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Profile Title Examples: 150+ Strong and Professional Freelancer Headlines
Explore freelancer profile title examples to stand out. Find inspiration and choose the perfect title to showcase your skills and attract potential clients on Upwork
As a freelancer, your professional headline is a core part of your branding. Clients see this personal description on your Upwork profile and social media pages. Your freelancing title is how you market your main skills and let clients know what they should hire you for. The right headline can help you stand out and find opportunities, especially when submitting proposals and attracting clients on Upwork.
If you’re looking to create the perfect professional headline, we’ve put together a list of Upwork profile title examples and tips for writing a strong headline to help you get started.
What's a professional headline?
A professional headline is the expanded freelancing title you use on your Upwork profile that describes what services you offer clients. Your profile title can be up to 70 characters long and is what clients see first when viewing proposals or searching for talent. As a freelancer, your headline should explain why clients should hire you and what sets you apart from other freelancers.
Using your Upwork profile title consistently across all your professional social media channels and on your personal website can help create a consistent professional brand.
Here are some examples of well-crafted professional headlines on Upwork:
Professional headline vs job title
A professional headline is different from a job title or role. Headlines are longer and are meant to provide an overview of your skill set. Your profile title on Upwork needs to grab potential clients’ attention and answer the question – “What do you do?” This should be different from what you’d list in the job titles section under your employment history on Upwork or experience on LinkedIn.
The table below shows the difference between professional headlines and job titles.
Professional profile title and headline examples
Check out the examples below for inspiration when crafting your professional headline. You can use these examples as starting points, but make yours original. Think about what sets you apart from other freelancers.
Accountant
Accountants play a crucial role in helping businesses track expenses and achieve their financial objectives. Skilled accountants can be difficult to find locally, leading many organizations to offer remote roles or hire freelancers. Employers and clients need to trust that accountants possess the necessary qualifications and adhere to relevant laws and local regulations, as failure to do so can have serious business implications. Accounting headlines like these demonstrate expertise:
- Certified Public Accountant, 10+ Years Managerial Accounting
- Tax Advisor, CPA & MBA
- Small Business Accountant, CPA
- Certified QuickBooks & Xero Accountant | Bookkeeper
- Tax Preparer | Accountant | Licensed Enrolled Agent
AI Chatbot Developer
Many companies are looking to create their own conversational AI chatbots that users can interact with on their websites or mobile apps. AI chatbot developers use AI platforms like OpenAI, Google Dialogflow, and Microsoft Azure Cognitive Services. They apply programming languages like Python, C++, and JavaScript to build custom AI chatbots for their clients. Your AI chatbot developer freelancer profile should highlight your niche and the main tools you use:
- AI Chatbot Developer (Dialogflow, OpenAI & Python)
- Chatbot Builder • AI-Powered Bots for Web & Mobile
- Custom AI Chatbots | NLP, JavaScript & Automation
- AI Bot Developer ( C++, OpenAI & Azure Integrations)
- Conversational AI Dev • Smart Bots for Business Sites
AI Consultant
Various organizations are looking for ways to incorporate AI into their business models to be more productive and efficient in their day-to-day operations. AI consultants work hands-on, implementing AI tools or strategically advising clients on how to adopt and scale new AI technologies. Client-winning AI consultant headlines highlight how you can solve their problem and the value you bring to a project.
- AI Consultant • Strategy & Implementation for Businesses
- AI Strategist | Boosting Productivity with Custom Workflow AI
- AI Strategy Consultant — Productivity & Workflow AI
- AI Advisor | Guiding Teams to Confident AI Tool Adoption
- AI Tech Consultant • Scaling Tools for Teams & Startups
AI Engineer
As more companies look to build their own AI systems, this increases the demand for AI engineers. These engineers build machine learning models and algorithms to solve their clients’ problems. AI engineers use languages like Python, C/C++, SQL, and R, and have a deep understanding of machine learning and large language models. Professional titles for AI engineers often call out language proficiency, years of experience, and focus areas like LLMs or neural networks.
