When you decided to become a freelance blogger and work via the internet, you probably never thought your looks would matter.

But they do. Potential clients judge you on appearance, and some of them are backing off because they don’t like what they see. Gods, it’s like being back in high school.

So why is freelance blogging such a beauty pageant? Because, duh, you’re selling something. People buy with their senses and emotions, so when you’re selling, visuals are just as important as words.

Before you get all uppity: I’m not saying you’re ugly.

Your “freelancing face” might benefit from a makeover, though. I’m talking about your portfolio site, and at the end of this post I’m giving away a premium website facelift to help yours look gorgeous.

Do you know what editors and potential clients do when they reach the end of your email?

You should.

How? Because they should be doing whatever you just told them to do!

The process of winning new clients through direct marketing is simple:

1. Identify your ideal clients
2. Get the right contact information
3. Send them a message to introduce yourself as a freelance blogger
4. If you’ve got an interesting idea for their blog, give them a brief description or outline at the same time
5. They send you a message back if they’re interested (and the nicest people get back to you even if they’re not interested)

Do you see the yawning abyss there between Step 4 and Step 5?

That’s where you forgot to make shit happen.