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How to get your first job on Upwork

If you’re a beginner on Upwork, getting your first job on Upwork can be challenging. However, with the right strategy, you can land your first gig and build your profile from there. In this article, we’ll explore some tips for finding your first few jobs on Upwork.

Tips for finding your first job on Upwork.

The importance of proof

When it comes to convincing a client to hire you, the key is proof. Many freelancers overlook this crucial step, but it can make all the difference in winning your first job.

Proof can come in two forms: social proof, such as testimonials and reviews, and physical proof, such as work samples. Depending on your industry, you may need one or both of these types of proof to demonstrate your skills.

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Fabricate projects

If you produce visual content, such as photos, videos, graphic design, or web design, you can easily fabricate projects to demonstrate your skills. However, it’s essential to have social proof, such as testimonials or reviews, to back up your work.

Offer free work

If you’re just starting and have no previous clients, consider offering a coupon or doing a couple of small projects for free to demonstrate your skills. You can then use these projects as work samples and ask for testimonials to add to your portfolio.

Moving from technician or creative to consultant

Many freelancers start as technicians or creatives and eventually move into consulting. If you’re offering business growth or strategy-based services, you’ll need proof that you can create results for your clients. If you’re just starting, it’s essential to build your portfolio with physical proof, such as work samples, and then move to social proof, such as testimonials or reviews, as you gain more experience.

Reframing your experience

If you have work experience in a business setting, you can reframe that experience to show that you can help businesses achieve certain results. However, if you’re fresh out of college or have no business experience, you may need to start as a technician or creative to build your skills and portfolio.

In conclusion, the key to getting your first job on Upwork is to have proof of your skills. Whether it’s through social proof, such as testimonials and reviews, or physical proof, such as work samples, having something to demonstrate your skills can make all the difference in landing your first gig.