Upwork is a versatile platform with various use cases. When working with any freelancer, independent contractor or third-party vendor, departments should be aware of all University of California Conflict of Interest and privacy policies when contracting for services. Some projects may involve sensitive or confidential information, and it is dependent on the end user and Unit Security Leads to ensure all vendor security UC policies are followed when using Upwork. It is recommended that no institutional information or only P1 or P2 data is shared with freelancers on UpWork.
Here are some of the types of freelance services available at Upwork:
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Short-term Consulting: Seek advice from experts in various fields, such as business, finance, marketing, and technology, through Upwork's consulting services.
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Content Creation: Find writers and editors to create engaging and well-researched content for academic publications, blogs, and newsletters.
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Data Analysis: Find data analysts and statisticians to assist with research data analysis, survey analysis, and other data-related tasks.
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Digital Marketing: Find experts in SEO, social media management, email marketing, and other digital marketing services.
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Graphic Design and Multimedia: Collaborate with designers and multimedia experts to create visually appealing presentations, infographics, and promotional materials.
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Language Translation Services: Translate academic materials, publications, or communication materials into different languages for a broader audience.
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Software Development: Engage skilled developers to create or enhance software applications used for academic purposes or administrative tasks.
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Video and Animation: Find videographers, animators, and video editors for creating promotional videos, animations, and more.
Upwork can provide access to a diverse pool of talent, allowing universities to tap into specialized skills and expertise for various projects and initiatives.
Frequently Asked Questions
When should my department use Upwork?
Please see the types of freelance services examples listed above.
How does Upwork work for departments who become clients?
Department clients post job listings with details about their projects. They can search for freelancers, review proposals, and invite freelancers to apply. After selecting a freelancer, clients can communicate, collaborate, and pay for services within the Upwork platform.
How does Upwork work for freelancers?
Freelancers create a profile detailing their skills, experience, and work samples. They then search for and apply to relevant job postings. Department clients review proposals, interview freelancers, and select the best fit for their project.
How do the Service Fees on Upwork work?
As an enterprise account, Upwork charges service fees to UC Berkeley, but not the Upwork talent. This can add to the overall project cost so ensure to include this when budgeting the project. Fees for talent found on Upwork are 30% whereas, if you find your own talent and bring them to the platform, the fee is reduced to 7.5%.
How are payments handled when using Upwork?
Payments will be made directly to Upwork in which they are released to freelancers upon project milestones or completion.
Can I use my own credit card to pay for using Upwork?
No. Personal credit cards are not an appropriate form of payment. Reimbursements using personal funds paid to Upwork for university business purposes are not allowable.
How do I sign up to use Upwork?
Check out the Getting Started with Upwork in BearBUY page!
Can a current UC employee be contracted to perform services on Upwork?
A freelancer hired on Upwork by the University of California must have no affiliation with the University.
Can a former UC employee be hired on Upwork?
Departments requiring the services of a former UC employee on Upwork should consult with the Procurement Department to determine whether the former employee is subject to Conflict of Interest prohibitions.
HELP! I previously used my UC Berkeley (@berkeley.edu) email address for Upwork prior to Upwork's partnership with the University and now I am locked out of my account. How can I get my account back?
Unfortunately, because of this partnership, those who are not active University employees and wish to continue to use their @berkeley.edu email address cannot use their University email address for Upwork anymore. To regain access to your Upwork account, please have your Upwork email address updated to a personal email address by contacting ucberkeley-programteam@upwork.com.