Using Freelance Platforms Safely and Effectively

By Wes Cowley

Many freelancers have built successful, well-paying careers using freelance platforms; others have kick-started or augmented careers. Before jumping in, you must determine: Are you comfortable with the business model? Can you work within their rules? Can you live with their fees? The information in this booklet will help guide your research.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Editorial Freelancers Association Publications
• Release date: Aug 25, 2021
• ISBN: 9781880407493

Wes Cowley

Wes Cowley has been a freelance editor since 2019 and primarily edits academic, technical, and business-related material. Prior to that, he wrote and edited technical and business documents targeted to software developers, executive teams, and external clients as part of his 35-year IT career. He lives in Tampa, FL, with this wife, Marianne.

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Using Freelance PlatformsUsing Freelance Platforms Safely and Effectively, by Wes Cowley

Copyright © 2021 Wes Cowley

Cover and design © 2021 Editorial Freelancers Association 

New York, NY

All rights reserved.

No part of this publication may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means, including, but not limited to, photocopying, recording, or other electronic or mechanical methods, without the prior written permission of the publisher, except in the case of brief quotations embodied in critical reviews and certain other noncommercial uses permitted by copyright law. For permission requests, write to the publisher at Attention: Publications Chairperson, at the address below.

266 West 37th St. 20th Floor

New York, NY 10018

[e-mail]

ISBN paperback 978-1-880407-48-6

ISBN ebook 978-1-880407-49-3

Cowley, Wes. Using Freelance Platforms Safely and Effectively.

Published in the United States of America by the Editorial Freelancers Association.

BISAC Subject Categories:| Business & Economics/Freelance & Self-Employment | Business & Economics/Careers/Job Hunting | Business & Economics/E-commerce/small business

Legal Disclaimer

While the publisher and author have made every attempt to verify that the information provided in this book is correct and up to date, the publisher and author assume no responsibility for any error, inaccuracy, or omission. The advice, examples, and strategies contained herein are not suitable for every situation. Neither the publisher nor author shall be liable for damages arising therefrom. This book is not intended for use as a source of legal or financial advice. Running a business involves complex legal and financial issues. You should always retain competent legal and financial professionals to provide guidance.

EFA Publications Director: Robin Martin

Copyeditor: Nanette Day

Proofreader: Erin Roll

Book Designer: Kevin Callahan | BNGO Books

Cover Designer: Ann Marie Manca

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Web: wordsbywes.ink

Contents

1. Introduction

2. Overview of the Platforms

Terms

Types of platforms

Pros and cons

How do you choose?

3. Understanding How a Platform Works

What kind of communication is allowed?

What are the exclusivity rules?

How do you bid on a job?

What types of pricing models are supported?

What are the fee structures?

How do you get a contract?

How do you get paid?

How do the freelancer ratings work?

What is the dispute process?

Summary

4. Establishing and Managing Your Reputation

5. Setting Rates

6. Vetting Clients and Their Material

7. Avoiding Scams

Common scams

Avoiding scams

8. Parting Words

References

General

Fiverr

Freelancer.com

Guru

PeoplePerHour

Reedsy

Upwork

1.

Introduction

Freelance platforms such as Upwork, Freelancer.com,1 Reedsy, and Fiverr have mixed reputations among the