- AI Engineer ( ML Models, LLMs & Python Expert)
- AI Systems Developer • Neural Networks & Predictive ML
- AI Engineer | NLP, RAG Systems & Custom AI Tools
- AI/ML Developer ª Python, SQL, TensorFlow & R)
- AI Engineer | Solving Business Problems With Smart Models
Back-End Developer
Back-end developers work behind the scenes on the server-side of websites and apps. These developers use code to build databases, integrate APIs, and set up server-side integrations. Back-end developers work with open-source programming languages, libraries, and APIs. Compelling back-end developer headlines emphasize both experience and preferred coding languages.
- Back-End Developer / Node.js, APIs & Database Expert /
- Server-Side Dev • Secure APIs & Database Integrations
- Back-End Developer (Python, Java, SQL & REST APIs)
- Scalable Web Solutions | Back-End Dev With 10+ Years
- Back-End Dev • Fast, Secure Architecture Using Open Source
Bookkeeper
Businesses hire bookkeepers to manage their day-to-day financial transactions, helping them to stay organized. As a bookkeeper, you may handle receivable and payable accounts and reconcile bank statements, run reports, and work with software like QuickBooks and Excel. A strategic bookkeeping headline showcases your industry experience and proficiency with specific tools and software.
- QuickBooks Bookkeeper • Managing Payables & Reconciliation
- Experienced Bookkeeper | Invoicing, Payroll & Excel Reports
- Bookkeeper for Small Biz | QuickBooks & Bank Reconciliation
- Virtual Bookkeeper ( AP/AR, Bank Recs, Financial Reporting)
- Detail-Oriented Bookkeeper • Excel, QuickBooks, Xero Expert
Customer Service Professional
Businesses hire customer service professionals to create positive experiences with customers before, during, and after purchasing their products or services, whether answering questions or troubleshooting. As a customer service professional, you want to demonstrate in your headline that you have both the hard (technical) and soft (people) skills needed to represent the client's business:
- Customer Service Specialist | Zendesk, Help Scout, Zoho Desk
- Customer Support Expert Specializing in D2C Brands
- Customer Care Rep with 5+ Years of Support Experience
- Customer Service Support — Email, Social Media & Chat
- Expert Customer Service Rep • ECommerce & Tech Support
Data Entry Specialist
Data entry specialists input a variety of data types into spreadsheets, technical documents, and databases while maintaining accuracy and speed. Successful professionals in this field are precise and have excellent attention to detail. Compelling data entry headline and professional title examples include:
- Administrative Data Entry Specialist
- Business Virtual Data Assistant | Microsoft Office Veteran
- Data Entry / 7 Years of Bookkeeping Experience
- Reliable Data Entry Professional • Website Migration
- Data Entry Specialist With Lead Gen, Excel & Spreadsheet Experience
Data Scientist
Businesses and individuals need help making sense of their data and hire data scientists to identify patterns and turn this data into actionable insights. Data scientists may also mine data and offer predictive analytics and future forecasting to help businesses be more efficient and make informed decisions. These types of engineers use programming languages like Python, Java, and C++ and have advanced mathematical skills and a deep understanding of neural network architectures. Powerful data scientist profile titles highlight technical skills, tools or languages used, and the ability to extract insights or drive business decisions like these examples:
- Predictive Analytics Specialist (Python, SQL & Forecasting )
- ML & Data Science Expert / From Raw Data to Real Business Decisions
- Data Strategist | Forecasting Trends With Clean, Smart Models
- Machine Learning Specialist • Real-World Insights From Data
- Quantitative Analyst (Python, SQL & Predictive Modeling)
Data Visualization Specialist
Clients hire data visualization specialists to take their data and turn it into a visual, like a chart, graph, map, or dashboard that’s easier to understand and interpret than tables of numbers. Data visualizations simplify complex data and reveal patterns and trends. These specialists use tools like Microsoft Power BI, Tableau, and Looker to create visualizations for clients. An effective data visualization specialist clarifies technical skills while highlighting any niche or specialty.
