How to Bid a Freelance Job

There are many good reasons to offer your special skills and talents to the highest bidder on the open market. The wait for that first job can be a bit disheartening, though. You may be able to reduce the wait and improve your chances of getting your first job if you bid wisely.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Read the job description carefully.

2. Make a list of the primary deliverables.

3. Identify every task associated with each deliverable. Many projects that seem to involve a single task turn out to require several smaller projects.

4. Estimate how much time you will need to complete each part of the project. Be realistic and honest--this estimate will determine how much you bid for the job. Estimate low and you'll be working for pennies; estimate too high and you won't be competitive with other bidders.

5. Multiply your estimated time by your hourly rate: 20 hours at $30 per hour equals $600.

Tips & Warnings

• Over time you will develop a sense of how much time and labor will be required for a particular job. If you are just starting, make bids on the low side to encourage buyers to hire you. Raise your rates as you build a client base and your time becomes more valuable.