Absolutely agree. Pretty much all the freelance Python coding work I've got has been through mining my existing network. I wouldn't touch UpWork with a bargepol

Absolutely agree. Pretty much all the freelance Python coding work I've got has been through mining my existing network. I wouldn't touch UpWork with a bargepole frankly. Also, you need to be able to offer something unique if you don't want to have to compete on price - so demonstrating competence in a niche is important.