Our mission is to help digital marketers excel in their freelance careers, and today we're diving into one crucial aspect of success on Upwork—the Job Success Score (JSS).
As an online platform connecting freelancers with clients, Upwork JSS plays a pivotal role in determining job opportunities and establishing a freelancer's reputation.
In this article, we will provide a comprehensive understanding of the JSS and offer proven strategies to improve it.
What is the Job Success Score on Upwork?
Using the Job Success Score, Upwork evaluates freelancers' overall performance and client satisfaction.
It provides valuable insights into a freelancer's contract history and client feedback, serving as a crucial indicator of their reputation and professionalism on the platform.
The JSS on Upwork is a reflection of how successful freelancers have been in meeting client expectations and delivering high-quality work.
It takes into account factors such as completed projects, client feedback, long-term client relationships, and repeat business. This score is displayed as a percentage, ranging from 0% to 100%.
How to get a Job Success Score Upwork
To obtain a Job Success Score (JSS) on Upwork, freelancers need to follow certain guidelines and focus on building a strong track record of successful projects and satisfied clients.
Here are key steps to get a good job score:
Complete projects with multiple clients
Freelancers should aim to work with at least two different clients to establish a diverse portfolio and demonstrate their ability to work effectively with various individuals and businesses.
This requirement showcases the freelancer's experience and reliability.
Accumulate four or more contracts
Having multiple contracts demonstrates that a freelancer is actively engaged and sought after by clients.
By completing four or more different contracts within a 24-month period, freelancers show their versatility and commitment to delivering quality work.
Deliver high-quality work
Providing excellent work is crucial for obtaining a high JSS. Freelancers should focus on delivering top-notch results and meeting or exceeding client expectations.
This includes delivering work on time, following project guidelines, and maintaining effective communication throughout the process.
Maintain positive client relationships
Building strong relationships with clients is essential for a good JSS.
By providing exceptional customer service, being responsive to client inquiries, and addressing any concerns promptly, freelancers can foster positive experiences and increase the likelihood of receiving positive feedback.
Ask for positive feedback
Actively seeking feedback from clients is a proactive way to boost the JSS.
After completing a project successfully, freelancers should kindly ask their clients to leave positive feedback. This not only helps improve their JSS but also enhances their reputation on the platform.
Choose projects carefully
Selecting the right projects is crucial for maintaining a good JSS. Freelancers should only apply to projects that align with their skills and expertise.
Taking on projects that are a good fit increases the chances of successful completion and positive client feedback.
Continuously improve and adapt
Freelancers should always strive to improve their skills, stay updated with industry trends, and adapt to the evolving needs of clients.
By staying proactive and continuously honing their craft, freelancers can enhance their value and increase their chances of obtaining a higher JSS.
How is the Upwork Job Success Score calculated?
The Upwork JSS is calculated using a proprietary algorithm that takes into account various factors related to a freelancer's contract history and client feedback.
While the exact details of the algorithm are not publicly disclosed, here is an overview of how the JSS is calculated:
Snapshot of work history and feedback
Upwork takes snapshots of a freelancer's work history and feedback at regular intervals, including every 3, 6, 12, and 24 months. These snapshots are used to calculate different Job Success Scores.
Direct client feedback
Client feedback plays a crucial role in determining the JSS. Positive feedback from clients helps boost the score, while negative feedback can have a negative impact.
It is essential for freelancers to deliver high-quality work and maintain good relationships with clients to receive positive feedback.
Completed contracts and outcomes
The JSS algorithm considers the number of completed contracts and the outcomes associated with them.
Successful contract outcomes, which include completed contracts with positive feedback, contribute positively to the score.
On the other hand, negative contract outcomes, such as contracts with negative feedback or those canceled for poor performance, may lower the score.
Long-term client relationships and repeat business
Building long-term client relationships and securing repeat business can positively influence the JSS. Upwork values freelancers who consistently work with the same clients, as it demonstrates reliability and client satisfaction.
Weighted averages and recalculation
Upwork calculates four different Job Success Scores every two weeks.
These scores include the average JSS over the past 24 months, the average JSS over the last 12 months, the average JSS over the last 6 months, and the trending JSS (average score for the last 3 and 6 months).
