When you want to start freelancing, almost everybody tells you to use Upwork, in fact, we recently wrote an article recommending Upwork. But with a competitive platform like Upwork, is it really that easy? The truth is, it’s not but with the right strategies, you can not only win your first Upwork gig but also earn a 5-star review. Which is what can really help you build momentum for your career. In this guide, I will guide you through every step of the process of how to win your first Upwork gig. From signing up to getting a 5-star review from your first client.
- Creating an Upwork Profile
I kow this is not what you are here for but you need to hear it. Your first step should be signing up and creating your profile. Your profile serves as the first thing a potential client sees, so you need to make it count. Think of it as your profile as your resume, as a well-polished profile increases your chances of being noticed by potential clients. Here is how to go about this:
i. Start with a professional photo: Choose a clear image where you’re smiling and dressed appropriately. A friendly photo builds trust.
ii. Craft a compelling headline: Highlight your top skills in a concise way. For instance, instead of writing “Freelancer,” try “Expert Graphic Designer or Branding & Logo Specialist.”
iii. Write an engaging overview: Your summary should focus on what you can do for the client. Avoid overloading it with unnecassary information. For example, “I specialize in creating eye-catching logos that help businesses stand out” is more impactful than “I have 5 years of design experience.”
iv. Show your work: Upload relevant samples to your portfolio. If you’re new and lack client work, create mock projects to showcase your abilities.
v. Rates: When setting your rates, start with a beginner-friendly price. It’s easier to build credibility when clients feel they’re getting great value. - Finding the Right Jobs to Apply For
I know it’s tempting to apply for every job you see when you are just starting, but don’t. Focus on jobs that match your skills and seem manageable for a beginner.
Look for listings that:
i. Have clear and detailed descriptions.
ii. Are marked as entry-level or beginner-friendly.
iii. Offer reasonable budgets for the workload.
Avoid posts that seem too vague or overly demanding for the pay. For example, a client asking for “20 blog posts in 2 days” for $10 is a red flag. - Draft Proposals
After finding the right job, the next step is submitting a proposal. This is the most important step and your one chance to grab the client’s attention. Do not fall down the rabbit hole of generic, copy-pasted pitches. Your proposal should show that you’ve read the job post and understand the client’s needs. For a more detailed guide on how to write a winning proposal check out Upwork’s detailed guide on that.
Here’s how to write a winning proposal:
i. Hook them in the first line: Start with a statement that directly addresses their problem. For example, “I noticed you’re looking for a creative writer to revamp your blog, and I’d love to help!”
ii. Focus on solutions: Instead of listing your skills, explain how you can solve their specific issue. If a client wants better social media engagement, mention strategies you’ve used before to increase followers or improve click-through rates.
iii. End with confidence: Close with a call to action, like, “Let’s chat about how I can help you achieve your goals.”
Keep your tone professional but friendly. This balance reassures clients that you’re easy to work with and also know what you are doing. - Communicating Professionally with Clients
Good communication can set you apart from other freelancers. After sending your proposal, always look out for client messages and reply promptly. Also, always make sure to use clear, polite language.
If you get the gig, don’t forget to ask thoughtful questions to ensure you understand the project fully. For instance, if a client wants a logo, you should ask questions such as:
i. “What colours best represent your brand?”
ii. “Do you prefer a modern or classic design?”
Setting clear expectations upfront avoids misunderstandings later. Let the client know when they can expect updates or revisions. - Delivering High-Quality Work
Once you’ve gotten your first Upwork gig it’s time to deliver great results. Building up from the previous point, you can’t provide exceptional work without fully understanding the client’s requirements. You could even take notes during discussions and refer to them as you work.
Tips for impressing your client:
i. Overdeliver where possible: If the client asks for three logo concepts, consider including a fourth option as a bonus.
ii. Stick to deadlines: Always try to finish early, so you have time to review your work before submission and avoid late submissions.
iii. Be open to feedback: If the client requests revisions, handle them promptly and professionally. This shows you’re committed to their satisfaction. - Getting a 5-Star Review
After completing the project, politely request feedback. A simple message like, “I hope you’re happy with the final result! If there’s anything else you need, feel free to ask. I’d also appreciate it if you could leave a review of your experience working with me.”
If your client is satisfied, they’ll likely leave positive feedback. But remember the quality of your work and your professionalism throughout the project will determine whether you actually get a 5-star rating.
What Next?
Update your profile to reflect your experience and new review. Highlight the skills you used for the project, and add it to your portfolio if appropriate.
Consistency is key to success on Upwork. Keep applying for jobs, refining your proposals, and improving your skills. Over time, as you build a track record of successful projects, you’ll attract higher-paying clients.
Final Thoughts and Advice
Winning your first Upwork gig and earning a 5-star review might seem hard at first, but with patience and effort, it’s achievable. Focus on creating a standout profile and showcasing your portfolio because without any reviews, that is what clients are going to use to understand your skills. Remember, everybody started somewhere. Stay consistent, keep learning and polishing your skills, and trust the process. Before long, you’ll look back and see how far you’ve come.
