How to Get a High Long-Term Clients Score on Upwork

In the world of freelancing, particularly on platforms such as Upwork, metrics play a crucial role in shaping a freelancer’s career trajectory. Among these metrics is the long-term client score, which reflects the percentage of clients a freelancer has worked with for three or more months. When this score is as low as 25% in a freelancer’s profile, it raises pressing questions: Is this score good or bad? What implications does it carry for the freelancer’s future prospects? Understanding this score is vital for any freelancer seeking to build a sustainable career on Upwork.

Understanding the Upwork Long-Term Client Score

The long-term client score on Upwork is a metric that quantifies how many of the clients you have worked with within the last year you have maintained relationships with for at least three months. This score can encompass one or numerous contracts, transcending both hourly and fixed-price projects.

The key points to note about this score include:

• **Percentage Calculation**: The long-term client score is expressed as a percentage derived from the number of long-term clients relative to the total number of clients.
• **Impact on Job Success Score (JSS)**: While a high long-term client score can positively influence a freelancer’s JSS, a low score does not negatively impact it. Therefore, freelancers should not feel overly discouraged by a low percentage.
• **Timeframe of Measurement**: The score pertains to the past year, enabling freelancers to maintain active relationships while still exploring new client engagements.

Is a 25% Long-Term Client Score on Upwork Good or Bad?

Determining whether a long-term client score of 25% is good or bad depends on the context of the freelancer’s work history and goals. Here are a few considerations:

• **Career Stage**: For new freelancers who have only started recently, a 25% score may not be detrimental. Building long-term relationships takes time, and many successful freelancers begin with a low percentage.
• **Client Acquisition Strategy**: Freelancers who frequently seek new clientele may naturally have a lower long-term client score. If your focus is on diversifying your portfolio, a low percentage may not be problematic.
• **Quality vs. Quantity**: A low score could indicate the need for improved client management. The goal should be to nurture strong relationships that result in repeat business.

How Long-Term Client Relationships Affect Your Upwork Career

Having long-term clients on Upwork can significantly enhance a freelancer’s prospects. Here’s how:

• **Consistent Work**: Long-term clients often provide a more stable flow of work, reducing the need to constantly hunt for new projects.
• **Improved Ratings**: Working regularly with clients can lead to positive feedback, which can further enhance a freelancer’s ratings and visibility on Upwork.
• **Stronger Relationships**: As freelancers establish trust and familiarity with long-term clients, the potential for higher earnings and more significant projects increases.

Strategies to Increase Your Upwork Long-Term Client Score

Freelancers aiming to boost their long-term client scores can implement various strategies:

• **Focus on Quality Work**: Prioritize delivering exceptional results to inspire clients to return for future projects.
• **Maintain Communication**: Engage consistently with clients through updates, check-ins, and feedback requests to enhance relationships.
• **Offer Repeat Services**: Identify opportunities for clients to engage in multiple projects, which can lead to long-term collaborations and higher scores.

Challenging Aspects of Building Long-Term Relationships on Upwork

While building long-term relationships can yield many rewards for freelancers on Upwork, it is not without challenges:

• **Client Expectations**: Clients may have high expectations, which can sometimes lead to disappointment if delivery does not meet those standards.
• **Market Competition**: Increasing competition on Upwork can make it difficult to secure and retain long-term clients.
• **Client Turnover**: Changes in a client’s business needs or budget may lead to the premature end of contracts, impacting the long-term score.

Monitoring Your Upwork Metrics and Stats

Keeping an eye on your Upwork metrics can guide your freelance career effectively. Key metrics to monitor include:

• **Long-Term Client Score**: Track this score closely to understand how well you are maintaining client relationships.
• **Job Success Score (JSS)**: This overall score reflects your performance on the platform and can be influenced by client relationships.
• **Feedback Ratings**: Ensure consistent positive feedback from clients to build a solid reputation on Upwork.

Conclusion: Leveraging Your Upwork Long-Term Client Score

The long-term client score in your Upwork profile is a valuable indicator of your freelance success. While a 25% score may initially seem low, especially for those new to freelancing, it is important to understand the nuances of this metric.

By focusing on strengthening client relationships and consistently delivering quality work, freelancers can enhance their overall performance on the platform.

Ultimately, every freelancer’s journey is unique. Tracking progress, adjusting strategies, and nurturing relationships are key to building a thriving freelance career on Upwork.