Hi guys, I'm back. Pardon me if I can't post more often because I'm very busy with my projects. I have 3 long-term projects which started last April 2008 and I have 3 new ones. I got all these projects from
GAF, and
GetACoder.
I have found a few more job boards that are free to join:
RentACoder and
CareerjetSo, has anyone of you pinned down your first freelance work yet? I can give you a few tips that might help you win a bid.
First, choose a project that is possible for you to do. Do not bid on a project that you can not make because you will lose your client's/buyer's trust. And worst, he or she will give you a very low review which will affect your future bidding.
Second, check on the buyer's budget. The budget may go per project or sometimes per hour. If the rate is acceptable with you, then say that you accept it, and never bid over his budget. If you go over the Buyer's budget, your bid will always be rejected. The Buyer may choose the ones with the lowest or sometimes the ones with an average bid.
Third, commit to the estimated time of project submission. Don't say you can finish the work within a week when you cannot!
Fourth, make your letter or application unique. The Buyer will know if you are sending a generic application which was copy and pasted from your other project bids. Always say that you understand his project (mention what kind), write clearly, and check your spelling. Even how short your application is, it will reflect your personality.
Fifth, when you're invited for an interview, reply immediately. Communication is very vital because it shows how responsive and committed you are with this work. Don't worry with the word "interview". You are not going to meet your Buyer in person. Some Buyers might need you to chat with him in YM, MSN, or Skype so make sure you have one of those accounts. There are some Buyers who require a vocal interview through Skype, so naturally, you will need a headphone. The latter is for jobs like call center or telemarketing positions.
Sixth, pass your projects on time. Committing to the required turn-around time is essential because it will build trust and earn you a very good review.
Lastly, ask your buyers to pay you through the job board where you got the project so he can leave you a review once the project has been closed. A review works as a reference of your overall performance. Through this review, it will be easier to win a bid next time.
I hope these few tips would help all of you pin down your first project! And if you did, please let me know so I can celebrate with you your sweet victory! Good luck!
