🎯 The 5-Part Series: Freelance Basics That Actually Work
We created this short guide to help freelancers succeed with real-world, practical advice — especially in a market where competition is high and good clients are picky.
You are here:
• Part 1: Win More Projects and Clients as a Freelancer (Especially in a Competitive Market)
• Part 2: The Perfect Follow-Up Message (with Templates)
👉 Part 3: Handle Client Rejections and Turn Them Into Opportunities
• Part 4: Position Yourself as the Solution, Not Just Another Freelancer
• Part 5: Finding the Right Clients vs. Chasing Every Project
Back to the article...
1. Always Thank Them
Even if the client didn’t choose you, respond professionally. It shows maturity and keeps the door open.
✉️ What to say:
Thanks for letting me know, [Name]. I appreciate the opportunity and wish you the best with the project!
2. Ask for Feedback (Gently)
Most freelancers never ask. But when you do it the right way, you often get golden insight into what clients care about — or how you can improve.
✉️ How to ask:
If you have a minute, I’d love to hear what could have made my application stronger. No worries if you’re swamped — I really appreciate the chance to be considered.
💡 Pro Tip: Clients are more likely to respond if you:
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Keep it casual
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Ask just one specific question
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Show openness, not defensiveness
3. Stay on Their Radar
Just because it’s a no today doesn’t mean it’s a no forever. A light, friendly message can position you for future gigs.
✉️ Example:
If similar projects come up in the future, I’d love to be considered again. It was great learning about your work — and I’d be happy to stay in touch.
Many freelancers get hired months later by the same clients — because they stayed professional and visible.
✅ Optional: add a link to your updated portfolio or invite them to connect on LinkedIn.
4. Rejection ≠ Failure. It’s Market Research.
Take a few minutes to reflect:
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Did you apply to a role slightly outside your strength?
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Was your application tailored and sharp?
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Was the client actually a good fit — or are you better off?
Every rejection helps you improve how you pitch, price, and position yourself. Treat it like free feedback from the market.
5. Keep a Rejection Tracker (Yes, Really)
It sounds odd, but tracking your rejections helps you:
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Notice patterns (clients ghosting? pricing too high?)
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Follow up with prospects later
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See how often “no” eventually turns into “yes”
Just log:
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Company
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Contact name
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Date rejected
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Did you follow up?
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Notes or feedback
You can use Notion, a Google Sheet, or your favorite CRM tool.
Or — if you’re using 9am.works — you’re covered: we automatically track your applications, their status, date, hiring manager details (when available), and more. It’s built to help freelancers stay organized without extra admin.
It’s a small habit that can lead to smarter decisions — and more consistent wins.
6. Reactivate Old Opportunities
Sometimes, the timing just wasn’t right — but the client still liked your profile. A few weeks or months later, their needs might have changed.
Reaching out to a past lead (who once rejected or ghosted you) can spark a new conversation — especially if you reference the old project or offer a specific idea.
✉️ What to say:
Hi [Name],
I hope things have been going well on your end! I was thinking about the [Project Name] role we discussed a while back. If you have any new or similar needs coming up, I’d love to explore how I can help.
All the best,
[Your Name]
✅ Bonus: If you use 9am.works, you already have your full application history stored — so it’s easy to spot past leads worth reactivating.
This kind of outreach feels thoughtful (not spammy) — and often gets a better reply than cold pitches.
In Short:
Rejections aren’t the end. Sometimes, they’re the beginning.
✅ Say thank you
✅ Ask for feedback
✅ Stay in touch
✅ Learn and adapt
✅ Show up again later
The best freelancers don’t take rejection personally — they take it professionally.
Want to go even further?
If you’re serious about turning freelance applications into consistent gigs, don’t stop here.
🎓 Check out our Freelancer Academy — your all-in-one course to launch and grow your freelance career.
With 40+ lessons, 100+ videos, templates, checklists, expert interviews, and a like-minded community, it’s everything you need to go from zero to clients — faster and smarter.
👉 Join the Freelancer Academy now
