I'm a new member there since 1 month also and i have already won 2 projects.
No need to star as a paid member, it is useless.
Bid a little less than the others, never describe your project in the bidding but rather write a "see your pm for more informations" and send him a pm to describe what you will do for the employee.
Provide the most details possible and if possible also a sample of your work. Try to be at the place of the employee and work as you work for you. Try to be different from the others bids.