Hello fellow freelancers!!

[sandy_vf]

I just started on Upwork and my question has to do with writing proposals.  I know you write a cover letter but my question is:  do you put your personal information in i.e. email, address, etc. ??  I'm assuming Upwork notifies us of acceptances or correspondence with future employers, but I'm interested in writing some proposals for jobs right away.  I have tried to read the information provided by the upwork site, but I haven't run across this topic.  I also am unsure if I completely understand the "referral" concept yet.  If I don't have referrals, does this mean that I cannot apply for the job?  I will try to find this info on the upwork site, but in the meantime,  I appreciate any and all help I can get.  Thanks in advance!

Sandy VF

[petra_r]

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Sandy V wrote:

I just started on Upwork and my question has to do with writing proposals.  I know you write a cover letter but my question is:  do you put your personal information in i.e. email, address, etc. ?? 

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Personally I don't, no.

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Sandy V wrote:

 I also am unsure if I completely understand the "referral" concept yet.  If I don't have referrals, does this mean that I cannot apply for the job? 

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What do you mean by "referral"?

[martina_plaschka]

Darn, Sandy, the only skills you don't offer are horseback riding and frog dissecting! 

Kidding aside, the secret is: specialize. Chose a skill, or a skill-set, back it up by work examples in your portfolio, and take tests.

I guess you mean connects when you say referrals? You have to chose a plan (free or not) then you get connects and can apply to jobs. 

But do your homework first and work on your presentation!

[sandy_vf]

Thanks for your help. I really appreciate it.  By the way, I do ride horses and I own a frog....NOT for dissection!!

Thanks again,

SandyVF

[JoanneP · Accepted solution]

Hi Sandy,

In addition to Martina's advise, please check out this blog to help you write winning proposals and the following links to help you improve your profile:

8+ Tips to Help You Create a Profile That Stands Out

Upwork Profiles: Why a Great Title and Overview Can Make a Difference

A How-To Guide for Your Perfect Profile Picture

Get Your Profile to the Next Level with an Intro Video

4 Ways to Create a More Successful Portfolio Regardless of Your Skill Set

[sandy_vf]

Thank you to everybody who answered my question!!

What a great group we have here - I can't wait to get started writing!!

Thanks again

Sandy VF