In this episode of the Freelance Unlocked Podcast (recorded during a recent Instagram live), I had the pleasure of chatting with Delaney Rietveld, the founder of Dark Roast Copy Co., a seasoned freelance copywriter and Upwork Vetted Expert. She explained EVERYTHING new and experienced freelancers need to know about Upwork—from how to get your first job on Upwork, to the pros and cons of using Upwork.
Delaney shares her journey from leaving a 9-to-5 job during the pandemic to becoming a successful niche copywriter through Upwork. Our conversation included practical tips for new freelancers on Upwork, the importance of specialized profiles, and the power of personalized cover letters.
Delaney also shared the challenges that can come with using Upwork, and how to address them—including who to set clear client expectations to secure quality, high-paying clients. If you're looking to build and expand your business through Upwork, this episode of the Freelance Unlocked podcast is perfect for you.
In this episode:
- 11:47 How Upwork works
- 25:51 How to build an awesome Upwork profile
- 26:10 How to get your first Upwork jobs and reviews
- 31:16 Is Upwork right for beginners?
- 33:10 Is Upwork too saturated?
- 36:25 Pricing and client boundaries
About Delaney Rietveld
Delaney is the conversational copywriter behind Dark Roast Copy Co.—a brand that helps ambitious entrepreneurs craft website copy that sells their services with empathy. She's been on Upwork since day one of her freelancing journey and has grown most of her copywriting business on the platform. As an Upwork Expert Vetted Freelancer, she’s in the top 1% of the 12 million freelancers on Upwork.
You can connect with Delaney on Instagram and learn more about Dark Roast Copy Co. here.
Connect with Haley + the Freelance Unlocked community:
- Follow Haley on Instagram for freelance tips and advice 📲
- Join the FREE freelance mindset reset, a 5-day audio program to help you strengthen your mindset and take action 🧠 ✨
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