Are you struggling to get hired on Upwork and land more jobs? The issue may not be your skills—it’s likely your job selection strategy. Applying to the right jobs is just as important as crafting a compelling proposal.
Over time, I’ve developed a proven method to maximize job offers while avoiding wasted connects and unreliable clients. Now, I’m sharing my strategy so you can apply smarter and get better results on Upwork.
The Ultimate Upwork Job Selection Strategy
1. Apply Within 24 Hours
Fresh job postings have the highest chances of getting a quick response. I focus on jobs posted in the last 24 hours—preferably within the first hour. Older jobs? Not worth the effort.
2. Choose Jobs With Fewer Than 5 Proposals
The more proposals a job has, the harder it is to stand out. That’s why I target jobs with less than 5 proposals—this way, my application is among the first ones the client sees.
3. Prioritize Clients With Good Ratings
A client’s feedback matters just as much as a freelancer’s. I only apply to clients with a 4-star rating or higher. If a client has a history of bad reviews, I avoid them—because a single bad experience can hurt my reputation.
4. Apply Only to Jobs You Can Deliver Exceptionally Well
Just because a job pays well doesn’t mean it’s the right fit. I apply only when I’m 100% confident I can deliver excellent results. This leads to better client relationships, positive reviews, and long-term success.
5. Check Location and Experience Requirements
Some job posts specify required locations or skill levels. If I don’t meet the criteria, I don’t apply. Why waste connects on a job I won’t qualify for? Instead, I focus on jobs where I’m a perfect fit.
6. Target Clients With Verified Payment Methods
Clients with verified payment methods are serious about hiring. Unverified clients may waste your time—or worse, fail to pay. Always check this before applying.
7. Watch Out for Red Flags
- Not all job postings are worth your time. I avoid jobs with:
- Unclear descriptions
- Unrealistic expectations
- Requests for excessive free work
If something feels off, trust your gut and move on.
8. Focus on Long-Term Opportunities
Short-term gigs can be great, but long-term contracts bring stability and consistent income. That’s why I prioritize clients who are looking for ongoing work rather than one-time tasks.
Apply Smarter, Not Harder
- By following this strategy, you’ll:
- Save your connects
- Avoid difficult clients
- Increase your chances of getting hired
Want to improve your Upwork proposals too? I’ve put together winning proposal samples that have helped me land high-quality jobs. Drop a comment below if you’d like me to share them!
Let’s work smarter and succeed together! 🚀