Should freelancers build audiences or portfolios first?

[Btaliat]

In freelancing, it is important for the freelancers to know what to do first. Knowing this will contribute to the effectiveness of the program. When you build your portfolio and audience first, you are surely helping yourself as you won't have issues with clients. With that, your clients will know how you operate and you will also know the kind of clients to target. Unfortunately, it does take time to get this done. What do you think?