"How to Get Clients on Toptal Without a Portfolio: A Step-by-Step Guide for 2025 Beginners"

Introduction:

Breaking into the elite world of Toptal can seem like a distant dream for many freelancers—especially if you're lacking a strong portfolio. But in 2025, opportunities are evolving, and with the right strategy, it's entirely possible to get clients on Toptal even without a flashy CV or portfolio. This guide will walk you through practical, actionable steps to help you secure work on Toptal and stand out, regardless of your experience level.

Step 1: Understand What Toptal Truly Looks For (Beyond the Portfolio)

Most freelancers assume that a powerful portfolio is the only ticket to entering Toptal. But here’s the truth—Toptal is not just looking for pretty portfolios, it’s looking for exceptional people. People who can think critically, solve problems effectively, and communicate with clarity.

Toptal’s screening process is built around identifying the top 3% of freelance talent, and they assess much more than technical output. If you lack a strong portfolio, understanding what Toptal actually values can give you a major advantage.

Let’s break it down:

1. Communication Skills

Toptal places a huge emphasis on communication. Why?

Because clients from around the globe need freelancers who can:

Express ideas clearly
Understand requirements properly
Manage expectations professionally
Collaborate across time zones

Pro Tip:
Practice explaining your work in simple terms. Even if your portfolio is weak, if you can articulate your thought process and decision-making clearly, it creates a strong impression.

2. Problem-Solving Ability

Toptal’s technical screening often includes real-world challenges—not to see if you’ve done them before, but to evaluate how you approach solving them.

Even without client experience, if you can:

Break down complex tasks
Offer innovative solutions
Ask the right questions

…you’re already ahead of many other applicants.

Pro Tip:
During mock interviews or coding tasks, narrate your thinking aloud. This demonstrates your problem-solving mindset even without past projects.

3. Passion and Professionalism

Toptal wants freelancers who take their craft seriously—whether you’re a self-taught developer, a designer from YouTube tutorials, or a marketing enthusiast with no agency background.

They want to know:

Are you consistent in learning?
Do you meet deadlines?
Can clients rely on you?

Your attitude and passion can outshine your portfolio if you present yourself with confidence and authenticity.

4. Technical Competence Over Visual Fluff

A weak portfolio is not a deal-breaker if your technical foundations are solid. That means:

Clean, well-structured code or design
Logical workflow and user experience
Understanding best practices in your field

If you can demonstrate skill—even in a simple project—it shows more promise than a fancy portfolio you can’t explain.

In Summary:

Toptal isn't hunting for perfection; they’re hunting for potential.
They look for people who can think, communicate, solve problems, and build trust. Even if you lack experience, you can win them over by being genuine, sharp, and prepared.

Step 2: Build a Mini Case Study or Project Sample

If you don’t have a strong portfolio, the best way to stand out on Toptal is to create your own proof of skills. No one said your portfolio must be filled with paid client work. In fact, many successful Toptal freelancers got in by showcasing well-crafted personal projects or case studies that demonstrated their capability.

In 2025, clients care more about how you think and solve problems than whom you’ve worked for.

Why Mini Projects Work

A mini project or case study helps Toptal reviewers see:

Your technical or creative process
How you approach a real-world problem
Your attention to detail and quality
Your commitment to learning and delivering value

This is your chance to say: “I may not have a big client list, but I have the skills to solve problems effectively.”

Types of Mini Projects You Can Create (Based on Skill)

Web Developers: Create a responsive website for a fictional business, redesign a public-facing government website, or build a mini web app (e.g., task manager, weather dashboard).
Designers: Redesign a well-known app interface (e.g., Netflix or Spotify), or create branding materials for a fictional startup.
Writers/Marketers: Create a sample content strategy, SEO audit, or email marketing campaign for a known brand.
Data Analysts: Analyse public data sets (from Kaggle or Data.gov), visualise trends, and present insights in a storytelling format.
Finance Consultants: Build a financial plan for a mock company or evaluate a real-world business model.

How to Present Your Mini Project

Make it look real, structured, and insightful. Here's how:

Problem Statement: What was the issue or opportunity you addressed?
Your Approach: Tools, process, reasoning – show your thinking.
Solution: Present screenshots, diagrams, or results.
Reflection: What did you learn? What would you improve?

Bonus Tip:
Add it to a Notion page, PDF, GitHub repo, Behance portfolio, or Medium blog—something you can link directly in your Toptal application.

