Upwork Feedback:
a trust tool you should learn
to read and write
On Upwork, your rating is a currency of trust. Clients almost always scroll down to see what others have said about you. Even with a strong portfolio, feedback shapes the first impression.
Upwork uses double-blind feedback: the client and the freelancer submit their reviews independently.
- Public feedback is visible to everyone (star rating + comment).
- Private feedback isn’t shown publicly, but it carries the greatest weight in the JSS formula.
That’s why even five stars don’t always guarantee a high rating—if the private feedback was less favorable.
Real-world examples
- A single negative review can drop your rating by dozens of percentage points if you have only a few completed contracts.
- No feedback doesn’t hurt JSS: if the client leaves nothing, the system simply ignores it.
- Long-term projects help: every three months of active collaboration can count as “+1 successful outcome.”
How clients read reviews about a freelancer
Experienced clients look beyond the average star rating for repeat patterns in comments. If several clients mention “missed deadlines,” that’s a signal.
They pay close attention to notes about communication — response speed, clarity, the freelancer’s habit of asking the right questions.
Reviews that say “exceeded expectations” or “went above and beyond” are especially persuasive.
A short “Good job” rarely impresses. A specific, example-rich comment builds trust.
How freelancers should read reviews about clients
It’s just as important for freelancers to check what other contractors wrote about a potential client. That can save you headaches.
- Clarity of requirements. If reviews say the client provided vague or constantly changing scope, expect a demanding collaboration.
- Communication style. Was the client polite, responsive, and present? Did they avoid long silent periods without explanation?
- Realism. If multiple reviews say the client “wanted too much for too little,” that’s a red flag.
👉 We dig deeper into reading client reviews and using them to qualify projects here: How to Choose the Right Clients on Upwork – Practical Tips
How (and when) to ask for feedback — and what to ask for
Requesting feedback is part of professional communication. Do it ethically and be specific.
When to ask. After a successful milestone or at project completion. On long engagements, a gentle reminder around key milestones is fine.
What to ask for. Not “five stars,” but a substantive written comment—what exactly worked well (communication, speed, quality, initiative).
How to phrase it.
“Thanks for the collaboration! If you have a moment, I’d appreciate a short written review (what felt valuable or well-organized in our work). It helps future clients quickly understand my approach.”
What not to do. Don’t offer incentives for positive reviews and don’t pressure clients—this violates Upwork policy.
🔗 More phrasing ideas and nuances in our guide: Everything You Need to Know: 3 Tips About Upwork Feedback
What to write in reviews about clients
Your review is a contribution to the community. Other freelancers benefit when you’re honest.
- Be specific. “The client defined requirements clearly and released payments promptly” beats “All good.”
- Be truthful and to the point. If things were tough, note the facts neutrally—without emotion.
- Avoid insults. A professional tone always works better: “Communication was challenging; timelines shifted a few times.”
Every review is a mini-story of how you work. Over time, they shape more than your rating—they define your brand: reliability, relationship-building, readiness for complex tasks.
👉 Want more on the technical side of Upwork’s reputation system? Read Updates JSS: A Transparent Reputation System on Upwork.
Feedback on Upwork is a two-way instrument. For clients, it’s a way to choose reliable partners. For freelancers, it’s a way to build trust and reputation. Learn to read between the lines, write reviews intentionally, and they’ll become an asset that outlasts any single job proposal.
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