Upwork is full of opportunities for freelancers. Whether you're a total newbie or a seasoned pro, Upwork can connect you with your dream clients. It's a vast marketplace filled with freelance opportunities in various fields connecting you to millions of clients worldwide. Jobs are seemingly endless. It's a great way to start your career or funnel in new projects for your business.
From $12 Blog Post to 5K Projects
Upwork was one of the first places I went when I started copywriting. The first job I landed was writing Buzzfeed-style listicles for $12 each. Yes, that amount makes me cringe now, but I was giddy just getting paid to write at the time. While doing that, I took a few other easy, low-paying jobs — like writing an Amazon review for a product sent to me. I put my heart into those writing assignments.
My first few clients left me 5-star reviews and positive feedback. Suddenly, I was a "rising talent" on Upwork. They give this badge and distinction to new freelancers who consistently receive positive feedback. One of the things I appreciate about the platform's algorithm is that it does reward those who deliver high-quality work. I submitted many proposals, and once I had those first few reviews under my belt, I started getting many more responses from potential clients because Upwork was putting me at the top of the lists clients would see.
That's when I got the ball rolling — jobs came to me instead of applying for jobs. As a copywriter, I've made thousands on Upwork and have found some of my best clients there. What I love about Upwork over other client acquisition methods is you're not going in the cold! These clients know they need help. You don't have to convince them your services are valuable. But you have to convince them you're the best freelancer for the job…
And that's what I'm going to help you do. I'm sharing my methods for finding amazing Upwork clients on my YouTube channel. Click here to check it out.
You don't have to be a copywriter, either. This process works for all types of freelancers. You need to be willing to take time and ignore all the Upwork haters.
How to Make Money on Upwork for Beginners
Here's the key to getting high-paying clients on Upwork… you have to start at the bottom. You've gotta play the game and get a few 5-star reviews for lower-paying gigs before you can expect to make good money.
Just like Google, Upwork has an algorithm. If you don't have any reviews, your proposals are sent to the bottom of the list. Potential clients might not even see them. I've put together a process to help you book a few jobs — fast. With those 5-star ratings on your beginner Upwork profile, you'll be able to get the attention of amazing high-paying clients.
Start with a business mindset.
Think of yourself as a business owner, not an employee. And remember, you're selling a service. That's why as a business owner, you should have a business plan that serves as your gameplan for your success on Upwork.
It's important to know your strengths - What are your skills? What can you offer? How can you help? You are your product, so you need to highlight your skills as your service. This is key when dealing with your clients because you know what you can bring to the table.
It's a mindset shift that will prevent you from hitting burnout in your freelancing career. You're in control of your business. Your clients are not your boss, and you are free to end the relationship at any time. When you're just starting or need some cash, it can feel like any client is the best. But it's important to pay attention to red flags. If you have a bad feeling about a potential client, I urge you to walk away. You have to protect yourself and your business.
Upwork Profile Tips for Beginners
So you might be wondering - how do I create an Upwork profile? The key is to market and position yourself as valuable to clients. Start by building a magnetizing Upwork profile. Whether creating an Upwork profile as a beginner or ready to give your existing bio a makeover, these tips will help you create the best Upwork profile for your industry.
Just like your website, cold emails, and Linkedin page — your Upwork profile is not about you; it's about how you can help your client.
The best Upwork profile sample always focuses on solving problems for the client, not the freelancer's education and background. Your profile is not a resume! You don't need to list every school you've attended or job you've held. Only include past experiences relevant to the service and industry you are freelancing in.
To make this as simple as possible, I created a downloadable checklist for you. You can follow it step-by-step to get each section of your profile set up and optimized for Upwork's SEO algorithm.
Click here to grab a copy of the Moneymaking Upwork Profile Building Checklist.
When you set up your profile the right way, you can even have clients come to you!
Let your profile do the talking!
A copywriter I know had a long-term client find HER on Upwork. The client was looking for someone located in her city. They found her profile because she'd set it up correctly. The client reached out to her, and they've been working together for more than a year.
Your title should be as specific as possible. Use your niche or add another specialty; you want your ideal client to think, "this is exactly who I need" when they see your title. Upwork also uses the words in your title when clients search for freelancers, so make that title stand out and let them know what your business is about. List your current title as your business name, like Copywriter at your Name Agency or Web Designer at yourname.com. The best Upwork profiles make it clear that your priority is your business - even if it is not your full-time gig yet.
Use Connects wisely
Upwork also helps you reach out to potential clients by giving free Connects monthly. Use this to send your proposal! Think of it as a business transaction. You're pitching to clients, so make every single word count!
Don't send copy-pasted introductions to your clients. Tailor fit your proposal to their business needs, show how you can solve their problem, and why YOU are the best person for the job. You only have this chance to sell yourself among dozens of competitors; make it count!
Network
Use the powerful tool of Social Media and networking. Find like-minded individuals and communities in your niche. Join Facebook groups and Linkedin to connect with potential employers or get referrals or connections that will help you get those contracts on Upwork!
It is also important to leverage your social profile by building your presence. Establish credibility and show expertise in your chosen field! For example, if you're a UGC creator for Tiktok, consider your profile your portfolio to showcase your talent to potential clients. If you're a content writer, set up a blog so your clients would have a feel for how well you write. In this day and age, it's so easy to google someone up! It would be best if you left a good footprint online. As always, use this as free marketing! Don't forget to market your business and talk about your services so that you're at the forefront of their list when the need arises.
Name your price
Set an hourly rate - but don't get hung up on the number! It is important to know your value, but when you are starting, it is best to pick a low number while hunting for your first few jobs. This will give you more opportunities and allow employers to try you out without prior reviews. Once you've built more credibility and garnered 5-star ratings on your profile, raise your price and let the money-making begin!
Wow Factor
It's all about your delivery! Under promise but over deliver. When doing a job, make sure you put in the effort. This will give you credibility and earn the trust of your clients. Always ensure your clients are happy with your work to build a lasting relationship. This is especially important when they have other opportunities come up in the future. They are more likely to hire you again or refer you to their colleagues.
Get that star!
Good ratings on your profile will help you become a rising star, putting you at the forefront when sending proposals to your clients and having the best Upwork profile for your niche! That's why your first few jobs are important and will be a catalyst to your money-making journey!
Reviews
A key to a good Upwork profile? It's results! Don't be afraid to ask for feedback! This will help build your credibility in the long run and boost your profile for other potential clients to see.
Build your portfolio
Once you have clients coming to you, build a portfolio. Showcase all the projects you've done for your clients and how you've helped them - this will be your track record for delivering good quality services to your Upwork clients and will get you more clients and make more money in no time!
Final Thoughts
Building an Upwork profile takes time and skill, but once you've got it all down to the T, you'll make money in no time! Now that you've got the low-down - Download our checklist to help you get started on the best Upwork profile!