- Data Visualization Specialist (Tableau, Power BI & Dashboards)
- Data Visualization Expert / Clear Charts From Complex Data
- Power BI Developer • Turning Raw Data Into Business Insights
- Data Visualization Designer (Looker, Tableau, Data Studio)
- Data Visualization Strategist | Making Metrics Easy to Read
Editor
Editors do more than catch writing and grammar mistakes. A professional editor must revise written content to match specific goals and provide suggestions to clients. Editor headlines display a commitment to style, like these:
- Experienced Editor | 5 Years at [Established Publisher]
- Copy Editor for Sales & Marketing
- Expert Copy Editor — Writing Style Strategist
- Editor and Proofreader (Nonfiction, Academic, Research)
- Technical Writer | User Guides | API Docs | Manuals
Email marketer
Businesses can increase sales by sending their customers marketing emails, making professionals in this field in high demand. Experts in email marketing drive sales by creating email copy and designs that stand out from inbox spam. Email marketing headlines, like email subject lines, must be attention-grabbing:
- Email Marketing Strategist — High Open Rates
- B2B Email Copywriting and Branding
- Email Marketer For B2C eCommerce Companies
- Email Deliverability Specialist / Reducing Bounce Rates
- HTML Email Template Designer • Klaviyo Certified
Finance Professional
Finance professionals can have different specialties and niches depending on their education and certifications. As a finance professional, you could focus on financial planning, trend forecasting, taxes, or another area of finance. When creating your finance headline, make sure prospective clients and employers know what your background and specialty are, like these headlines:
- Experienced Finance Writer — SEO articles & blogs
- Financial Analyst (CFA Charterholder & MBA)
- Market Trends Forecaster | Strategic Financial Insights
- Financial Modeling & Budgeting Expert / 5+ Years Experience
- Certified Financial Planner for Small Business Owners
Front-End Developer
Front-end developers code the visuals of a website (what the customer sees), focusing on the user interface. These developers work in languages like HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and other coding frameworks like Bootstrap, Backbone, AngularJS, and others to create aesthetically pleasing and engaging websites and apps. Front-end developer headlines should highlight the languages and tools you use to create visually appealing and user-friendly websites:
- Front-End Developer | HTML, CSS, JS, React & Bootstrap
- UI Developer • Modern Websites Using CSS & JavaScript
- Front-End Dev | Engaging Web Interfaces With React & Figma
- Responsive Front-End Developer (HTML/CSS/JavaScript)
- Web UI Specialist | Pixel-Perfect Front-End Development
Full-Stack Developer
Full-stack developers work on both the front and back end of websites and apps. These types of developers code in languages like HTML, CSS, Java, JavaScript, and Python to help complete projects end-to-end, often bridging the gap between front- and back-end developers. Full-stack developers focus on both the visual and functional aspects of website building. Effective full-stack developer headlines highlight which stacks (combination of apps and other tech) they specialize in:
- Full-Stack Developer | MERN Stack | APIs & Web Apps
- Experienced Full-Stack Dev (React, Node.js & MongoDB)
- Web App Developer / Front-End & Back-End Solutions
- Full-Stack Engineer | Python, JavaScript, SQL Expert
- Full-Stack Dev • Scalable Web Apps Using Modern Stacks
Graphic Designer
Graphic designers are digital artists who create visual content ranging from logos to social media graphics for clients. These types of designers use tools like Adobe Suite and Canva to create a wide variety of visuals. Graphic designers often have a niche, specializing in a specific type of design. Effective graphic designer profile titles should let clients know what type of design they do and the tools they use:
- Graphic Design Professional / Adobe-Certified
- Graphic Designer — Illustrator, Photoshop & InDesign
- Creative Illustrator | Book Covers & Character Design
- Graphic Designer • Logos, Product Packaging, Pitch Decks, Brochures
