Up Your Upwork Game: How to Write a Job-Winning Proposal

Sarmad Ali
3 min readApr 8, 2023

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Image from Wisar. pro

It sucks! Doesn’t it?

Spending hours writing an Upwork proposal only to see it rotting in the archive folder with FIFTY other proposals.

It’s fine, rejection is part of the process.

Fortunately, with the right strategies we can write a proposal that ends up in the client’s heart.

(They might insist on marrying, right away)

Let’s step up your proposal game and land more projects.

How to write an Upwork proposal that gets you hired.

Create a Hook

The first sentence of your proposal must be a hook that grabs the client’s attention.

It should be short, catchy, and relevant to the job post.

Here are some examples of hooks:

  • I’ve got a solution for [specific problem mentioned in the job post].
  • Seeking a [job title] who can help you streamline your [specific process or task mentioned in the job post]? Look no further.
  • I can deliver high-quality [specific type of output mentioned in the job post].

Read the job post carefully.

Search, If they’ve mentioned the desired outcome or a problem.

That’s your HOOK.

Address the Client by Name

For some reason, we love hearing our names. (Not in a graveyard, nop)

Using the client’s name in your proposal can help you stand out.

It also shows that you have taken the time to research their business and understand their needs.

You can find the client’s name from reviews they get from previously hired freelancers.

Personalize Your Proposal

You’re my BAE.

Your proposal should makethe client feel like you have put them before everyone else.

Personalizing your proposal shows the client that you are not sending the same proposal to multiple clients.

It also helps you establish a connection with the client and build trust.

How to personalize your Upwork proposal:

  • Mention a specific detail from the job post or client’s website that caught your attention.
  • Share a relevant experience or project that demonstrates your expertise in the client’s niche.
  • Use a conversational tone and show your personality. (not too much)

Highlight Your Value and Expertise

Your proposal should display your value and expertise in your field.

Here are some ways to do that:

  • Mention the number of years of experience you have in your industry or field.
  • List relevant software or tools you have expertise in.
  • Share a strong portfolio of relevant projects you’ve worked on.

Outline Your Proposal Details

Your proposal should clearly outline how you plan to help the client achieve their goals.

Here are some details to include:

  • List specific services you can offer.
  • Outline your process or methodology.
  • Mention any additional value you can offer, such as fast turnaround or ongoing support.

End with a Call to Action,

Your proposal should end with a clear call to action that encourages the client to take the next step.

Here’s an example of a call to action:

Thank you for considering my proposal. Please let me know if you have any questions or if you’d like to schedule a call to discuss this in more detail.

I look forward to hearing from you soon.

By focusing on the client’s needs and making a strong impression with your writing, you can increase your chances of landing a job.

I’ve been on Upwork since 2021.

I’ve sent more than one hundred proposals.

Almost all of them were getting rejected. Unless I recognized the pattern!

P.S. Read how I Shot 100 Content Writing Proposals on Upwork! Only 1 hit the Target!

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Sarmad Ali

LinkedIn Ghostwriter for Tech Founders and Freelancers. On medium I talk about: writing, suffering, original thinking, opinions, self-help, etc..