How to Get Started on Upwork as a Freelancer (2025 Guide)

Freelancing has become one of the fastest-growing ways to work in 2025. More professionals are choosing flexible careers that allow them to work with clients worldwide, and businesses are increasingly turning to online platforms to find reliable talent. Among these platforms, Upwork stands out as one of the largest and most established marketplaces for freelance work.

Every month, thousands of projects are posted on Upwork in fields like design, development, marketing, writing, and customer support. For freelancers, this creates an ongoing flow of opportunities to earn and grow. For clients, it offers a trusted space to connect with skilled professionals quickly. The system is simple: clients post a job, freelancers submit proposals, and work is carried out with secure payments handled directly through the platform.

What makes Upwork especially relevant in 2025 is the global reach it provides. A freelancer in Asia can work with a client in Europe, while someone in Africa or South America can secure long-term contracts with companies in North America. Location is no longer a barrier, and the demand for remote talent continues to rise.

This guide will show you how to get started on Upwork in 2025. From creating a profile that stands out to securing your first payment, you will find clear, practical steps to help you approach freelancing with confidence.

🔗ICYMI, here are 5 proven strategies to help you get clients as a freelancer.

How to Get Started on Upwork in 2025

Starting out on Upwork takes more than just creating an account. The platform has grown into one of the largest online marketplaces for freelancers, which means the opportunities are vast, but so is the competition. A thoughtful approach is what helps new freelancers stand out and build careers that last.

Step 1: Learn how Upwork works

Before creating an account, it helps to understand what Upwork is and how it operates. At its core, Upwork is a global freelancing marketplace where businesses and independent professionals connect. Clients use it to post projects or ongoing roles, and freelancers use it to offer their services across categories such as writing, design, development, marketing, consulting, customer support, finance, and many others.

The workflow is straightforward but structured. Clients publish jobs with details like scope, budget, and skills required. Freelancers then submit proposals that typically include a cover letter, suggested rate, and sometimes tailored answers to screening questions. Clients review these proposals, shortlist candidates, conduct interviews (either through chat, calls, or video directly on the platform), and then award contracts to the best fit. Contracts can be either hourly, where freelancers log time using Upwork’s desktop app for tracking, or fixed-price, where payments are released through agreed milestones.

Upwork plays the role of a trusted middle layer. It processes payments securely, offers built-in time tracking for hourly projects, and provides dispute resolution in case either party is unsatisfied. The platform also charges a service fee from freelancers on their earnings, which decreases as the total billed amount with a specific client increases.

Beyond the basics of proposals and contracts, Upwork also uses a “Connects” system, a kind of token or credit that freelancers spend to apply for jobs. New accounts get a limited number of free Connects, and additional ones can be purchased. Understanding how to use Connects wisely is part of learning the platform.

Another important feature is the Job Success Score (JSS), a performance metric that reflects your reliability and client satisfaction. This score, along with client reviews, plays a huge role in how easily you attract new projects.

Getting familiar with these elements is essential because it shapes how you approach the platform. You will know where to find jobs, how to present yourself in proposals, how to communicate with clients professionally, and what steps to take you from application to payment.

Step 2: Choose a niche
Specialising on Upwork means shaping your profile so clients immediately see you as the right person for their project. It is about showing that you bring a clear focus and expertise that matches exactly what they need.

The easiest way to discover your niche is to look at the type of work you enjoy, the skills you are strongest in, and the services businesses are actively seeking. For instance, a graphic designer might decide to focus on branding for startups, while a virtual assistant could dedicate their services to online shops, managing product listings and customer support. With this clarity, your profile begins to feel more like a direct answer to a client’s problem rather than a broad list of abilities.

A niche also helps you work smarter. You can scan through job posts and immediately know which ones suit you best, then write proposals that speak directly to those clients. Over time, your portfolio grows in a specific direction, your reputation strengthens, and clients begin to recognise you as the go-to person in that field.

🔗You’ll also love our guide on how to land your first remote job in tech.

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Step 3: How To Build a Good Upwork Profile

Think of your Upwork profile as your digital storefront. It is the first impression clients will get of you, and in many cases, it will be the deciding factor in whether they open your proposal or keep scrolling. A well-built profile not only communicates what you do but also shows clients why they should trust you with their projects. Let’s break down the key elements of a strong profile and how you can make yours stand out.

