Unfair connect issue for $5 job posting

[#1]

I am writing to express my concern about the unfair connect issue for $5 job postings. I understand that Upwork uses connects to help protect freelancers from spam and low-quality jobs. However, I believe that the current system is unfair to freelancers, especially those who are new to Upwork or who are looking for small jobs.

For example, I recently saw a job posting for a $5 comment task. To apply for this job, I would have needed to spend 8 connects. This is a significant amount of connects for a small job, and it is especially unfair to new freelancers who are still building their connect balance. 16 connects to apply for a single is not fair. I have turned on my availability badge and am still not getting any invitations. So, I'm losing my connects without getting any benefits.

I believe that Upwork should reconsider the way that connects are used for job postings. One possible solution would be to reduce the number of connects required to apply for these jobs. Another solution would be to allow freelancers to apply for small jobs without using connects, but with the understanding that they would be less likely to be seen by clients.

I hope that Upwork will consider my feedback and make changes to the connect system to make it more fair for freelancers.

[#2]

Yeah. I am seeing this here on the platform. I even saw entry-level jobs for 16 connects. This is ridiculous.

[#3]

Just my speculation, but I think Upwork doesn't want you sending proposals on $5 jobs. 

[#4]

So why do they allow clients to post a $5 job posting? 

[#5]

I don't know. Maybe they're just trying to make the change gradual. They're talking quite a lot about shifting their focus to long-term relationships and not advertising for clients looking for true freelancers, so it stands to reason that they will eventually do away with these types of postings. Maybe they're hoping the jump in cost will help that happen on its own. Or, maybe they're trying to make as much money as they can on connects right now to fund the renovations.

[#6]

Whatever they are up to, freelancers are not happy about it.

[#7]

exactely sister

[#8]

I'm pretty sure they don't care. I could be wrong, but I don't think freelancers play much of a role in Upwork's planned future.

[#9]

Sadia, Upwork tries a new system once in a while then changes to yet another one. The current system isn't perfect, but there's not much to do about it. One day, Upwork will come up with a new idea.

Obviously, spending a lot of connects for a $5 job is not a good choice, which means that not many freelancers will answer those job offers. Gradually, clients will get the message and stop trying to get freelancers for cheap.

I'm happy to see Upwork try a new system, because it's always interesting to observe the implications of the new system.

For example the unuasually high number of connects needed to apply to a job. I must say I'm getting more picky about the jobs I apply to. This may mean clients will get less offers from freelancers that are not even qualified for the job. And that can't be bad for Upwork.

[#10]

Upwork doesn't exist for the benefit of freelancers. This site isn't about catering to the needs of freelancers.

They are in the business of turning a profit. If their business model says to charge 16 connects for a job, this means one of two things for you.

One is you don't bid at all, and move on to the next job, or two, write the best proposal you can and take your chances. 

Either way, see above, it isn't about the benefit of freelancers. 

[#11]

Hello,

I appreciate you reaching out to express your concerns about the current connect system for $5 job postings on Upwork. Your feedback is valuable, and I understand how the current system can be challenging, especially for freelancers who are new to the platform or looking for smaller tasks.

It's frustrating when the number of connects required to apply for a job doesn't seem proportional to the task's value. The current connect structure aims to strike a balance between protecting freelancers from spam and ensuring that job applications are thoughtful and targeted. However, your point about smaller jobs is valid, and I understand how the current system might discourage freelancers from applying.

Your suggestions for potential solutions to this issue are thoughtful and could address the concerns you've raised. Reducing the number of connects required for smaller tasks or allowing freelancers to apply for such tasks without using connects but with reduced visibility could indeed help level the playing field for everyone, especially newcomers.