Tips for finding that first job

[andregutierrez22]

Hi all,

Welcome to the Upwork Community! We know landing that first contract can be challenging, so we built Upwork Academy and threads like this to help you get started. With a lot of resources and so little time, we wanted to put together some recommendations for you to check out first:

• New to Upwork: Finding Work
• Identifying and communicating your value
• Creating a proposal that wins work

Do you have a specific question or maybe a tip to offer? Reply to this post and share your question, advice, or words of inspiration!

[53694005]

Hi, I'm a freelance copywriter and a landing page designer. I joined Upwork in 2021 and till this day, I have been unable to secure my first job on the platform. I have sent multiple proposals, gotten a few invites (mostly scams), and burnt a lot of connects over the years. It's been really frustrating and I need help. I'll like to get suggestions on how I can my chances of landing a job soon. Please review my profile and let me know what I'm doing wrong.

[91cfaef7]

Mastering Upwork as a Beginner Freelancer! 

Hey Folks!

As the gig economy continues to thrive, many professionals are turning to freelance platforms like Upwork to kickstart their careers or explore new opportunities. Today, we'll be diving into Upwork and offering valuable tips for beginners on how to land their first gig successfully!

1. Optimize Your Upwork Profile 

Your Upwork profile is your virtual business card. Make sure it showcases your skills, experiences, and passion. Use a professional photo and write a compelling headline and overview that highlights your expertise. Don't forget to add relevant skills and certifications to boost your profile's visibility.

2. Start with a Stellar Portfolio 

Even if you're just getting started, create a portfolio that showcases your best work samples. It could be previous projects, personal projects, or anything that demonstrates your abilities. Clients love to see tangible evidence of your skills and commitment.

3. Craft a Tailored Proposal 

When applying for gigs, avoid generic proposals. Take the time to read the client's requirements carefully and address them in your proposal. Explain how your skills align with their needs and why you're the best fit for the job. Personalization can go a long way!

4. Be Competitive Yet Realistic 

As a beginner, it's essential to set competitive rates to attract clients. But remember, undervaluing your skills can lead to burnout and unsatisfactory outcomes. Find a balance between competitive pricing and fair compensation for your expertise.

5. Start Small, Build Trust 

Landing your first gig might take time, but don't get discouraged. Be willing to take on smaller projects initially to build your reputation and gather positive reviews. Deliver exceptional results, and your clients will become your best advocates.

6. Communicate Effectively 

Clear and timely communication is crucial. Respond promptly to client messages, and keep them updated on the progress of the project. Good communication builds trust and paves the way for long-term collaborations.

7. Focus on Building Relationships 

While delivering quality work is essential, building strong client relationships is equally important. Satisfied clients are more likely to hire you again or recommend you to others, which can lead to a steady flow of projects.

8. Leverage Upwork's Resources 

Upwork offers a treasure trove of resources to help beginners succeed. Explore their webinars, blog posts, and forums to gain insights, improve your skills, and stay up-to-date with industry trends.

Remember, success on Upwork doesn't happen overnight. It takes time, dedication, and a persistence to continuous improvement. Embrace feedback, learn from experiences, and keep refining your craft.

If you have any questions or need advice, feel free to reach out! The LinkedIn community is here to support each other on this exciting freelance journey.

Best of luck to all the aspiring freelancers out there! :glowing_star:

[16aa58ff]

Someone please help me on how to acquire a software skill relating to finance and a more modern one 

[f7feca3c]

Guys! My name is Saad and i am new to Upwork, Want to get started as soon as possible and get some clients but whenever i sent my proposal i don't get any type of response i don't know why.

[326c6222]

Hello Muhammad,  I have same question with.  I think we have not found right way to explore the customers. 

[f7feca3c]

I've tried finding the right clients but still no response just because i'm a newbie to upwork ?

[655be748]

Dear Maria:

Thanks for your support for the new persons to getting jobs and help to find out the information.

In your reply, you have discussed about the badges, are you agree to earn badges are valuable to get more importance in getting their jobs ?

Are you talking about these badges on the profile or any thing else ?

Screenshot is attached for your reference.

Regards.

Thats right.

[gajda_mary]

Of course the focus on jobs is very important.

