How to Find oDesk Jobs

oDesk is a free website that matches freelancers with hiring managers for short and long-term projects. In a down economy, building a client base as a self-employed worker is crucial. One client could go bankrupt, and you need to diversify your client base to prevent personal financial problems from lack of work. This is where oDesk jobs come in. finding a job at oDesk can help you financially, but can also help to build your business in the long run.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Register at oDesk. It's free and you only need to spend your time to find oDesk jobs.

2. Fill out your profile. Choose your words carefully as those who buy services will evaluate profiles to find the best candidate for oDesk jobs. A poorly written profile can sink your work chances fast.

3. Add portfolio items. If you are a writer seeking oDesk writing jobs, put links to articles or PDFs of print work. if you're in a creative field, PDFs of your work build the oDesk portfolio. Be as clever and careful as possible in showcasing your skills and experience to get the edge when competing for oDesk jobs.

4. Take skills tests. oDesk sets itself apart from competing sites by requiring skills tests for certain software (i.e. Excel, Word, etc.). The higher your score, the better employers will view you, so don't rush through this crucial step in finding oDesk jobs.

5. Bid on oDesk jobs once your profile and testing are complete.

Tips & Warnings

• Add 11.11% to all hourly jobs, as oDesk charges a 10% transaction fee on all work. Set-fee oDesk jobs are assessed this fee as well, so keep this in mind when viewing a $2000 job--you'll only collect $1800. For hourly jobs you can bid on the rate, so calculating in an extra 11.11% is smart, and suggested by oDesk.

Resources

• oDesk

[kbrose]

on 2/6/2010 Great article - Thanks for tips!