1.

Bid Hourly or Fixed-Price

If the job is HOURLY, bid according to your desired rate. You can settle on a lower price if the client
asks for a preferential rate to test you first. For example, I accepted a job at $35/hr instead of my
usual $50/hr rate. You can always talk to the client later on to discuss appraisal.

If the job is FIXED PRICE, bid according to how you value your work (the WORTH) and NOT based on
how much time or how many hours you’re likely to spend to complete the project.

As for Fixed Price, you can either break it down by different Milestones and set price for each or bid
price for the entire project.

2. Follow a COVER LETTER Template, but DO NOT COPY-PASTE

Personally, I keep copies of my previous proposals to edit and reuse them. Always customize every
proposal.

Do not rush when sending a proposal. Work on each proposal diligently.

No job post is the same. So every Proposal must be unique.

3. No Need to be Too Formal on GREETING!

A simple “Hi, FirstName!” will do. “Hi there,” is totally fine. If you’re Invited to Interview, you’ll likely
get the Client’s name. Otherwise, go and figure out under the Client History right within the Client’s
profile.

4. Say “THANK YOU” if Invited to Interview

Saying “Thanks for this job invite.” in the Proposal is enough.

Most clients invite Freelancers to the Job without really looking at each profile, but only as
recommended by Upwork during the job creation process. So if you’re Invited to Interview, use this
as an alibi to re-introduce yourself as discussed in Tip #5.

5. Introduce YOURSELF and WHAT YOU DO briefly

Remember that this may already be in your main Upwork profile, so just mention your name, what
you do, or your expertise. Highlight only what’s necessary.

6. Capture the Client’s ATTENTION

In your proposal, ask relevant questions. Use the Job Description to your advantage. Be creative –
this is your main opportunity to get the client’s attention.

7. Tell Client HOW YOU CAN HELP SOLVE the PROBLEM

Elaborate concisely how you can help, but not too detailed. Here, you make the client curious about
you. And use this as an opportunity for them to interview you.

8. Push for an ONLINE MEETING

Let the Client book in your Calendar. Send a Meeting link that also captures their contact
information like their email address! You can use meeting links from CRMs (as part of your
Freelancer Toolkit as discussed above) like HubSpot or meeting link from Calendly.

9. Showcase PORTFOLIO
If the Client asks for it, include the details within the Proposal. If not, point him to your Portfolio
Website or Online CV. This is why it’s important you have this in your Freelancer Toolkit as well.

10. Ask for INTERVIEW and Close Proposal POLITELY

For the last time, use this to push for an Interview. Thank the Client for spending his time reading on
your Proposal. Again, just very short and nothing fancy.

11. Include ATTACHMENTS and REVIEW Proposal

If the CLIENT asks for sample works, upload it. Review your proposal and when it’s all good, Submit.

Finally, many freelancers may want the same job that you want. You should realize that despite
following all the Upwork bidding tips mentioned above, you may still lose opportunities to others.
That’s totally fine. Just never lower your standards as that will help build up your reputation. This
Upwork bidding strategy can get you more success in your Freelancing business, just like how it
continues to bring impressive results for my Freelancing business as well. Continue doing this until
you’re able to master the proces