Quality Over Quantity

You don’t need five projects. Just one or two strong, thoughtfully built mini case studies can give you the edge you need. Make them visually clean, easy to understand, and goal-focused.

In Summary:

Even without client work, you can show your potential through personal projects. A solid case study shows initiative, problem-solving skills, and professionalism—which Toptal values even more than a flashy portfolio.

Step 3: Optimise Your Toptal Application with Storytelling

If you think Toptal’s application is just about ticking boxes, think again. The written application—where you introduce yourself—is your first real chance to connect with a human reviewer. This is where storytelling becomes your secret weapon, especially if you don’t have a powerful portfolio.

The way you tell your story can turn your perceived “weakness” into a compelling reason to accept you.

Why Storytelling Works

Storytelling makes your application:

Memorable and engaging
More human and less robotic
A reflection of your growth, not just your skills

Toptal wants to understand who you are, not just what you do. A good story creates emotional impact—and that’s hard to ignore.

Elements of a Strong Story-Driven Application

Here’s a simple structure you can use:

1. Your Journey:

Talk briefly about how you started in your field.

“I began coding at 17, driven by curiosity to rebuild a broken school website. Since then, I’ve fallen in love with solving digital problems creatively.”

2. Your Learning Path:

If you’re self-taught or non-traditional, make that a superpower.

“Though I didn’t attend a formal university programme, I’ve completed over 50 online courses and built multiple projects to apply what I’ve learned.”

3. Your Mindset:

Explain how you approach work, clients, and continuous improvement.

“For me, freelancing isn’t just about tasks—it’s about ownership, communication, and delivering real value that drives results.”

4. Your Why (Why Toptal?):

Finish by showing why you want to join Toptal and how you fit their culture.

“I’m drawn to Toptal because it values elite performance, but also people who think deeply, act responsibly, and communicate clearly—qualities I’ve spent years developing.”

Tips to Make It Even Stronger

Be authentic. Don’t exaggerate. Your real story is enough.
Be concise. Keep it under 300 words. Reviewers skim quickly.
Be specific. Use examples, even from personal projects.
Be positive. Turn weaknesses into learning moments.

In Summary:

Your story is your brand. When you write with honesty, clarity, and purpose, you make reviewers stop and say, “This person deserves a shot.”
Even without a traditional background, you can show that you belong at Toptal—by telling your journey like only you can.

Step 4: Ace the Toptal Screening Process (Even Without Prior Clients)

Once you’ve submitted your application, Toptal’s real challenge begins—the screening process. This multi-stage filter is designed to identify not just talent, but consistency, clarity, and commitment.

And here’s the best part: you don’t need a high-profile client list to pass it. You need preparation, strategy, and a confident mindset.

Overview of the Toptal Screening Process (As of 2025)

Language and Personality Interview
Timed Skills Assessment (sometimes optional)
Live Screening with Experts
Test Project (1–3 weeks depending on field)

Each stage tests something different—but none of them require client work as proof. They assess how you think, communicate, and deliver.

Let’s Break It Down Step-by-Step:

1. Language and Personality Interview

This is usually a 15–30 minute video call where a Toptal screener evaluates your English fluency, clarity of thought, and attitude.

Tips:

Speak clearly, avoid filler words (“um”, “like”, etc.)
Be polite, focused, and friendly
Practise introducing yourself in 2–3 sentences
Highlight your strengths with real examples (even personal or academic)

Bonus: Mention how you handle feedback or solve communication breakdowns—it shows emotional intelligence.

2. Skills Assessment (Role-specific)

Depending on your expertise (e.g., frontend dev, marketing, finance), you may face a timed problem-solving test using platforms like Codility, HackerRank, or written tasks.

Tips:

Practise daily with mock challenges in your field
Focus more on accuracy and clarity than speed
Explain your reasoning step-by-step, even in code comments
Watch YouTube walkthroughs of similar test formats

No clients? No problem. These tests prove how you think under pressure, not who you worked for.

3. Live Screening with Experts

This is where you’ll be asked to solve problems live or walk through previous work or a mini project.

Tips:

Choose a personal project to discuss confidently
Practise talking aloud while solving problems
Stay calm; if you’re stuck, explain your approach
Focus on logic, clarity, and code or design cleanliness

Remember: This is not a “gotcha” round. They want to see if you can think, collaborate, and improve.

