Advice for getting started as a social media manager on Upwork?

Hi everyone! I’m a social media manager and graphic designer who just created my first Upwork account today, and I’ll admit, I’m feeling a bit overwhelmed. I’m hoping to get some advice from those who’ve been here longer!

A little about me:

• Based in Canada (fluent in English, basic French)

• 3+ years managing multiple social media accounts for businesses across Canada remotely in industries such as hospitality, B2B, restaurants, and landscaping (as an independent contractor with ongoing clients provided by my employer)

• 3 years of freelance social media management & content creation for local businesses (restaurants & sports programs)

• 4+ years of freelance graphic design – marketing collateral, logos, and full brand identities

• Diploma in Graphic Design from my local college

My goals on Upwork:

• Secure monthly social media management clients as my main focus

• Offer add-on design services such as flyers, business cards, branded documents, and brand asset development to help clients build or refine their identity

Questions I’m struggling with:

1. Is Upwork worth it for my specific goals?
2. How can I showcase my portfolio if I can’t include work from current clients due to my contract?
3. Do people create mock projects to demonstrate skills?
4. How should I structure my services for the best chance at securing monthly clients?
5. Any tips on getting my foot in the door as a new freelancer here?

Any advice or insights would be greatly appreciated, TIA! :)