How to Get Freelance Jobs on Upwork

Platforms like Upwork have become a go-to for many freelancers seeking international gigs. However, the process of securing jobs on Upwork can be challenging, especially for those who are just starting out. Between buying Connects, submitting proposals, and setting your rates, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. If you’ve been struggling to land clients despite sending out countless proposals, this guide is for you.

Here are some tips to boost your chances of landing gigs on Upwork while also managing your resources effectively.

Set Aside a Budget for Connects

Sending out proposals on Upwork requires Connects, which come at a cost, and for many freelancers, especially those in regions with unfavourable exchange rates, Connects can be expensive. It’s important to set a budget for Connects so you can manage your spending effectively. A good start could be buying 300 Connects for $45. When you plan how much you’re willing to invest in proposals each month, you reduce financial stress and can focus more on landing quality gigs. 

Be strategic about how you use your Connects. Avoid applying for gigs that are clearly out of reach or don’t match your skill set to conserve your budget.

Set Realistic Rates

As a beginner on Upwork, it’s important to set rates that are competitive and realistic. Research what others in your niche are charging, and consider starting with a lower rate, especially if you’re still building your profile and reputation on the platform. Clients often have limited budgets, and pricing yourself too high initially may reduce your chances of being noticed.

Look at the client’s budget, and if your rate is above what they’ve set, you might automatically be disqualified from consideration. Once you’ve established yourself with good reviews, milestones, and Upwork badges, you can gradually raise your rates as you build credibility.

Check the Client’s Payment Method

Before applying for a job, check if the client’s payment method has been verified. A verified payment method indicates that the client is serious about hiring and paying for work. Avoid wasting your Connects on clients who may post jobs but never intend to hire or pay freelancers. 

You can easily find this information on the client’s profile, and this simple check can save you both time and money in the long run.

Look for Clients with High Hire Rates

Just as clients scrutinise freelancers’ job success scores and reviews, you should evaluate the clients you’re considering working with. Pay close attention to the hire rate, which shows how often a client hires compared to the number of jobs they’ve posted. Aim for clients with hire rates of up to 60% or higher. This demonstrates that they have a good track record with freelancers and are more likely to hire than waste your time.

Additionally, check the total amount a client has spent on freelancers. Clients with a solid history of hiring and paying freelancers are more reliable, and you’re more likely to get a response when applying for their gigs.

Evaluate the Reviews the Client Gives

Upwork lets you see the star ratings clients have received. This can give you an idea of how they’ve treated other freelancers. A high rating indicates that the client likely pays on time and is easy to work with. Always consider these ratings before deciding to use your Connects on a proposal.

Additionally, look at the feedback clients provide to freelancers. This can offer insight into the client’s communication style and their expectations, giving you a clearer picture of what working with them might be like.

Bid on Every Relevant Proposal

It’s important to cast a wide net when job hunting on Upwork. Bid on every proposal you feel qualified for, after reviewing the client’s history, hire rate, and payment method. The more proposals you send out, the higher your chances of landing a gig. 

Pro Tip: Do not use one proposal for all bids. Tailor each proposal to the job posting and ensure it shows the relevant expertise. 

Turn on Your Availability Badge

Upwork offers freelancers the option to turn on an availability badge, which costs about 14 Connects per week. This badge shows that you are available for work, and it increases your visibility to potential clients. When clients view your profile and see that you’re actively seeking work, it improves your chances of being contacted for a job.

Be mindful that this feature automatically renews every week, so only keep it on when you genuinely have the availability to take on new projects.

Craft Compelling Proposal Introductions

The first two sentences of your proposal are often the only part a client will see in the preview. Therefore, they need to be compelling enough to grab the client’s attention. Ensure that your opening lines are focused, engaging, and relevant to the job. State exactly why you are the perfect fit and how you can solve the client’s problem. A strong introduction can increase the chances of the client reading your entire proposal and viewing your profile.

Set Up Your Payment Method for Seamless Transactions

Before you start applying for jobs, have your payment method set up and ready. This ensures that once you land a job and complete it, you can easily receive your payments without delays.

With Geegpay, freelancers can efficiently send and receive payments from international clients. Geegpay gives you U.S., Euros, and GBP bank accounts, all in one platform. This makes it easier to receive your payments from platforms like Upwork directly into your Geegpay account, without incurring extra charges on Upwork. Plus, our competitive exchange rates and free withdrawals to your local bank account help you get the most out of your earnings. 

With Geegpay you can also create a virtual dollar card for subscriptions and payments on international websites. Get started today.