Skype and/or Discord

[1c4871d6]

Are we allowed to exchange Skype or Discord usernames to add each other off Upwork for those in our group project that don't use Upwork and we need to have meetings all in one place?

[prestonhunter · Accepted solution]

Yes.

[1c4871d6]

Thank you!

[df95bd48]

I am a new freelancer to Upwork.  Is it acceptable for a client to request a Skype call to communicate (first call to discuss proposal) or do they typically go through the messaging/meeting system on Upwork?

TY! 

Joni Z

[pgiambalvo]

They have to go through Upwork until a contract is in place. This is most likely a scam, so be careful. Tell the client it has to be on Upwork and if they refuse, you can bet it is a scam. Please read and follow the ToS to keep yourself safe and keep reporting such clients here, too.

[df95bd48]

Thank you Peter.  Will heed your advise! 

[gilbert-phyllis]

Joni, many clients are unaware of the rule against using off-platform communications prior to having a contract in place. Requesting to do so does not necessarily mean that the client is a scammer. However, if they push back (or ghost you) when you tell them, then

they either are a scammer or they're a scofflaw and you're well rid of them. Also, when you are new to UW it's just as well to assume unsolicited invitations are from scammers simply because legitimate clients do not go out of their way to find new, untried FLs with no track record.

In any case, the fact that you asked this question indicates you have not spent nearly enough time learning about the platform before plunging in. It's not an app you can figure out as you go along. It's a complicated platform--a global marketplace--where you are responsible for operating your own business and it's easy to lose time and money if you don't understand how it works. Do some more homework, and good luck!