If you’re a freelancer who has ever felt burnt out from constantly chasing job postings, you’re not alone. The traditional process of “submit a proposal and wait” on Upwork can be both time-consuming and discouraging—especially when you’re new or trying to rebuild momentum.
But there’s some good news: Upwork’s Project Catalog changes that narrative.
Imagine having a virtual storefront where clients browse your ready-made freelance services, pick what they need, and buy it with a few clicks—no proposal required. That’s the magic of the Project Catalog, and in our newest YouTube video, Patty shows you exactly how to make it work for your freelance business.
What Is the Upwork Project Catalog?
Think of the Project Catalog like Etsy or Fiverr—but on Upwork. You create pre-packaged services that solve specific problems (like “Edit Your Blog Post for SEO” or “Design a Simple Logo in 3 Days”) and list them publicly in the marketplace. Clients can browse, filter, and purchase based on their needs and budget.
You set the scope. You set the pricing. You set the delivery time.
Once they buy? You get to work. Simple as that.
Why the Catalog Is a Game-Changer
For freelancers, the Catalog offers several big advantages:
- You’re in control. You define what’s included, how long it takes, and how much it costs.
- Clients come to you. You spend less time chasing gigs and more time doing what you’re paid for.
- It builds trust. A well-designed project listing helps clients feel confident in what they’re buying.
- You can scale. With tiered pricing, you offer entry-level services while upselling premium options.
Whether you’re brand new to Upwork or already working with clients, adding a few strategic listings to the Catalog is a smart move. It works around the clock—even when you’re not online.
What to Include in Your Listing
In our latest YouTube video https://youtu.be/rEVi7AXIGns we walk you through how to build a successful listing from start to finish. But here’s a quick peek at what matters most:
- Choose a specific service. Avoid vague offers like “writing” or “editing.” Instead, niche down: “Proofread Your Business Email” or “Write a 500-Word Product Description.”
- Create a clear, catchy title. Focus on results: What will the client get from this project?
- Use 3-tier pricing. Offer a basic, standard, and premium version to appeal to a wider range of buyers.
- Write a client-centered description. Emphasize the benefits and outcomes. Keep it easy to scan and free from jargon.
- Add FAQ and requirements. These help avoid confusion and reduce back-and-forth messages.
- Don’t skip the thumbnail. A great visual increases clicks and helps you stand out in search.
Ready to Get Started?
If you’ve ever felt stuck or invisible on Upwork, the Project Catalog is your chance to flip the script. It’s your platform to shine—on your terms.
Watch our full tutorial here: https://youtu.be/rEVi7AXIGns
We’ll walk you through step-by-step setup, share best practices, and point out common mistakes to avoid.
And if you already have a service in mind, now’s the time to build your first listing. Just one solid project can start bringing in leads, reviews, and recurring clients.
Let us know in the comments or shoot us a message—what’s the first service you’ll offer in the Project Catalog? We’d love to hear what you’re working on.
