Upwork Cover Letters That WOW: Grab the Client’s Attention in 7 Steps!

Hey Biz Devs!

I’ve got a feeling that this article is about to go viral 😎 because on Upwork, everyone’s searching for that winning cover letter format. And guess what? I’m here to share the real secret that not only helps you win the project but also secures the whole client! Ready for it? Let’s dive in…

The Basic Cover Letter Formula:

1. Greetings 👋

2. Hook Line that captivates the client 🔥

3. Short, point-to-point solution 💡

4. Ask any specific questions ❓

5. Show off your work 💼 (portfolio or similar projects)

6. Call to Action (CTA) 🚀

7. Best regards ✨

Now, this is a basic outline, but the real magic happens in how you write it! Choose your words wisely, use the right tone, and add a personal touch. Oh, and please no grammar mistakes - big mood killer. 😬

Let’s break each section down:

1. Greetings 👋

This is where you can make an impression right away. Find out the client’s name by looking through feedback they’ve given to freelancers. Use their name throughout your cover letter. People love seeing their name!
For example, if your client is named Emilia and is from Germany, you could write:
"Hallo, Guten Tag Emilia!"
Greeting them in their native language? Instant connection!

2. Hook Line 🔥

Here’s where you grab their attention. Most freelancers start with “I have X years of experience,” Yawn! Let’s try something more engaging!

Instead, set up a scenario from the client's perspective, like this:
Imagine the client is a non-technical person who previously hired a scam freelancer and now they’re stuck with a half-finished, buggy project. Your hook line could be:
“It’s so unfortunate you had a bad experience with the previous team. I can imagine your frustration! But I’m here to turn things around.” 😊 (😁)
Here, you show empathy and offer a solution without sounding salesy. 🤭

3. Solution or Planning 💡

Here, give them a quick plan of how you’ll handle their project. Don’t write an essay! Just simple, clear steps:
“First, I’ll work on this part, then focus on that. Once that’s done, we’ll finalise the other details.”

4. Ask Questions ❓

If you have any specific questions, this is the place. Keep it to a max of 3. But this section isn’t always necessary – only ask if something needs clarification.

5. Show Off Your Work 💼

Now’s your time to shine! Drop a link to your portfolio or share a relevant project you’ve worked on. You can even highlight a positive review or feedback:
“Check out what one of my clients had to say about a similar project I completed recently!”

6. Call to Action (CTA) 🚀

Before we wrap up, I want to share a little story that might make you smile (and help you avoid a mistake I made). Once upon a time, I was working with a client from Spain. Things were going great! So, naturally, I asked to schedule a call. Twice, I asked! 📞

But then, the client finally messaged me back and said (paraphrasing): “I can’t speak English very well, and I’m using Google Translate to chat. Let’s just keep things written!”

That was a big "whoops!" moment for me! 😅 I felt bad for not considering that my client might feel more comfortable chatting. Since then, I always ask the client whether they prefer a chat or a call instead of just assuming.

Moral of the story? Always check in with your client’s comfort zone – it shows you care, and it avoids any awkward moments! 🙌

This way, you’re leaving the door open without making the client feel pressured. And trust me, this simple adjustment makes a huge difference!

7. Best Regards ✨

Finish off strong with a friendly and professional sign-off, like Best regards, Warm regards, or whatever feels right for you.

Final Tip:

I’ve even prepared a template PDF to guide you through writing a standout cover letter. Feel free to check it out here!
[ https://drive.google.com/file/d/1xMyGQSNOP_7cszoUXQz17TIFYG1HehrV/view?usp=sharing ]

In my next article, I’ll talk about the differences between a Business Development Executive (BDE) and a Business Development Representative (BDR). Got any guesses on what sets them apart? 🤔 Let’s find out next time! 😄

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Connect with me! 🤝

Did you read the whole blog? If not, scroll back up and dive in - there’s valuable info waiting for you! Implement what you’ve learned, and let’s take your BD journey to the next level. 🌳 If you have questions or want to connect, reach out to me on LinkedIn! 😎 I’m truly grateful for this community and excited to learn and grow together. 😇

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