Reinstituting free connects for ID Verified freelancers

[s_scheboth]

Both this ID verification measure and charging for connects were implemented to counteract scammers.

Now that we've verified we are who we are, though, our bids should no longer considered suspect. We should be provided with free monthly bids (not necessarily 60) to encourage us to continue to work on this platform. Other platforms like Guru and Freelancer provide free bids with far less hassle.

As a Top Rated member for a few years who is also ID verified now, you should really be encouraging me and freelancers like me to be able to bid often and repeatedly. We obviously satisfy clients and that creates repeat business for the both of us. 

[joansands]

Guess what, Stephen, Upwork has too many freelancers and they don't want to hand out free connects.

[prestonhunter]

re: "Both this ID verification measure and charging for connects were implemented to counteract scammers."

Upwork did not begin charging for connects in order to counteract scammers.

Upwork began charging for connects in order to limit the number of proposals received by clients. And Upwork hopes that by charging for connects, they will increase the quality of the proposals that clients receive. The ultimate purpose of the change is to increase revenue by increasing the hiring rate.