- Expert Graphic Designer Specializing in Marketing Materials
Growth Marketer
Growth marketers specialize in growing eCommerce sales or company revenue. They may also incorporate SEO and social media strategies to increase site traffic or YouTube views. Effective headlines for growth marketers include:
- Successful Entrepreneur and Growth Strategist
- Growth Marketer for Tech Start-Up Businesses
- ECommerce Growth Specialist
- Growth Marketer & Inbound Strategist
- YouTube Growth Expert | SEO | Increase Views & Subscribers
Logo Designer
Logos are a core element of successful brands that represent a company or other trademark. Logo designers have expertise in graphic design and illustration software like Adobe Illustrator and CorelDRAW to streamline the design process. Like high-quality logos, these professional logo designer headlines are especially memorable:
- Professional Logo Design Expert (Adobe Suite)
- Logo Design and Branding Specialist
- Logo Design - 12 Years Graphic Design Exp
- Modern Logo Graphic Designer / CorelDRAW Expert
- Expert Graphic Designer Specializing in Business Logos
Mobile App Developer
Billions of people use their smartphones every day, making mobile app development an in-demand tech skill. Mobile developers build applications for iOS, Android, or both using languages and frameworks like Swift, Kotlin, Flutter, and React Native. Headlines should highlight your platform expertise and experience delivering polished, high-performing apps, such as:
- Mobile App Developer | iOS and Android Expert | Cross-Platform Builds
- Cross-Platform Developer Specializing in Flutter & React Native
- Mobile Software Engineer Skilled in Kotlin, Swift & Dart
- Mobile App Developer With a Focus on Scalable UX
- Full-Stack Mobile Developer Experienced in Native & Hybrid Apps
Project Manager
Clients hire freelance project managers to lead their teams and oversee projects to make sure they stay on schedule, everyone has the resources they need, and the projects are within the budget. Project management can focus on an area of project management, like supply chain or finance, or specialize in an industry. Standout project management headlines convey your focus area and what sets you apart.
- Project Manager | Agile, Trello & Remote Team Oversight
- Certified PM | On-Time, On-Budget Project Execution
- Project Manager | Tech, Supply Chain & Team Leadership
- Freelance PM | Asana, Budgets & Client Coordination
- Marketing PM | Launching Campaigns That Hit Deadlines & Goals
Prompt Engineer
In the growing field of AI, clients work with freelance prompt engineers to formulate prompts for specific tasks. Prompt engineers understand large language models and how they work, and improve model outputs by designing inputs (prompts) in AI tools like Claude, Gemini, Copilot or ChatGPT. When writing a prompt engineer headline, outline the type of prompting you specialize in.
- Prompt Engineer | Optimizing GPT Prompts for Accuracy
- AI Prompt Specialist | Custom Prompts for Business Tasks
- Prompt Engineer | LLM Optimization & Prompt Tuning
- AI Prompt Specialist | Workflow Prompts for Ops, Sales & Support
- Freelance Prompt Engineer | AI Content & Tools Expert
Recent Graduate
Recent grads can add their education to their headlines to attract clients. As a recent grad, you can put your top skills in your headline, then add your degree and college. Your education and positive project feedback or references (once you earn recognition) can take the place of a work history as you gain experience. Examples like these recent grad headlines can help you stand out:
- Recent [School] Grad | Professional Researcher & Writer
- [School] Computer Science Grad | Machine Learning Expert
- Data Scientist | Recent [School] Grad | Python, R & SQL
- Copywriter & Editor | [School] Grad | College Admission Consultant
- Financial Analyst & Business Writer | MBA [School]
Recruiters
Recruiters specialize in sourcing, screening, and placing top talent to help businesses grow. Whether working in-house or as independent professionals, recruiters play a critical role in identifying qualified candidates, improving time to hire, and building strong teams. Your recruiter headline should clearly communicate how you can meet clients' needs and highlight your experience and areas of specialization.
