New to Upwork With Clients Coming to Me: Spam?

[f0fdc8b0]

I'm new to upwork and haven't worked on any projects yet. I had a potential client reach out about copy work for a biomedical tech project. I've heard it's highly unusual to have a potential client reach out to you when you're brand new and have no track record on the site, and that it may likely be a scam. Before I continue with this person, I wanted to touch base about thoughts on the matter!

[gilbert-phyllis]

It's almost certainly a scam. Read all of the information available for new freelancers about how to avoid scams (and other useful tips). Check the Help & Support section of the site and the material pinned to the top of the New to Upwork board in this forum.  If you do that homework so you understand how the platform works and the fundamental do's and don'ts, then it will be easier to spot scams.

Communicating off the platform is fine. Payment off the platform will get you permanently banned. A client may ask you to sign an NDA which is fine. Be sure it doesn't have any non-compete language. No UW client needs any of your confidential info. No UW client will need to involve you with their HR dept or hiring specialist or anything like that. (Some clients have an onboarding process for contractors but IME that comes along after they've decided to hire me and opened a contract. I always charge for that time.)

Do the homework, listen to your gut and come here with specific questions. Good luck!

[kratochvilsteve]

Haley, like you, I am new to Upwork. I had someone reach out to me and it went well. I did two small projects for the person who inquired. So far, those are the only two things I have done on Upwork, and am hoping it helps build my platform on her. I recommend connecting with this person!

[BojanS]

Hi Haley,

Thank you for flagging this. I checked this with our team and the client is legit. Feel free to continue with your negotiations. Please make sure your client sends you an offer and a contract is created under your ''My Jobs'' tab before you start working. 

I would recommend that you read up on the Safety First! section of the freelancer resources we have compiled here and these tips for avoiding questionable jobs, for more information about working safely through Upwork.

Thank you!