Freelancing – Get Hired More Often

If you are considering freelance work and plan to use Odesk or Elance then there are a few things that you should consider. I am writing this article with a provider’s perspective. When I hire someone there are certain things that I look for and would recommend that you consider in order to increase your chances of winning more jobs.

Cover Letter

Make sure your cover letter or application letter is specific and customized. It should specifically address the project at hand and the person or company doing the hiring. Generic letters that you use for every occasion wont work. If I see a “template letter” then your moved to the bottom of the list. It shows the person hiring that you don’t care enough to address them directly.

Experience

If you have no work history and no references then you will be eliminated. You have get at least one job under your belt but preferably two or three. No history equals high risk, particularly on Elance where the dispute process is lacking.

Portfolio

Having a quality portfolio with relevant work examples is key. If you don’t have a portfolio then you will need to create generic examples for the type of work you intend to do. Make sure that you are providing relevant information and don’t show examples of articles on web development if the provider is asking for articles on SEO.

Profile Picture

Use your best headshot and make sure you don’t look like a serial killer. Put on your best smile and a decent shirt without holes or wrinkles. I wont hire someone that looks like they tolled out of bed to take the picture. It demonstrates a lack of self respect and if you don’t respect yourself then you probably don’t respect your own work.

Summary

This is from a provider’s perspective, the company doing to hiring, and doesn’t necessarily reflect the perspective of the freelancer. If you have anything to add to this general overview I would love to hear your thoughts.