- Recruiter | Building Strong Teams & Positive Culture
- Startup Talent Acquisition Specialist | Sourcing & Onboarding
- Corporate Recruiter — DEI-Focused Hiring & Retention Strategy
- Executive Recruiter & Headhunter — HR Professional
- Technical & IT Recruiter — 10+ Years HR Experience
Sales Professional
Sales professionals help businesses increase revenue through strategy development, lead generation, and distributing marketing materials. Focuses may include B2B copywriting, team building, cold calling, and more. Because “sales” is a broad term, individuals should clarify their specialty. The perfect sales headline convinces clients that you deliver real results, as these examples show:
- Sales Strategist | $20M Closed Across SaaS, B2B & Lead Gen Funnels
- B2B Closer / Consultative Sales That Drive Pipeline Growth
- SaaS Sales Expert | Strategy, Scripts & Funnel Optimization
- Cold Calling Pro • B2B Outreach That Books Real Sales Conversations
- Lead Gen Expert | Lists, Email Sequences & Targeted Data Mining
SEM Specialist
Search engine marketing (SEM) professionals effectively utilize paid online ads to enhance user interaction with a brand or business. Search engine marketing (SEM) specialists use paid advertising to drive targeted traffic and boost brand engagement online. SEM falls under the umbrella of digital marketing. Headlines for SEM and digital marketing experts should emphasize results.
- Digital Marketing Expert — ECommerce
- PPC Specialist — Google Ads Expert
- SEM Professional / PPC / Display / Video Ads
- Certified Google Ads Specialist | PPC & SEM | Paid Media
- PPC Marketer — Search, Display & Shopping Ads
SEO Specialist
Search engine optimization (SEO) specialists improve website visibility in Google and other search engines without paying for ads. Organizations need SEO professionals who can increase the number of organic (unpaid) visitors to their blog or business website. These examples highlight an SEO freelancer’s expertise:
- Local SEO Specialist / Get Found on Google
- SEO Expert — 9-Year Proven Track Record
- Technical SEO Specialist | SEO Audits
- SEO Strategist | On-Page & Off-Page SEO
- ECommerce SEO Specialist | Shopify Certified
Social Media Marketer
Social media is a key component of many brands’ marketing strategies. Modern businesses need social media-savvy experts to create engaging posts and manage interactions with potential customers on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, TikTok, Snapchat, and other social platforms. Noteworthy social media specialist headlines include:
- LinkedIn Advertising Strategist
- Social Media Specialist / Engagement Expert
- Social Media Account Manager — Facebook, IG, TikTok
- Instagram, Facebook, & Twitter Social Media Marketing Expert
- Instagram Organic Growth & Engagement Expert
Students
If you're in school, you can use that in your headline to explain your areas of expertise. While you may still need to gain experience working in your field, highlighting that you're an active student and learning valuable skills can help attract clients, especially for entry-level jobs. Student headlines should explain where you go to school and what you're studying:
- Medical Student | [School] | Medical Writing & Research
- Student at [School] Studying [Subject]
- Computer Science Student (Java, NodeJS, SQL)
- MBA Student | Resumes, Cover Letter, Admissions Letters
- [Subject] PhD Candidate | Academic & Grant Writing
Tax Preparer
Tax preparers work independently, preparing and filing taxes for clients. Freelancer tax preparers are self-employed and work directly with individuals and businesses during tax season or throughout the year. Depending on where you live, you may need to take online courses and earn certifications to become a tax preparer. Stand out tax preparer freelancer profile titles showcase years of experience and areas of expertise, such as:
- Certified Tax Preparer & CPA | Small Business & Individual Returns
- Tax Preparer | Personal & Business | 10+ Years Experience
- IRS Registered Tax Pro | Filing, Deductions & Compliance
- Freelance Tax Preparer | Fast, Accurate & Affordable
- Tax Specialist | IRS Licensed EA | Business & Self-Employed
Translator
Translators take written copy from one language and translate it into another while retaining the original meaning and cultural relevance. Businesses hire translators when they need to have existing content like marketing materials, videos, advertising, or product packaging rewritten into another language or translated in real time. Translator headlines should demonstrate your proficiency in the languages and experience translating:
- Chinese-English Translator • Live Zoom Interpreter
- Spanish Translator (Proofreading, Editing, Writing)
- German-English Translator | Marketing, ECommerce, Brand
- Professional Linguist — French, German, Spanish Translations
- Native Italian Speaker | Translator | EN-IT, FR-IT, ESP-IT
Virtual Assistant
Virtual assistants work remotely to support clients by completing a wide range of tasks, from managing calendars to responding to emails. Some virtual assistants have specialized skills and offer services, like bookkeeping or data analysis, to clients. Virtual assistance can mean a wide variety of tasks and services, so emphasize your niche and skill set when writing your headline.
