Finding freelance work online has become more accessible than ever—but with thousands of freelancers on platforms like Upwork, the competition is fierce. Newcomers often find themselves unsure of how to stand out, apply for jobs effectively, or even understand how Upwork’s “Connect” system works. If you’re a freelancer eager to land your first project or improve your success rate, you’re in the right place.
In this article, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about getting freelancing jobs on Upwork and how to use Connects wisely. From optimizing your profile to applying strategically for gigs, we’ll explore how to position yourself as a trustworthy, skilled professional—and how to avoid wasting valuable Connects in the process.
Whether you’re just getting started or you’ve been struggling to get responses from clients, these practical tips will help you navigate Upwork with more confidence and better results.
Why Freelancers Choose Upwork
Upwork is one of the world’s largest freelance marketplaces, offering jobs in fields like writing, design, marketing, software development, customer service, and more. Here’s why freelancers flock to it:
- A vast range of clients and job types
- Opportunities for both short-term and long-term contracts
- Secure payment system
- Transparent feedback and rating system
But despite these advantages, landing your first job isn’t automatic—it requires strategy, effort, and a smart use of resources like Connects.
What Are Connects and How Do They Work?
Connects are Upwork’s internal tokens used to submit proposals for jobs. Every time you apply for a project, it costs a certain number of Connects (usually 1–6, depending on the job). New users get some free Connects to start, but after that, they need to be purchased.
Here’s how it works:
- Most jobs require 2–6 Connects per proposal
- Connects cost $0.15 each
- You can purchase bundles (e.g., 10 for $1.50, 80 for $12)
- You receive some free Connects each month with a Basic or Plus membership
- You can also earn Connects through client interviews and job invitations
Using Connects wisely is critical. Sending out low-effort proposals wastes them—and your time. Instead, focus on crafting tailored, high-quality applications.
Setting Up a Winning Upwork Profile
Before you use Connects to apply for jobs, make sure your profile is complete and compelling. Clients often decide whether to read your proposal based on your profile alone.
Key elements of a great Upwork profile:
- Professional photo: Clear, friendly, and appropriate
- Title and overview: Focus on your niche and how you solve client problems
- Work history or portfolio: Include samples of past work, even if unpaid
- Skills: Choose the most relevant and in-demand skills for your category
- Rates: Set a competitive rate, but don’t undervalue your work
Tip: Use keywords naturally in your profile (like “web development,” “content writing,” or “data entry”) to improve your visibility in search results.
How to Use Connects Effectively on Upwork
Now that you understand Connects and have a strong profile, let’s talk about how to use Connects in a way that maximizes your chance of landing work.
1.
Choose Jobs Strategically
Don’t apply to every listing. Instead, filter jobs by:
- Relevance to your skills
- Client payment history
- Budget and time frame
- Low number of existing proposals
This helps you focus on jobs where you have a higher chance of standing out.
2.
Write Tailored Proposals
A personalized proposal makes a big difference. Avoid copying and pasting the same pitch.
Include:
- A friendly greeting using the client’s name (if available)
- A reference to their job description
- A short explanation of why you’re a good fit
- A relevant work example or quick suggestion to solve their problem
Example:
“Hi John, I saw you’re looking for a blog writer to help with SEO content. I specialize in creating keyword-rich articles that improve search rankings. Here’s a sample post I wrote for a travel brand that boosted traffic by 30%.”
3.
Avoid Wasting Connects
Steer clear of:
- Jobs that are vague or unclear
- Clients with no verified payment method
- Projects far outside your skillset
Instead, use your Connects where your proposal can truly shine.
Tips for New Freelancers on Upwork
Breaking into Upwork as a beginner can be tough, but these tips can help:
- Start small: Apply to low-budget or entry-level jobs to build your work history and reviews.
- Respond quickly: If a client replies, answer promptly. Upwork tracks responsiveness.
- Ask questions: Show curiosity and initiative in your proposals—it builds trust.
- Use the Upwork Academy: Free learning resources to improve your skills and Upwork knowledge.
Also, remember: Persistence matters. It may take 10 or more proposals to land your first job, and that’s okay.
Understanding Client Perspective
Freelancers often focus on what they need—but success on Upwork also means understanding what clients look for:
- Confidence and professionalism
- Proof of skill (portfolio, certifications, reviews)
- Clear communication
- Reliability and timeliness
Every proposal is an opportunity to demonstrate these qualities.
Upgrading Your Membership: Is It Worth It?
Upwork offers two membership plans for freelancers:
- Basic (Free): Limited Connects per month (10), pay-as-you-go for extras
- Plus ($14.99/month): 80 Connects per month, see competitor bid ranges, keep profile active even when you don’t submit proposals
If you’re actively looking for work, the Plus plan can be a smart investment—especially when you want more chances to apply for high-quality jobs.
Conclusion
Getting a freelancing job on Upwork isn’t just about luck—it’s about preparation, smart decisions, and consistency. By setting up a solid profile, using Connects wisely, and writing targeted proposals, you can significantly increase your chances of landing work.
Take the time to understand how the platform works, and don’t be discouraged by early setbacks. Every proposal you send is a step closer to success.