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

R.J. Weiss, CFP®

• Updated January 24, 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 , creating a WordPress site 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?

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) .

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.

Table of Contents

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…

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.

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.

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How To Land a Job on Upwork in Just a Week

F reelancing is no longer just a side hustle . For many, it’s a full-time job that offers the flexibility to choose projects based on one’s skills and interests. Upwork, one of the most recognized platforms for freelance jobs, can be the field of dreams for many. But with fierce competition and hundreds of job listings posted daily, how can you stand out and land a job in just seven days? Keep reading to find out.

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What Is Upwork?

Upwork is a global freelancing platform where professionals and businesses collaborate on projects. From web development to writing, design to data analysis, Upwork offers job listings for a wide range of skills. Each job post comes with a detailed description, client’s history and proposed budget. As a freelancer, you bid on these listings, communicate with potential clients and hopefully, seal the deal.

How To Land a Job on Upwork: Step-by-Step Guide

For someone just starting on Upwork, the task of landing that first job can feel daunting. With the right strategy, however, you can be well on your way to becoming a sought-after freelancer on Upwork. Here are nine steps you can take:

• Start with small tasks
• Make your profile stand out
• Prioritize feedback
• Be strategic with your proposals
• Acquire job invites
• Be prepared for the interview
• Work with genuine clients
• Provide timelines and updates
• Keep growing your skills

1. Start With Smaller Tasks

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. Successfully completing these can enhance your confidence and lay the groundwork for a positive reputation.

2. Craft an Unforgettable Profile

Your profile is the first thing potential clients see. It’s essential to make a lasting impression. Ensure it accurately depicts your skills, highlights your experience and tells a compelling story about why you’re the best fit.

3. Prioritize Feedback Over Finances

In the early stages of your Upwork journey, emphasize collecting positive feedback rather than aiming for high pay. Excellent feedback enhances your credibility, making you more attractive to clients willing to pay top dollar for quality work in the future.

4. Strategize Your Proposal Submission

Avoid the trap of sending out bulk, generic proposals. Instead, customize each proposal to address the unique needs and specifics of the job listing. A tailored, sincere pitch will resonate more with potential clients, increasing your chances of getting hired.

5. Cultivate Upwork Job Invites

With consistent high-quality output, you’ll position yourself in a space where clients proactively invite you to bid on their projects. Being directly invited is a testament to your expertise and saves you the effort of scouring through job listings.

6. Ace the Upwork Interview

When invited for an interview, always be on time, present yourself professionally and come prepared. It’s not just about showcasing your skills but also ensuring that you’re a good fit for the client’s needs.

7. Engage With Genuine Clients

It’s essential to identify and engage with authentic clients. Prioritize those who have a verified payment method and provide a clear, comprehensive job description. This not only safeguards your interests but also sets the stage for a smoother collaboration.

8. Provide Timelines and Updates

Once hired, maintain open communication lines. Ensuring that you deliver within set timelines and regularly update your client on progress can lead to repeat hires and referrals.

9. Keep Growing Your Skills

Dedicate time to upskill, participate in relevant webinars and stay updated with industry trends . By doing so, you’ll maintain a competitive edge, offer more value to your clients and enhance your own professional growth.

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Getting started on Upwork may initially feel overwhelming. However, with a focused approach, perseverance and the steps above, you can confidently land your first job in a week and set the foundation for a thriving freelance career.

Editor’s note: This article was produced via automated technology and then fine-tuned and verified for accuracy by a member of GOBankingRates’ editorial team.

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This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com : How To Land a Job on Upwork in Just a Week

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Serial Season 4

“Serial” returns with a history of Guantánamo told by people who lived through key moments in Guantánamo’s evolution, who know things the rest of us don’t about what it’s like to be caught inside an improvised justice system.

Published March 21, 2024

Listen to and follow Serial Season 4

• Apple Podcasts

Listen to the trailer for Serial Season 4: Guantánamo.

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“So, it felt very like college-like… Without it being… Obviously the next day wasn’t classes, it was Gitmo… ”

Poor baby raul, episode 1 — poor baby raul.

“I wanted to create a persona, a thing that was not human.”

The special project, episode 2 — the special project.

• Episode 3 arrives April 4

About Serial Season 4

Right after Sept. 11, the United States created a brand-new criminal justice system at Guantánamo Bay. It was a prison and a court designed to deal with the people we had captured whom we suspected of being members of the Taliban or al Qaeda.

But to do what we wanted to do at Guantánamo — to interrogate detainees the way we wanted, to hold them indefinitely without charging them with a crime — we had to push aside the old, time-tested rules for detaining prisoners of war. And the consequences of that fell on ordinary people: thousands of military personnel, hundreds of prisoners, everybody scrambling through the same experiment.

There has been great journalism about the legal maneuvering to justify Guantánamo, and about the detainee abuse and the politics and policy. But “Serial” reporters Sarah Koenig and Dana Chivvis were after the inside stories, a picture of Guantánamo you could get only from the people who went through it. For years, though, all the best stories they heard about Guantánamo were off the record. But they stuck with it, figuring maybe once enough people were back in civilian life they’d be willing to tell those stories on the record. A couple of years ago, the “Serial” team started contacting people again: guards, interrogators, commanders, lawyers, chaplains, translators and former prisoners. More than a hundred people. And a remarkable number of them said: Okay, I’m ready. Here’s what happened.