- Virtual Assistant | Skilled in Microsoft Office & CRM Tools
- Virtual Assistant for Busy Pros | Scheduling & Communication Expert
- Reliable Virtual Assistant | Admin, Bookkeeping, Data
- Virtual Assistant | Research, Reports & Client Emails
- Efficient Virtual Assistant | Inbox, Calendar & Admin Support
Voice-Over Professional
Voice-over professionals work in audio, lending their voice to a variety of media, from business presentations to video games. Businesses hire voice-over professionals when they need someone to bring copy to life, whether using their natural voice or developing a character. Compelling voice-over professional headlines show your experience and skills in audio recording:
- Professional Voice-Over Professional | Vocal Actor
- Voice-Over Professional | Spanish & English
- Expert Voice-Over Artist • High-Quality Audio
- Voice-Over Artist | Dubbing Actress
- Business Voice-Over Professional | Decks, Presentations, Videos
Web Designer
Nearly every business today needs a website. Freelance web designers take clients’ ideas and bring them to life. Web designers focus on the look and feel of a website, the aesthetics and usability (the front end). Web design headlines should explain what type of design you focus on and what tools and software you use, like these examples:
- WordPress and Wix Designer / HTML Certified
- Web Design Expert — 200+ Websites Designed
- Visual Web Designer | WordPress & Blog Layout Expert
- UX/UI Web Designer | Figma, Dreamweaver, Google Web Designer
- Squarespace & Wix Web Designer • Canva Pro Expert
Web Developer
Web developers code the back end of the pages to help them load quickly and meet any web application needs. Businesses want professionals in this field who understand web coding languages and can handle the technical elements of their blogs and websites. Web developer headlines should highlight the languages you work in and any specialties that you have:
- HTML/CSS Expert / MS in Computer Science
- Web Dev Veteran | 15+ Years Experience
- MERN Stack Developer | Full-Stack Apps That Perform
- PHP Web Developer | API Integrations & ECommerce Specialist
- Back-End Developer | Building Fast, Secure & Responsive Websites
Writer
Writers fulfill the never-ending demand for fresh and unique content. Writing niches include copywriting, blog writing, technical writing, and more. A clear, niche-focused headline helps attract the right clients and builds trust quickly. Your freelance writer headline should explain the type of writing that you do best:
- Experienced Content Writer | Business & Tech | MA in Journalism
- Sales Copywriter – Helping You Convert
- Technical Writer | Accurate & Well-Researched Writing
- YouTube Script & Blog Writer | SEO-Focused Content Creator
- Certified SEO Copywriter (B2B/B2C SaaS)
How to write a professional headline
When writing your headline, think about what can help you stand out from the competition. The goal of your headline should be to capture your client's attention, encouraging them to review your proposal and profile. The best professional headlines describe exactly what you do, so the client knows what they should hire you for.
Creating a professional headline is about cleverly highlighting your capabilities to position yourself as the solution to a prospective client’s problems. Highlight what sets you apart from other freelancers, like years of experience, degrees, certifications, languages, programs or tools you use, your niche or industry focus, and even results or metrics you’ve achieved for clients.
Pro Tip: You can use Uma, Upwork’s Mindful AI, to help brainstorm freelancer profile title ideas. All freelancers have access to Uma. Basic members can send around 10 messages per week to Uma, and upgrading to Freelancer Plus unlocks unlimited Uma access along with other perks like 100 Connects per month.
1. Keep it short and simple
When writing your headline, you need to be able to get your point across in as few words as possible. The goal is for the client to be intrigued enough to want to learn more about you.
On Upwork, you’ll have 70 characters to work with, and you want to make every character count. Your headline should tell clients in a quick glance what you do and why they should hire you.
2. Optimize your headline with keywords
Don't be afraid to include common industry-related jargon and abbreviations in your headline. Using the right keywords for people in your industry speaks directly to client needs by assuring them that you’re knowledgeable and can help them reach their goals. It can also help Upwork match you with clients looking for your specific niche and skills.
