Landing Your First Job

The most crucial part of being a contractor in oDesk is landing his/her very first job. Many newbies tend to give up and back out from even applying because they feel that the employers are looking for experienced contractors. I experienced that, too! And trust me, the agony of waiting to be recognized by job posters is unexplainable. And so I did my research. I searched for forums on how a new contractor can be hired amidst more qualified applicants. After reading their discussions and opinions, I gathered some pointers and used them on my own.

• Start by being cheap. Begin at the rate $1/hour. Many employers will always select those applicants who will offer their services with the lowest bids. Yes, it is a big kick to your ego. But it is just your "starting point". Once you've gained oDesk hours, received your very first feedback from the employer, you can humbly raise your rate.

• Avoid Scamming Your Cover Letters. Employers really hate applicants who submit cover letters that are basic, repetitive, too showy, and are boring. Read the job posts carefully. Try to inject some pointers included there into your letter and add your suggested solutions or your proposed technique in approaching the employer's problem. Some employers will require applicants to include certain "key words" in the applicants' cover letters to prove that they've read the instructions carefully and not just "applying for the sake of applying". You don't have to make it long. A brief, concise, direct-to-the point content will already make it interesting. In this way, the employer will find your application interesting and realize that you understand what he/she is looking for. 

• BE PATIENT. As I have always said, do not lose hope. Many employers won't immediately hire someone. He will still screen the applicants' qualifications. And even if you were not selected (in oDesk the term is "application was declined"), continue applying for more jobs. Who knows? Maybe a better employer is just waiting for your application.

You can use what I have mentioned, you can make your own research. Its up to you. What's important is that you are prepared. As they always say, "Don't go to a battle unarmed".

Odesk: An Introduction

As a starter, let us first define the term freelancer. A freelancer is a person who has no long-term contracts to any company. He usually works for an employer for limited time (ex. 6 months). 

oDesk is the ultimate outsourcing site for freelancers. The company serves as the middle man between the employers and the job-seekers (called contractors in oDesk). Those with skills in web and software development, writing, multimedia design, sales and customer service, and even data entry can try looking for a job, though the jobs are not only limited with the skills I've mentioned since there are now a lot of employers.

IS oDESK LEGITIMATE?

The answer is a resounding YES. What makes oDesk more reliable is with its ability to eliminate scam employers. Through the Payment Method Verification, oDesk identifies employer's ability to pay for their employees. They also delete job posts promptly which are deemed to be suspicious upon their investigation. Contractors are also guaranteed to be paid for their hourly work.

IS THERE A REGISTRATION FEE?

Unlike other freelancing sites, oDesk does not require contractors to pay any fees. As long as you've signed-up, you can start building up your profile and begin searching for jobs that fit your qualifications.

SIGNING UP

To register, just click one of either buttons like in the illustration:

                       or

You will be directed to a new page where you enter information about you.

Upon completion, a confirmation link will be sent to the email you've provided. After confirming your registration, you can start building your profile.

Wanna try it? Then register HERE.