Katerina's Journey on Upwork
My journey starts
I created the profile in 2024, but was very overwhelmed, didn't know how the platform worked, and left it to rot.
Fast-forward to September 4 2025
I met Adriana, had a call with her. She gave me advice how to set up my profile, write my bio, position myself, and align my previous experience, how to send the first proposals so I get my first client.
My 1st Client
I got my first client just 1 week after I started on Upwork. He paid 40$ for a consultation and tipped me 15$, I have sent 9 proposals in total before I got this job.
Second Client
One week after my first gig I got hired a second time. I am still working with this client, have successfully finished 2 projects with them.
I danced in the room and cried. I haven't been paid for my design work from late 2022 until September 4 2025.
It was a big turnaround not only in my career but also in my life.
First and Second Month on the platform
September- October
6 clients
Platform fees (includes 2 monthly subscriptions because it was reniewed on the 4th)-$48.78
Connects purchased (job application credits)-$150.06
Total Expenses-$198.84
Net Earnings$542.83
October-November
2 clients- got ghosted by 2
Total earned: $611.52
Total fees: $79.29
Net: $532.23
Month 3
In the first weeks of November I wrapped up 2 more projects and earned my second K
This month I really started to consider the projects I was taking.
I decided that I prefer to work less and get paid more. Like that I will be able to do even better quality work, have time to upskill and won't burn out.
That led to a process of figuring out what I can do on the platform, repositioning, creating packages, and of course another call with Adriana.
My profile was ready for the next step, I was ready too: 100% Job success score, 8 amazing reviews, 2 projects added to my Upwork portfolio from Upwork clients.
My packages before our call