A client may look for keyword terms like those in these headlines:
- B2B Copywriting and Email Marketing
- SaaS Technical Support Specialist
- Commercial Video Editor | Post for CTV, Social & Broadcast Spots
- Supply Chain Tech Support | ERP, EDI & Logistics Systems Expert
- B2C Drop-Shipping & ECommerce Consultant
3. Use capitalization
Capitalization gives each element of your headline more weight and authority. Even for roles in which grammar isn’t the focal point, people view it as a sign of competence and attention to detail. Capitalize your headline as if it were the book title of your experience.
For example, this:
- Graphic Designer | Bachelor of Arts & Design
Looks more appealing and professional than:
- Graphic designer | bachelor of art and design
Capitalization also helps your headline look polished and easy to scan at a glance.
4. Avoid exaggerating your credentials
Honesty and accuracy are crucial to long-term success on Upwork. Being honest about your background and achievements helps build trust with clients and avoids setting unrealistic expectations. While terms like “world-class” and “best (insert title) on Upwork” sound good, they’re hard to quantify and may be a red flag for clients. Instead, let your Job Success Score and talent badges be the support for your abilities.
Headlines should highlight accomplishments while being realistic and truthful. For example, headlines like:
- iOS Developer / 5 Years Experience
- Graphic Designer — Adobe Certified
Are more realistic and believable than:
- SEO King and World Class Blogger
5. Consider adding years of experience
As you browse the talent section on Upwork, you’ll notice that many successful freelancers specify how many years they’ve worked in their field in their Upwork headline. More years in an industry often point to higher efficiency and added expertise. Clients often choose experienced freelancers for their proven ability to deliver results.
If you have many years of experience, adding to your headline can help you stand out. Don't worry if you're changing careers or just starting out. Try focusing instead on your skills and other traits that can set you apart.
If you decide to include years of experience, your headline may look like:
- Software Engineer | 7 Years Java Experience
- Virtual Assistant — 12 Years Supporting Success
You can also mention past roles or industries, if relevant, to highlight transferable skills and demonstrate your range of experience, such as:
- Software Engineer | 7 Years Building Secure Apps for Fintech Clients
- Virtual Assistant — 12 Years Supporting a Medical Practice
6. Stay away from words like Jedi, ninja, or rockstar in your headline
You may think at first that words like “expert” and “specialist” may be too generic, but they’re helpful to clients. Being straightforward and using these terms to describe your skill level is what most recruiters and clients prefer.
Titles like “Jedi,” “ninja,” and “rockstar” are cliche and overused. They may also seem unprofessional and are hard to measure. Instead, consider adding more meaningful information to distinguish yourself, like certifications, degrees, or data-driven results.
Good examples could include:
- Python Programmer — Master’s in Computer Science
- B2B Content Writer | 20,000+ Ebook Downloads
Remember, your headline is often a client’s first impression—professionalism matters.
7: Update your profile title and professional headlines
As you advance in your freelance career, make sure you keep your profile updated. If you learn new skills, especially those that are in high demand, make sure you put them in your headline. You can test out alternative headlines and see how they perform, doing your own version of A/B testing. Even small changes, like calling out a specific tool, certification, or industry, can help your profile appear in more searches and attract the right clients. Regularly refreshing your headline ensures your profile stays relevant and competitive as client needs and market trends evolve.
Take your Upwork profile to the next level
A strong headline is the first step in creating an Upwork profile that stands out to clients so they view your proposals and send job invites. Once you decide on a headline, you can start working on your profile overview, which is your quick elevator pitch to clients that introduces you as a freelancer, letting them know who you are and what you do best. Make sure your profile is 100% complete (so you can be eligible for talent badges) with a portfolio of your best work samples before you start submitting proposals for jobs. When you’re ready, check the Talent Marketplace™ for jobs that fit your skill set and write personalized proposals for jobs that interest you. There are thousands of opportunities every day.
Author Spotlight
Cassie is a storyteller and content creator with over eight years of experience helping brands communicate to their customers through different channels. She enjoys finding new coffee shops to work from and spending time in nature with her dog, Sweeney.
