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8 Things To Keep In Mind Before Your First Upwork Assignment From client reviews to low bids, here's everything you need to know before you start freelancing.

By Tatiana Dumitru Edited by Jessica Thomas May 28, 2020

Opinions expressed by Entrepreneur contributors are their own.

The world has changed a lot in the past few months. Maybe you got laid off from your full-time job and are ready to earn some extra money. Or maybe you now have time to pursue a freelance dream.

I started freelancing a few years ago and eventually was able to open my own branding agency. Because I got my start on Upwork, I'd like to share with you some tips on taking the leap and joining this freelancing platform.

Related: 11 Best Websites to Find Freelance Jobs and Make Extra Money

Deciding to become a freelancer is a big decision, so once you're committed, make sure that you start off on the right foot. In addition to filling out your profile, writing a strong introduction, using a professional profile picture and adding to your digital portfolio, here are some tips to help you get started.

1. Be selective about jobs

If you're new to Upwork, you're probably not familiar with the fact that in order to apply to a job, you will need connects. Connects are what you need to submit proposals on Upwork — think of them as virtual tokens. Once you create your new profile, you automatically get 20 free connects to help you try the platform and get you started. When you run out, you can buy more, or complete milestones. If you become a Rising Talent or Top Rated Freelancer, you'll get more free connects. You can also upgrade to a Freelancer Plus Membership, which comes with 70 connects per month.

Related: These Are the Skills Freelancers Need Most to Make an Impact Right Now

Upwork uses this policy to ensure that freelancers are serious about the jobs they apply for. So when you're applying to jobs, choose ones that you feel you're qualified for to make the most out of your connects, because there's no guarantee you'll get the job. However, if the client ends up closing the job without hiring a freelancer, you'll get back the connects you used to apply.

Connects aren't the only reason you should be selective about applying to jobs. If you apply for and are offered a job that's more than you can handle, it can have a detrimental effect on your freelancing career. If you can't deliver what you promised, you won't get paid — and more importantly, you'll be left with a bad review. Negative reviews decrease your credibility and affect your chances of getting hired again.

Related: How to Get 5-Star Reviews on Upwork

2. Create a good cover letter template

When you start applying to jobs on Upwork, you'll need to send a cover letter introducing yourself. This letter should explain to clients how you can help and why they should hire you . Writing cover letters can be taxing and time-consuming, so make things easier for yourself by creating a template. You can personalize this template for each job you apply to, so you don't have to start from scratch for each cover letter. Make sure that the tone is appropriate and professional — no abbreviations, slang or typos.

3. Read the client's reviews

Just like freelancers, clients get reviews on Upwork. Read them carefully to see what other freelancers have to say about them. (And cross-check the freelancer's profile to make sure they leave credible reviews.) Even if the reviews aren't negative, you'll get a better feel for how the client operates...and an idea if it's the right fit for you.

Related: 10 of the Highest-Paying Gig Economy Jobs of 2019

4. Encourage clients to take an introductory call with you

When you're starting out as a freelancer on Upwork, you won't have any reviews or completed projects, so it can be difficult for clients to trust you. Set yourself apart from other freelancers by offering to set up a preliminary call before contracts and commitments are set in place. This is a great way to convince potential clients that you're the right person for the job, and also lets them know that you're a great communicator with confidence in your abilities. Show that you're not reluctant to have a phone call or video chat, and you'll get bonus points for building credibility and trust and demonstrating your determination.

5. Make sure the client's payment is verified.

If a client is new to Upwork, it might take a few days for their payment method to be verified, so wait until it's approved by the platform before you start working on a project. After that, make sure that the client sends you the offer (guaranteeing you're the freelancer hired for the job) and funds at least the first milestone. This means the money is in escrow, so you can request payment as soon as you finish the project's first milestone.

Related: The 7 Best Freelance Sites to Find Work

6. Be prepared to work for free…

...at least for the first few jobs. When you're starting out as a freelancer, your primary goal isn't to make money (sorry, but it's the truth!). For your first projects on Upwork, focus on getting positive reviews instead of big paychecks. Start with low bids and even work for free if you have to. You'll build your portfolio, your professional network, your credibility and your reputation. On Upwork, your reputation is everything. You'll be competing with Top Rated Freelancers, so use those positive reviews to stand out from the crowd and stay in the talent pool.

7. Check the client's location

Consider different time zones when you're applying to projects. If the client is headquartered halfway across the world, it could be difficult to schedule calls or ask for fast feedback. But if you're someone who works late nights and early mornings, it could end up being a great fit.

8. Pay attention to red flags

In my experience, it's a big red flag when a client wants to work (and compensate you) outside of Upwork. There's a reason that freelancers trust platforms like Upwork, so if a client asks to take things offline, it puts you in a difficult, unethical situation. It's okay to use tools outside of Upwork, but the contract and payment should always be done through the freelancing platform.

Related: How to Hire the Right Freelancer

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Navigate Upwork with Confidence: The Ultimate Beginner’s Guide

A comprehensive freelancer’s guide.

In the realm of freelance opportunities, Upwork stands out as a go-to platform for many individuals seeking remote work. If you’re navigating the world of freelancing, Upwork is likely a name that resonates. Indeed, countless freelancers have started their online career journey through Upwork, making it a common starting point for those venturing into the world of remote work.

Upwork stands as one of the leading freelance platforms on the internet, and for beginners, the answer is a resounding yes—it is an excellent platform. While I wholeheartedly recommend Upwork for its vast array of opportunities, it’s essential to acknowledge the nuances. Upwork does indeed offer numerous jobs tailored for beginners, providing a conducive environment to kickstart one’s freelance career, especially when experience is limited. Engaging with Upwork enables you to connect with clients, gradually building confidence and expertise over time. However, it’s crucial to be mindful of certain downsides inherent in any platform, which we’ll explore further to ensure a balanced perspective.

Whether you’re contemplating joining Upwork or have already taken the plunge, the following sections will provide valuable insights to enhance your experience and make the most of your freelancing journey on this widely acclaimed platform.

What is Upwork?

For a glimpse into the firsthand experience of embarking on a freelancing journey as a beginner on Upwork, understanding the fundamentals is key.

Upwork , a prominent freelance platform, serves as a dynamic bridge connecting freelancers with businesses seeking diverse skills and services. Undoubtedly, Upwork’s vast user base and expansive opportunities make it an appealing choice for freelancers. The platform’s sheer size, however, presents a double-edged sword—while it facilitates easier job discovery due to its enormity, it also introduces a heightened level of competition. With millions of users, Upwork stands as one of the most popular online freelance platforms, alongside Fiverr , garnering widespread recognition in the realm of digital freelancing.

As witnessed during the pandemic, the surge in remote work has been substantial, leading to a significant rise in the number of people working from home; consequently, freelance platforms such as Upwork and Fiverr are poised to experience even greater popularity.

As individuals started translating their tangible skills, such as data entry and customer service, into the digital realm, a notable trend emerged. On Upwork, numerous opportunities abound for leveraging these conventional work skills to secure lucrative online positions and generate income.

As businesses increasingly recognize the benefits of outsourcing tasks to freelancers, they have discovered a formula that both saves them valuable time and resources and also enhances overall productivity. Platforms like Upwork offer an avenue for businesses to efficiently advertise job opportunities, attracting skilled freelancers with minimal investment.

However, the competitive nature of the system often compels freelancers to submit lower bids in order to secure projects, a dynamic that, at times, results in compensation that may not be commensurate with the expertise and effort invested by freelancers on the platform.

Subscriptions

Upwork provides users with two subscription options to tailor their experience on the platform. The free Basic plan offers essential features, allowing users to explore and engage with the platform without incurring any additional costs. For those seeking enhanced functionalities and premium benefits, Upwork offers the Plus plan at a monthly subscription fee of $20. This upgraded plan unlocks a range of advanced features, providing users with a more comprehensive and streamlined freelancing experience on the platform. But is the Plus plan worth it?

10 Connects per month
Ability to purchase additional Connects at $0.15 + Tax each*
Rollover of unused Connects, up to a maximum of 200
Hourly protection ensuring compensation for each hour worked
Fixed-price payments secured through milestones
Limited reporting and functionality features

*Note: The pricing and availability of features may be subject to change, and users are advised to check Upwork’s official documentation for the latest information.

The Upwork Plus plan encompasses all features of the Basic plan and offers additional perks to enhance the freelancing experience:

100 Connects per month
AI chat to assist project bids
Your profile will never be set to hidden due to inactivity
Setting to keep your earnings confidential
View competitor bids for any job
Customize your profile URL
Extended reports and functionality, including grouping and sorting

While the idea of paying to access job opportunities on Upwork may seem unconventional, it’s important to recognize the platform’s unique model. Unlike platforms such as LinkedIn where job searching is free, Upwork operates on a different premise, utilizing a subscription system to generate revenue.

It’s understandable to feel hesitant about paying for job access, yet the convenience and streamlined experience offered by Upwork Plus come with distinct advantages. The subscription fee serves as an investment in an ecosystem that connects freelancers with a diverse range of opportunities, providing a platform where efficiency and convenience play crucial roles in navigating the competitive freelancing landscape.

Types of Projects on Upwork

Fixed rate projects.

Upwork categorizes jobs into three primary types, with one of them being Fixed-Rate Projects. In this model, freelancers and clients agree upon a predetermined, fixed fee for a specific one-time project.

This approach is particularly advantageous for professions like writing, where delivering quality work efficiently can lead to financial penalties in hourly rate scenarios. Embracing fixed-rate projects encourages freelancers to shift away from the traditional mindset of trading time for dollars, fostering a focus on delivering value rather than being bound by hourly constraints. Additionally, determining an accurate hourly rate can be challenging, potentially resulting in significant financial losses over time when charging hourly.

For example, consider a scenario where a freelancer agrees to a fixed fee of $500 for crafting a comprehensive case study. Another example could involve a designer taking on a fixed-rate project to create 50 Pinterest graphics for a set fee of $200. In both instances, the predetermined amount remains constant, providing clarity for both the freelancer and the client regarding the agreed compensation for the specific deliverables outlined in the project.

