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In this post, I'd like to provide you the answer to the question: Is Upwork a good place to find work? We'll take a look at using Upwork as a beginner, setting up your profile, and what to expect overall.

If you are new to freelancing, you will wonder where the best place to start is. At this point, your clients still don't know you, and you need to start building your credibility.

The first thing you need to do is to find a marketplace or a job board where you can create a profile to get more visibility.

Your name and services should be available for potential customers to search and learn about your professional experience.

One of these marketplaces, which is significant for its size, is Upwork.

What Is Upwork?

Upwork is a job marketplace that provides an easy way for freelancers to reach their potential clients. Businesses can create job listings, and interested remote workers can bid for their projects.

But Upwork is even more than that. You can create a detailed profile and your own projects to sell. Once they are approved, customers can buy them directly, and there is no need to apply for any job.

Using Upwork for Beginners

The first thing you want to do is to sign up for an account with Upwork. The registration will take a little time. Once you have access to your account, you are ready to improve.

A very essential part of your presentation is your profile. You need to ensure it is 100% completed by describing in detail the services you offer, your past experience, and your education.

Make sure to devote plenty of time, a day or two, to polishing the information and presenting it appealingly. You aim to achieve a unique profile that attracts clients and makes them trust you.

How to Find Jobs on Upwork?

Once you complete filling out your profile, you can search for jobs. By going to the upper left corner clicking on Find Work, and then Find Work again, you will get to a list of available opportunities.

You will also see a search bar that you can use for faster navigation if you want to find a specific type of job. I suggest starting with a position that you're fully qualified for. You will be more confident when applying, which can influence your customer interactions.

You can downvote a job if you don't like it or "heart" it if you think it's a good match. Once you choose a project you're interested in, you can click on it to reveal more details.

How to Apply for Jobs on Upwork?

When you are familiar with the requirements of a project, and you want to continue and make a proposal, it's time to hit the Apply Now button. It will take you to a page where you can add your cover letter and any attachments you want to send and make a bid.

To send your proposal to a client, you must use the so-called "connects" you have available for your account. Upwork also provides another new feature, where you can place a bid to be in the top 4 freelancers for a given project.

This is yet another chance for you to land a job by boosting your proposal.

What Are Connects?

If you apply for Upwork projects, you will often come across this term. Connects are the currency the platform uses for "purchasing" from several options. You can use connects to:

        → apply for a project - the amount of connects needed will vary. While some projects may not require connects, others require different amounts depending on the job.

        → bid on a project to boost your proposal - this is a new and additional option to assist you in having better chances to land a job.

        → have your availability badge turned on - you will need this badge to help your clients find you whenever you are available for work.

Where Do I Get Connects from?

If you join Upwork using their basic plan, you will have 10 free connects available each month. For the Plus membership plan, you will enjoy additional 70 connects for a total of 80 connects.

Another option you can use is to purchase them. Keep in mind while purchasing that connects have an expiration date of 1 year, so only buy what you will need as this would be a good use of money.

If you plan ahead and learn from your experience on the platform, there shouldn't be any need to purchase anything. As long as you grow and get better, you will become an expert in using your available resources in your favor.

When Will I Land My First Job on Upwork?

Until now, you should have gained the basic knowledge of how to get started with using Upwork as a newbie. And now, you are ready to start earning.

A valid question is when that will happen. Unfortunately, there is no specific term for you to find your first client.

The exact timeframe depends on your dedication to applying, how you present yourself in your profile, your cover letter and documentation, the need for professionals with your level of experience, etc.

Some people are incredibly successful initially, while others need time to get used to the job board and optimize it for their needs.

Your freelancing business will grow and improve in time if you are focused on success. The platform provides a variety of options to earn.

They also have a learning center to assist you with any questions. It is called Academy and consists of lessons covering all topics you want to learn regarding Upwork.

The hardest part is the beginning. Once you set up your profile and are pleased with the results, you will be confident to continue this journey.

Conclusion

Remember, Upwork is only one of the many available possibilities online. Many others are waiting to be explored and utilized. You can undoubtedly start earning on Upwork, and if you are satisfied with the amount of work and payment - there is no need to jump to other platforms.

It depends on your ability to adjust your skills to the demand and adequately communicate with clients. Once you understand what is required, you will start having loyal customers, and your career will thrive.

Share your opinion with me on the topic: Is Upwork a good place to find work? Let me know in the comments.