Introduction:
It’s no secret that the gig economy has been on the rise in the U.S. and around the world. And as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, more people than ever before are turning to freelancing as a way to make a living. In response to this demand, Upwork – one of the largest online freelance platforms – has announced a host of new features that will make it easier for freelancers and businesses to connect and work together. In this blog post, we’ll explore these new features and what they mean for the future of freelancing in America.
A new “Expert Vetted” program
Upwork has long been a place where businesses can find freelancers with the skills they need – but with so many freelancers on the platform, it can be hard to know who is truly an expert in their field. To address this issue, Upwork has introduced a new program called “Expert Vetted”. This program puts freelancers through a rigorous screening process that tests their skills and verifies their experience. Once a freelancer has been approved, they’ll receive a badge on their profile that shows potential clients that they are a verified expert.
Better project management tools
One of the biggest challenges for businesses that work with freelancers is staying on top of projects and ensuring that everyone is on the same page. To make this easier, Upwork has introduced several new project management tools that allow clients to create tasks, set deadlines, and track progress. Freelancers can also use these tools to communicate with clients and provide updates on their work.
Improved matching algorithms
Upwork’s matching algorithms have always been a key part of the platform – they help businesses find the right freelancers for their projects and make it easier for freelancers to find work. However, these algorithms are constantly being refined and improved. Upwork’s latest update includes changes to their matching algorithms that make them more accurate and effective. This means that businesses and freelancers are more likely to connect with the right people, leading to better outcomes for everyone involved.
A new freelancer membership plan
Upwork’s new membership plan is designed to make it easier for freelancers to grow their businesses and find new clients. The plan includes access to tools and resources that can help freelancers create more effective profiles, submit more proposals, and win more work. It also provides discounts on Upwork’s other services, such as premium memberships and payment processing.
Enhanced security features
Lastly, Upwork has implemented several new security features to protect freelancers and businesses from fraud and scams. These features include two-factor authentication, enhanced verification processes, and improved fraud detection algorithms. These measures help ensure that everyone on the platform is who they say they are, and that payments are processed safely and securely.
Conclusion:
Upwork’s latest updates are a big win for both freelancers and businesses in America. The new “Expert Vetted” program will give freelancers a way to stand out from the crowd and attract more clients. The improved project management tools and matching algorithms will make it easier for businesses to find the right talent and manage their projects more effectively. And the new freelancer membership plan and enhanced security features will provide an additional layer of support for freelancers who are looking to grow their businesses and work with more clients. Overall, these updates are a testament to Upwork’s commitment to supporting the growing freelance economy in the U.S. and around the world.