How to Write Proposal For Upwork

Here are some of the key steps that you should keep in mind while writing a proposal for Upwork. Let’s have a look at what those steps are:

1. Start With a Strong Hook

The first step in how to write proposal for Upwork is to start with a strong opening line. Clients have hundreds of proposals submitted against their job post, and they do not read each and every proposal. They quickly scan the proposal by reading the first 2-3 lines, so you should try to make them catchy to grab the client’s attention.

Mention specific requirements from the job post or your relevant past results that can immediately capture the attention. To set your proposal apart from others, avoid generic introductions like “I am very interested in your job” or “I have read your project description”; instead, focus on writing relevant and personalized introductions.

Be friendly, clear and confident with the opening of your proposal as it builds trust and encourages clients to read the full proposal. In short, focus on writing a strong, customized hook that instantly connects with clients.

2. Give an Overview About Yourself

The second step in how to write proposal for Upwork is to give a short overview about yourself that tells the client who you are and what you can do for the client. It should be a short summary of 2 lines. In this short overview, tell the client briefly about your professional background and experience that directly relates to the job description.

A short summary helps clients to quickly understand your strong points that can contribute to the project. It captures the client’s interest and builds credibility, and assures clients that you are capable of doing their job.

3. Restate the Problem Statement

The third step in how to write proposal for Upwork is to restate the problem statement in your proposal i.e use the statements from the job description. It shows the client that you have fully read the job description and have understood it completely. It assures clients that you are focused on meeting client expectations instead of just making assumptions.

Restate the core problem and then present your proposed solution. To avoid making your proposal lengthy, if the problem statement is long, then restate it in your own words concisely instead of writing it as it is.

4. Present Your Proposed Solution

In this step, you have to tell the client about how you can solve their problem. It’s a great way to present your services to clients in a clear and concise way. Clearly explain your proposed solution, but in a precise way. Do not explain each and every point, as it will make your proposal lengthy; further details can be shared later when the client hires you.

Propose the best possible solution to the problem and tell how your proposed solution aligns with the client’s needs. This is a very important step in how to write proposal for Upwork as it demonstrates your understanding of the project and can increase the chances of you getting hired.

5. Tell Why You are the Right Choice

Present your skills and experience to tell the client that you are the right choice. Highlight what sets you apart from other freelancers to make clients believe that you are the right choice. Only mention those skills that directly align with the job requirement. Use concrete examples that make your proposal more professional. Share specific outcomes that show clients how you have handled similar projects in the past.

6. Clearly Tell About Pricing and Timeline

Clearly communicate to the client about the pricing and timeline in your proposal to avoid any inconvenience in the future. If it’s an hourly job then let the client know how you will manage the time efficiently and ensure prompt delivery. If you have a Freelancer Plus membership, then you can use it to see what other freelancers are charging for the job you are applying for, and then you can set your price.

Setting a realistic submission timeline is also very important. Upwork allows you to choose the duration of your project as:

• Less than 1 month
• 1-3 months
• 3-6 months
• More than 6 months

When you have read and understood the job description fully, you can get an idea and estimate the required time accordingly.

7. Use CTA to End Your Proposal

End your proposal with a CTA to leave a good impression on the client. Include CTAs to let clients know that you are interested in working with them. Instead of ending your proposal with regards or simple phrases , use CTAs like:

• “ I would  be happy to discuss the project details further.”
• “Let me know if you have any questions.”
• “I am available to start right away.”
• “I am open to a quick discussion to clarify your requirements.”
• “Feel free to reach out if you would like to discuss the next steps.”

A proposal with  a CTA increases the likelihood that the client will shortlist and will invite you for an interview.

8. Submit Relevant Work Samples

The last step in how to write proposal for Upwork is to attach relevant work samples that align with the job description. Sometimes the client may ask for specific samples, so be sure to attach only those samples that are required by the client. Work samples are a great way to let the client access your capabilities and a chance to see your working style.

Instead of overwhelming the client with too many work samples, add 4-5 best samples. Be sure that it follows Upwork guidelines of submitting attachments and that work samples are easily downloadable to avoid any inconvenience for the client.