Freelancing on Upwork: A Challenge Worth Tackling

Are you a freelancer? If so, you're not alone. Upwork is a leading platform for launching your freelance career, no matter your expertise.

My experience with Upwork has been profitable, yet it often requires a significant investment of time to locate quality job offers. Still, it has connected me with companies and entrepreneurs willing to pay fair rates for my services.

I wonder how your journey has been with Upwork and Fiverr. I recently took a brief course on Fiverr, where the instructor highlighted a key difference between Fiverr and other platforms:

In Fiverr, you do not need to actively pitch clients; freelancers complete their tasks without having to chase after jobs.

That’s how I interpreted it, at least.

It felt a bit dismissive of Upwork—didn’t it strike you that way?

Nonetheless, it's true. Upwork demands time for pitching clients, crafting proposals, and selecting which jobs to pursue. However, the platform allows you to apply for any job that piques your interest, boasting that you can work on your own terms.

Do you truly secure the jobs you desire on Upwork, or do you merely submit proposals in hopes of being selected?

The Realities of Freelancing on Upwork

First off, freelancing on Upwork comes with costs. You must purchase connects, and they take a 20% commission on your earnings.

This should serve as a significant motivator to include this link in your proposal to secure that contract on Upwork.

The link I suggest adding directs potential clients to a YouTube video where you will:

1. Introduce yourself and highlight what sets you apart.
2. Transform your modest achievements into your strongest selling points.
3. Explain how your skills and experiences can enhance your client's life.
4. Foster further communication with the client.

I understand that recording a video about yourself can be daunting; not everyone feels comfortable on camera. I was initially hesitant too, but I pushed through to potentially increase my income.

Next #WisdomWednesday, I'll share tips on how you can confidently present yourself in front of the camera. Be sure to subscribe to my newsletter for notifications when I release the article.

You might be wondering, and before you voice it, let me clarify:

No, you don’t need fancy equipment to film your video. You just need to present yourself professionally and market yourself as the incredible asset you are.

Fortunately, you won't have to draft a script from scratch. I've outlined sections for you to create an outstanding pitch that showcases your professionalism and ensures you land that job on Upwork.

Next time you submit a proposal, make sure to include your LINK, where your prospective client can view your engaging face.

Crafting Your Video Script

Before we dive into the script, it's essential to recognize that discussing your remarkable skills can be challenging due to impostor syndrome.

I experienced it too, uncertain of what to say because I felt my achievements were insignificant. But then I realized I am already remarkable—just like you!

With that in mind, let’s proceed:

1. Introduce Yourself and Highlight Your Uniqueness

   It’s simple to start with: “Hi, I’m Gladys.” But what follows?

   For example: “I’m a bilingual content and copywriter. Spanish is my native language, but I also speak fluent English and can communicate in French.”

   Use this section to pinpoint what differentiates you from other freelancers. In my case, speaking French set me apart from other copywriters.

   Other differentiators to consider:

   • Your age

     Younger freelancers often demonstrate boldness in client pitches, while seasoned freelancers can showcase their adaptability.

   • Skills and background

     If you have complementary skills, highlight them. As a content writer, I also possess experience with WordPress and web design.

   • Personal interests

     Passion resonates. If you are enthusiastic about a specific area within your service, mention it. For instance, I expressed my interest in travel, language learning, and Latin American cultures due to my background as a Mexican in Canada, while ensuring clients know I can research and write on various topics.

2. Turn Your Achievements into Assets

   Have you noticed some freelancer bios that leave you questioning their experiences? The distinction lies in the confidence of the writer.

   You don’t need to boast about extraordinary achievements; simply present your experiences authentically and emphasize their relevance.

   For instance, while I once downplayed my self-hosted blog, I later realized it equipped me with skills in WordPress, SEO, and web design.

   Just remember to take pride in your journey. Initially, I struggled to identify my strengths, but reflecting on my path helped me recognize my capabilities.

3. Focus on the Solutions You Provide

   A common mistake I made early on was asking potential clients, “How can I help you?”

   Don’t follow my old approach. Imagine this scenario:

   Your client is experiencing discomfort; as an expert, it’s your role to identify the issue, suggest a solution, and outline a swift recovery plan.

   Think about your prospective clients' pain points and how you can address them.

   For example: “If you lack the time to craft SEO articles, I can handle it for you. Similarly, if you need a ghostwriter for your e-book, I can assist.”

   Detail your process, so clients understand how you work and what you can offer.

4. Encourage Future Communication

   Conclude your pitch by inviting a brief conversation to discuss project specifics.

   Ensure your contact details are clearly visible in the video or description. Consider linking to a scheduling tool like Calendly for easy meeting arrangements.

   It’s often best to avoid quoting rates initially, as they can vary based on numerous factors. Instead, aim to discuss the project in more depth during the call.

   I also recommend expressing genuine enthusiasm for the opportunity: “I’m excited to work with YOU, which is why I’m applying.” Show your eagerness to learn more about them as well.

Pro Tip: Maintain an energetic tone! Look forward to #WisdomWednesday when I’ll provide tips to overcome camera anxiety. Subscribe to my newsletter for updates.

Your Turn to Shine!

Recording myself was once unfathomable; I dreaded the thought of becoming a meme or going viral. I eventually realized that I’m not entertaining enough to warrant that kind of attention.

In the future, I’ll share how adding this link to my proposals has significantly increased my contracts and earnings on Upwork.

For now, I can confidently say that seeing myself on video, discussing how awesome I am, is a game changer. You’ll experience the same transformation.

I’d love to see your video! Share it with me—I want to witness your greatness.

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