The trending JSS is calculated by adding the freelancer's average score for the last 3 and 6 months and dividing it in half. These averages and recalculations provide a comprehensive view of a freelancer's performance over time.
What is a good Job Success Score on Upwork?
A good Job Success Score on Upwork is crucial for attracting new clients and maintaining a successful freelance career.
It is important to aim for a score within the excellent or good range to enhance job prospects and professional success. Here's what different score ranges typically indicate:
Excellent (90-100%)
An excellent score reflects outstanding work and client satisfaction. Freelancers in this range are considered top performers and have a higher chance of being hired for projects.
They also gain access to premium benefits, such as increased visibility in search results and eligibility for the Upwork Talent Specialist program.
Good (76-89%)
A good score demonstrates competence and reliability. Freelancers in this range have a solid track record of meeting or exceeding client expectations.
While they may not have access to the same benefits as those in the excellent range, they still attract clients and can secure projects effectively.
Fair-Poor (75% and below)
Scores in this range may negatively impact a freelancer's ability to secure new projects and can damage their reputation on the platform.
Freelancers with a score below 75% should focus on improving their score by delivering high-quality work, maintaining good communication with clients, and resolving any issues that arise during projects.
Strategies for maintaining a High JSS from our experience
Having gained valuable insights from our experience working on Upwork and maintaining a high Job Success Score (JSS), we would like to share some personal experiences and tips that can help freelancers maintain a high JSS:
Focus on building long-term relationships
We believe that building long-term relationships with clients is crucial for a successful freelance career on Upwork.
By nurturing these relationships, you can establish a level of trust and rapport that leads to repeat projects and positive feedback. Prioritize communication, deliver exceptional work, and go the extra mile to exceed client expectations.
Strive for clear and transparent communication
Clear and transparent communication is the cornerstone of successful client relationships.
Regularly update your clients on project progress, seek clarifications when needed, and proactively address any challenges that arise. Being responsive, professional, and reliable in your communication can help foster trust and satisfaction.
Deliver high-quality work consistently
Quality is paramount when it comes to maintaining a high JSS. Focus on delivering work that not only meets but exceeds client expectations.
Pay attention to details, adhere to project requirements, and take pride in your deliverables. Consistently providing exceptional work showcases your professionalism and dedication to client satisfaction.
Manage expectations effectively
Setting clear expectations from the outset is vital for a positive client experience. Discuss project details, timelines, and deliverables in-depth with your clients to ensure alignment.
Be transparent about your capabilities and limitations to avoid misunderstandings down the line. Managing expectations effectively contributes to smoother project workflows and reduces the likelihood of negative feedback.
Go above and beyond
To stand out from the competition and earn positive client feedback, consider going the extra mile. Offer suggestions for improvement, provide valuable insights, or share relevant resources that can enhance the client's project.
Demonstrating your expertise and going above and beyond what is expected can leave a lasting impression and lead to exceptional feedback.
Be selective in choosing projects
While it can be tempting to take on any available project, being selective can positively impact your JSS. Prioritize projects that align with your skills, experience, and interests.
Taking on projects where you can excel increases the likelihood of delivering outstanding results and receiving positive feedback.
Handle difficult situations professionally
Occasionally, freelancers may encounter challenging situations with clients. It's essential to handle these situations professionally and tactfully.
Maintain open lines of communication, listen to your client's concerns, and work towards finding mutually beneficial solutions. By resolving conflicts in a professional manner, you can salvage the relationship and minimize the risk of negative feedback.
Elevate your Job Success Score and thrive on Upwork
Understanding and actively improving your Job Success Score on Upwork is vital for a successful freelance career. The JSS serves as a reflection of your professionalism and reputation on the platform, impacting your job opportunities and client perception.
With confidence, dedication, and the strategies shared in this article, you can elevate your JSS, unlock top-rated status, and enjoy the benefits of increased visibility, premium support, and eligibility for exclusive programs.
Embrace the power of the Job Success Score and propel your freelance career to new heights on Upwork. Remember, the journey to an exceptional JSS begins with taking the first step.