Connects are a key feature on Upwork that help freelancers stand out to potential clients. They are essentially like an online currency, and each freelancer is given 10 or 80 free Connects per month. It is a way for freelancers and clients to communicate, interact. and form meaningful relationships.
3 ways to earn Connects in Upwork
Connects as a reward
- 40 free Connects were given upon first-time Upwork registration.
- 30 free Connects will be rewarded after Obtaining the Rising Talent badge.
- When you win an interview with a reputable client on Upwork, you will get free Connects (number of free connects will vary).
- If you successfully complete an Upwork Skill Certification, you will receive a one-time Connects bonus.
Free Connects Monthly
Freelancer Basic will receive 10 connects and Freelancer Plus will receive 70 connects (+10 free connects included).
Purchase Connects
Connects are offered in bundles of 10, 20, 40, 60, and 80 for a price of $0.15 (USD) each. You can purchase connects by visiting Connects History and clicking “Buy Connects”.
How Do I Use My Connects?
1. Submitting proposals.
The amount of connects needed varies depending on the project. Sometimes you need 1, and often 2, 4, or 6 connects are required to apply for a single job.
It depends on an evaluation of several variables, which appear to include the client’s Upwork history, the size/scope of the project, and the total cost of the project. In most cases, the most dependable clients and high-paying jobs require 6 connects.
2. Boosting your proposal to put it at the top of the client’s proposal list.
Freelancers can boost proposals on Upwork with Connects by placing a bid. You’ll use Connects as a freelancer to reach out to clients and let them know you’re interested in their projects. You can bid as many as you can with your connects. The more Connects you use, the higher your proposal will be placed in the client’s proposal list.
3. Turning on your availability badge.
The availability badge informs clients that you are readily available for work at this time. When clients look for freelancers, it is displayed to the general marketplace. Depending on demand, the quantity of Connects required each week to earn the badge changes.
Overall, Connects is a great way to improve your chances of being hired on Upwork. They help you stand out in the search results and show that you’re serious about working on a particular project. Just be sure to use them wisely and keep track of when they expire.
