How to price myself appropriately as a beginner on Upwork?

[#1]

Hey everyone!

I was just confused in terms of deciding a perfect per-hour rate as a freshie on Upwork. Though I've 3 years of experience in my field, obviously in front of Upwork, I'm just a beginner I guess. So, what's the best strategy to price my services appropriately? I've gone through many profiles on Upwork that are relevant to my field but still I need some guidance.

Regards,

Ali Raza

[#2 · Accepted solution]

Your hourly rate should be based on your real-world experience. Being new to Upwork is irrelevant.

When clients are looking for a quality Copywriter, it doesn't matter if you've been on Upwork for three days or three years; your experience and qualifications in a particular skill area (copywriting) are what most clients are looking for.

[#3]

Thank you Clark! Now that's what I'm gonna focus on.  

[#4]

Try not to focus on the price or hourly first.

[#5]

When i first started upworking 2 years ago, i used the search function to search for existing freelancers who work in the same category. I carefully examined the profile rate as well as the actual rate in their historic projects. So i got an idea about what's the rate for people who have similar experience and who earn the most. Then i used that rate for myself and started applying. And people hired me. So don't think lowering prices is the only way. From where i stand, lowering prices is not a way at all, its just a downward spiral. Pricing correctly is the key. 

[#6]

Hey Alper!

Thank you so much for such useful insights. Yes, I also went for those relevant profiles and thought about lowering my prices. But the level of experience I have, actually deserves a fair and real-world price.