In celebration of National Freelancers Day (17 June 2025), here are some practical social media and PR tips to help freelancers publicise their businesses.
Whether you’re just starting out or looking to grow your client base, visibility is key. As a result, you need to stand out, build your personal brand, and connect with the right audiences – on social platforms, in the media, and within your professional network. So, what can you do to increase your presence and attract new opportunities?
Own your niche and tell your story
In a crowded market, generalists often struggle to get noticed. That’s why the most successful freelancers position themselves within a clear niche. Start by refining your message: define who you help, how you solve their problems, and why you’re uniquely equipped to do so.
This messaging should be consistently reflected across your website, social profiles, and portfolio. Your story (how you got started, your values, and what you stand for) builds an emotional connection. Clients want to hire people, not just services, so use this opportunity to reinforce what makes you memorable and trustworthy.
Pitch to podcasts, blogs and news outlets
Media exposure can elevate your freelance brand more than any paid ad. Why not pitch yourself as a guest expert on industry blogs, podcasts, or newsletters? Your pitch should highlight a unique angle or insights into a trend within your field. Reach out to editors and hosts with a short, value-driven message. Resources like HARO (Help a Reporter Out) can connect you with journalists actively looking for voices like yours.
Use LinkedIn as your freelance PR channel
LinkedIn is more than a platform for corporate job seekers – it’s a space for freelancers to showcase thought leadership and attract new business. Posting regularly about industry trends, lessons learned from recent projects, or tips for clients can position you as a go-to expert.
Instead of indulging in self-promotion, focus on offering genuine value and sparking conversation. Engage with other posts in your niche, especially from decision-makers or brands you’d love to work with. Showing up consistently on LinkedIn builds familiarity and trust.
Collaborate with other freelancers
Two voices are louder than one. Teaming up with other freelancers, especially those offering complementary services, can dramatically expand your reach. Consider co-creating content such as joint Instagram Lives, collaborative blog posts, or cross-promotions.
For example, a web designer could partner with a copywriter to discuss the full process of launching a client website. Not only does this expose you to each other’s audiences, it also demonstrates credibility and teamwork – valuable qualities clients are always looking for.
Utilise testimonials as social proof
Happy clients are your best marketing tool, so make their words work for you. Reach out to recent or long-term clients for testimonials and showcase them creatively on your social media and website. Turn praise into polished quote graphics, include snippets in your captions, or even share a short video clip (if the client is willing).
When you post testimonials, tagging clients (with permission) increases your reach and shows future leads that you’re trustworthy, reliable, and results-driven. In an era where word-of-mouth travels digitally, social proof is key to winning new business.
Join online communities and comment strategically
There’s a digital network for every niche, be it Slack groups, Subreddits, X threads, or Facebook communities. Identify where your ideal clients or collaborators spend time and start joining those conversations.
Rather than promote your services directly, add value by answering questions, offering insights, and being genuinely helpful. Over time, people begin to recognise your name and associate it with your expertise.
Update your PR & media kit
Having a ready-to-go media kit streamlines your visibility efforts. If someone wants to feature you on a podcast, blog, or panel, make it easy for them. Include a professional headshot, short and long bios, sample interview topics, relevant links, and contact details.
You can host this on your website or keep it as a shareable PDF. Use this to signal that you’re media-friendly and ready to speak on topics like freelance success, creative entrepreneurship, or your specific industry niche.
Celebrate your wins loudly (and authentically)
Self-promotion doesn’t have to feel cringey if you use a storytelling approach. Use social media to share your recent wins – whether it’s landing a big client, finishing a project you’re proud of, or hitting a personal milestone. Position your success as a learning experience or journey others can relate to.
For example, instead of simply stating, “I won a new client,” explain how you approached the pitch or overcame a challenge. Authenticity resonates more than polished perfection, while encouraging others to support your growth.
Schedule a freelance ‘showcase day’
Set aside dedicated time to work on your business instead of in it. Block off an hour or two to update your portfolio, reach out to previous clients, publish a blog post, or pitch yourself to a podcast.
Think of it as a personal PR sprint where you refresh your digital presence, while celebrating your journey and putting yourself in front of new opportunities. Even a small amount of focused effort can yield long-term visibility and credibility.
Freelancing isn’t just about doing great work, it’s about making sure people know you’re doing it. Building your brand, sharing your expertise, and staying visible are all part of growing a successful freelance business. Make it a habit to regularly promote your work, celebrate your wins, and show up where your audience is, because in the freelance world, visibility is key.
So, don’t just celebrate the freelance life – share it.