Hourly Rates

Hourly projects are a common payment structure on Upwork, allowing freelancers to charge clients based on the hours worked. However, determining a suitable hourly rate can be challenging, as it needs to encompass various factors like overhead, experience level, and other components.

For some freelancers, hourly rates may not be the most effective way to charge, especially when it’s difficult to estimate the time required for a task accurately. Despite this challenge, hourly rates appeal to certain freelancers and industries, offering familiarity for both parties. Notably, hourly pay can be well-suited for specific jobs, such as virtual assistants, online proofreading, or bookkeeping, while alternatives like monthly retainers may provide a more stable income for ongoing commitments.

An example of an hourly-rate project involves a freelancer agreeing to a rate of $40 per hour for the task of designing a website. The contract will continue and the client is billed weekly until the contract is ended. The client has the flexibility to choose between manual time entry, where the freelancer independently logs the hours worked for the day, or automatic time capture.

With the latter option, the freelancer utilizes the Upwork time tracker, which not only records the time but also takes random screenshots to ensure productivity. This feature provides the client with valuable insights into click rates and productivity metrics for their assessment. Additionally, while time-tracked projects allow manual time entry, any such entries require client approval to maintain transparency and accountability in the billing process.

Milestone projects on Upwork blend aspects of both hourly and fixed-price structures, offering freelancers the flexibility to propose a flat rate for extended or ongoing assignments. For instance, if you’re contracted to write a weekly blog post for $1000, the client establishes milestones where you submit the completed work at regular intervals, such as weekly or monthly.

Upon approval, the client releases payment for the respective milestone. While milestone projects provide a structured approach for long-term engagements, potential challenges may arise if clients are slow in approving and processing payments, creating a potential drawback for freelancers seeking timely compensation for their work.

Diversity of Opportunities on Upwork

Upwork offers a plethora of opportunities catering to both beginners and seasoned professionals seeking to transition their careers into the digital realm. The diverse range of jobs spans various fields, providing a platform for freelancers with different skill sets.

Freelance Writing
Logo Design
Creating Spreadsheets
Proofreading and Editing
Virtual Assistant
Transcription Work
Copywriting
Web and App Testing
Website Designing
Customer Service
Miscellaneous Tasks
Voice Recordings

For those seeking even more opportunities, exploring Upwork’s extensive selection is highly recommended.

Is Upwork Worth it?

While Upwork undoubtedly offers a wealth of opportunities, unlocking its full potential requires an investment of time, effort, and strategic planning. The platform’s saturation implies that standing out from the competition demands patience and a commitment to crafting compelling proposals.

Upwork is indeed worth the endeavor for freelancers, but success is contingent on the dedication to building a strong profile, writing persuasive proposals, and patiently navigating the competitive landscape. By investing the time to showcase your skills effectively and differentiate yourself, Upwork can become a rewarding platform for those willing to navigate the challenges and persist in their pursuit of freelance success.

Learn how to write a stand-out Upwork proposal.

Is the Pay Good for Beginners?

This is a common inquiry, and the answer depends on various factors such as the nature of the Upwork job and your level of expertise. While it’s true that experienced freelancers with positive Upwork reviews tend to command higher rates, there’s significant potential for beginners to earn well if they invest time, apply to numerous jobs, and showcase their skills effectively.

The key lies in actively building a strong profile, submitting tailored proposals, and consistently refining your approach. While Upwork can be a lucrative avenue for those willing to invest and explore opportunities, it’s advisable not to rely on it as a full-time source of income unless you already have a supplementary venture to provide financial stability.

Numerous freelancers have achieved remarkable success, earning six figures by mastering the platform and adopting a strategic approach to their job search. Success often stems from a deep understanding of freelancing dynamics and a commitment to delivering exceptional value to clients. By incorporating the tips below and prioritizing client satisfaction, freelancers can elevate their profiles, secure high success scores, and foster the growth of their freelance business on these platforms.

The Unspoken Realities of Navigating Upwork’s Job Market

As a freelance website designer , I hold a distinct perspective for a reason. When I started my journey, I secured my first website design client on Upwork after four months of persistent efforts. The initial gig paid $40 per hour, which was a positive start, yet not quite where I aspired to be. It’s crucial to acknowledge that while platforms like Upwork provide opportunities, there are aspects no one tells you about the freelancing landscape.

Despite my frustrations with Upwork, it’s essential to recognize that you have more control over your rates and career trajectory when seeking jobs outside the platform. I don’t discourage exploring online opportunities, but understanding these nuances can empower freelancers to navigate the digital landscape more effectively and secure favorable terms for their services.

Bid Constantly and Frequently

If you’re new to freelancing on Upwork, understanding the concept of bidding is crucial. A bid essentially represents the amount you propose to be paid for a particular job when submitting a proposal on Upwork. Securing clients on this platform is undeniably a numbers game, akin to the process of reaching out to potential clients through cold pitch emails on platforms like LinkedIn.

While it might not be the most appealing aspect, the reality is that success often hinges on the frequency of your job applications. The more actively and consistently you bid for jobs, the higher the likelihood of landing opportunities.

Accumulating positive reviews and maintaining a high Upwork job success score (JSS) will eventually position you where clients come to you. Patience and persistence in consistently bidding for jobs are key components of securing your initial opportunities and building a successful freelancing career on Upwork.

You Need to Buy Connects

Understanding Upwork connects is essential for navigating the bidding process on the platform. Connects are the virtual currency used to submit proposals for jobs on Upwork. Initially, upon signing up, you receive 40 connects with an opportunity to earn an additional 40 by earning a Rising Talent Badge .

For those on the Freelancer Plus Plan, there’s an allocation of 100 connects per month. Any unused connects can roll over to the next month, capped at 200. Given that Upwork success often hinges on the volume of proposals submitted, managing connects becomes crucial.

The number of connects required for each job varies, ranging from 8 to 16. The determination is based on factors such as the project’s scope, budget, and duration. For instance, shorter, lower-budget projects may require fewer connects, while long-term, higher-paying opportunities may necessitate a higher number. Navigating the dynamics of connects can be initially confusing for beginners, emphasizing the importance of understanding and investing in connects to kickstart a successful journey on Upwork.

Your Experience on Upwork Matters

Embarking on Upwork as a new freelancer without any reviews or job history on the platform might initially seem daunting, leaving you feeling disheartened. However, it’s important to recognize that your experience outside of Upwork holds significant value and can be effectively showcased on your profile under various sections.

Don’t underestimate the impact of highlighting your skills and accomplishments gained off the platform. In your profile description, it’s advisable to convey that while you are new to Upwork, you bring a wealth of experience from your work outside the platform.

Remember, every freelancer on Upwork starts with an empty profile, and the journey improves with each successfully landed job and positive review. Persistence and a commitment to building a strong Upwork profile will contribute to a more promising freelancing experience over time.

Learn how to design a great Upwork profile.

Final Thoughts: Is Upwork a Good Platform?

Now equipped with a comprehensive understanding of navigating Upwork, including my personal insights from firsthand experience, you have the knowledge to embark on your freelancing journey with confidence. I recognize the value of Upwork for building confidence and securing immediate jobs, especially for beginners.

The platform offers a plethora of freelance jobs, spanning data entry, graphic design, writing projects, and more, providing a diverse landscape for freelancers to explore. If you choose to leverage Upwork, I encourage you to view it as a stepping stone and simultaneously explore avenues on platforms like LinkedIn or Twitter to connect with higher-paying clients.

By balancing your approach and seeking opportunities that offer more significant returns for your efforts, you can navigate the freelancing landscape effectively and avoid the feast or famine cycle.

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How to Get Your First Job on Upwork [Beginner’s Guide]

R.J. Weiss, CFP®

Updated June 03, 2024

You may have heard that Upwork is a great place to start a side hustle , or even to become a full-time freelancer.

You heard correctly!

The platform features thousands of new freelance gigs every day, with well-paid work-from-home opportunities in almost every niche imaginable.

I know, because before launching The Ways To Wealth I was an Upwork freelancer myself, taking on a wide variety of jobs and eventually billing over $100 per hour for my services.

Many newcomers to the platform wonder how to get started and land their first client on the site.

This guide aims to answer the question “How do I get a job on Upwork with no experience,” and provides a step-by-step guide for getting started and winning your first contract.

Let’s dig in…

Table of Contents

How Upwork Works for Freelancers

Upwork is a gig economy platform that connects freelancers with people and companies that need work done. After signing up for the site, freelancers create a profile that includes a photo, a list of skills and a portfolio of work samples.

Users then search through the tens of thousands of job opportunities listed on the site, which are organized into various categories .

When you find a job of interest, you submit a proposal that usually includes your desired rate, a short cover letter and brief answers to a few questions about your skills, experience and fitness for the project.

Clients (i.e., the people who are looking for freelancers) can also search for freelancers who might be a good fit for their project. After being invited to apply, the process looks the same as above; you review the details and submit a proposal.

Freelancers and clients communicate on Upwork through a built-in messaging platform, which has chat, voice and video-call capability. Interestingly, unlike some other freelancing platforms, off-site communication (such as email) is not expressly prohibited.

Billing and payments are handled by Upwork, which provides a measure of protection to both parties. In most cases, clients are required to place funding for the project in an Upwork-managed escrow account in order to initiate a contract.

Upwork charges freelancers 20% for the first $500 billed to a client, but that fee drops to 10% once you’ve billed your client at least $500 .

Some jobs are paid at an hourly rate, while some are paid a flat fee. Usually, you’ll have the opportunity to negotiate the rate and terms during the proposal process.

When people think of freelancing jobs, they often think of things like writing , graphic design and editing. You’ll find plenty of that type of gig on Upwork, but there are Upwork jobs that fall into hundreds of other categories, including web design, mobile app development, data entry, copywriting , remote customer service and virtual assistant.

Case in point: these are the job categories that start with the letter “D” alone…

You’ll even find listings for what might be considered “professional” careers, like architecture, chemical engineering and law.

So while you can find one-off writing gigs that supplement your existing income, you can also find legitimate Upwork careers!

And many people do just that: rates on the platform tend to be relatively high, so freelancers are often able to build a full-time income with just a handful of clients.

Sound interesting, but also a little bit intimidating?

Don’t worry if you’re a newbie and don’t have a ton of experience. There are plenty of prospective clients interested in hiring new freelancers.