4. The Test Project (Final Stage)

This is your moment to prove your skills in real-world format. Toptal will assign you a client-style project to complete within a given time.

Tips:

Ask questions if you need clarification
Keep communication professional and proactive
Stick to timelines, even if the task is tough
Focus on quality, documentation, and presentation
Submit it with a short write-up of your process

You don’t need clients—you need consistency. Treat this project as your first real freelance opportunity.

In Summary:

Toptal’s process may seem intense—but it’s fair, transparent, and designed to find genuine talent.
If you stay calm, prepare well, and treat each step like an opportunity to shine, you can absolutely succeed—even without prior freelance experience.

Step 5: Follow Up & Stay Visible in the Toptal Community

Passing the Toptal screening is a major milestone, but your journey doesn’t end there. Once accepted, staying active and visible within the Toptal network is key to landing your first (and consistent) projects—especially if you’re starting without a strong portfolio.

Clients often hire those they see, hear from, or get recommended by others. Visibility creates credibility.

What to Do After Acceptance (Even Before Your First Client)

Here’s how you can remain on the radar:

1. Engage in the Community

Toptal has a vibrant network of freelancers across the globe. Use the platform’s internal forums, events, and discussion spaces to:

Share your insights or ask smart questions
Comment on posts to add value
Join interest groups related to your skill (e.g., design, dev, marketing)

Why it helps: You’ll build relationships, and referrals often come from people who’ve seen your name more than once.

2. Volunteer for Internal Projects or Initiatives

Toptal occasionally opens up opportunities for contributors to help with:

Community blogs
Internal tools or beta testing
Event organisation

Volunteering helps you earn badges, testimonials, and even internal visibility among core members.

3. Optimise Your Toptal Profile

Even if your external portfolio is light, make sure your Toptal profile is complete and well-written. Include:

Clear service offerings
Mini project examples
Certifications or courses
A brief, personal bio that reflects your values and working style

Pro Tip: Use keywords clients might search (e.g., "React frontend developer with UI/UX knowledge" or "data analyst specialising in e-commerce").

4. Send a Professional Follow-up to Recruiters

If a recruiter contacts you about a job, but it doesn't move forward—send a brief thank-you message and express your interest in similar roles. This shows maturity and professionalism.

5. Keep Learning and Show It

Stay updated in your field and occasionally post in the community (or on LinkedIn) about:

A recent problem you solved
A new tool you’re exploring
A creative project you built just for fun

This builds your authority and keeps you in people’s minds—even if you’re not actively applying for gigs.

In Summary:

Visibility creates opportunity.
Even without a strong portfolio, you can land quality work by engaging, sharing, and being a helpful, visible member of the Toptal ecosystem. The more people see your name associated with thoughtful contributions, the more likely they are to trust your capabilities.

Step 6: Build Your Reputation with Every Opportunity You Get

Congratulations—you’ve made it into Toptal, and maybe even started getting small gigs. Now comes the part that truly determines your long-term success on the platform: your reputation.

In a high-trust, high-talent marketplace like Toptal, your first few clients can define your freelancing future. You don’t need dozens of projects—you just need to nail the ones you get.

Here’s How to Build a 5-Star Reputation (Even from Scratch)

1. Overdeliver in Simplicity

You don’t have to do 10x the work—but you should deliver work that’s thoughtful, clean, and on time. A small feature done with precision is better than a flashy one that’s unstable.

Pro Tip: Always deliver a little extra. A helpful Loom video or quick improvement suggestion can go a long way.

2. Communicate Like a Pro

Clients fear silence. Keep them updated. Whether it’s a delay, a question, or a progress report—communicate before they have to ask.

Use structured updates like:

“Just a quick update: Module 1 is 80% complete. Working on responsive adjustments today. Should be ready for review by Thursday EOD.”

This builds trust fast.

3. Ask for Feedback (and Learn from It)

Don’t be afraid to request honest feedback after each job. Most clients are happy to share what worked—and what didn’t.

“Thanks for the opportunity. If there’s anything I could’ve done better, I’d love to hear your thoughts.”

Then use that feedback to improve your next gig. It shows humility and growth.

4. Collect Testimonials & Case Studies

After a successful project, politely ask:

“Would you be open to writing a short testimonial about your experience working with me?”

