Friday, June 25, 2010

How to Make a Success of Your Freelance Career Without Ever Leaving Home

The advent of the constant use of the internet for business purposes has opened up a whole new set of opportunities for those people who wish to pursue a career working as a freelancer. Thanks to the advent of such software innovations as Live Meeting programs and internet phone services like Skype it is possible for a freelancer to work with people who are hundreds, even thousands of miles away from them.
freelancing jobsThere are virtual freelance opportunities available for people who have all kinds of different skill sets. From virtual assistance to marketing, creative writing to illustration people from all walks of life are taking advantage of the freelance opportunities available online to earn a full time or part time living.
A number of internet sites have sprung up that are dedicated to helping freelance workers and employers connect and then ensure that both the employer and employee are satisfied with the work that is produced and that payment is made in a timely manner. One of the most popular sites, Odesk, is a great place for new freelancers to begin as they guarantee payment for hourly jobs, allowing employees to gain an extra sense of security when just starting out.
Just like any other freelance opportunity the key to success as a virtual freelancer is putting together a great portfolio and amassing a set of great references. Whichever of the freelance sites you choose to work with they all have one thing in common - buyers hire based on the strength of your online profile and feedback. Beginners may want to consider undertaking lower priced jobs to get their work history going and then most find that the higher paying jobs start flowing in when the buyers can see that they will be getting a great work product for their money.
It does not cost a lot to begin working in a virtual freelance capacity. Of course a computer with a reliable Internet connection is a must, as is having a number of methods by which you can be contacted easily. This does not have to mean running your phone bill sky high though; many employers prefer to communicate via email, instant messaging and VOIP services, all of which are available at no cost to either party.

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