You just need to know a few tips and best practices.

How to Get Your First Job on Upwork

Upwork features legitimate clients, good pay rates, plenty of flexible work-from-anywhere job opportunities in dozens of categories and payment protection.

Sounds great, right?

Many new freelancers learn about the opportunity offered by Upwork and get a rush of excitement that is gradually replaced by frustration and disappointment as they fail to actually get a job on the site.

So let’s be honest about one thing: getting your first job on Upwork is the biggest barrier to success on the platform.

Why is it so hard to win your first contract?

There are a few reasons. But first and foremost is your lack of feedback.

Upwork relies on a five-star rating and feedback system. This feedback is front-and-center when you go and apply for a job — as you can see in the image below, which shows how it looks on your profile.

When a project is completed, freelancers and clients grade each other and have the opportunity to leave a publicly-displayed comment.

These ratings serve as a form of social proof: they show that you’ve successfully completed projects and that you’re not going to waste a client’s time and money.

They also contribute to your “ Job Success Score ” (JSS), which is a publicly-displayed metric that Upwork uses to determine how satisfied your clients are with your work.

When clients are searching for freelancers to invite to projects, they have the ability to filter potential applicants by JSS (often opting to only consider people with a score of 100%). Also, your JSS is prominently displayed when you submit a proposal (as you can see in the image below).

As a new freelancer, you have no feedback and no Job Success Score.

So, you see the problem: clients have no way of knowing whether you’re a reliable person who can actually deliver the skills you say you can deliver. This makes them much less likely to hire you.

Fortunately, there are some steps you can take to counteract this.

Learn more about how to win jobs as an Upwork beginner in the video below, which covers four tips for writing better proposals (and explains the strategy behind why those tips work).

Upwork Sample Profile & Best Practices (With a Step-By-Step Guide For Creating Your Own)

Step #1: craft a knockout profile .

When you have no feedback and no JSS, your profile comes under extra scrutiny.

As an Upwork beginner, it’s your primary means of selling yourself to potential clients. But many newcomers make the mistake of rushing through the profile creation process, which makes them much less competitive.

Here are the keys to creating a great Upwork profile that will make clients want to learn more about you.

1. Use a business-friendly photo

First impressions matter, and an appropriate photo is an important part of your Upwork profile.

Because the photos on the site are small, you want a close-cropped image showing your head and neck (and possibly the tops of your shoulders).

Freelancing is very different from a traditional job, so while a suit is appropriate for a traditional job interview, it’s a little too formal for your Upwork profile. If any portion of your clothing will be shown in your photo, stick with business casual.

You also want your photo to be friendly. You’re not posing for your passport — you’re trying to draw in prospective clients.

Research into what makes an effective profile photo has shown that smiling and a confident posture can significantly influence clients’ perception of you .

Here’s an article from Upwork that outlines some of the recommended best practices .

2. Write a compelling, keyword-rich job title and overview

Whether you’re trying to land your first job on Upwork or your 100th, you want to make it easy for potential clients to find you. This means crafting a detailed description of your skillset that’s filled with keywords relevant to the kind of jobs you want to be hired for, as well as an overview of your experience.

You also want to focus on highlighting benefits in these sections.

What do I mean by “benefits?”

Here’s a screenshot of my own Upwork title and overview from back when I was a freelancer on the platform.

In the title, I didn’t simply describe what I do . That would have looked something like:

Copywriting and Landing Page Design Services .

Instead, I added two important pieces of information to help potential clients understand what I was all about: a niche (Unbounce, which is a specific type of landing page software) and a benefit (increased ROI).

Then, I reinforced the benefit I provide by talking about it in the overview.

When you’re just starting out, you may not have a niche yet. However, you can absolutely underscore the benefits clients would gain by hiring you. Don’t just say what you’re good at; think about how your skills translate into specific, tangible returns.

That said, you should always be thinking about your future niche(s). Because there’s so much competition on Upwork, appealing to a particular niche within your wider area of expertise can help you win more clients and earn better rates.

For example, if you’re a social media guru who has worked with many restaurants, highlight that fact.

3. Consider adding an introductory video

Most of the jobs on Upwork are remote work. It’s unlikely that you’ll ever meet a client in person, and you may not even speak to them on the phone. Most of the time, it’s pretty impersonal and transactional: you get an assignment, complete it and submit the deliverables.

That’s part of the reason why feedback is so important: to a client, you’re one anonymous face out of thousands.

But if you’re able to shift that dynamic (even slightly) you can gain an edge on your competition.

One way to help yourself stand out and be less anonymous is by adding an introductory video to your Upwork profile. It’s an infrequently-utilized option, but it can have a big impact on the success of your proposals.

In your video, tell potential clients who you are, a little bit about the services you offer, and how long you’ve been involved in your profession. Note the kinds of projects you want to take on, and the kind of clients you like to work with.

You don’t need to cover much ground here — 30 to 60 seconds is ideal. The goal is to simply show your face in a way that demonstrates you’re a real, reasonable person.

4. Match your “skills” to the type of work you’re seeking

Your Upwork profile allows you to add up to 10 “skills” from a predefined database of options. Here are the skills listed on the profile of a freelance SEO editor I work with here at The Ways To Wealth:

As you can see, his skills are directly related to the work of an SEO editor.

But here’s the thing: prior to becoming a freelancer, he spent over a decade working as a journalist and music critic. If you ask him, he’ll tell you that some of his primary expertise is interviewing sources, researching stories and drafting creative first-person content.

But none of that is relevant to working as an SEO editor, so he didn’t include it.

The skills you choose help potential clients find you on the site, and also affect the placement of your proposals when applying for jobs. Freelancers whose skills better match the “desired” skills (set by the client when they created the job post) will appear higher up in the client’s list of applicants.

Many new Upwork freelancers make the mistake of listing their 10 top skills, regardless of what those are. But since you’re limited to adding only 10, you need to think carefully about which of your skills specifically match the type of work you’re looking for.

For example, let’s say you spent five years working as a virtual assistant but are looking to get started as a freelance video editor. The skills you developed as a VA are very likely among your top skills in terms of expertise level. But those skills are probably not relevant to a client looking for a video editor, so you shouldn’t include them.

Your goal here is to think about the attributes potential clients will value and choose your skills based on that. If you’re unsure, browse a few listings within your target category and see what’s in demand; chances are you’re at least proficient in some of those areas.

Update : Upwork recently introduced the ability to create specialized profiles, allowing you to highlight specific skills and experience depending on the job category. In other words, you can have one profile for video editing jobs and one profile for text editing jobs (with different skills showing for each). Here’s a guide to how it works .

5. Upload relevant work samples

Your portfolio is without question the most important part of your Upwork profile, as it provides an opportunity to show clients what you’re capable of through work samples. There’s no need to include dozens of items in your portfolio — four to six is just right.

What if you don’t have a portfolio? Create one! There’s no rule stating that only paid work can be part of a portfolio. If you’re hoping to score writing jobs but don’t have any published work, write some articles on the niche subject you know the most about.

Of course, published work is always better. In the example above, consider writing a couple of articles and pitching them to blogs as guest posts. They’ll get free content and you’ll get a valuable byline that will help you land clients.

I would even go so far as to say that you should mention the fact that you created samples specifically for your portfolio. This shows initiative on your end, and as someone who has hired their share of freelancers on Upwork, initiative is something that’s too rarely seen in a job proposal!

6. Add your work experience and education

Much like a standard job application, clients want to see your work experience. So, it’s a good idea for all Upwork freelancers to include this information.

But it’s crucial to include it when you’re starting out on the platform, because it helps legitimize your profile.

If you’ve been working for many years, you don’t need to include every job you’ve ever had within your profession. Listing the last three or four jobs is sufficient.

If you don’t have much work experience, you might want to include all of your past jobs (even if they aren’t relevant to the freelance career you’re building).

The same is true for your education. Not all jobs on Upwork require a college degree, but having a degree can help you stand out over competing freelancers who don’t.

7. Consider Adding a Project

In late 2020, Upwork introduced a feature called the Project Catalog. This allows freelancers to create fixed-priced jobs with pre-defined scopes that clients can “purchase” on demand.

For example, if you have a specific skill you’re looking to offer on Upwork — such as logo design or Unbounce landing page design — you can add that as a fixed-price service (which will then show up on your profile).

This takes a page out of Fiverr’s book, where almost all jobs are fixed-priced, on-demand gigs.

Step #2: Search For the Right Kinds of Jobs

Many new Upwork freelancers get derailed because they’re looking for (and applying to) the wrong kinds of jobs.

Not sure what skills you have to offer? Many freelancers on Upwork start with a specific service in mind, such as freelance writing . If you’re unsure of what you want to offer, fear not — there are plenty of options. When it comes to the best Upwork jobs for beginners, data entry, product testing, and transcription and customer service are an ideal starting spot. A great tip to find the array of jobs available is to search in Upwork for the phrase “no experience necessary,” which brings up companies looking to hire beginners.

Here are some ways to avoid that common pitfall.

1. Be patient and selective

There are a lot of jobs on Upwork, and new ones are posted literally by the minute. The first time you search the site for jobs in your niche, you’ll probably be floored by the number of opportunities.

But when it comes to landing your first job, you need to be a little bit strategic and avoid the urge to submit a proposal for the first gig you find that fits your skills.

Yes, there are an abundance of opportunities on the site. But there are also an abundance of freelancers — the majority of whom have feedback and plenty of hours billed, leading to solid Job Success Scores.

Those freelancers have a built-in advantage. So you need to be realistic when deciding which jobs to compete for.

Why not apply to everything?

As a freelancer, your time is your money. You could spend hours applying to jobs that are out of your reach, but that’s a poor use of your time (and a good way to get burned out).

Plus, there’s a hard cost element at play: Upwork requires you to spend tokens (called “connects”) when submitting a proposal. They’re 15 cents each, and most jobs require eight to 16 connects to submit. That’s not much, but it will add up fast if you start applying to dozens of jobs per day.

So, which jobs should you target?

See below…

2. Focus on small, one-off projects

Your objective is to get a few quick wins under your belt to build up a feedback profile. In order to do that, you’re probably going to have to bid on projects for less than your time is worth.

