One constant source of job leads for work at home designers, writers, programmers and other freelancers is freelancing sites. My site of choice is oDesk, although sites like it are a dime a dozen. The most popular alternatives are Guru, eLance and Freelancer.com.
Hunting for jobs on these sites is a bit different from looking for a “real” job. Each job is a contract that can last a day, a week, a month or an hour. Employers are usually looking for someone to tackle one particular project, although you can easily establish long-term relationships with employers.
The list of jobs is constantly being replenished. At any time you can find design jobs, writing jobs, programming jobs and an excess of other various job types.
Check out oDesk now and take time to fill out your profile and apply to jobs if you think freelance sites might be for you. Below are some tips for getting started and ensuring you have the best chances of landing a job.
Good ODesk Profiles – 7 Tips That Will Help You Succeed
Your oDesk profile (or Elance, Guru, and other freelance writing sites) is your most important asset. It makes the difference between you and the thousands of other oDesk contractors competing for a job. Therefore, you need to make sure that your profile is as good as possible.
1. Emphasize what’s important
The first thing that you should consider when editing your profile page is what information you will include. A good profile should not be too loaded with information. Think that the employer will decide in minutes, maybe even seconds, if you are suitable for your needs.
You want to make sure that the information that matters – experience, skills, references is visible and easily accessible. Focus on what is really important, rather than making huge lists of skill or completed projects.
2. Show off your best work
A portfolio is a must for a good oDesk profile. Use the built-in portfolio on oDesk to make a display of your best achievements. This can include web pages, pictures, writing samples, and just about anything you consider worthy. Keep in mind the first point, so don’t exaggerate.
3. Be persuasive
On oDesk, Elance or Guru, your profile is your business card. What you say about can convince the potential employers. To create a persuasive oDesk, describe yourself in powerful terms that employers like to hear. Use professional, expert, skilled, etc. Avoid words that suggest that you are inexperienced. Don’t tell the employers that you are a “quick learner” or “up-and-coming”. They will be influenced by them, even if they don’t realize it.
4. Be honest
Don’t lie in your profile, or at least don’t exaggerate too much your skills. This can turn on you later, by creating false expectations from the employers. A lie in your oDesk or Elance profile can also damage your reputation, both on oDesk and offline. A profile doesn’t need to be spectacular to be successful. Just clearly mention your skills and qualities and you should be fine.
6. Complete the profile
Don’t leave empty spaces into your profile. They look really bad. Try to find about all the relevant things about you, which might impress a potential employer. For example, if you have good computer skills, mention them, even if you are a freelance writer. They might prove useful someday, and they will also look good in your profile.
7. Ask an expert
The best oDesk profile is sincere, professional and well-thought. Give it some time, and don’t just rush it. It’s essential for your future success on oDesk, Elance and just about any other freelancing sites. If you really want to have a high quality profile, look for the advice of experienced freelancers. They always have good insight on what works and what doesn’t, so you may obtain some precious advice from an oDesk expert.
Bogdan is an expert freelance writer, working on oDesk, Elance and other freelance working sites.
Visit his blog, http://www.superscriptor.com for tips, advices and resources for beginning freelancers.To see how he quickly got his first job on oDesk, visit http://www.superscriptor.com/blog/break-the-ice-on-odesk-elance-guru/
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Bogdan_Petrovan
