Finding a reliable and effective platform can be key to landing great projects as an independent professional. And Upwork, one of the leading platforms in the market, gives you the opportunity to connect with clients from all over the world.

But knowing how to use it effectively is what will make a big difference and bring you closer to achieving your goals, whether you are exploring new ways to expand your business or starting your career.

Here is a basic guide on how to achieve it.

Upwork Freelance: Basic Guide to Working as a Freelancer with Upwork

What is Upwork and How Does It Work?

Upwork is a prominent American platform designed for freelance work. It is the ideal site for clients and independents looking for various professional services.

Over the years, Upwork has gained recognition for recruiting talents for thousands of companies and clients. This means that freelancers can find good job opportunities in various industries.

Now, how does Upwork work?

Its operation is similar to sites like Indeed for finding freelance work, starting with registration and creating a detailed profile. Then you search for a project, choose one, and send a proposal that includes your rate and services.

Types of Professionals Who Can Create an Account on Upwork

We're talking about a versatile company that welcomes professionals from various industries and specialties, such as:

• Developers and programmers. Website, mobile app, and software creators.

• Designers and creatives. Those who develop logos, user interfaces, or templates.

• Writers and editors. Those who write content for articles, blogs, and web pages, advertising specialists, book editors, proofreaders, etc.

• Marketing and advertising. SEO specialists, content strategy managers, social media marketing, online advertising campaigns, and more.

• Administrative support. Virtual assistants, customer service representatives, relationship and database management, among others.

• Finance and accounting specialists. Such as financial analysts, accountants, consultants.

• Education and training. For example, tutors, teachers, or coaches.

• Business professionals. Include business consultants, strategy consultants, project managers, human resources specialists, and others.

The list could go on and on, as the number of professions covered by Upwork is immense. But this gives you an idea of the number of people who can find freelance work on the platform according to their skills.

How to Start Using Upwork to Work Freelance?

Starting on Upwork is not as difficult as you might think.

The basic steps to establish yourself and find projects on Upwork are:

1. Create an Account

Register on Upwork and then verify your email address to activate your account.

2. Complete Your Profile

Like platforms such as LinkedIn, this is the decisive point to attract new clients.

Here you must add everything that makes you stand out among other freelancers. From the services you offer, your skills and experience, to your studies and courses completed.

It's also advisable to upload your portfolio to showcase your work and even define your service rate.

Make sure to add a professional photo, be clear and honest.

3. Search for Projects

On Upwork, you can use keywords related to your profession or skills to search for projects.

Similarly, you have filters to adjust the search to the type of project or budget, for example.

4. Apply to Freelance Jobs

What you will do next is send your proposals to companies or individuals according to the list provided by the platform.

Then you just have to wait.

Before contacting you, it is most likely that they will review your entire profile, as well as your ratings. Hence the importance of filling out a professional and detailed profile.

5. Receive Payment

Payments are managed through Upwork's escrow system, which protects you and the clients. This is why Upwork is reliable for thousands of freelancers and companies.

Don't forget to ask for your rating or review after completing a project.

How Much Can I Earn on Upwork?

This varies according to several factors, such as your level of experience. If you are a beginner, it is most likely that you will earn little at first, while you build your reputation and portfolio.

It also depends on the type of work, for example, advanced software development is usually paid more than data entry. The more complex or specialized, the higher the payment.

This leads us to the next point, how quickly you close projects. If you finish them quickly, you can apply to more projects, and consequently, generate more income.

How to Get Paid on Upwork?

On Upwork, you can charge in two ways:

• Hourly Projects. You can charge for the hours spent on a job. Upwork uses its tracking tool to calculate your time on a project and release the funds.

• Fixed-Price Projects. Here, an escrow system is used, where the money is only released when the work is completed and approved.

Either way, it's best to negotiate with the client to reach a mutually beneficial agreement.

How to Create Good Proposals on Upwork?

When applying for jobs on Upwork, the main challenge is to create a freelancer proposal that captures the client's attention.

Although strategies depend on your profession, here are some suggestions:

Use Templates

To save time, use a base model or template that you can adapt for each proposal. This will allow you to be more efficient and ensure you cover all important points.

Of course, you should update it and adjust it to each one to reflect the specific project and add your touch.

Customize Your Proposal

Details can make the difference between you and other freelancers in your profession. Start with the client's name and then explain the key aspects of the work.

Remember, the client wants solutions. Therefore, you should focus on how you can help them carry out their project, responding to their specific needs and objectives.

Be Direct and Take the Initiative

Start your proposal by being direct.

Talk about your experience and how you can contribute to the project, supporting yourself with attached documents if necessary.

Do not hesitate to propose a meeting to discuss the details. This gesture can demonstrate your proactivity and make a significant difference.

Consider these tips for drafting more effective proposals and expanding your chances of securing freelance jobs on Upwork.

Does Upwork Charge Freelancers Fees?

Yes, Upwork charges a commission for using its platform.

These are automatically deducted from the payments you receive from your clients before they are transferred to your account.

The commission structure that the platform had based on the same client was:

• 20% for the first $500 billed.

• 10% for earnings between $500.01 and $10,000.

• 5% for amounts over $10,000.

The intention was to foster long-term relationships between you and your clients. However, for 2024, the fixed fee is 10% on the total billed for all projects and clients.

Don't want to pay such high fees?

Reach an agreement with the client outside the platform. This way, you can charge your money through DolarApp, an application where you can receive your payments in pesos and dollars.

Perfect for clients and freelancers.

Pros and Cons of Upwork

This platform is one of the most popular when it comes to finding freelance work. However, every tool has its advantages and disadvantages, and Upwork is no exception.

Some of its pros include:

• Access to clients and companies globally.

• Upwork is reliable for those seeking and offering services.

• You have the freedom to select projects.

• It manages payments.

• Offers protection and guarantee of payment.

• There is no fee to register.

As for its cons, it can be said that:

• Not all profiles are accepted.

• It can be difficult to get started.

• The commissions on earnings are high.

• You will have to compete with hundreds of freelancers in your same niche.

Upwork vs. Other Platforms for Freelance Work

Upwork stands out among many other pages for several reasons.

Compared to Freelancer.com, for example, the reach of Upwork is much greater as it is global. This allows freelancers to connect with clients around the world, which in turn offers them hundreds of job opportunities in different industries.

Platforms like Toptal focus more on high-quality freelancers, high-level projects, and specific sectors. In contrast, Upwork is accessible to a wider range, not only of freelancers but also of clients.

As for Fiverr, it is also a renowned platform, but it is more ideal for quick and concrete jobs. Whereas Upwork is what you need to create lasting relationships.

It all depends on what you are looking for.

Overall, if you use Upwork in Spanish, you will be able to find great job opportunities as a freelancer, as long as you know how to make the most of it.