Making your services less expensive relative to other freelancers is a good strategy for getting clients to give you a chance. Yes, you might be a risky hire, but their potential savings might be worth taking that risk.

But like I said: your time is your money . You don’t want to take on a 30-hour job at a rate that’s half of what you’re worth. Instead, look for small, one-time projects that you can knock out relatively quickly.

There are a couple of advantages to this approach:

It limits your exposure to exploitative rates . It stinks to work for less than you’re worth, but doing so can help you establish a foothold on these platforms relatively quickly.
It’s better to work on multiple small projects than one big project , because a five-star review carries the same weight whether the job took 30 minutes or three days. A profile with great reviews from five clients is more competitive than a profile with one great review from one client.

Keep in mind, you only need to employ this strategy a handful of times. Once you have even two or three successful projects under your belt, you’ll be able to raise your rate and compete for better gigs.

3. Look for clients who can give you your second Upwork job

It’s much easier to keep a good client than to find a new one.

And the same is true from the client’s perspective: they would rather work with the same search engine optimization expert, copywriter or editor on each project. It’s time-consuming to post a job ad, sift through applications and bring somebody new on board.

What’s great about Upwork is that when you view a job listing, you can see the other (past) jobs that particular client has hired for.

So when you’re starting out, a good strategy is to target clients who consistently hire on the platform. For example, if you’re a graphic designer, try to find a client who has a record of hiring people for graphic design projects.

If a client has never hired on Upwork — or usually hires outside of your field or niche — the chances for developing an ongoing relationship are much lower.

Step #3: Submit a Can’t-Miss Proposal

Your proposal is your opportunity to “wow” the client. Take advantage of the opportunity to show off your talent and tell them exactly why you’re the best person to hire.

1. Fully read the job description

Some of the job listings on Upwork are pretty straightforward and just a few lines long. Others are much more involved. Be sure to read the entire job description. You don’t want to take a job that you’re not qualified for, or which involves something you just prefer not to do.

More importantly, you want to make sure that you’re crafting a custom proposal that specifically addresses the client’s needs.

Plus, they sometimes contain code words.

Yes, that’s right — many clients put a code word somewhere in the job post and tell you to mention it in your proposal. If you don’t, you’re automatically disqualified.

2. Provide social proof

Feedback and ratings are a form of social proof. But when you’re new to Upwork, you don’t have any. So it’s important that you include some other form of social proof that shows you’re qualified for the work you’re seeking.

Ideally, you will have published samples to point to. While these may be part of your Upwork portfolio, you should also specifically call them out in your cover letter.

Also, keep in mind that clients can see your last name once you start messaging with them. That means they’re almost certainly going to check out your LinkedIn and Twitter accounts. So it’s a good idea to make sure you have an active and professional social media presence that inspires confidence in your ability to do the work they’re seeking.

Note that while any work you create specifically for your portfolio can showcase your skills, it does not constitute social proof. In the client’s eyes, there’s a huge difference between a published article with your byline and the same article uploaded as a Word document.

And the same goes for sending a resume: it’s better to put that information on your LinkedIn profile rather than submitting a PDF resume, because publishing it online makes it more credible.

If you’re reading this and you’re worried that you don’t have enough social proof, that’s a sign that you should make sure you’re focused on cultivating an active and professional online presence that will support and fuel your success.

3. Include links to similar work you’ve completed

A shocking number of applicants don’t follow the advice above; they submit proposals with no links to their past work. But even those who do often make another common mistake: they send samples that are unrelated to the project.

If I’m looking for personal finance writers, I want to see samples that demonstrate the ability to write about personal finance — not history or literature.

Your samples don’t have to be a perfect match. Keeping with the example above, an article about business, economics, the stock market, global trade or anything in that vein would be completely reasonable.

But a college essay you wrote about “The American Dream” would not.

The more closely you can align your samples with the needs of the client, the more likely you are to get hired.

4. Suggest an actionable next step

By closing your proposal with an actionable next step, you’re taking some of the decision-making burden off the clients’ shoulders by making it easy for them to say “yes” to continuing the conversation.

The following is not an example of an actionable next step:

Thanks, and please contact me with any questions!

What if the client doesn’t have any questions? Or what if they liked your proposal, but weren’t 100% sold? That closing isn’t actionable because it doesn’t clearly and directly state what you want to happen.

On the other hand, try something like this:

Let’s schedule a call or video chat to discuss the project!

Here, you’re specifically underscoring what should happen next, and you’re giving the client a clear yes/no option. If they’re interested, why not say “yes” to a quick call?

But here’s an ever better pitch:

Let’s schedule a call or video chat to discuss the project! I’m available between 9 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. EST every day this week, or I can schedule something at your convenience.

In the example above, you’re not only defining the next step, you’re also taking control of the timeframe and pacing.

That limits potential back and forth (“when works for you,” etc.). Because you provided specific time availability, the client can commit to the call in the next message — which makes it much more likely that you’ll actually get the interview.

Note : If you’re a freelance writer, we wrote a dedicated guide that explains how to apply for Upwork writing jobs .

5. Be prepared to answer additional questions

You’re not necessarily done when you write and submit your proposal.

Some companies that hire on Upwork require additional questions and answers. These can be custom questions based on the project, or Upwork has a list of suggested questions clients can be asked to answer.

Here’s an example of how it looks from the client’s side:

On Upwork, clients typically use these to test your attention to detail.

It’s a common practice for freelancers to apply to job after job with a very similar template (it’s a common practice, but it’s not a good one). These questions and answers help filter who actually read the job proposal and who didn’t.

While you want the most value delivery in your actual proposal, if there are some screening questions, put some thought into them. Two to three sentences should suffice in most cases.

Few freelancers take time to answer these additional questions. Or, in my experience, they just say “N/A” or “see job proposal” in lieu of filling them out.

Like it or not, when clients see something like that, it’s an immediate red flag. And that’s good news for you, as it’s really another place to stand out.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are a few of the most commonly asked questions about getting started on Upwork.

It can be somewhat difficult to land your first couple of clients on the platform, but putting the steps outlined in this guide into action will make the process much easier and faster. When new freelancers struggle to get hired, it’s almost always because there’s a problem with their profile or because they’re applying to the wrong jobs. Once you have a couple of projects under your belt, you’ll have no trouble getting hired for more.

At one point, I was making $150 hourly designing landing pages on Upwork. But pay on the platform runs the gamut. Writers and editors routinely make $40 to $80 hourly, and certain types of highly-skilled freelancers — like web developers and designers — can make even more than that. On the other hand, pay for menial, tedious and low-skill tasks like data entry can be relatively low. As with any remote work platform, there’s competition for those jobs from people in developing nations who may be able to afford to work for less than the average American.

Skilled workers tend to pull the best rates. Clients are willing to pay top dollar for in-demand skills like software developers (especially if you’re good with artificial intelligence and machine learning) and data science experts. But it’s possible to earn an above average salary in almost any category. The key is to build a top-notch reputation with a proven record of delivering return on investment for your clients. As noted in the article, one of the best ways to do that is by developing your reputation within one or more niches .

Anyone can join Upwork, create a free profile and apply for jobs. But there are a few programs and features you’ll need to qualify for. First, note that clients have the ability to limit projects to only freelancers who are based in the United States — and many do. Second, you’ll want to strive to become “ Top-Rated ” which requires a Job Success Score of 90% or higher, a 100% complete profile, and earnings of at least $1,000 over a 12-month period. Top-Rated sellers get a badge added to their profile, reduced fees on Featured Jobs, exclusive invitations to submit Upwork proposals, and are generally much more likely to get hired. Finally, Upwork requires some freelancers to verify their identity via a video call. In order to work on the platform, you’ll need to be able to prove your identity and your location. You’re usually asked to verify your identity after a couple of months.

There are a number of other legitimate freelancing sites. FlexJobs is a great job board for those looking for remote work, as most of the jobs on the site are online work at home jobs. Guru is similar to Upwork, but typically has fewer listings. And Fiverr can be great for those just starting out as remote workers/freelancers, as many of the clients looking to hire on the site have less stringent requirements than those on Upwork. Fiver is slightly different in that freelancers post specific gigs (e.g., “I will edit 1,000 words for $150”) and clients browse the marketplace for the services they need.

Upwork clients tend to be more professional. They include entrepreneurs, small business owners, well-funded startups, and even corporations and government agencies. They’re looking for freelance professionals, which means the pay tends to be relatively good and the projects you’re assigned are of relatively high quality. It also means it can be harder to score your first few contracts. On the other hand, Fiverr caters more to individuals (such as solo bloggers who need proofreading, Etsy sellers who need a logo designed, or college students looking for editing help). That means it can be easier to get started, but the pay tends to be lower and you’re often dealing with clients who are new to hiring remote workers.

Getting Started on Upwork: Summary

If you were wondering how to get jobs on Upwork, hopefully you now have all the information you need — and a plan of action to get started.

The site is a great resource for those just starting out in the world of freelancing, for those who want to expand their skill set, and for those who want to transition from a traditional job to a full-time freelancing career.

Dedicating the time to properly set up your profile and take on a few jobs at comparatively low rates will be worth it: while you can make a decent side income with side hustles like DoorDash, Upwork offers a realistic way to parlay your skills and talent into a long-term freelance career that matches or exceeds the average salary you’d pull in a traditional work environment.

If you’re looking for ways to improve your work-life balance and embrace the digital nomad lifestyle, this is a great place to start.

Read next: Seven Expert Upwork Tips (+ 10 Mistakes to Avoid) .

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10 Comments

This post has been enriching to me. I shall try to use it to get an online writing job in my niche on UpWork.

Thank you for the information. I am new to any type of work online from home, but I just know that this information will help me proceed to the next step on my journey through technology and online work.

Great Misty and good luck! Upwork is definitely a good place to get started on. You can consider Fiverr as well. Here’s a comparison between the two platforms:

https://www.thewaystowealth.com/make-money/fiverr-vs-upwork/

That was an encouraging piece for first timers like me. Hope it will be useful in landing my first job.

Thanks a lot for this Weiss! I’ve been trying to nail a job on upwork for two months. Your advice about creating a good portfolio will really help me. Thanks again

Thank you. Good luck!

