Skill selection for profile selection

[markdawson1990]

Hello, I have never done freelancer work before. I am not sure what main skills to select for my main account because I have a wide range of skills that someone may find useful. I have a bachelors degree in Materials Science & Engineering with a minor in Economics from Michigan State University. I worked as a project manager/design release engineer for product development for 6 years at General Motors that gave me a wide range of skills as well. Do you think I could have a successful profile in one of the categories outside of Engineering? Any suggestions?

[louisaj]

Hello. My advice would be to decide on what you want to freelance as. Are you offering your skills as a project manager? Engineering technical writer? Something else?

Once you have decided on what you are freelancing as, then build a profile with those skills. Many freelancers have a wide set of skills, but focus on one skill and build up a freelancing profile with that skill.

[prestonhunter]

re: "I have a wide range of skills that someone may find useful."

I have hired over 100 freelancers on Upwork.

Not once have I desired to hire somebody with "a wide range of skills."

When I want something done, I have looked for a specialist with a specific skill that I need.

There ARE "jack-of-all-trade" types on Upwork. And there ARE freelancers with "a wide range of skills".

But if you are starting out on this now very competitive platform, I recommend you focus your profile on one skill that you do well and which is in demand.