Having those badges shows you are taking your spare time to educate yourself to become more understanding of how to help your clients earn more profits. Which is the bottom line. The clients hire us, we make money, they make money with our skills.

The badges illustrate how involved we are in Upwork, it's community and clients.

I hope that helps explain.

The badges show on your profile as the clients are viewing them I believe.

[e230e754]

Yes i read it already 

[shoaibkhan160]

"Hashim" first of all warm welcome! you will learn many things here at this platform. prepare your profile well, write about your professional skills, education and degree. make sure your profile looks good and attractive. then seek for projects and make sure you submit connects on only newly projects that are uploaded in less than 1 hour. i hope these little things help you.

[e230e754]

I am new here on upwork .kindly guide me how can i get a job here on upwork 

[a86d9592]

i am a graphic designer i need a job

[97653dfc]

How can i join your team to work

[9daad276]

How to achieve first job on up work

[278b5e62]

Hello, I am Joyce. Would you please look at my profile and advice, accordingly?

[b1749522]

Which work

[1b573a49]

Hi Upwrokers,

I just created my profile and heard from folks that its difficult to get your first job on Upwork. Can you suggest how should I start on Upwork?

[44d7bfd1]

i am sending proposal for for thos job which nedd only 2 connect to apply , is it a good way or i need to select job with higher connect?

[dd4d9bff]

Dear Andrea G I accept your offer , 

[diaa_comic]

Hello Andrea

I would like to get advices about my profile. 

[655be748]

Dear Diaa:

Your profile is looking short fields, to attract more client, you should include more things, you can take help from my profile as well. Weldone and make improments.

https://www.upwork.com/freelancers/~01c3a326b44359a607

Regards.

[m_terrazas]

Upwork, almost all the profiles that appear in this thread are nothing. Are they really approved profiles and can send proposals?
If so, are you accepting anyone who can upload a photo and write a couple of sentences?
They even read the main post to follow the advice given.
You have to do something, this is a disaster.

[655be748]

Good post Maria T:

Good eye opening post, however it should be motivated for the new ones and give them courage so that they should more job done (Lighter note).

Regards.

[e230e754]

Obviously the same i thought 

[655be748]

Thanks

[5787db76]

ASALAMUALAIKUM I am new to upwork and dont know how to get jobs and build up my profile guide me..

[shoaibkhan160]

How to get clients on Upwork and become top rated freelancer.

[5a1cee77]

I'm new here and I'm trying to find job can you help me 

[4b8f5585]

Good day ma, I need someone to put me through on upwork. 

[c3e40c9b]

Hi People, i`m new here, nice to meet you all. I`m currently searching for my first web dev gig. helping me with useful tips would be nice. Thanks🙂

[903dbff8]

I am Megers I am from.Ethiopia , now i joined to this community member

 So please inform me.

[8055f6d7]

Hi,

    I am a Graphic Designer and have expertise in Illustration, Graphic Motion, Web Design and UI Interface. I am also a Content writer and trying to upskill more on Creation and Imagination for developing more in this field.

[42acdb5a]

a very useful topic. a lot of useful things to read here.

[e230e754]

Thanks it's really helpful and valuable informations regarding proposals

Regards wasif

[0ddafd28]

Good day my fellow upworkers,

I have been spending money on connects to apply for various jobs as a Photo Editor, a Customer Service assistant or as a Data Entry Specialist but I have not been lucky so far. I don't know if there is something I am not doing right, please I need assistance.

Thanks,

Ernest Ogwe

[a9c95629]

Hello,

My name is Maureen Anyango , I am new to Upwork. My profile is 95% complete, still trying to get to 100% but just a few touches to get there. I would really love to get work, secure clients and get their referrals. I would appreciate any assistance how to go about get gigs, securing clientsand earn something.

Kind Regards,

Maureen Anyango

[048f1c22]

I Haven't gotten an clients for years now and I submit good proposals and I apply for gigs always. I don't know what's wrong

[hoyle_editing]

You have been applying for gigs for years but have never got a client?

Who told you your proposals are good?

[f42936df]

Hi, my name is Sharifah. I just did a project before in translating, but I guess it was a scammed because he asked me to go linking my bank account. May I know the right way to get paid? and may I know what is freelancing agent actually? (Worldwide freelancing agent)

[425b4aa5]

Starting page?