Hi, you said that most clients limit hiring people only in the US? I’m in Europe, is it still worth my time signing up to Upwork due to said limitations?

Hey Richie,

About 1/4 of the site’s revenue comes from outside the U.S. And, not all U.S. businesses limit their jobs to U.S. only. So, while it doesn’t have as high of potential for non-U.S. freelancers, there are still plenty of opportunities.

We mention that because we mostly have a U.S.-based audience.

Now they require between 8 and 16 connects to apply for jobs! Anyways, your blog is really great, packed with a lot of useful Information. Thank you!

Thanks for letting us know! I opened a handful of job listings just, and 8 to 16 is where I see the application cost.

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Freelancer on UpWork: the definitive guide in 2023

So, you’re just starting your freelance career. Or maybe you already have some experience. You’re looking to sign up on UpWork to benefit from the slew of opportunities the platform affords. However, you’re also worried you may not find said clients and opportunities. Maybe as a “Third World” freelancer or a beginner, you’re pessimistic regarding your chances. Or maybe your progress has stalled on UpWork. If this is the case, this guide is for you. In order to become a freelancer on UpWork and boost your freelance career, there are a few good reflexes to develop. In this guide, you will find actionable advice to build a strong freelance profile, optimize your discoverability on the platform, apply to the right jobs and snatch your first contract.

Should you become a freelancer on upwork.

UpWork is one of the biggest freelancing platforms around today. With millions of freelancers and hundreds of thousands of clients, the platform has set its sights on becoming the “Work Marketplace”. For beginner as well as more experienced freelancers who are looking to diversify their presence online, being on UpWork makes a lot of sense.

UpWork in numbers

UpWork was officially launched in 2015. Before this date, the platform was named Elance-oDesk which was a fusion of both those freelancing platforms.

The platform has more than 145,000 loyal customers who spend at least $5,000 annually. This huge financial windfall allowed freelancers to generate close to $2.52 billion USD in transactions in 2020 .

It’s estimated that the platform has more than 16 million freelancers. Out of this number, half are freelancers from the United States, India and Philippines (51.5%) . While the other half is made out of freelancers from the “rest of the world”.

This diverse composition is one of the reasons why UpWork tries to ensure a satisfactory user experience for freelancers. No matter their geographic situation. Whether you are in Benin, Nigeria, Bangladesh, Turkey, Madagascar or even Oman, you have access to the full range of features to freelance on UpWork.

Source : https://investors.upwork.com/financials/sec-filings

UpWork, how does it work?

UpWork is a middleman. The platform puts clients and their projects in touch with freelancers capable of meeting their needs.

As a freelancer you can apply by using “Connects” and submitting your proposal letter.
Then, the project owner can skim through proposals, filter offers and conduct interviews to find the ideal candidate.
During the interviews, the client and freelancer can negotiate and agree on the terms of the contract (duration, services to provide, delivery date, budget, hourly or fixed-rate, etc.)
Next, the client sends a recruitment offer to the freelancer.
The freelancer then accepts the offer and provides the services for which they were recruited.
Once the work is done, they deliver to the client so that funds can be released.
The collaboration can end at this point. One or both parties can then leave feedback on their respective profiles to serve as evaluation.

What are the platform fees to freelance on UpWork?

Like most freelancing platforms, UpWork receives a commission out of the freelancer’s pay. Where UpWork is different from other platforms, is the declining scale over time.

UPDATE: Since May 3rd, 2023 UpWork has changed its fees. A fixed-rate of 10% is systematically deducted from the value of the contract. The declining scale rate is no longer in effect. https://community.upwork.com/t5/Product-Release-Notes/Announcing-new-simpler-fees-on-Upwork/ba-p/1273950

This pricing strategy helps the platform when it comes to retaining freelancers on UpWork. After all, freelancers who reach that last level are less likely to work outside the platform in a scenario where fees are declining but they still have the full range of UpWork’s features at their disposal.

Source : https://support.upwork.com/hc/en-us/articles/211062538-Freelancer-Service-Fees

What is freelance protection on UpWork?

One of the main advantages of UpWork, is its extensive protection of freelancers. As a matter of fact, any freelancer on UpWork is guaranteed to be paid when they provide their services.

The guarantee for fixed price contracts

To benefit from this guarantee, the freelancer needs to structure their work through milestones from the get-go. These milestones can correspond to segments of work or cover the project as a whole.

The client should then finance each new milestone. These funds are held in escrow by UpWork. At this point, the freelancer can start working and as for payment by delivering the work and notifying the client through UpWork.

If the client is happy with the result, they can release the funds. Otherwise, they can ask for revisions in accordance with the agreed upon terms. In case there is a dispute, the freelance and clients can turn to UpWork for mediation.

Source : https://support.upwork.com/hc/en-us/articles/211063748-Fixed-Price-Protection

The UpWork protection for hourly rate contracts

Hourly rate contracts allow freelancers to charge an hourly rate. In other words, the agreement is made on the rate and how many hours they can log per week. With this type of contract, the freelancer on UpWork is always guaranteed to be paid. Even when the client is against it becomes unresponsive.

That being said, there are a few requirements must be met first:

The freelancer’s ID verification must be done
The client’s payment methods must be verified
The freelance must not exceed the agreed upon weekly quota
The freelancer must log their hours through the platform and do the work for which they have been recruited.

Once more, in the event of a dispute, both parties have tools to appeal. They can always ask for mediation to solve any dispute.

Source : https://support.upwork.com/hc/en-us/articles/211068288-Hourly-Payment-Protection

The most in-demand freelance profiles on UpWork

On UpWork, there are more than 100 categories for talents and more than 10,000 skills listed. For example, under the “Development” category, you will find skills such as: PHP, C++, Ruby on Rails, GOlang, Laravel, etc. Freelancers are able to showcase all their services by assigning the correct categories and corresponding skills.

In that regard, this platform serves as an excellent measuring stick for the labor market. In particular for “high tech” industries. Taking a look at the most in-demand skills is often enough to orient oneself accordingly. In 2022, the most searched professions on UpWork were related to:

Machine Learning
Automatization
Data Analysis
Mobile Application Development
Virtual Reality (VR)
Video Production
Product Management

If the fact that “Machine Learning” is at the top is any indication, we can expect Cloud Computing, Blockchain and Artificial Intelligence to end up at the top in the near future.

Source : https://www.upwork.com/resources/in-demand-jobs-and-skills

Finding freelancers on UpWork: the benefits

For clients, UpWork is almost a perfect platform. After all, on UpWork, freelancers are the real product. UpWork allows clients to access a global talent marketplace. This in turn makes the platform extremely competitive, and ultimately, provides the clients with an even larger selection of talents.

UpWork: the “new” work marketplace

With more than 16 million freelancers from all over the world, clients are sure to find the right professional for their projects. Despite being advantageous for clients, this situation has real drawbacks. In reality, this hyper competitive and global setting builds a dynamic where freelancers on UpWork are convinced that only the race to the bottom can help them get contracts.

For a client who doesn’t know how to filter offers, choosing a freelancer is often decided by the less expensive offer. However, more experienced clients already know that using small prices as a criterion is a sure way to engage in a race to mediocrity.

If you’re looking for freelancers on UpWork, it’s better to have a global idea of what your project should cost. Don’t base your choice of candidates only on the less costly rates. The platform actually gives you tools to restrict applications using various criteria (geographic region, budget, skills, etc.) to discourage this.

In the same way, freelancers are always looking for good clients, you should always stress the need to find trustworthy workers for the long run. Even for one-time projects, you should resist to the temptation of underpaying. You’ll avoid having to pay even more down the road to fix issues.

Understanding UpWork’s fees

As a rule of thumb, the platform doesn’t charge clients. That being said, they will need to be meet all fiscal obligations before recruiting on UpWork and paying service providers. Naturally, this depends on the country where they reside. Administrative fees, transaction fees and even currency conversion fees may apply.

However, clients can opt for subscriptions that give them various advantages. For example, the “Client Marketplace” subscription adds a 5% on all transactions.

Source : https://support.upwork.com/hc/en-us/articles/4660220468499-Client-Marketplace-Plan#:~:text=For%20each%20transaction%2C%20you’ll,eligible%20clients%20in%20the%20U.S.

The client guarantees on UpWork

Like any freelancing platform, UpWork gives a lot of leeway to clients. They can supervise and check worked hours by freelancers, and they can also review the whole of the work diary before releasing the funds.

On top of that, they have a grace period of 14 days to make any payment after having received the deliverables. Without forgetting to mention that any dispute that hasn’t been meticulously documented by the freelancer is almost sure to end in favor of the client.

At the very least, project owners on UpWork are secure in their position. They benefit from robust guarantees and can also contact support any time an issue arises. They can even request help from dedicated services like “Talent Scout” to find the ideal freelancers for their projects.

Archetype of a good freelancer profile on UpWork

The ideal freelance profile on UpWork is the goal that freelancers try to attain and clients try to find. While the first ones try to build their profiles to attract clients. The second ones are aiming to find service providers that fit their criteria perfectly.

As much as its important for clients to be able to identify good freelancer profiles, it’s even more important for freelancers to know what they need to improve in order to reach that status.

Understanding the UpWork badges

On UpWork, badges can be displayed on freelance profiles. These are features that differentiate standard profiles from experienced or exceptional freelancers. All in all, there are 4 badges that every client should learn about, and that every freelancer should try to earn:

Rising Talent : This green colored badge is an indicator that the freelancer has a good profile and shows good potential. These are usually freelancers who have already landed contracts and received positive reviews after their assignments.
Top-Rated : The Top-Rated freelancer is a more experienced freelancer who has already landed small contracts (less than $5,000) and has earned more than $1,000 in the last 12 months. In total, about 12% of freelancers on UpWork will be able to earn this badge.
Top-Rated Plus : These are the high caliber freelancers. They’ve already had great feedback on large projects (over $5,000) and earned over $10,000 in a 12-month period. They make up the top 3% of freelancers on UpWork.
Expert-Vetted : These experts are elite freelancers who have been hand-picked by other experts and professional recruiters. Their expertise is evaluated so that clients can call on them with complete peace of mind. They represent less than 1% of the freelancers on the platform.