1. A profile photo: A photo adds credibility to your profile. Choose a clear headshot where your face is easy to see. Neutral or natural lighting works best, and a plain background helps avoid distractions. Dress in a way that reflects professionalism without being stiff. Most importantly, smile or maintain a confident but approachable expression. Profiles with photos are more likely to be viewed, and a good image creates an instant sense of trust.
2. A catchy headline: Your headline is like your tagline; hence, it should be specific, searchable, and service-oriented. Instead of a broad title like “Designer,” use something more targeted, such as “UI/UX Designer for Mobile and Web Apps” or “Copywriter Specialising in Tech and SaaS.” A focused headline tells clients what you do at a glance and increases your chances of showing up in the right searches.
3. An overview: The overview is your elevator pitch. Clients will skim it, so make it client-centred and results-driven. Start with a short opening line that clearly states what you do. Then explain how you work and the value you bring. For example, mention your process; whether that is research-driven design, clear and persuasive writing, or streamlined development. Close with the outcomes clients can expect, such as more user engagement, polished deliverables, or increased conversions. Keep it conversational but professional, and avoid long, dense paragraphs.
4. Your skills: Upwork lets you tag up to 15 skills, and these tags determine how well you match with job postings. Choose skills that reflect the exact services you plan to offer. If you are a web developer, tags like HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and React may be appropriate. If you are a writer, options like Copywriting, Content Writing, and SEO Writing could work better. Use skills that align closely with the jobs you want to attract, not every skill you’ve ever picked up.
5. Your hourly rate: Your rate showcases the value of your work. New freelancers sometimes start slightly lower to build and attract their first few clients, but it’s important not to underprice yourself. Look at the market range for your skill set and pick a rate that feels fair to both you and your future clients. Remember, your rate is not just about hours; it reflects your expertise, the quality of your results, and your ability to deliver reliably.
6. Work history and experience: If you have freelancing experience, list your most relevant projects. If you’re new, highlight past jobs, internships, or even personal projects that demonstrate transferable skills. Instead of just listing responsibilities, focus on achievements. For example, instead of saying “Managed social media accounts,” write “Increased Instagram engagement by 40% in three months through tailored content strategies.” Results are what clients care about most.
7. Education and Certifications: Include degrees, online courses, and professional certifications that relate to your field. Even short courses from platforms like Coursera, Udemy, or Google can show initiative and ongoing learning. Education can help back up your skills and position you as someone who invests in their craft.
8. Identity Verification: Upwork often requires ID verification before you can submit proposals. This process involves uploading a government-issued ID and sometimes completing a short video call. Verification builds trust with clients, gives your profile the “Verified” badge, and ensures your account is fully active. Clients are more likely to hire freelancers who have completed this step.
9. Availability and Languages: Clients want to know when and how much you can work. If you are available part-time, indicate the number of hours per week. If you’re available full-time, make that clear too. Listing additional languages can also help you stand out, especially if you want to attract international clients who may value multilingual communication.

Completing every section is important. Profiles that are marked 100% complete are more likely to appear in search results and attract client interest.

‍Step 4: Create a Portfolio

Once your profile is polished with a strong photo, headline, and overview, the next step is to give clients something concrete to look at your portfolio. A portfolio brings your skills to life by showing real or sample projects, and it often becomes the piece of your profile that convinces clients you can deliver what you promise. Even as a beginner, having a portfolio sets you apart from freelancers who only describe their skills but do not demonstrate them.

What to include in your portfolio: If you already have past projects, whether freelance, academic, or from a previous job, choose the best examples and upload them. Each entry should have:

• A clear title that describes the project, such as Landing Page Redesign for Tech Startup.
• A short description that explains the context. What was the project about? What challenges did you solve?
• The results or outcomes, if possible, such as improved conversions, increased traffic, or better user engagement.

How to present your work: The goal is not to upload everything you have ever done. Quality matters more than quantity. A small set of polished projects is far more effective than a long list of mediocre ones. Use professional formatting, include visuals when possible, and keep descriptions brief but meaningful. Think of each portfolio entry as a mini case study that is clear, focused, and results-oriented.

Updating over time: As you complete real projects on Upwork, add them to your portfolio. Not only does this show your growing experience, but it also signals to future clients that you are actively working and building trust on the platform. Over time, your portfolio will evolve into a track record of proven results, which makes winning new projects much easier.

Step 5: Apply with tailored proposals
Your proposal is your first impression, so it should feel personal and relevant. Start by carefully reading the job post and identifying the client’s main need. Then write a short introduction that connects directly to that need instead of using a generic greeting. In the middle of your proposal, explain how you would approach the project. Keep it specific but easy to follow so the client sees that you have thought through their requirements. Mention any similar work you have done and include a relevant portfolio sample if possible. End with a clear next step, such as suggesting a quick call or asking a focused question about their project. This makes it easier for the client to reply. If you need a template to get started, you can use ours from our Geegpay Freelancer Toolkit.

