How to Create an Elance Profile

Elance is a website where freelancers and companies can connect. Companies looking for freelance workers can post projects and receive bids. Freelancers in the fields of design, programming, Web design, writing, consulting, sales, marketing and other fields can register with Elance and bid on projects offered by companies around the world. Understanding how to create an Elance profile is the first step to a successful freelance career.

Instructions

1. Load the Elance website and click on the “Sign In or Register” link (see Resources below). In the pop-up menu, verify that “I do not have an Elance account” is selected and then enter your email address in the appropriate fields. Click on “Continue” after verifying your email address.

2. Select the “I want to find work on Elance” option and click on the “Continue” button. Choose your plan; the options are "individual" or "business." Most freelance writers will be creating an individual profile.

3. Compare the two account options, "Basic" and "Individual." "Basic" is free and "Individual" comes with a nominal monthly fee. It is best to start out with a basic account to get a feel for the site prior to committing to a recurring monthly payment. Click on “Continue.”

4. Enter your account information, including your desired username, password, address and contact information. Click “Join Elance.”

5. Create a tagline to include in your profile. Enter 5 keywords that exhibit the type of freelance work that you provide.

6. Enter a summary description of your work as well as a brief biography in the "About Us" section. Click on “Save Your Profile.”

7. Take and pass the Elance Admission Test. You must score at least 80 percent on the test in order to be accepted into the Elance system and finish setting up your profile. Upon passing the exam, you will have access to the remaining options in your profile.

8. Fill out the Skills, Employment, Payment Terms, Detailed Service Description, and Credentials section of the profile after passing the exam. You have now set up a complete Elance profile.

Tips & Warnings

• Take your time to read through all of the information included in the Exam Syllabus. You will get some good ideas on how to create a keyword-friendly profile.

• Do not rush through this process, as your profile is your resume; potential clients will view this to determine if you are qualified to work on their project.

Resources

• Elance