“Serial” Season 4 is a history of Guantánamo told by people who lived through key moments in its evolution, who know things the rest of us don’t about what it’s like to be caught inside an improvised justice system.

• Sofia degli Alessandri is an Italian composer based in London. Her music combines field recordings, synths, chamber instruments and electronic beats. She composes for film, television, dance and other media.
• Hosts Sarah Koenig and Dana Chivvis Producer Jessica Weisberg Editor Julie Snyder Additional Reporting Cora Currier Fact Checking and Research Ben Phelan Additional Fact Checking Jessica Suriano Music supervision, sound design, and mixing Phoebe Wang Original score Sofia degli Alessandri Additional Editing David Kestenbaum, Jen Guerra, Alvin Melathe, Ellen Weiss and Ira Glass Contributing Editors Rozina Ali and Carol Rosenberg Assistant Producer Emma Grillo Translators and Interpreters Raza Sayibzada, Nael Hijjo, Atiq Rahin, Dana El-Issa, Bachar Alhalabi, and Omama Osman Art Direction Pablo Delcan Art Max Guther Standards Editor Susan Wessling Legal Review Al-Amyn Sumar and Maya Gandhi Reporting and Research Amir Khafagy and Sami Yousafazai Additional Production Daniel Guillemette and Katie Mingle Executive Assistant Mack Miller Supervising Producer Ndeye Thioubou Deputy Managing Editor Sam Dolnick
• At the New York Times, thanks to Elizabeth Davis-Moorer, Nina Lassam, Susan Beachy, Kitty Bennett, Alain Delaquérière, Sheelagh McNeill, Kirsten Noyes, Jack Begg, Jeffrey Miranda, Colleen Wormsley, Peter Rentz, John-Michael Murphy, Jordan Cohen, Zoe Murphy, Pierre-Antoine Louis, Mahima Chablani, Kelly Doe, Anisha Muni, Kimmy Tsai, Victoria Kim, Ashka Gami, Brad Fisher, Maddy Masiello, Daniel Powell, Marion Lozano, Tug Wilson and Aisha Khan
• Special thanks Katie Mingle, Jenelle Pifer, Alissa Shipp, Nadia Reiman, Anita Badejo, Katie Fuchs, Alison Beckman at the Center for Victims of Torture, Clive Stafford Smith, Alisa Dogramadzieva, Shuaib Almosawa, Mohamed Elfaki, Freshta Taeb, Edgar August, Esther Whitfield, Lauren Myerscough-Mueller, Mark Fallon, Pardiss Kebriaei, Steve Vladeck, Charlie Savage, Michelle Shephard, Bastian Berbner, John Goetz, Sarah Mirk and everyone involved in “Guantánamo Voices,” Peter Jan Honigsberg, Tim Golden, John Ryan, Stuart Couch, Shayana Kadidal, Ray Rivera, Steven Kleinman, Steve Wood and Lee Riffaterre

Serial is a podcast from the creators of This American Life, hosted by Sarah Koenig. Serial tells one story — a true story — over the course of a season.

A high-school senior named Hae Min Lee disappeared one day after school in 1999, in Baltimore County, Maryland. A month later, her body was found in a city park. She'd been strangled. Her 17-year-old ex-boyfriend, Adnan Syed, was arrested for the crime, and within a year, he was sentenced to life in prison.

In May 2014, a U.S. Special Operations team in a Black Hawk helicopter landed in the hills of Afghanistan. Waiting for them were more than a dozen Taliban fighters and a tall American, who looked pale and out of sorts: Bowe Bergdahl. Bergdahl, a U.S. soldier, had been a prisoner of the Taliban for nearly five years, and now he was going home. Learn more

“Serial” is heading back to court. This time, in Cleveland. Not for one extraordinary case; instead, Serial wanted to tackle the whole criminal justice system. To do that we figured we’d need to look at something different: ordinary cases. So we did. Inside these ordinary cases we found the troubling machinery of the criminal justice system on full display. Learn more

Serial Productions makes narrative podcasts that have transformed the medium. From the powerful forces shaping our public schools to a mystery at the heart of a scandal that rocked Britain, Serial expands the boundaries of audio investigative storytelling. Learn more

Further Reading From The Times

The guantánamo docket, a closer look at what the u.s. lets you see of its war court at guantánamo bay, conditions at guantánamo are cruel and inhuman, u.n. investigation finds.

• Share full article

Podcasts From The New York Times

The Daily:  The biggest stories, five days a week, including the indictment of Donald Trump , the implosion of Silicon Valley Bank  and the threat to abortion pills .

The Run-Up:  Astead W. Herndon grapples with the big ideas already animating the 2024 election by reporting from inside the political establishment .

Hard Fork:  Kevin Roose and Casey Newton make sense of the world of tech, including Google's Place in the A.I. Arms Race  and the arrival of GPT-4 .

Modern Love: Anna Martin unpacks the complicated love lives of real people, exploring topics like getting ghosted  and how to stop searching for the perfect partner .

Popcast:  A weekly conversation from Jon Caramanica and The Times’s music team, with roundtables on artists like Ice Spice , Taylor Swift  and  SZA .

From Opinion

The Ezra Klein Show:  Real conversations on the forces shaping the world, such as the increasing pace of A.I. development  and China's global influence .

First Person:  Lulu Garcia-Navarro explores intimate conversations about big ideas, like the experiences of a war reporter  and treating obesity as a disease.

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