Upwork is one of the most popular platforms for freelancers to find work across various industries such as web development, design, content writing, and more. However, the platform operates on a credit system known as Connects, which freelancers need to spend when submitting proposals for jobs. If you’re just starting out or want to save on spending Connects, there are smart strategies that allow you to send proposals for free by contacting clients directly via their emails.
In this post, I’ll walk you through the steps on how to search for jobs on Upwork, identify client contact details through their websites, and send your proposals outside the platform—saving your valuable Connects in the process!
Also, if you prefer a more detailed, step-by-step guide, check out my YouTube video on this exact topic right here:
Let’s dive into the details!
Step 1: Searching for Jobs on Upwork
Start by visiting www.upwork.com and log in to your account. The first thing you need to do is find job listings relevant to your expertise.
- Use the Search Feature: Input keywords related to your skills. For instance, if you’re a graphic designer, search for “logo design,” “brand identity,” or “social media graphics.”
- Apply Filters: Narrow down your results using filters like project length, client budget, or experience level. This will help you find clients who may need immediate assistance, and who might list a website or email for direct communication.
- Review Job Descriptions: Click on job posts and carefully review their descriptions. Look for details about the client’s project needs, budget, and any links to external sites.
Step 2: Identifying Clients with Website Addresses
Some job posts may contain direct links to the client’s website, where you can get further details about their company or project. These are the key opportunities for you to reach out to clients directly without using Upwork’s messaging system. Common phrases that indicate the client has shared their site could be:
- “Learn more on our website”
- “Visit our site to check our services”
These are golden chances to send your proposal directly to their business email, which can help you save your Connects.
Step 3: Visit the Client’s Website
Once you’ve found a client who’s provided a website link, here’s what you should do:
- Understand Their Business: Take the time to read through their website. This is essential for crafting a personalized proposal that shows you understand their business and can meet their specific needs.
- Find Their Contact Details: Check out their “Contact” or “About Us” page, where they often provide an email address or inquiry form. If you can’t find an email address easily, try using tools like Hunter.io to uncover the client’s direct email.
Step 4: Sending Your Proposal via Email
When you’re ready to send your proposal, follow these guidelines to make it as professional and compelling as possible:
- Subject Line: Make it clear and to the point, like “Proposal for [Job Title]: Freelance [Your Skill] Expert”.
- Introduce Yourself: Start with a short intro explaining who you are, what your expertise is, and how you found their job post (mention that you found them through Upwork).
- Personalize the Email: Reference specific details about their project. Show them that you’ve researched their company and understand their needs.
- Attach Your Proposal or Portfolio: Include relevant work samples or a proposal document. Make sure to keep the email concise and focused.
For a complete walkthrough, you can refer to my YouTube video here:
Step 5: Follow Up Professionally
If you don’t hear back from the client after a few days, send a polite follow-up email. Reiterate your interest in the project and willingness to discuss how you can contribute to their business goals.
By following these steps, you can send proposals to potential clients without using Upwork Connects and increase your chances of landing projects. For more tips and in-depth tutorials on freelancing, don’t forget to subscribe to my YouTube channel and check out the video linked above!
Good luck! 🎯
