How To Get a Full-Time Job on Upwork

Introduction.

Finding stable, long-term work as a freelancer can feel challenging, especially when you’re competing in a crowded marketplace like Upwork.

While Upwork is known as a hub for freelancers taking on short-term gigs, you might be surprised at how many opportunities exist for reliable, full-time work.

It’s not only about gaining income but also about building relationships, securing repeat clients, and creating the freedom that comes with a steady, flexible job.

In this article, I’ll guide you through the essentials for landing a full-time role on Upwork, even when it might seem like a platform only for quick projects.

From crafting an eye-catching profile to building a standout portfolio and making yourself indispensable to clients, I’ll cover what you need to know to increase your chances of long-term contracts.

Getting to Know Upwork: How it Works

Upwork is one of the largest freelance marketplaces, connecting freelancers across different fields (like writing, design, development, and marketing) with clients looking for both project-based work and ongoing support. It’s free to sign up, though Upwork does take a percentage of your earnings as a service fee.

Many freelancers start with smaller, one-time projects to build their reputation, but once you’ve established yourself, there’s definitely room for bigger opportunities, including full-time or near-full-time roles.

Why Go for Full-Time Work on Upwork?

There are many reasons freelancers look for full-time work instead of a steady stream of short projects. Here are a few advantages:

• Financial Stability: Full-time work brings more reliable income and lets you focus on fewer clients, which means less stress about constantly looking for the next gig.
• Skill Development: Long-term projects often provide a chance to develop your skills in a particular area, which is harder to do when jumping from project to project.
• Work-Life Balance: Instead of handling multiple clients, having one primary client means you can structure your day-to-day work better and manage your time more effectively.

How Do I Make Myself an Attractive Full-Time Candidate on Upwork?

So, how do you set yourself up to attract clients who need a dedicated, full-time freelancer? Here are some tips to get started:

1. Create a Strong Profile and Showcase Relevant Skills.

Your Upwork profile acts like a resume, so it’s important to make it stand out. Highlight skills that are in demand for full-time positions.

For instance, if you’re a web developer, focus on popular technologies and software you’re proficient in, like JavaScript or WordPress. Include any certifications, past experiences, and samples that back up your expertise.

Adding a clear, professional profile photo and writing a concise bio that explains what you do will also make a great first impression.

2. Focus on Building Relationships with Clients.

Clients looking to hire for full-time work often want someone they trust. Building rapport with your clients during smaller projects can be key to landing something bigger.

Be communicative, transparent, and deliver quality work on time. If they know they can depend on you, they’re more likely to consider you for long-term or full-time work.

3. Apply for Jobs that Match Your Skills and Experience.

When you’re looking for a full-time opportunity, don’t send proposals for every listing you see. Take time to find listings that align with your skill set and previous experience.

Look for descriptions where clients explicitly mention needing someone for ongoing support or long-term projects.

Customize your proposal for each client by demonstrating how your experience and expertise meet their needs.

4. Consider Offering Discounted Rates for Long-Term Contracts.

While it’s essential not to undervalue your work, many freelancers offer slightly discounted rates to encourage clients to commit to long-term contracts.

For example, if your usual rate is $30/hour, you could propose $25/hour for a commitment of 40 hours a week. This shows clients that you’re invested in a stable partnership and willing to provide value over the long term.

5. Highlight Your Commitment and Availability

One reason some clients shy away from hiring freelancers full-time is concern over availability. Make it clear in your profile or proposal that you’re available for a long-term commitment and ready to prioritize their projects.

Outline your typical working hours, respond quickly to messages, and make it clear that they’ll have your full attention.

6. Showcase Testimonials and Feedback

Having testimonials from previous clients on Upwork builds your credibility. When potential clients see that you’re reliable and competent, they’re more likely to consider you for long-term roles.

Encourage satisfied clients to leave positive feedback and focus on keeping your rating as high as possible.

Landing and Keeping a Full-Time Client

Once you get a client interested in hiring you full-time, focus on communication and results. Here are some ways to ensure your working relationship remains strong:

• Set Clear Expectations: Clarify the workload, hours, payment terms, and any deadlines upfront. This avoids misunderstandings and builds a positive working relationship.
• Stay Organized: Use tools like Trello, Asana, or Google Calendar to track your tasks. Keeping things organized shows clients that you’re professional and efficient.
• Check in Regularly: Don’t wait for your client to reach out to you. Regular updates show you’re proactive, interested, and invested in the project’s success.
• Ask for Feedback: Clients appreciate freelancers who want to improve. Ask for constructive feedback every few weeks or at project milestones to ensure you’re meeting expectations.

FAQs: Finding Full-Time Work on Upwork

Q: How long does it usually take to find a full-time job on Upwork?

A: It can vary based on your skills, experience, and how well you market yourself. Some freelancers find full-time roles within weeks, while others may take a few months. Building a solid profile and getting positive reviews helps speed up the process.

Q: Do I need to pay to apply for jobs on Upwork?

A: You’ll need to use “Connects” (Upwork’s in-app currency) to apply for jobs. Each Connect costs around $0.15, and job proposals can cost between 1–6 Connects. Upwork also has membership options if you want more Connects each month.

Q: How does Upwork’s fee structure affect full-time work?

A: Upwork takes a percentage of your earnings. For long-term contracts, this can be a smaller fee. Upwork takes 20% for the first $500 billed with a client, 10% from $500 to $10,000, and 5% above $10,000. So, the more you earn with one client, the smaller the fee becomes.

Q: Can I work for multiple clients while holding a full-time position on Upwork?

A: Yes, many freelancers manage several clients at once. However, make sure you can meet all obligations for each client to avoid burnout or compromised quality.

Wrapping Up

Finding full-time work on Upwork is entirely possible if you’re strategic about how you approach clients, optimize your profile, and focus on long-term relationships.

It might take time, but once you’ve landed a solid client, it can offer a steady income and the freedom to work on your own terms.

What qualities do you think clients value most in a full-time freelancer on Upwork?