Step 6: Deliver excellent work and collect feedback
The first jobs you complete on Upwork are important because they shape how future clients see you. Clients pay close attention to reviews, so strong feedback can help you get noticed. To achieve this, deliver exactly what was requested, double-check your work before submission, and communicate clearly if you need clarification at any stage. Meeting deadlines is essential, and adding a small extra touch, such as neat formatting or a helpful suggestion, can leave a good impression. Once the project is approved, politely ask the client to leave a review. Most will do so if you have been professional, and even one or two strong testimonials can make a difference when clients are deciding who to hire. Finally, be sure to always have a contract so every project is seamless legally. You can use our free Freelance Contract Template.

Step 7: Stay active and keep improving
Freelancing on Upwork works best when you stay consistent. Make it part of your routine to log in, check for new jobs, and submit a set number of proposals each week. Treat it like a practice rather than something you do only once in a while. Over time, you will notice the types of jobs you enjoy most or win most often. Use that knowledge to guide the kind of work you apply for. Keep your profile updated with new skills, certifications, and completed projects so it shows your growth. Continue refining your proposals, testing different approaches, and staying aware of how the platform works. This steady effort helps you build a reliable presence that attracts clients.

How to Get Paid on Upwork

Once you begin completing projects, the next priority is accessing your earnings in a way that feels smooth and reliable. Upwork offers several withdrawal methods, and the right option often depends on where you are based.

Modern fintech solutions have made this process far easier by providing faster and more flexible ways to receive payments. With Geegpay, for instance, freelancers can open accounts in USD, GBP, or EUR and connect them directly to their Upwork profile. Payments arrive in these accounts, giving you the freedom to decide how to use your funds. You can spend online with a virtual Geegpay dollar card, or transfer money to a local bank account at competitive rates. If you do not have a Geegpay account, visit here to create one and once you’re done, here’s how to link it to your Upwork account to receive your pay with ease.

What’s Next? Upwork Trends Shaping 2025

The way freelancers succeed on Upwork is always shifting. Staying informed about the latest Upwork trends in 2025 helps you understand where opportunities are growing and how to position your profile for maximum visibility. These are the changes shaping the platform right now:

1. AI-related projects and prompt engineering
One of the fastest-growing categories of Upwork freelance jobs in 2025 is AI collaboration. Businesses are not just looking for coders, but for freelancers who can guide AI tools, refine prompts, and apply outputs to real business challenges. From marketing copy to software development, AI-savvy freelancers are in high demand.

2. Rising visibility of global talent, especially from Africa and emerging markets
A key Upwork trend in 2025 is the growing number of successful freelancers from Africa, Latin America, and Southeast Asia. As internet access improves and fintech solutions simplify payments, clients are hiring more professionals from these regions in tech, design, and consulting roles. This means competition is broader, but also proves that talent has no borders on Upwork.

3. Remote-first, long-term contracts
More clients now use Upwork to build remote-first teams, not just to outsource small tasks. Long-term contracts, retainers, and ongoing partnerships are becoming common, which creates stable income opportunities for freelancers who deliver consistent quality. If you want to know what clients want on Upwork in 2025, it’s clear: reliable talent they can keep working with.

4. Demand for verified and specialised profiles
Skills alone are not enough. Clients increasingly filter by badges, certifications, and specialised profiles. This makes it essential to niche down and optimise your profile so you appear in the right searches. Verified expertise helps you land skills in demand on Upwork in 2025 much faster than a generic profile.

5. Hybrid skill sets are more attractive
The most competitive freelancers in 2025 are those who combine expertise. A data analyst who can also build dashboards, or a graphic designer who understands social media strategy, brings extra value to clients. Hybrid professionals stand out among the most sought-after Upwork freelance jobs in 2025.

In the end, getting started on Upwork in 2025 is about preparation, focus, and steady effort. When you understand how the platform works, position yourself clearly, and back that up with quality work, you set the foundation for long-term success.

Frequently Asked Questions About Freelancing On Upwork

Can you start freelancing without experience?
Yes. Beginners can create sample projects to showcase their skills, use them in their portfolio, and start with smaller jobs to build credibility.

Do I need to know coding to make money on Upwork?
No. Many high-demand categories, such as writing, design, virtual assistance, and marketing, require no coding at all. Coding is only one of many valuable skill sets.

How do Africans withdraw money from Upwork?
Many freelancers prefer fintech platforms like Geegpay for faster, lower-cost withdrawals in USD, GBP, or EUR with the ability to convert to local currency easily.

Is freelancing a stable career in 2025?
Yes, provided it is treated as a career rather than a side hustle. Stability comes from consistent skill development, building long-term client relationships, and adapting to market shifts.

How many hours should I commit to succeed on Upwork?
There is no fixed number. Some freelancers succeed part-time, while others treat it as full-time work. What matters most is consistency, quality of delivery, and maintaining visibility through regular proposals and updates.

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