Make money on- Upwork
Make money on- Upwork
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| Upwork |
Introduction: The Rise of Upwork
Upwork has
quickly become one of the largest and most successful freelancing platforms in
the world. Established in 2015 after the merger of oDesk and Elance, Upwork now
boasts over 5 million freelancers and over 18 million jobs posted. With such
vast scale and opportunity, it’s clear to see why Upwork has become the go-to
platform for many freelancers looking for work.
In this
in-depth and exclusive article, we will comprehensively analyze Upwork by
taking a detailed look into its key features, payment systems, sourcing work,
tips for success and more. Our goal is to provide freelancers with an exclusive
and definitive guide on how to maximize the many opportunities that Upwork has
to offer.
Signing
Up and Setting Up Your Profile
Creating a
thorough and professionally presented profile is key to standing out on Upwork.
Be sure to include:
- High quality profile photo: This helps establish trust and credibility.
- Skills and experiences highlighted: List all qualifications clearly with examples of past work.
- Service offerings explained: Detail what types of projects you can deliver and your unique value proposition.
- Compelling bio: Write an overview that grabs attention and shows your personality.
- Verified contact details: Make sure to include all methods a client may wish to reach you through.
- Once complete, take time to thoroughly fill out your profile questionnaires and get verified. The “top rated” badge that comes with verification is highly trusted by clients.
Sourcing
Work on Upwork
There are
a few main ways to source jobs on Upwork:
- Browse Jobs: Filter listings by category, rate, budget etc to find suitable openings.
- Apply for Fixed Price Jobs: Low risk for clients so tends be more competitive.
- Pitch on Contests: Similar to projects but clients can compare multiple submissions.
- Bid on Hourly Jobs: Can earn long term clients but riskier for freelancers.
It’s best to
apply for 3-5 jobs daily, customizing each application thoroughly. Include how
you’ll specifically help the client in your unique selling point. Well written
applications that demonstrate value tend to succeed most.
Communication
Tools & Project Management
Upwork
offers various modes to connect with clients including:
- Messaging: Internal direct contact for discussions.
- Milestones: Set deliverable checkpoints to track progress.
- Time Tracker: Log hours billable for hourly work.
- Chat: Informal real-time communication.
- Calls and Screencasts: For planning and approvals.
Using these appropriately keeps projects transparent and
builds rapport crucial for repeat business and glowing reviews. Project
organization tools keep all correspondences organized too.
Billing,
Payments & Escrow System
Upwork protects both clients and freelancers
through its escrow system. Freelancers can opt for immediate or milestone based
releases up to the full amount. Key steps are:
- Set competitive Hourly or Fixed prices for proposals.
- Once hired, funds are moved to escrow from the client.
- Deliver work and submit timesheet or a milestone completion.
- Client reviews and releases funds which are directly deposited.
- Occasionally disputes arise, but Upwork customer support efficiently resolves issues for satisfied outcomes. Fees take around 20% per transaction.
Advanced Proposals & Getting Noticed
While
standard applications work, certain advanced techniques increase chances:
- Use cover letters to stand out from generic responses.
- Ask thoughtful questions demonstrating understanding of the project.
- Request client introductions to team members for extra insights.
- Offer useful samples or case studies in your specialized field.
- Highlight relevant successes and satisfied clients wherever possible.
With diligent proposal tactics, even freelancers new to
Upwork can secure excellent long term clients and career opportunities.
Building
Your Reputation
Ratings, reviews and making a great first impression are
pivotal on Upwork:
- Deliver projects ahead of deadlines and anticipate client needs.
- Communicate professionally and solve issues quickly to retain happy customers.
- Seek honest feedback via private messages after completion privately.
- Ask top clients for recommendations and testimonials to feature.
- Receive positive reviews mentioning your skills, work quality and personality.
Stringing together 5-star reviews builds invaluable trust
with future employers. Strive for “Top Rated” status coveted Upwork members.
Recommendations
& Conclusion
With its immense scale, diversity and strong protections for
both parties, Upwork is a must for serious freelancers. While competitive,
opportunities are endless if promoted strategically. Make the most of your
exclusive talents by developing an elite profile, mastering proposals and
nurturing enviable ratings over many rewarding long term clients. By
implementing these exclusive strategies, freelancers can achieve their ultimate
career ambitions right at their fingertips on the premier global talent
marketplace - Upwork.
