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

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.

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.


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.

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.
