The rising popularity of freelancing has been reflected in statistics, especially since job security has been shaken by the pandemic and technological trend. So people are searching for the best venues to be their own boss. And the market has risen to the occasion, creating platforms like Upwork or Fiver.
But getting your first job on Upwork, or even your first few jobs is hard. In fact, many freelancers end up quitting after sending in a few applications without a response. I got it because I was there too as a beginner. It’s frustrating.
Unfortunately! Working on Upwork is one of my first big online business successes. I was able to go from $0 as a beginner to earning over $10,000 within six months. But it didn’t happen overnight. Just follow me to an end I will share and answer all your concerns to ensure you succeed.
| Takeaways |
|---|
| 1. Focus on creating a standout Upwork profile that highlights your skills and expertise. |
| 2. Research and target potential clients who align with your freelancing niche and expertise. |
| 3. Submit tailored and well-crafted proposals that showcase your understanding of clients’ needs. |
| 4. Maintain open and effective communication with clients throughout the project. |
| 5. Consistently deliver high-quality work, meet deadlines, and prioritize client satisfaction. |
First, Why Getting That First Job Is So Difficult For Beginners?
For the time being, put yourself in the shoes of the individual who is creating an Upwork job post (The employer). He/she is trying to find someone capable of delivering the desired results. Assume the job post has 30+ applicants, sometimes 40, 50, or even more! If that is the case how are you going to sort out and make a decision about which freelancer is best?
Most jobs on Upwork are chosen based on feedback. So, If a potential freelancer has good feedback which is a combination of Job Success Score and written feedback clients have shared on the freelancer’s profile! You will consider them for the job.
In other words, you will take a look at their profile, read their proposal, and maybe start a conversation. But if they don’t have much feedback or worse, they are unlikely to be hired. This is where most beginning freelancers stop, quit and miss the opportunity.
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Is Any Fantastic Tip To Boost My Score And Achieve Success?
You are probably wondering why I am focusing on giving you these tips! It’s important because you need to understand the employer’s mindset. Because every employer wants to hire a trustworthy person. And here, are the shortcuts.
1. Complete Your Profile And Make It Appealing
Your Upwork profile is the primary thing prospective clients will use to evaluate your fitness for the job even if you have no feedback. To make your profile stand out, there are two important things to note;
Your Profile Photo
Take it seriously and act like you are applying for a smart company. What would be their immediate impression if they look at your photo? It must be a professional profile picture, trustful with an appealing background.
Your Title
This is one of the most underutilized customizations you can make to your profile and get hired. Ideally, your title should let your client know why you are perfect for the job. From my experience, a good title starts with picking a good niche.
As you know, there are so many applications, assume your client is skimming through freelancers. What can you say in the title to quickly let them know you are perfect for the job requirements! Since there is so much competition on Upwork, avoid a general title.
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2. Go For A Small Project And Bid Low
It may not be ideal to work for less than what you are worth. But it’s necessary when starting out on Upwork! Especially if you want to get up and running as quickly as possible than other beginners. In the beginning, the goal is just to get established; build your profile feedback, and think on long-term. Thus, you will have a better chance to win more jobs.
3. Research For Clients Who Leave Quality Feedback
The fact is that not every client will be a pleasure to work for, and not every client understands just how important feedback is for freelancers. Some of the clients will even point out the pros and cons with a given freelancer even if there was no serious problem working with him/her.
But there is an easy way to tell which clients are worth submitting a proposal to! You can simply look at the feedback they have left for other freelancers. The higher the 5-star feedback left for others, the better you can start thinking of sending your application.
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4. Use Eye-Catching Cover Letter Or Proposal
The cover letter is a surefire to start a conversation with your client. Your cover letter and specifically the first 3-4 lines, is another chance to make a great first impression. The cover letter should be clear and concise, directly addressing the client’s need and how will you deliver that need. To help you, use these two tactics;
i. Do Your Research About Who is Hiring
Unfortunately, you have to address your cover letter by their first name. You can simply click on the client’s profile or check out the name on the feedback other freelancers have given.
ii. Start Strong The First Few Lines Of Your Proposal
Since the first 3-4 lines of your application will appear on the application screen! Make sure it explains why you are the right candidate for the job. If you are new on Upwork, you can simply talk about your experience out of the platform. For example;
[Hi Raymond! I am new to Upwork but I have three years of experience in XY]
This will help you to start a conversation, and then proceed by explaining how best will you go to deliver the results (the detailed plan of action), based on the job requirements.
Feedback is a valuable resource for business growth. Discover how you can use client feedback on Upwork to enhance your business with our article on utilizing Upwork client feedback.
5. Make Sure You Satisfy Your Client At All Costs
Along with the cover letter, you can add a sample or portfolio that is highly and closely relevant to the work you are applying for. Now, let’s say you are a newbie to your niche and you don’t have a sample!
In this case, create a sample and let your client know that you took the initiative to display your skill. Make sure you respond to an invitation on time and if you win an interview and get hired, consider giving something a little extra that will wow your client, be available, observe the timeline, and create a long-term relationship.
Maximize your freelance opportunities by leveraging Upwork’s platform. Check out our tips on why you should use Upwork and avoid freelancing mistakes in our post on doing freelancing right with Upwork.
Conclusion
At last, even though it’s easier than ever to start a freelancing journey, it’s also more difficult since you have to compete with many professionals. I trust these tips will allow you not only to become better at making money on Upwork but also have the bank account balance to prove it.
Further Reading
4 Strategies to Get Quality Clients When You’re New to Upwork: Learn effective techniques to attract high-quality clients on Upwork, even if you are just starting.
How to Succeed at Upwork: Discover proven tips and tactics to achieve success on the Upwork platform as a freelancer.
8 Upwork Profile Tricks to Get More Clients: Enhance your Upwork profile with these eight tricks and attract more clients to your freelance business.
FAQs
How can I improve my chances of landing quality clients on Upwork?
To increase your chances of landing quality clients on Upwork, focus on creating a compelling profile that showcases your skills and experience. Highlight relevant past projects and include a professional profile photo.
What are some key strategies for success on Upwork?
Success on Upwork requires a combination of factors. Key strategies include setting competitive rates, delivering high-quality work, maintaining open communication with clients, and consistently meeting deadlines.
How can I optimize my Upwork profile to stand out?
To stand out on Upwork, optimize your profile by using relevant keywords, showcasing a diverse portfolio, obtaining positive client reviews, and updating your skills and certifications regularly.
How do I handle difficult clients on Upwork?
Handling difficult clients on Upwork requires patience and clear communication. Stay professional, address concerns promptly, and seek resolution through open dialogue to maintain a positive working relationship.
How do I build long-term relationships with clients on Upwork?
Building long-term relationships with clients involves delivering exceptional results, maintaining clear and proactive communication, and showing genuine interest in their projects. Providing excellent customer service can lead to repeat business and referrals.
Costantine Edward is a digital marketing expert, freelance writer, and entrepreneur who helps people attain financial freedom. I’ve been working in marketing since I was 18 years old and have managed to build a successful career doing what I love.
