, even while traveling.
This 3-step strategy is perfect for those just starting or for freelancers struggling to attract clients consistently. If you put in the work and follow these steps, you’ll soon find yourself with more work—and freedom—than you ever imagined! Safe travels, and happy freelancing!