By Tonya Core 
Freelance video editors, I know you don’t want to hear this — but if you want to get video editing clients, you’ve got to start talking to people.
I get it. The pandemic was your zone. No birthday parties, no events — just uninterrupted hours to edit, create social media content, and finally finish that short film sitting in your files for two years. The quiet focus, the rhythm of your computer fan, the endless possibilities on the timeline — that’s your happy place.
But here’s the truth: you can’t grow a freelance video editing business in silence.
You need to get comfortable being seen, heard, and recognized for your work. Show Your Work!
A brilliant editor won’t get hired if nobody knows they exist.
Networking for Freelance Creatives: Why It Matters
Let me tell you a quick story.
Years ago, I was job hunting in Atlanta. I stepped into an elevator and saw a guy in a suit and cool sneakers. I wanted to say, “Hey, cool shoes!” but not just that. I wanted to say I can tell by your suit that, you’re all about business; but those shoes scream creativity! I stopped myself. “Don’t bother him,” I thought.
We got off on the same floor. Turns out? He was the head of the company I had an interview with. That was my chance — and I blew it by staying silent.
How many jobs do we miss out on because we don’t speak up? In such a competitive space, learning how to get video editing clients often starts with a simple hello.
In a world where attention is currency, authenticity is what makes you memorable.
Small talk, genuine compliments, and quick introductions can lead to freelance gigs, referrals, or collaborations.
Marketing Yourself as a Freelance Video Editor
Yes, your editing skills are solid. But if your work stays on your hard drive, you’re not building a career — just a private archive.
Here’s the fix:
Make it a daily habit to talk to one new person. Just one.
Start with the persona ahead of you in line, a classmate, or another creator online. Once you’re comfortable, bump it up to two or three.
You’ll become a better communicator, and you never know who might say:
“You do video? My cousin needs an editor for her brand launch!”
Freelance Success Starts with Visibility
This isn’t about being pushy. It’s about being present.
Remember: people hire who they know, like, and trust. If your name never enters the conversation, you’ll keep missing out — even if you’re ten times more talented than the editor who did speak up.
So here’s your challenge:
Start talking. Start connecting. Start showing up.
Your next opportunity is probably one conversation away.
Don’t let silence be the reason you stay stuck. Leave a comment if you need help finding online spaces to network and start speaking up!
Tonya C.