Tips for finding that first job

[#1]

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!

[#2]

Review the moderator's explanation right above your question.

[#3]

Hi Rj,

Welcome to Upwork! We’re here to help you navigate the world of online work. Let’s start with the basics here at Upwork.

Below there are a few Upwork Academy courses to help you get started:

• How to create your profile
• Finding work
• Profile Title & Overview
• Building Your Portfolio
• Submitting Proposals

Additionally, feel free to sign up for upcoming events and webinars to learn more about how you can boost your success on Upwork.

We hope you find these online resources useful in your Upwork journey.

[#4]

Hi,   I'm new here and I got my first offer.  Now though, I am worried it might be a scam or something else.  How do I fact check an offer?   The original message came through UpWorks, but subsequent communication was through Skype Business.   The interview said they would set up the contract and buy out on UpWorks since they are wanting a two-month commitment.   I really don't want to be scammed first time out the gate!   Advice please!

[#5]

I have been busy all day creating work, hoping someone out there will hire me and with all these efforts,the only thing counseling is the big number of badges,l am acquiring... someone pray for me!!

[#6]

You write very nicely in English.

List what your skills are in bullets. (easier for the client to read)

Make sure you tell your future client what you can Do For Them on your profile. (how the client can earn $$)

[#7]

i am new here but  i have experience in graphic design fields about 5 years..but i didnt get any work yet in this market place,

so ,how can i get my first client?

[#8]

Read the response from Muhammad above you

Instead of talking about your achievements and skills. (Pointing the finger at yourself) how about thinking of ways your skills can increase your future client’s pocketbook, (which will also increase yours)?

Acquire additional knowledge to add more examples to your page – look up other freelancers in your field. Can be on other freelancer websites.

Lastly, watch the ‘Learning Path’ videos they are helpful to assist with profile, cover letters and winning clients. Good fortune!

[#9]

To find work on Upwork and maximize your chances of success:

1. Create a Complete Profile: Build a comprehensive profile that highlights your skills, experience, and expertise. Use a professional profile picture and write a compelling overview.

2. Choose a Niche: Select a specific niche or skill set that you excel in, making you stand out to potential clients.

3. Build a Strong Portfolio: Showcase your work and projects to demonstrate your capabilities.

4. Set an Attractive Rate: Price your services competitively, considering your skills and the market demand.

5. Write Effective Proposals: Craft customized, well-written proposals for each job you apply to, addressing the client's needs and demonstrating your understanding of the project.

6. Apply for Relevant Jobs: Browse and apply for jobs that match your skills and interests.

7. Keep a Consistent Schedule: Dedicate a specific amount of time each day or week for job searching, proposal writing, and client communication.

8. Network: Connect with clients and other freelancers, and ask for referrals and recommendations.

9. Stay Persistent: Finding work on Upwork can take time. Continue refining your profile and proposals, and don't get discouraged by initial rejections.

10. Deliver Quality Work: Once you land a job, consistently provide high-quality work to build a positive reputation and receive good reviews.

Remember that success on Upwork may vary, and it may take some time to establish yourself and build a client base. The amount of time you spend on the platform will depend on your goals and availability, but it's essential to be consistent and proactive in your efforts to find work.

[#10]

I guess you are 'new' to Upwork:

Maybe these suggestions might work:

How about thinking of ways your skills can increase your future client’s pocketbook, (which will also increase yours), right?

Acquire additional knowledge to add more examples to your page.

Look up other freelancers in your field. Can be on other freelancer websites.

Lastly, watch the ‘Learning Path’ videos they are helpful to assist with profile, cover letters and winning clients.

[#11]

Hello everyone, I am Daniel, a Brand designer, Graphic designer and Shopify website designer, I have been on upwork for a while but I havent gotten a client since, I have try all my best but I didnt get one, I am depending on you all to help me, If you have much Job that fit my expertise pls refer them to me pls, I wont dissapoint you. I am humble, attentive and responsive, Pls help me if you are seeing this and you have much job at hand kindly refer them to me, This is the link to my profile 👉 👉   ( https://www.upwork.com/freelancers/~01fd6134091a67ebed )

Thanks.

[#12]

You need to make your profile 'Public' so that clients can see.

[#13]

Thank you for your response, my account has been set to private locked because I haven't started to make money on Upwork

[#14]

Looking at every job offer not one of them has a clear pay plan, telling italianme I'll be paid paid per unit ok great.What Nobody is clear on is how much per piece or what percentage of that piece. If I can't formulate a math equation to figure out what my pay is it's unclear. PS is there any kind

 of monitering these jobs and bids.Are people fake biding for the pennys Or whatever the currency is.

#Real Car Dog!

[#15]

Perhaps ask a moderator from Upwork here in the community.

[#16]

hello community , 

I'm a front-end developer with one year of experience currently working with Angular and typescript and Tailwind CSS at my current job. I also have experience in HTML, CSS, and Bootstrap. Despite having a detailed profile and sending proposals, I'm struggling to secure my first job on Upwork. Any quick tips or advice to get started would be greatly appreciated
thank you 

[#17]

Hello Ayoub, how long have you been searching for a job in Upwork? I am new to the platform, so I am surprised to hear some people are having such a hard time...

[#18]

Something I had to learn in my 5 years of being here on Upwork:

Think of ways your skills can increase your future client’s pocketbook, (which will also increase yours)

Acquire additional knowledge to add more examples to your page.

Look up other freelancers in your field. Can be on other freelancer websites.

Lastly, watch the ‘Learning Path’ videos they are helpful to assist with profile, cover letters and winning clients.

[#19]

I had the idea of working as a freelancer a year ago, but I didn't have much experience in the field. So, I decided to work for a company. I've been with my current company for a year, gaining valuable experience. And It's been 6 months since I started looking for jobs on Upwork

[#20]

That is wonderful to list feedback of a happy customer…
However, feedback is listed when your client leaves it and offers you stars.
Instead of talking about your achievements and skills. (Pointing the finger at yourself) how about thinking of ways your skills can increase your future client’s pocketbook, (which will also increase yours)?
Acquire additional knowledge to add more examples to your page – look up other freelancers in your field. Can be on other freelancer websites.
Lastly, watch the ‘Learning Path’ videos they are helpful to assist with profile, cover letters and winning clients.

[#21]

Thank you for your advice. I genuinely appreciate your guidance, and I'll definitely implement your suggestions. Thanks again for taking the time to help

[#22]

Good day everyone, I've been on Upwork for close to a year now and I haven't gotten any job, can someone please help me check my profile to know where I got it wrong, or the reason why client are rejecting my proposal.

I will be grateful to anyone who can help me solve this problem. Thanks in advance 

[#23]

Hi Wisom, that sounds frustrating... I have just joined so I do not have any tips, but I hope this changes and you can get help in getting your first job. I am wondering if it's common for people to take so long to take a first job.