Bounce Back After a Low Feedback Rating
Don’t lose hope when a buyer decides to put you up on a low rating! Being given a low rating for your latest job does not mean that you will not be able to get freelance jobs in the same freelance company in the future. Giving up on a single job means accepting defeat on the first try.
Successful freelancers in freelance sites have stayed through with the site even with their low ratings. Some even stayed for a year or two, and despite having a low feedback rating, they were able to take on more jobs and have gotten higher feedback ratings, very satisfied client base backed up with very moving positive comments.
photo credit: xlucas (SXC)
If I were to experience this situation, this is what I would have to do if the feedback really applies to me:
- Pursue additional training to enhance my skill in this area. I might have to come up with sample work after the training to be able to justify what I had done with the previous job. Also, certifications can be a lot helpful to this one. Self-training can also be done if there is no available trainings around.
- Apply to jobs where I am really good at. If I am better at programming than writing then I would have to pursue programming jobs instead. If I am better at doing VB.NET projects rather than Java programming projects, then I would have to pursue VB.NET projects instead.
- Build a job experience on a specialization. In freelancing, it is better to specialize at a skill rather than knowing too many skills. In VB.NET you can be a database developer, an embedded programmer, a graphics expert in that single language. Just the same if you are striving to be a database expert, then be a database developer in several languages instead.
- Find other clients. Many clients are open-minded and would still give chance despite a negative feedback rating.
- Improve other areas that might have led to this incident. Most likely poor communication skills are the culprit. Consider several ways to communicate to a client, such as using voice communication, the Japanese HORENSO communication system, making regular daily reports, using email and of course, using instant messaging.
What if the feedback does not really apply to me? If a potential client notices it then you will have to explain why the feedback is so. Be honest, but it is not necessary to divulge all the juicy details. Perhaps you might tell him that you agreed to disagree about some details of the job. Try justifying that the feedback is false through some of your sample work, certifications, employment history and test scores. The client will easily see how you are able to justify yourself and will likely be convinced to hire you for their job.