Source : https://community.upwork.com/t5/Growing-on-Upwork/Upwork-Badges-Course/ta-p/1109298

The statistics that matter on UpWork

UpWork badges are external markers that matter for clients. However, there are other criteria that raise or lower a freelancer’s profile with regards to the platform’s algorithm. These include:

The Mission Success Score : This is the percentage of missions that you were able to complete. Ideally, you should aim for 100%.
Response Time : How long it takes you to respond to an invitation to apply for a new job on UpWork. A good profile will have a response time of less than 24 hours.
Feedback : Reviews left by clients who have paid for your services. The rating is an average of all the reviews left since the beginning of your career on UpWork. These are ratings from 1 to 5 stars.
Long-term clients : The percentage of clients who have chosen to work with you long term.
Referral Clients : How many of the clients you’ve worked for would recommend you to other users of the platform.
Account Blocking : How many times has your account been blocked, suspended, etc.
Verified Profile : Proof that your identity has indeed been verified by UpWork. An additional mark of credibility.

Note that statistics such as response time, mission success score, account blocking and Top-Rated badge are calculated over defined periods ranging from 90 days to 16 weeks…

UpWork Freelance Stats – Client Satisfaction

Source : https://www.upwork.com/my-stats/

How to build an impactful freelance profile on UpWork?

Now that we’ve established what a “ good freelance profile on UpWork ” looks like, it’s time to discuss how to achieve it. As a beginner freelancer, profile optimization is one of the most important things you need to get new contracts and jumpstart your freelancing career.

The must-have elements of a good freelance profile on UpWork

How to set up your freelance profile ?

A freelance profile is a lot like a modern type of resume. On UpWork as on other platforms, some key elements must be included in order to attract the attention of recruiters and gain credibility. These are the presentation, the portfolio, proof of previous experience, certifications and testimonials, as well as recommendations from previous clients .

An impactful presentation

Made up of the title, the photo and a descriptive text, it is the first thing that the client will see when he loads your profile. The title should say enough about your main services (ENG-FR Translator / GOLANG Dev / Procreate Illustrator / etc.).

The description should summarize in less than 200 words the main benefits of working with you. This is where you need to give the client the feeling that they have found a service provider who understands what they need. Finally, always include a professional photo with your profile, one that could appear on your LinkedIn profile or on a traditional CV will do the trick.

The portfolio

No matter what type of work you do as a freelancer, you must have a portfolio. These can be personal projects or projects done for previous clients (if you are allowed to share them). The purpose of the portfolio is to show that you have worked on such or such type of project before. In other words, it’s a way to prove that you are not 100% new to the business .

Certifications

Certifications are the other way you can demonstrate your experience. An Adobe certification is useful to prove that you have a good command of graphic tools and software like Photoshop, Illustrator or Premiere, for example. A Google or Facebook certification related to Ads campaigns management gives you more credibility with clients looking for a specialist.

Note, however, that some professional categories may lack certifications. That said UpWork allows you to import certifications from Credly, add them manually or fill in custom certifications.

Testimonials and referrals

Have you ever had clients outside of UpWork? You can ask them to leave you reviews on your profile. These act as initial feedback, when you have not yet received assignments on the platform. You can add them manually by providing the necessary information to contact your clients.

Get the most out of UpWork’s project catalog

UpWork’s Project Catalog is a feature that reminds one of Fiverr or ComeUp (previously 5euros). The principle is the same: you create packaged offers of your services. For example, an editorial illustration from $150, a logo from $300 or an SEO audit from $250. The rates evolve according to the specific needs of the client. These can be the elements that must appear in the illustration, the style of the logo, the number of pages of the site to be audited, etc.

This catalog is also an opportunity to list your specialized services . In particular, since the titles of these packaged projects can sometimes rank on search engines. It is an additional way to be discovered by potential customers.

The feedback-contract paradox

It’s the chicken and egg story all over again. When your freelancing profile on UpWork has no feedback yet, you lack credibility towards clients. But at the same time, you won’t be able to receive any feedback, if no client awards you your first assignment on UpWork . Most freelancing platforms face this issue, UpWork is no exception to the rule.

However, with the certifications and testimonials from clients outside UpWork, your chances to convince your first client are not zero. You still need to know how to apply effectively and how to identify worthwhile jobs.

How to apply efficiently to jobs on UpWork?

On UpWork, you have to spend resources (Connects) in order to apply. It’s not in your best interest to apply to any and all jobs in hopes of getting an interview. Even though the final decision depends on your intuition, there are general criteria you need to know to differentiate worthwhile jobs on UpWork, from the ones you should avoid.

To which jobs should you apply and which jobs should you avoid on UpWork?

When you view a job description on UpWork, you have access to a wealth of information about the client. At first glance, you will know what the job is, what the client’s expectations are, the category of the service and their country of origin. However, you should pay attention to three essential pieces of information:

Have the payment methods been verified ? If not, it may be because the client may have never spent a single penny on UpWork. This is usually a bad sign.
Does the customer have feedback from previous freelancers ? If they have bad feedback, take the time to read reviews from freelancers who have worked for this client. Find out what to expect.
How many people have already applied and when was the job posted . If the offer is several months old or there are already a lot of freelancers who have applied, chances are that you are not going to rise above the noise.

Other details such as the proposed budget or the duration of the project are not 100% reliable indicators. It is not uncommon for scammers or unscrupulous middlemen to offer very attractive fees just to attract qualified contractors, only to offer significantly lower rates later on. Conversely, some clients will enter a tiny budget for the project, encouraging candidates to submit their own rates when they apply.

As a general rule, if the client has no verified means of payment, no previous feedback, and the job has been posted for more than 3 weeks, do not waste time applying . Some people will advise you to accept mediocre pay in order to get the very first feedback. But this is only a “viable” strategy for one-time jobs.

Source : https://support.upwork.com/hc/en-us/articles/211063098-Unverified-Billing-Methods

The preliminary research to craft outstanding freelance applications!

Once you have identified a job that looks interesting to you, proceed with your preliminary research. It’s obvious that you should do your research to prepare a strong freelance cover letter, if you have information regarding the client’s name or company.

But most importantly, without leaving UpWork, you can conduct your own little investigation into the working conditions with this client. Under the job description, there is a section reserved for their recent contracts. There you will find positive and negative feedback from other freelancers, as well as the rates the client is willing to pay, for what services, and over what period of time. This gives you a good idea of how serious your future client is.

How to build a rapport with the client?

How to write a killer freelance cover letter?

Want to write a good application letter to get the job? There is no set formula. However, you can read our article on the must-have elements of a good freelance cover letter.

One essential element that deserves attention however, is the relationship you build with the client. To initiate the discussion and make your freelance application stand out, ask questions! Anticipate the client’s needs and objectives and ask all the questions that are relevant to them.

For example, if your preliminary investigation has revealed that the client is launching a home decor store, and you’re applying as a Shopify or WooCommerce developer, you can ask if they plan to introduce 3D or augmented reality capabilities to their online store. In short, make proposals that elevate the quality of your offering.

Note : It stands to reason that you should only elevate by offering services you can actually deliver on.

How to use your UpWork Connects the right way?

To apply, you need Connects. Clients can set the number of Connects needed to apply to their jobs, in hopes of screening applicants. The cost usually ranges from 1 to 6 Connects depending on the job.

Note, however, that as a freelancer, you can boost your application by spending more Connects than strictly needed when applying. For example, on a job that requires only 4 Connects, you can choose to spend 12 or even more than 100 to get to the top of the list. UpWork also allows you to see how much other freelancers have spent and know where you stand.

UpWork - Boosting proposals with Connects

Note that spending more Connects does not guarantee that your application will be accepted by the client . It is best to boost your application only when you are already sure that you are an excellent fit for the job.

Note that in the event that you do not make it into the top 3 applications after boosting, you will be reimbursed for the extra Connects you spent.

Source : https://support.upwork.com/hc/en-us/articles/4406395531795-Boost-Your-Proposal

What are dangers freelancers face on UpWorK?

As a freelancer on UpWork, it’s important to know what dangers exist on the platform. These threats can affect your profile’s and, by extension, your money-making capabilities as an independent worker.

The loss and suspension of your account

The first danger you face is the suspension of your freelance profile on UpWork. This can happen for various reasons. But, most of the time, you are safe from suspension if you respect the platform’s terms of use.

Do not incite clients you find on the platform to work outside UpWork
Do not enter into contracts outside of UpWork with customers who contact you via the platform
Do not engage in malicious behavior : spam, scams, fraud, etc.

In the event that your account is suspended without violating the terms of use, you can contact the customer service to appeal. Note that in some cases, the platform may suspend accounts that are inactive or accounts that, according to internal criteria, do not meet the desired quality standards.

Bad experiences on UpWork

Some freelancers on UpWork complain about bad experiences. And these are issues that should not be understated: the hyper-competitive nature of the platform, the difficulty of featuring oneself, the race to the bottom with regards to rates and conflicts with clients… Aside from those, bad experiences on the platform can be organized in 3 main categories.

Scams on UpWork

It should come as no surprise to anyone that scammers abound on freelancing platforms. Job seekers are vulnerable to a number of scams. The most insidious form, however, is the intermediaries who post jobs and encourage candidates to produce a “sample” to get the job.

It’s best to provide samples of similar tasks you’ve already worked on, and if you’re offered an unpaid test, only accept it when it’s already mentioned in the job description. Ideally, all freelancers should have the same test.

Permanent account deletion on UpWork

It may not be common, but it can happen. Some freelancers may fall victim to more serious fraudulent practices (money laundering, bank fraud, etc.). For example, some dishonest users of the platform create particularly well-paid offers. They recruit and pay freelancers well using dirty funds.

When the offence is detected, the freelancer can be permanently suspended from UpWork without any real means of recourse. Note that the funds are blocked, including the earnings from other freelance jobs awarded by other clients.

UpWork: the tools you should master

There are plenty of tools you can take advantage of as a freelance on UpWork. From Premium subscriptions to administrative tools, from community forums to learning resources, there is a lot you can use to get started as a freelancer, the right way.

Is UpWork Plus useful?

UpWork Plus is the premium package that the platform offers to freelancers. For $14.99 per month, the freelancer on UpWork is entitled to 80 connections (renewed monthly) and other benefits such as personalized profile URLs, always active profiles despite inactivity, etc. You can also get an idea of what other freelancers are offering on the jobs you are applying to, or the possibility to display your earnings on your public profile.