Or create a brief case study:

The problem
Your solution
The result

These become powerful proof of your skill for future clients—even outside Toptal.

5. Stay Consistent and Professional

Freelancing success isn’t about flashy tricks. It’s about showing up, being consistent, and treating every client—no matter how small—with respect.

Be someone people want to work with again.

In Summary:

Reputation is the new portfolio.
If you do great work, communicate clearly, and treat every project like your dream client is watching—you’ll never struggle to find work again.

Your first job on Toptal might be small. But if you treat it right, it could be the start of a long and profitable freelancing career.

Step 7: Use Your Toptal Profile to Unlock More Opportunities Outside the Platform

Once you've entered Toptal and completed even a single project, you've already placed yourself in the top 3% of freelancers worldwide. Now it's time to leverage that credibility far beyond Toptal.

Why limit yourself when you can use this achievement as a springboard for new, high-paying clients, collaborations, and brand-building?

Here’s How to Expand Your Reach Using Your Toptal Profile:

1. Add “Toptal Talent” to Your LinkedIn Headline & Bio

Example:

“Certified Toptal Freelancer | Frontend Developer Specialising in React & UX”

or

“Top 3% Global Talent via Toptal | Copywriter for SaaS & Tech Brands”

This immediately sets you apart. It creates instant authority and draws attention from premium clients.

2. Update Your Freelance Profiles (Fiverr, Upwork, etc.)

If you still use other platforms, mentioning your Toptal status (strategically) can boost your profile.

“Selected by Toptal (2025) for exceptional skill and reliability”

Use this in your bio, proposals, or gig descriptions.

3. Create a Personal Website or Portfolio Page

Even if you didn’t have a strong portfolio before—now you do. Use Toptal itself as a credential.

Add sections like:

“Why I Qualified for Toptal”
“My Experience Working with Toptal Clients”
“What Sets Me Apart”

Tip: Add a downloadable CV or service brochure with your Toptal mention.

4. Use it in Pitches and Cold Outreach

When approaching high-ticket clients via email or LinkedIn, mention:

“I’m part of the Toptal network, where freelancers are handpicked from the top 3% globally. I’d love to offer the same level of service to your business.”

You’d be amazed how quickly this opens doors.

5. Share Your Journey Publicly

Write a blog post or make a YouTube/LinkedIn post titled:

“How I Got Into Toptal Without a Big Portfolio (2025 Guide)”

or

“What It’s Like to Be a Toptal Freelancer”

This doesn’t just build your brand—it can lead to podcast invites, interviews, and unexpected client DMs.

In Summary:

Toptal isn’t the end goal—it’s a beginning.
By smartly using your Toptal status, you can create a wave of inbound opportunities that position you as a serious, trusted professional in your industry.

You no longer have to chase work. Work will start finding you.

Step 8: Invest in Long-Term Growth Beyond Toptal

Toptal may be a premium freelancing platform, but true success lies in your long-term strategy. Rather than becoming overly dependent on one source, you must use your Toptal journey to build a sustainable personal brand, expand your skillset, and secure income streams that grow with you.

In 2025 and beyond, the freelancers who win are those who think like entrepreneurs.

Here’s How to Future-Proof Your Freelancing Career:

1. Start Building Your Personal Brand

Begin by positioning yourself as an expert, not just a service provider.

Create niche-focused content on LinkedIn, Medium, or your own blog
Share lessons you’ve learnt through Toptal projects
Post short case studies, tips, or tutorials in your area of expertise

Why it matters: Personal brands attract better clients and higher rates—even outside platforms.

2. Diversify Your Income Streams

Relying on just Toptal? That's risky. Use your downtime to explore:

Creating and selling digital products (eBooks, Notion templates, design kits)
Launching an online course or coaching service
Building your own agency or small team over time

With your Toptal credibility, these ventures will gain more trust.

3. Upgrade Your Skill Stack

Technology and trends change fast. Make continuous learning a habit:

Take advanced courses (Coursera, Udemy, LinkedIn Learning)
Learn complementary skills (e.g., a designer learning UX writing or animation)
Stay updated on AI tools and automations relevant to your field

2025 freelancers must be adaptive, not just talented.

4. Build an Email List or Community

Start collecting emails from your blog readers, clients, or fellow freelancers. You can later:

Launch a newsletter
Offer services or products directly
Collaborate with others on premium gigs

Community = leverage.

