Using Freelance Bid Sites to Be Successful

When I first started freelance writing, I initially focused on writing for magazines and other publications. I did achieve success - I had some articles published, even some poetry and a flash fiction piece. But I quickly realized that I needed a steadier way to make some money. This is where the freelance bid sites came into the picture.

I started by using Rentacoder, which is now called vworker.com, because you don't need to pay a membership. You only end up paying a commission if your bid gets accepted. I figured this was a good place to begin. Do I think you should start there? It's completely up to you. Read the rest of this hub before you decide on a plan of attack.

My background is as a freelance writer so a lot of my advice my look slanted towards writing. However, this advice will apply to any creative professional who desire to use these sites. The way to place a bid and choose a site is the same no matter if you create logos, websites, or are looking for some writing clients.

Choosing a Site

Some sites make you pay an upfront monthly fee but then they don't take out a commission. Others don't make you pay a fee but they do take out a commission. Think about the business model you are most comfortable with and go from there. Sites to look into include gofreelance, elance, odesk, and vworker.

Placing the Bid

The next step is to learn how to place a bid. Here are how I frame mine:

• Bid intro. Here, I state the nature of the project and my bid. "I understand that you are looking for a writer to write ten, 400 word articles with various keywords related to dogs. My bid is $50 for the entire project."
• Your Qualifications. Next, list the elements of your experience that pertain to this bid. "As a dog owner, I understand the best way to care for this animal and I enjoy writing about the topic for my clients and personal projects. My work has been published in Dog Trainer Monthly (etc... you get the point)"
• Close it out. Say something like, "I look forward to working for you. All the best, Your Name."

All three of these elements are important. Use this as an outline to form your own bidding style.

What about samples?

Some clients may ask for writing samples. My best advice to you is to start an account at Associated Content and get 10 - 20 articles on various topics published there. If you are outside of the US you will not be able to receive payment but I'd still use the site anyway. In each of your bids, leave your profile link. This is usually enough to give the client a feel for your writing style.

How many bids?

The more, the merrier. It's harder in the beginning so don't give up! Choose one site and place as many bids as you can each day. I recommend in between 3 and 5 bids. The more bids you place, the better. You'll find that once you get the hang of bidding it gets easier.

How much?

When deciding how much to charge the client, think about how long it will take you and place a bid that is in keeping with your projected hourly wage. For example, if the bid is to create 10 articles and you can write 4 articles an hour, assume the project will take 2 1/2 hours. If you want to get paid $20 an hour, charge the client $50 for the project.