Is UpWork Plus useful? To put it simply, yes. But mostly for freelancers who have already found a certain balance on the platform. It’s particularly useful if your goal is to have a better understanding of the situation before applying for a job . That said, this Premium package does not give you a particular edge over freelancers on UpWork who remain on the free Basic package. Not that I know of anyway.

Source : https://www.upwork.com/nx/plans/membership/change-plan?from=index

The UpWork Project Catalog

The project catalog on UpWork is a relatively new addition. It is an approach that reminds me of platforms like ComeUp (formerly 5euros) and Fiverr. On the platform, the freelancer lists his services and the corresponding rates. This becomes a kind of online store of services that customers can browse in search of the perfect fit.

This catalog changes the classic dynamics of the platform. Here, it is the clients who go in search of freelancers and not the other way around. But above all, when the contact is established, the freelancer is not in direct competition with other service providers to get the job. It’s a handy tool that all freelancers should use to stand out from the crowd and capture already interested clients .

Note also that by effectively setting up their offer, it is possible to be listed directly on Google. This would allow the freelancer to capture an even larger customer base. This is not always the case, but it would be a shame to miss out on such opportunities.

Source : https://www.upwork.com/services/

Direct Contracts on UpWork

These contracts allow freelancers to bring their clients to UpWork. Whether it’s a new client or a long-standing client, UpWork’s direct contracts allow you to adapt your professional relationship on UpWork’s model.

Apart from the transaction fee of 3.4%, the platform does not charge any commission on your services. You can therefore switch to an hourly or milestone contract without paying any additional fees. This may not be attractive for trusted clients. But for a brand new client, it allows you to take advantage of the conflict resolution tools and the escrow funds for the duration of the mission.

Source : https://www.upwork.com/ab/flservices/contracts/

The UpWork Community

Imagine a gigantic forum where a whole range of freelancers meet to exchange and share their experiences. You will find opinions, advice and tips to progress in your freelance career on UpWork.

You will also be able to join groups by geographical region, or by specialty. Would you like to find freelancers who work in the music industry, who do scientific writing or any other work? It’s possible! Want to find colleagues who use the same tools and platforms as you? Or simply people who share the same daily realities? UpWork community forums will provide you with answers.

Source : https://community.upwork.com/

The UpWork Academy

As its name suggests, the UpWork Academy is a knowledge base for freelancers who want to learn how to better use the platform. From applying for jobs, to getting started on UpWork, from developing your career to launching an agency, or setting up your project catalog, etc. You will find well-structured lessons to become an expert of this freelancing platform.

Some lessons are specific to UpWork and how it works. Others are more general and will be of great use to you throughout your freelancing career .

Source : https://community.upwork.com/t5/Academy/ct-p/Academy

Coaching on UpWork

Coaching sessions are periodically organized on UpWork. To get a better grasp of the project catalog or the organization of your freelance profile, for example. Or simply to learn how to apply effectively and create an agency.

It is a precious opportunity to be accompanied and to find answers to specific questions . So stay tuned for scheduled sessions and sign up when the time comes. Remember that these coaching sessions are limited to a few participants at a time.

Source : https://community.upwork.com/t5/Coaching/ct-p/Coaching

UpWork is a good platform for freelancers who are starting out. They will be able to gain some experience and acquire useful skills for the future. It is also a great platform for expert freelancers who have specialized and highly sought after skills . They will find opportunities with big companies and can use it as a growth lever for their freelance career.

For mid-level freelancers, however, the platform can be very frustrating , as the extreme level of competition tends to favor freelancers who reside in countries with lower costs of living. But even for these freelancers, the platform becomes a prison with no prospect of growth, if they have made low rates their only selling point.

In conclusion, UpWork tries to be everything for everyone at once . It is not by chance that its motto has become “The Work Marketplace”. The platform is no longer simply trying to satisfy freelancers. It has recently started looking to become a centralized platform for the working world. A directory of talents and opportunities for freelancers, but also for companies looking to recruit contract staff, consultants or to manage their teams spread throughout the world.

Here Are the Answers to the Most Common Questions about Upwork

We’ve put together this Upwork FAQ to give you an idea on how Upwork works and how to make the platform work for you. Whether you’re just starting, or already have experience looking for work or someone to get something done for you, you can use the knowledge we’ve gathered in this article to become an expert on using Upwork.

Feel free to use the table of contents below to jump to your desired question.

General Questions

What is Upwork?

How is upwork different from odesk.

How much does Upwork charge?
What are some of the top Upwork hacks?
What are some good alternatives to Upwork?

Questions from Freelancers

What are the biggest obstacles for freelancers to get clients?

How do i land a job on upwork.

I am a freelancer who wants to work on a pay-per-hour basis. How do hourly contracts work exactly?

What are the top 20 skills on Upwork?

I’ve seen a lot of blogs online talking about how to make big bucks on upwork if you do it right. is this an exaggeration.

Questions from Companies

Should I hire on Upwork or hire independently?

How can I find quality freelancers on Upwork?

Are there better freelancers on Upwork than other platforms?

Boost your team’s efficiency with hubstaff's productivity tools.

Upwork is a popular freelance platform that connects a database of millions of freelance professionals with jobs from around the world. This global platform is a great way for independent contractors to find work, and for companies or individuals to find talented freelancers.

Below are some general questions about Upwork that we hear pretty often, followed by common questions from freelancers and companies. We hope these answers will be useful to you as you explore the benefits of remote work and outsourcing in your careers and businesses.

oDesk and Upwork are the same thing. Upwork was created as a merger between oDesk and another popular freelancing site, Elance. One of the biggest improvements from oDesk to Upwork is a new Message Center that will allow companies to chat with a freelancer available for immediate work. Even those who are not signed up for this recruiting website can use this message system.

How does Upwork work? How much do they charge?

Upwork fees are paid by the freelancer. The Upwork Service Fee is 5% – 10% of the total amount charged to the client, which is paid automatically depending on the size of the contract.

It’s important to note that although the fees are paid by the freelancer, many will adjust their fees depending on what they want to make. Therefore, businesses pay higher fees indirectly as a result. Businesses can avoid these higher fees by using an alternative service (a few are covered in a question below ) such as Hubstaff Talent , which doesn’t charge a percentage.

What are some of the top Upwork hacks?

For freelancers.

It’s essential to complete your profile and get a few reviews on your page . Complete some projects for the experience, or if you have current clients ask if they would be willing to assign you one or two of your tasks via Upwork so your record reflects successfully completed jobs.

When listing skills, be specific . Instead of listing “website designer” say “WordPress designer” or “eCommerce website design.” When you send in a job proposal, tailor your cover letter and show that you’ve done your research on the job and company.

Finally, take the Upwork tests and verifications available to you . These are a great way to show how skilled you are in grammar, coding, design or whatever your chosen field is.

For clients

Add a test in your job description to find the candidates who are truly interested in working with you . For example, ask all applicants to include the word “moo” or “blue” in their cover letter when they apply. This is a good way to weed out applicants who send out generic cover letters in bulk.

Also, be sure to look at the actual skills and qualifications of your candidates, not just their hourly rate . Ignore how much they charge and select the best freelancer based on their profile, past work history, and cover letter. Saving a few dollars by hiring the cheapest bidder could turn into a headache later on when you’re getting low-quality, ineffective work.

What are some good alternatives to Upwork?

We are proud to provide a comprehensive list of alternatives to Upwork to those who want to build and manage a remote team with the help of one set of tools. However, there are many services that provide a feasible alternative that you can use to your advantage, here are some of our favorites:

Freelancer.com – a freelancer platform similar to Upwork
Hubstaff Talent – talented freelancers and free job postings (no service fees)
Angel.co – a job site focused on startups and a great place to find top talent
Authentic Jobs – a job site established in 2005 with filters for industry and remote positions
Coworks – work with a team of freelancers from Coworks – 3.95% service fee
Flexjobs – a subscription-based job board with focused on telecommuting jobs
Inbound.org – a community of marketing professionals with a page of job listings
Jobbatical – take a working sabbatical and freelance in a different country for a while
Jobspresso – job board that offers on-demand recruiting and fully screened candidates
Remote OK – completely remote jobs with filters for highest paid and remote startups
Remote.co – remote job board, free for applicants
Remotive – a remote job board that is free for companies and freelancers to use
Toptal – an exclusive network of the top 3% of freelancers
We Work Remotely – a remote job board from the authors of Remote, who also created Basecamp
Outsourcely – a platform for employers to find remote talent, hire directly, and pay zero fees. Free for freelancers

The sheer number of other freelancers and competition. Upwork is saturated with more than 10 million registered freelancers. You will be battling multiple other talented professionals for jobs. Not only is there a lot of competition, many freelancers who live in countries with a lower cost of living can afford to charge clients significantly less than freelancers in more expensive areas.

The basics of Upwork are this: sign up, fill out your profile and start applying for jobs. Sometimes, clients will reach out to you to see if you’re willing to work for them. However, it’s more likely that you will have to do the legwork and find jobs that suit your skills. Freelancers will submit applications for projects, then the clients will select the freelancer they are most impressed with.

Start with your application. Make sure that your materials are accurate, you send everything that was requested, follow instructions and your documents are well-written. Be sure to write each cover letter separately , depending on your client. This will show the client that you have paid attention to their company and project.

I am a freelancer who wants to work on a pay-per-hour basis. How does the client know how many hours I’ve worked?

Upwork has a system that tracks the time you work and bills your client weekly. The Upwork team app has a timer that you can start when you begin work. However, if you want to track time outside of Upwork, you may use alternative freelance time tracking software with automatic invoicing .

According to this post on their blog, the top 20 skills in-demand on Upwork are:

Amazon DynamoDB
React native
Go development
Forex trading
Augmented reality
Computer vision
Penetration testing
Media buying
Shopify development
AngularJS development
Swift development
Video editing
Influencer marketing
Machine learning
3D modeling
Motion graphics

While there have been many success stories , being successful on Upwork is not guaranteed. How much you make on this platform depends on a number of things, from your work ethic, how many hours a week you’re willing to work, your hourly fee and the quality of clients you attain.