5. Set Big Goals Beyond Freelancing

Don’t stop at freelancing. Plan for bigger dreams like:

Becoming a recognised speaker in your industry
Publishing a bestselling book
Launching your own SaaS or startup
Or simply building a freedom-based lifestyle

Your Toptal story is just Chapter One.

In Summary:

Don’t just freelance—build a brand, a business, and a legacy.
Toptal gives you the entry into a premium world. But your long-term growth comes from how you evolve, market yourself, and multiply your value over time.

You’re not just a freelancer anymore. You’re a brand in the making.

Step 9: Maintain Consistency and Adaptability in Your Freelancing Career

While all the steps you’ve followed up until now are crucial for entering and thriving on Toptal, long-term success comes down to one simple thing: consistency. Freelancing isn’t a one-time achievement; it’s a journey of adaptation and constant improvement.

No matter how successful you become on Toptal, the freelance landscape will continue to evolve. Your ability to adapt and stay consistent will set you apart from others and ensure you remain at the top of your game.

Here’s How to Stay Consistent and Adaptable in the Freelance World:

1. Continuously Deliver Exceptional Work

Your reputation will only grow if you keep delivering high-quality work. Each project is an opportunity to further solidify your position as a top-tier freelancer. Even after achieving success on Toptal, don’t let complacency set in. Keep pushing the boundaries of your abilities, learning, and growing with every new task.

Pro Tip: Focus on your client’s business goals. Always ask how you can add value beyond the initial scope. This creates long-term relationships that will benefit you far beyond your first project.

2. Re-evaluate Your Goals Regularly

Just because you’ve achieved success doesn’t mean you stop setting new goals. Regularly ask yourself:

Where do I want to be in the next 6 months?
What new skills should I focus on?
How can I improve my personal brand?

This helps keep your career fresh and motivates you to keep working toward bigger, more exciting opportunities.

3. Learn to Pivot When Needed

The freelance world is dynamic. What works today might not work tomorrow. As a freelancer, you need to stay adaptable and learn how to pivot when necessary.

Whether it’s a new platform gaining traction, a change in demand for your services, or a shift in client needs, the ability to embrace change and pivot your strategy will ensure your relevance and success.

4. Network and Collaborate

Consistency isn’t just about delivering good work—it’s also about building lasting connections. Networking doesn’t just happen on Toptal; it can happen anywhere:

Industry events
Online forums
LinkedIn groups
Webinars

Collaborating with other freelancers and professionals also opens up more opportunities and expands your reach.

5. Stay Updated with Market Trends

The freelancing world is constantly changing, and so are the platforms, tools, and technologies. Stay updated by:

Reading industry blogs and attending webinars
Participating in online communities to exchange knowledge
Learning new technologies or upgrading your skills
Following Toptal’s blog and staying in touch with the trends they share

By staying on top of trends, you can remain competitive and ensure that your skills and offerings are always in demand.

In Summary:

Freelancing is a marathon, not a sprint.
Consistency, adaptability, and continuous learning are the cornerstones of sustained success. Embrace the journey, be willing to adapt to the ever-changing landscape, and keep your focus on delivering high-quality work that exceeds expectations.

Your journey on Toptal and beyond will only flourish if you consistently show up, evolve, and never stop improving.

Conclusion:

Embarking on a freelancing career can seem daunting, especially when you're entering competitive platforms like Toptal without a strong portfolio. However, as this guide has shown, it's not impossible to break in. With the right mindset, strategy, and determination, you can not only gain entry to Toptal but thrive on the platform, even without a traditional portfolio.

By following these 9 actionable steps, you'll be able to:

Showcase your skills effectively and gain credibility even without a portfolio.
Build a strong personal brand that sets you apart from the competition.
Leverage your Toptal status to unlock more opportunities both inside and outside the platform.
Keep a long-term vision focused on constant improvement and adaptability.

The freelancing world is ever-evolving, and Toptal is just one stepping stone. With the skills and strategies you've learned, you're now equipped to adapt to the changing landscape and stay ahead of the curve.

Remember, success on Toptal—and in freelancing overall—isn’t about just getting your foot in the door; it’s about consistently delivering high-quality work, building relationships, and positioning yourself as an irreplaceable expert.

Now that you've got the tools, it's time to get started. Take action, and begin your journey to becoming a top freelancer on Toptal and beyond.

AI and Freelancing in 2026