Freelancing Tips: How I Got My First Real Client on Upwork?

Rey Juaton
Jul 22, 2017 · 3 min read

How I Got my First Real Client on Upwork?

Today marks the 4th year when I first got my real client on oDesk, now Upwork. I was hired as an Online Helper to a CEO of an SEO company based in San Diego, California. And today, I will be sharing to you 3 valuable freelancing tips that I have learned on how did I get that contract, my very first real client who has really helped me jump start my freelancing career.

freelancing tips on how to get your first client on Upwork
freelancing tips on how to get your first client on Upwork

It All Started with a Mess

I started my freelancing career on the 28th of January, 2013. I was a total newbie at that time with no enough knowledge and idea about the freelancing world.

I consider every job post as an opportunity for me. I applied to data entry jobs, writing, social media, and other easy jobs. But all of these applications were declined.

What to do when Rejected?

After this series of rejection, I tried to ponder and ask myself why? I went back to my proposals and this is what I have found. I noticed that all of my proposals were all vague. Below are samples of proposals which were ridiculously got a thumbs down from the clients.

freelancing tips - be clear in your proposal
freelancing tips - be clear in your proposal
freelancing tips - be clear in your proposal
freelancing tips - be clear in your proposal

How Did I Get the Job?

When I sent a proposal to my first “real” client, I remember that really spent time understanding what the client really need. I realized that he needs a freelancer who is analytical and good in data since he needs somebody to do some analysis in keyword rankings.

Using my skills as a Statistics and Math instructor, explained how my data analysis skilsl can be an asset to the company.

After 3 weeks, I received a notification on Upwork and we talked on the phone for 2 hours and after that, he hired me. I worked for that company for 1 year where I received a great review that helped me jump start my freelancing career.

freelancing tips to get 5 star reviews
freelancing tips to get 5 star reviews

Bottomline

Getting my first real client on Upwork has taught me 3 valuable freelancing tips on how to create a winning proposal and get the job that you applying for.

Tip #1 — Understand the client

Spend time reading and understanding what the client based on the job he has posted. If he has a detailed post, chances are he is a detailed person and he wants a detailed proposal.

Tip #2 — Mirror and determine what “specific” skill you can offer

Mirror the client’s words. If he stated that he needs a “realiable and consistent individual” who can spend 30 hours a week, mention it it your proposal that you are such. However, make sure that you can live to that promise.

Tip #3 — Check your account every 3 hours for new messages and invites.

Clients appreciate freelancers who are prompt in responding. That client of mine sent me a notice via Upwork asking me for my phone number. Luckily, I was able to respond in less than an hour, and in just few minutes, my phone rang. If I was late for few minutes, maybe that position was awarded to another freelancer.

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Rey Juaton

Written by

Email marketer and sales funnel strategist

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