Whether or not Upwork is a better choice for you than the many alternatives depends on what you’re looking for. Upwork has a free app to help you track time and ensure automatic weekly payments, 24-hour customer support and a client feedback system you can use to find great freelancers. It also has a large database of talented freelancers, but there are more than 100,000+ projects posted each month. That means you’re facing competition all around for the best talent. Upwork is also a little expensive, with a 10% fee taken from every payment.

How can I find quality freelancers on Upwork?

Start with a detailed job posting. Make sure you include all the required and recommended skills and responsibilities to discourage unqualified candidates from applying. Add a unique identifier in your post, such as a request about how to title their resume file, or to include their years of experience in the field in the cover letter. This will show who has paid attention to your job posting.

Avoid offering low starting pay, as talented freelancers aren’t likely to apply for low-paying jobs. Look at their experience, previous work, and how many hours they’ve worked to get an idea of their background.

Be sure to interview them on Skype before hiring them, and have them do a [paid] test project before coming on board.

There are a lot of steps to hiring quality freelancers, but getting the top talent is definitely worth it.

Read our detailed walkthrough on how to find a VA on websites such as Upwork. It’s guaranteed to give you some ideas even if you’re looking to fill a different type of vacancy.

Many freelancers who are registered on this platform also have accounts on platforms like Freelancer.com. Services like Toptal and Outsourcely screen their freelancers more carefully, and Hubstaff Talent is completely free to both employers and freelancers. Some freelancers are better than others, but there is such a wide range of talent you can’t rely on all Upwork freelancers being either better or worse than freelancers on other platforms.

What are best practices for managing Upwork hires?

You can use Upwork’s in-built tools, such as time tracking, note-taking, simple tasks and invoicing, or you can put your hires on a 3rd-party app for a more comprehensive management tool. One example is Hubstaff, the time tracking software that lets you track time spent on projects, see your freelancers’ activity levels and screenshots of their work activity. These features can be customized or turned off on a per-user basis.

The software is especially useful if you plan on hiring people for a longer project or multiple projects since it can integrate with popular project management software, including Hubstaff Tasks.

Hubstaff Tasks is an Agile project management tool that uses visual Kanban boards. In the app, you can create columns for each step of your process, outline the project in detailed tasks, and put them in the right place on the board.

Each task can have a description, checklist, due date, labels, assignees and followers. Use the comment section to pass on important information or to have your hires post updates.

Perhaps the most powerful feature of Hubstaff Tasks is the sprints functionality. Tasks are assigned to a certain timeframe: the backlog, future sprint or current sprint. This ensures work is done by prioritization and that the most important things get done.

Other than using specific software designed to manage remote employees, there’s no secret sauce to managing Upwork employees. It’s up to you as the manager to find what works and what doesn’t.

If you enjoyed this post, you may want to check out 10 websites to find freelancers online , and five personalities to avoid when hiring on Upwork.

This post was updated on February 23, 2018.

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Milestone projects on Upwork blend aspects of both hourly and fixed-price structures, offering freelancers the flexibility to propose a flat rate for extended or ongoing assignments. For instance, if you're contracted to write a weekly blog post for $1000, the client establishes milestones where you submit the completed work at regular ...
How long does it take to get assignments?
On average, it takes more than 5 proposals for each won opportunity. This average varies widely based upon a number of factors and tends to decrease as talent earns experience (both because the experience is showcased and because you learn over time which projects to pick and which approaches work best).
How to Get Your First Job on Upwork [Beginner's Guide]
1. Use a business-friendly photo. First impressions matter, and an appropriate photo is an important part of your Upwork profile. Because the photos on the site are small, you want a close-cropped image showing your head and neck (and possibly the tops of your shoulders). Here's what my profile looks like on Upwork.
Freelancer on UpWork: the definitive guide in 2023
These are usually freelancers who have already landed contracts and received positive reviews after their assignments. Top-Rated: The Top-Rated freelancer is a more experienced freelancer who has already landed small contracts (less than $5,000) and has earned more than $1,000 in the last 12 months. In total, about 12% of freelancers on UpWork ...
How do I back out of an assignment that was never contracted?
Luis, Unless the client hires you with an official Upwork contract, there is nothing to back out from. So don't do any work for this client until she complies with Upwork's rules and regs, as you are not likely to get paid. 11-26-2021 07:41 PM. I believe there are only two possibilities here:
How To Get Jobs On Upwork: Top 11 Tips
6. Boost your proposal for jobs to stand out. If you find a job that you really like and think you'd be a good fit for, you can boost your proposal. When a client posts a job as a freelancer, you can submit an auction bid to be one of the first four proposals they'll see. These proposals are marked "Boosted" and indicate that you paid more in Connects to get noticed.
How To Land a Job on Upwork in Just a Week
Starting with smaller tasks on Upwork can be a great approach for newcomers. These assignments are typically faster to complete, allowing you to gradually build your portfolio.
The answers to the most common questions about Upwork
Upwork fees are paid by the freelancer. The Upwork Service Fee is 5% - 10% of the total amount charged to the client, which is paid automatically depending on the size of the contract. It's important to note that although the fees are paid by the freelancer, many will adjust their fees depending on what they want to make.
Upwork Terms of Service
Visit Upwork's customer service center to get the help that you need. Known Issues; Resources Resource Center; Upwork Community; Upwork Status; Academy; Contact Support Log In. Known Issues; Resources Resource Center; Upwork Community; Upwork Status; Academy;
Upwork
Ways to earn Learn why Upwork has the right opportunities for you.; Find work for your skills Explore the kind of work available in your field.; Win work with ads Get noticed by the right client.; Join Freelancer Plus Access more Connects, get strategic insights on competitors, and try out the latest tools.
Solved: First Assignment Confusion
Hello! The guy who hired me told me I had 24 hours to complete it after I said I couldn't start on it until this weekend. I have about 15 minutes right now that I could try to cram it to get it done before I have to get back to work, but I'm not sure if I need to start or is he going to send somethi...
Sample profiles and best practices
Simplify the background — Look for a plain and light background that is clear and uncluttered. A solid, not-too-bright wall, such as the side of a concrete or brick building, or a simple outdoor background might work well. Focus on your face — Face the camera straight on or with your shoulders at a slight angle.
Experience with Samples, Skill-test or simila ...
I'd like to share my experience as a video editor in UpWork focus on one of the most popular request when I want to apply for a job. I do believe UpWork need to take really serious and deeper the situation that is happening with us the video editor that want to have a job, showing probably a good profile, a good cover letter and our portfolio to let the clients know our experience to think if ...
Find the best Accounting jobs
Ways to earn Learn why Upwork has the right opportunities for you. Find work for your skills Explore the kind of work available in your field. Win work with ads Get noticed by the right client. Join Freelancer Plus Access more Connects, get strategic insights on competitors, and try out the latest tools.
To-Do Lists
Each contract will have its own list for you to use, if you like. To add a to-do item to the list, choose the "+ Add a to-do" button. This opens the "Edit your to-do" panel, where you can: Create and name an item for the to-do list. Assign it. Add an optional, non-binding due date. Describe the to-do, providing details, objectives, etc.
Assignments on Upwork
Assignments on Upwork Hi, A potential slient has approached me, i have asked him is this an assignment? and he has assured that this is not an academic assignemnt but rather a personal assignment because he is self studying. ... New to Upwork: Finding Work. New to Upwork: Getting Started. Upwork Dashboard; About Us; Trust, Safety & Security ...
Find the best Microsoft Excel jobs
The position duties include: finding qualified cash buyers to close deals via email, SMS text messages or cold calling, researching an…. Microsoft Excel Sales & Marketing Data Entry Customer Experience High-Ticket Closing Microsoft Excel Jobs Lead Generation Scheduling Cold Calling Sales Communications. See more.

8 Things To Keep In Mind Before Your First Upwork Assignment From client reviews to low bids, here's everything you need to know before you start freelancing.

1. Be selective about jobs

2. Create a good cover letter template

3. Read the client's reviews

4. Encourage clients to take an introductory call with you

5. Make sure the client's payment is verified.

6. Be prepared to work for free…

7. Check the client's location

8. Pay attention to red flags

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Navigate Upwork with Confidence: The Ultimate Beginner’s Guide

What is Upwork?

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Types of Projects on Upwork

Hourly Rates

Diversity of Opportunities on Upwork

Is Upwork Worth it?

Is the Pay Good for Beginners?

The Unspoken Realities of Navigating Upwork’s Job Market

Bid Constantly and Frequently

You Need to Buy Connects

Your Experience on Upwork Matters

Final Thoughts: Is Upwork a Good Platform?

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How to Get Your First Job on Upwork [Beginner’s Guide]

How Upwork Works for Freelancers

How to Get Your First Job on Upwork

Upwork Sample Profile & Best Practices (With a Step-By-Step Guide For Creating Your Own)

1. Use a business-friendly photo

2. Write a compelling, keyword-rich job title and overview

3. Consider adding an introductory video

4. Match your “skills” to the type of work you’re seeking

5. Upload relevant work samples

6. Add your work experience and education

7. Consider Adding a Project

Step #2: Search For the Right Kinds of Jobs

1. Be patient and selective

2. Focus on small, one-off projects

3. Look for clients who can give you your second Upwork job

Step #3: Submit a Can’t-Miss Proposal

1. Fully read the job description

2. Provide social proof

3. Include links to similar work you’ve completed

4. Suggest an actionable next step

5. Be prepared to answer additional questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Getting Started on Upwork: Summary

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Freelancer on UpWork: the definitive guide in 2023

Table of Contents

UpWork in numbers

UpWork, how does it work?

What are the platform fees to freelance on UpWork?

What is freelance protection on UpWork?

The guarantee for fixed price contracts

The UpWork protection for hourly rate contracts

The most in-demand freelance profiles on UpWork

Finding freelancers on UpWork: the benefits

UpWork: the “new” work marketplace

Understanding UpWork’s fees

The client guarantees on UpWork

Archetype of a good freelancer profile on UpWork

Understanding the UpWork badges

The statistics that matter on UpWork

How to build an impactful freelance profile on UpWork?

The must-have elements of a good freelance profile on UpWork

An impactful presentation

The portfolio

Certifications