It’s been about five weeks on Upwork and I still haven’t landed a single job — what am I messing up?

[Facerens]

Hi, I’ve been trying to get freelance web jobs on Upwork for a few weeks now, but I haven’t had any luck yet. Earlier, I asked people what I should do with my web skills, and many of them suggested using Upwork. Now I want to explain my situation better.

I mostly build the front part of websites using things like React, Next.js, Tailwind, and TypeScript. I also know a little about the back end. I paid for the Pro plan on Upwork and added a couple of good projects to my profile. Even with that, I’m not getting anywhere.

I apply to jobs often and message clients, but I either get turned down or never hear back.

So my questions are:

Are there specific strategies for standing out on Upwork as a web developer?
What actually makes a proposal effective?
Are there common mistakes beginners make that I might be falling into?
How important is niche specialization at this stage?
Is it worth continuing to apply cold, or should I shift tactics?
Any concrete advice or insights from people who’ve managed to break through early on would be really helpful.

 

[RaeLaugh]

To do better on Upwork, try these ideas:

Change each message you send so it matches the job. Show that you understand the work and how you can help.

Keep your messages short and clear, and talk about what the client needs most.

Don’t send the same message to everyone or forget to show what you’re good at.

Pick one main skill to focus on so the right clients can find you more easily.

Apply to jobs, but also try to talk and connect with people to build trust.

Learn from freelancers who are already doing well and use their tips to get better.