Without unnecessary preludes, here is the template of this starting line I use in, basically, every proposal: "Hey [name], having [social proof], I can [state what the goal of the project is]. I "get" [the technical specific challenge of the project and how you will target it]" Example for "n8n real estate AI agent" project: "Hey Steven, having developed and maintained full-scale AI lead nurturing system for Dubai-based real estate agency "StoneInvest", I guarantee I can implement the similar AI sales system in your company in 2 weeks maximum. I "get" how annoying it can be to have someone else, like your dev, taking days to just understand the system built by the external freelancer. Therefore, when presenting the project to you I will include the detailed video breakdown of the n8n system I will build for you to let any future employee/freelancer of yours to get on board easily in 30 minutes flat."

Pick a niche you love and know well Craft a profile that feels real, not robotic Showcase results, not just promises Send value-driven proposals, not templates Always deliver more than expected Ask for client feedback and learn from it

Tailor every proposal to the client’s real needs Show real results, not just promises Respond fast—professionalism wins Focus on long-term client relations Keep your profile sharp—show your true self Let your work speak louder than hype

I dropped the generic pitch, studied the client's business, and crafted a proposal they couldn't ignore. Show them you care, stay real, and keep delivering value—Upwork will work for you. Authenticity wins over templates. Always.

Early days on Upwork, I ditched copy-paste proposals; Found jobs I cared about; Wrote short, honest pitches, focusing only on client’s needs; Clients can feel authenticity—a no-fluff approach builds trust and gets replies. Stay real. Results follow.