How to Get Your First Client on Fiverr or Upwork?

Starting as a freelancer on Fiverr or Upwork can feel overwhelming, but once you land your first client, things start rolling. The biggest challenge is standing out in a sea of competition.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through the exact steps to get your first client on Fiverr or Upwork, even if you’re a complete beginner.

1. Choose the Right Niche & Service

Success on Fiverr or Upwork starts with picking the right niche. Instead of offering general services, focus on a specific skill that has demand but lower competition.

High-Demand Niches for Beginners

✅ Writing & Content Creation – Blog writing, copywriting, product descriptions
✅ Graphic Design – Logos, social media posts, thumbnails
✅ Web Development – WordPress setup, landing pages, e-commerce stores
✅ SEO & Digital Marketing – Keyword research, on-page SEO, backlinks
✅ Video Editing – YouTube editing, reels, motion graphics
✅ Virtual Assistance – Admin support, data entry, customer service

🔹 Pro Tip: Avoid overly competitive services (e.g., “I will create a logo”) and instead focus on something unique (e.g., “I will design a minimalist logo with unlimited revisions”).

2. Create an Eye-Catching Fiverr Gig or Upwork Profile

Your gig or profile is what attracts clients. The better it looks, the more chances you have to get orders.

For Fiverr – Creating a High-Converting Gig

✅ Write a Clear Gig Title – “I will write a high-quality SEO blog post that ranks on Google”
✅ Add an Attractive Gig Image – Use Canva to create a professional thumbnail
✅ Write a Compelling Description – Explain what you offer, why you’re the best, and what the client will get
✅ Use Proper Tags & Keywords – Helps your gig appear in Fiverr search results
✅ Set Competitive Pricing – Start low ($5-$10) to attract your first few clients

✔ Example Gig Title for Fiverr:
“I will write an engaging 1000-word SEO-optimized blog post in 24 hours”

For Upwork – Optimizing Your Profile for More Clients

✅ Use a Professional Profile Picture – A friendly headshot builds trust
✅ Write a Catchy Headline – “Expert SEO Writer | Helping Websites Rank Higher”
✅ Craft a Strong Profile Overview – Highlight your experience, skills, and how you help clients
✅ Showcase Your Best Work – Add samples or a link to your portfolio
✅ Take Upwork Skill Tests – Pass relevant tests to prove your expertise

✔ Example Upwork Profile Headline:
🚀 “SEO Content Writer | Helping Brands Get More Traffic & Leads”

🔹 Pro Tip: A well-optimized profile ranks higher in Fiverr & Upwork searches, making it easier for clients to find you.

3. Apply for Jobs & Send Winning Proposals

Even with a perfect profile, clients won’t come to you immediately—you need to actively send proposals and pitch your services.

How to Send a Perfect Proposal on Upwork?

✅ Personalize Your Proposal – Mention the client’s name & project details
✅ Highlight Your Skills & Experience – Explain why you’re the right fit
✅ Keep It Short & Direct – Avoid long, generic proposals
✅ Offer a Solution – Show how your service will solve their problem
✅ End with a Call-to-Action – Ask for a quick call or sample test

✔ Example Upwork Proposal:

“Hi [Client’s Name],
I came across your project and would love to help. I have [X years] of experience in [your niche] and have helped brands like [example client] achieve [specific result].

For example, I recently worked on [similar project] and helped increase their [metric] by [percentage].

I’d love to discuss how I can do the same for you. Let’s jump on a quick call or I can provide a sample of my work. Looking forward to working with you!”

Best,
[Your Name]

🔹 Pro Tip: Send at least 5-10 proposals daily with a personalized touch.

4. Offer Competitive Pricing & First-Time Discounts

Since you’re new, clients might hesitate to hire you. Offering discounts or extra services can help you secure your first few clients.

Best Ways to Attract Clients with Pricing:

✅ Offer lower rates initially ($5-$10 for Fiverr, $10-$20/hr on Upwork)
✅ Provide extra services (e.g., free revisions, bonus deliverables)
✅ Create bundle deals (e.g., “Get 2 logos for the price of 1”)
✅ Give a discount for first-time clients

🔹 Pro Tip: Once you get a few reviews, increase your prices gradually.

5. Deliver High-Quality Work & Get 5-Star Reviews

The key to long-term success is client satisfaction. Once you get an order, overdeliver to impress the client.

How to Get 5-Star Reviews?

✅ Deliver on time (or earlier) – Clients appreciate fast delivery
✅ Communicate professionally – Respond to messages quickly & politely
✅ Follow instructions carefully – Avoid revisions & delays
✅ Offer extra value – Small bonuses or suggestions impress clients
✅ Request a review politely – A happy client will gladly leave a positive review

✔ Example Message to Request a Review:
“Hey [Client’s Name], I’m so glad you liked the work! If you have a moment, I’d really appreciate it if you could leave a review. It helps me grow on the platform. Thanks again!”

🔹 Pro Tip: More positive reviews = higher rankings on Fiverr & Upwork.

6. Promote Your Fiverr Gig or Upwork Profile

To increase visibility, don’t rely only on the platform—promote your services elsewhere.

Best Ways to Promote Your Fiverr/Upwork Profile:

✅ Share on LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook groups
✅ Post in freelance communities (Reddit, Facebook groups)
✅ Create a blog or YouTube video showcasing your skills
✅ Use Quora & Medium to answer relevant questions & add your gig link
✅ Ask friends or business owners if they need your service

🔹 Pro Tip: The more exposure your gig gets, the faster you’ll land your first client.

7. Stay Consistent & Keep Improving

Landing your first client takes time & effort, but persistence pays off.

Freelancing Success Mindset:

✅ Send proposals daily – More proposals = higher chances of success
✅ Improve your skills – Take online courses & learn new trends
✅ Optimize your profile regularly – Update your gigs & descriptions
✅ Be patient & consistent – Freelancing is a marathon, not a sprint

🔹 Pro Tip: Most freelancers fail because they give up too soon. Keep improving, and you’ll see results!

Final Thoughts – Get Your First Client & Start Earning!

Here’s a quick recap to get your first Fiverr or Upwork client fast:

✅ Choose a high-demand niche & offer a unique service
✅ Create a professional Fiverr gig or Upwork profile
✅ Send personalized proposals & apply for jobs daily
✅ Offer competitive pricing & first-time discounts
✅ Deliver exceptional work & collect 5-star reviews
✅ Promote your freelance services outside Fiverr & Upwork
✅ Stay consistent & keep improving

By following these steps, you’ll land your first client in no time! 🚀

Are you ready to start freelancing? Let me know in the comments!