When it comes to job-listing Web sites, freelancers, startups, solo-operators and other assorted independent contractors have never had it so good: Dozens of specialized freelance sites are making it easier than ever to post and search projects. The same sites help business owners find the independent help they need for hundreds of tasks, from copywriting, graphic design, programming and information technology to other specialized services easily supplied by independent contractors.
Each site works differently but generally they provide a place where service providers can get listed, and businesses can post projects or browse for what they need. Some offer free listings; some paid. A few sites make freelancers bid on projects; others merely play matchmaker. Some sites take a percentage of the project value, while still others work with flat rates.
Here’s my What Works for Business list of top freelance sites. Before you join as either a buyer or seller, make sure you understand the rules of the site.
• Sologig.com helps connect contractors, freelancers and consultants with businesses seeking independent professionals. Registration is free and unlike other project-based Web sites, Sologig does not charge project fees. There’s also no bidding on Sologig – freelancers choose which projects they are interested in and negotiate pricing directly with the employer. You can build a customized resume of your expertise accessible to thousands of employers.
• Elance.com is a major site that helps businesses hire and collaborate with experts on projects such as Web development, graphic design, programming, marketing, writing, research and more. Unlike some other sites, however, this works on a bid system. Employers post projects, and interested freelancers must bid for the work. Elance will automatically notify you of new projects in your selected categories. You pay a membership fee to Elance and also a percentage of the transaction – between 6.75 percent and 8.75 percent.
• Dice.com handles only tech-related jobs and bills itself as a “career hub for tech insiders.” While the site is mostly about full-time positions, it also carries freelance opportunities, so posting a resume or project there is a good idea if you are involved in the tech field.
• HireMyMom.com caters to work-at-home moms. The site links qualified work-at-home mom professionals with businesses seeking temporary or permanent project help and is part of the Home Based Working Moms Network. •
Daniel Kehrer can be reached at
editor@business.com.
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