How to get your first 5 jobs on Upwork

Summary

In this video, the creator discusses strategies for securing the first five jobs on Upwork, emphasizing the importance of tailoring proposals to each client's unique needs. They stress the need to avoid common mistakes such as grammatical errors and generic proposals, which can deter potential employers. The video also touches on the value of persistence and consistency in job applications, countering the notion that Upwork is oversaturated by highlighting the opportunity for those who put in the effort and demonstrate professionalism.

Takeaways

• 🔍 Start by applying to as many jobs as possible on Upwork to increase your chances of getting hired, especially when starting with no experience.
• 🎯 Focus on consulting or strategist jobs as they often require less experience and can be a good entry point for new freelancers.
• 📝 Ensure your proposals and cover letters are free from grammatical errors and spelling mistakes, as these can be an instant turnoff for clients.
• 👥 Recognize that every client is unique, so personalize your proposals to show you've done your research and understand their needs.
• 🚫 Avoid using generic templates for proposals; clients can tell when a message is not tailored to them, which can lead to your application being ignored.
• 💡 Show confidence in your skills and provide value in your proposals to give clients a reason to hire you over other applicants.
• 🔄 Consistency is key; don't get discouraged if you don't get immediate responses or jobs. Persistence and continuous effort are crucial in the freelancing world.
• 📈 Understand that building a successful Upwork profile takes time and is not an overnight process; it's about learning and growing with each experience.
• ⏰ Be prepared for some jobs to be 'ghost jobs' where clients may not hire anyone or forget about the job post; this is not a reflection of your abilities.
• 💼 Treat each application as an opportunity to learn and improve, bringing you one step closer to securing your first jobs on the platform.

Q & A

Why does the speaker recommend applying to consulting or strategist jobs on Upwork?

The speaker suggests applying to consulting or strategist jobs on Upwork because these types of jobs are often overlooked, yet they are abundant. They offer an opportunity for individuals with specific skill sets to provide strategic guidance or a plan to clients who already have the operational aspects of their projects covered.

What is the significance of the speaker's mention of 'five jobs' in the title?

The mention of 'five jobs' is arbitrary, used by the speaker to grab attention. It serves as a starting point for the discussion on how to secure initial job opportunities on Upwork, without implying a specific number as a guarantee or a strict target.

Why does the speaker emphasize the importance of avoiding grammatical errors in proposals?

The speaker stresses the importance of avoiding grammatical errors because they can be an instant turnoff for potential clients. Spelling mistakes and poor grammar reflect a lack of effort and professionalism, which can lead to proposals being dismissed without consideration.

How does the speaker suggest one should approach the creation of cover letters for Upwork proposals?

The speaker advises that cover letters should be unique and tailored to each client. They should not be generic templates, and applicants should ensure that they demonstrate understanding of the client's needs and how their skills can add value.

What is the speaker's opinion on the common excuse that Upwork is oversaturated?

The speaker dismisses the notion that Upwork is oversaturated as an excuse for not getting hired. They argue that many people on the platform do not put in the necessary effort, and consistency is key to success. The speaker believes that with persistence and quality proposals, one can stand out and secure jobs.

Why does the speaker discourage sending generic messages to potential clients?

Sending generic messages is discouraged because it shows a lack of effort and understanding of the client's specific needs. It can also lead to irrelevant proposals that do not resonate with the client, reducing the chances of being hired.

What is the speaker's advice on the frequency and consistency of applying to jobs on Upwork?

The speaker advises against quitting after a short period of time without results. They suggest that consistency is crucial; one should not expect immediate success but should continue applying and improving proposals over time.

How does the speaker justify the importance of proofreading proposals before submission?

The speaker justifies the importance of proofreading by pointing out that even small errors like spelling mistakes can lead to an immediate rejection. It reflects the effort put into the application and the applicant's attention to detail, which are critical for making a good first impression.

What is the speaker's stance on the use of templates in crafting proposals for Upwork jobs?

The speaker is against the use of templates for proposals, as they can be easily identified by clients and do not demonstrate a personalized approach. They advocate for customizing each proposal to align with the specific needs and interests of the client.

Why does the speaker believe that persistence is essential when starting out on Upwork?

The speaker believes that persistence is essential because building a successful profile on Upwork takes time and experience. They argue that every application is an opportunity to learn and grow, and quitting too soon can hinder the chance to build a strong presence on the platform.