Weekly roundup
Hey freelancers 👋
I just went through Upwork’s Summer 2025 Update, and I’ve got to say—it’s one of the most exciting changes I’ve seen in a while. If you're freelancing (or planning to), this is something you really want to pay attention to.
There are over 75+ updates, but I’ve highlighted the most important ones that’ll actually impact how you get clients, win projects, and collaborate more efficiently.
Let’s break it down 👇
1. Instant Interviews
🎤 Instant Interviews Are Here (Beta)
This one blew my mind. Upwork’s AI agent Uma can now conduct interviews on your behalf — as soon as you submit a proposal.
Yep, no more waiting days for a response. Clients can ask questions, and Uma records your answers via video, summarizes it, and delivers it instantly. Great way to show communication skills and stand out early in the process.
💡 Tip: Make sure your pitch is ready — video answers count now.
2. Freelancer Plus
💼 Freelancer Plus Got a Major Upgrade
If you’re using (or considering) Freelancer Plus, it’s becoming way more valuable:
Real-time proposal insights: You’ll now see how competitive your bid is and get suggestions to improve it.
Tailored job alerts: Get notified when high-match jobs go live.
More Connects: Now you’ll get up to 100 Connects/month, giving you room to apply to more serious opportunities.
I’m personally keeping an eye on the proposal insights — that alone can give you a real advantage.
3. Uma
🤖 Uma Is Everywhere Now (And It’s a Good Thing)
Uma’s not just for interviews. She’s now helping clients write better job posts, match freelancers more accurately, and even generate AI-curated shortlists.
More relevant jobs + less time wasted = exactly what we’ve all been asking for.Use SPF 50 sweat-proof sunscreen (yes, even on cloudy days!)
4. AI Video Meetings
🧠 AI Video Meetings with Smart Summaries
Imagine having a Zoom meeting with a client… and after the call:
You get a summary of what was discussed
Key action items are listed
Even a contract draft is created — based on the conversation
Upwork is testing this out now. It’s part of their new smart collaboration features, and honestly, I’m impressed.
5. Edit Proposals
✍️ You Can Now Edit Proposals (Finally!)
Ever clicked "Submit" and immediately noticed a typo? We all have. Good news: Upwork now gives you a 6-hour window to edit your proposal after submission.
A small change, but super useful.
6. Edit Proposals
🔒 Verified Freelancer Badge Is Coming Soon
Upwork is rolling out a new verified badge to help trustworthy freelancers stand out. It costs 35 Connects to verify, but it could be worth it. Especially if you want to build more client trust.
3. Boost Profile & Proposal
🔼 Boosted Profiles & Proposals
You’ll also be able to boost your proposals and profile with Connects to get more visibility in searches. Upwork will now help you budget these boosts smarter, so you don’t overspend without results.
🎯 Why This All Matters
Here’s why these updates are a big deal:
Faster hiring process = More chances to win projects\
Better matching = Less wasted time on bad-fit jobs
Smarter tools = Help you pitch better, close faster, and look more professional
💡 What I’m Doing Next (And You Should Too)
Here’s how I plan to use these updates (feel free to steal the strategy 😉):
Try out the video interview feature to stand out from the crowd.
Upgrade to Freelancer Plus if you’re serious about applying consistently.
Use the edit window to fine-tune proposals before they lock in.
Prepare for AI meetings – clear communication will really matter now.
Get verified as soon as the badge is live.
That’s it for this week.
Keep showing up, keep cheering each other on — and as always, run happy! 🏃♂️💛
Ekram Hossen From Morning Freelancing
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