How To Become Top Rated On Upwork

Introduction.

Freelancing on Upwork can be a game-changer for those who want control over their work, clients, and income.

Becoming a “Top Rated” freelancer on Upwork is like earning a gold star—it shows that you’re not just another freelancer, but a trusted expert who has consistently delivered quality work and satisfied clients.

That “Top Rated” badge can open doors to higher-paying clients, bring in more job invitations, and give you priority customer support. But earning this badge isn’t easy; it takes a mix of skill, strategy, and professionalism.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through exactly what it takes to reach Top Rated status on Upwork.

Let’s dive in!

What Does “Top Rated” Mean on Upwork?

On Upwork, Top Rated status is a badge of excellence, given only to freelancers who have consistently achieved high client satisfaction. Here’s what you get with it:

• Higher Visibility: Top Rated profiles tend to show up higher in Upwork’s search results, making it easier for clients to find you.
• Exclusive Job Invitations: Clients often search specifically for Top Rated freelancers for high-stakes projects.
• Customer Support Benefits: Top Rated freelancers can get priority customer support when they need it.
• Protection for Your Job Success Score (JSS): You can remove negative feedback from one job every 3 months, which helps maintain a high Job Success Score.

Requirements to Become Top Rated:

• A Job Success Score (JSS) of at least 90% over the last 16 weeks
• At least $1,000 in earnings in the past 12 months
• A profile that is 100% complete
• No recent account holds or suspensions

Meeting these benchmarks isn’t impossible, but it does require consistency, patience, and a solid approach to working with clients.

Building an Eye-Catching Upwork Profile

Your Upwork profile is like a storefront for your skills. Here’s how to make it count:

1. Profile Photo.

A professional, approachable headshot can build immediate trust. Aim for something clear, where you’re smiling and well-lit.

2. Headline and Overview.

Your headline should quickly convey your expertise—”Experienced SEO Content Writer” or “Full-Stack Web Developer with 5+ Years of Experience.”

In your overview, get specific about what you do and how you help clients. Avoid generic language like “I work hard” or “I’m dedicated”—everyone says that. Instead, highlight your skills, any notable achievements, and the value you bring to clients.

3. Portfolio.

A strong portfolio can showcase your work without you saying a word. Include samples relevant to the services you offer, and explain what you contributed to each project.

4. Skills Tags.

Use all 10 skill tags allowed. Make sure they’re directly related to your niche; it helps clients find you more easily in search results.

5. Client Testimonials.

If you’re just starting on Upwork, consider bringing in testimonials from other clients you’ve worked with outside of Upwork.

Pros and Cons of Becoming Top Rated

Achieving Top Rated status comes with its perks, but there are a few challenges to consider as well.

Pros:

• Higher Credibility: Clients are more likely to trust and hire Top Rated freelancers.
• Better Job Opportunities: Access to exclusive job invites and potentially higher rates.
• Client Relationships: Top Rated freelancers often find it easier to establish long-term relationships with clients.

Cons:

• High Expectations: Clients may expect top-level performance on every single project.
• Consistent Quality: Maintaining a 90% JSS can be stressful, especially if a project goes sideways.
• Additional Responsibility: Top Rated status requires ongoing commitment to client satisfaction, sometimes leading to more pressure.

How Do I Become Top Rated On Upwork?

1. Deliver on Promises.

Always meet deadlines and stick to the budget agreed upon. Clear, consistent communication is essential.

2. Set Clear Expectations.

Make sure you and the client are on the same page before starting the project. Go over timelines, deliverables, and revision policies.

3. Get Client Feedback Early.

If a client is happy midway through a project, the final feedback is more likely to be positive. Address any concerns early, and ask for feedback along the way.

4. Stay Within Your Niche.

Sticking to a few core skills helps build a reputation for expertise, rather than spreading yourself too thin across different types of work.

5. Ask for Referrals and Testimonials.

Word of mouth is still powerful, even on Upwork. If a client is happy, ask if they’d be willing to write a testimonial or refer you to someone else.

FAQs

1. How long does it take to become Top Rated on Upwork?

The timeline varies depending on your consistency and the quality of work. For some, it takes a few months; others may take a year or more.

2. Can I lose my Top Rated status once I’ve earned it?

Yes, if your Job Success Score falls below 90% or if you have an account hold, you may lose your Top Rated badge. It’s important to continue delivering great work.

3. Is Top Rated status worth the effort?

For most freelancers, yes. The increased credibility and access to better jobs often lead to higher earnings.

4. Can new freelancers become Top Rated on Upwork?

Yes, but you’ll need to establish a record of client satisfaction first. That usually means completing a few jobs successfully, so focus on quality over quantity.

Conclusion.

Becoming a Top Rated freelancer on Upwork isn’t easy, but it’s absolutely achievable with the right approach and mindset.

By focusing on quality work, building strong client relationships, and keeping your profile up to date, you’re setting yourself up for success.

So, are you ready to take your freelancing career to the next level?