When I got the first break at getting hired in a freelance site, freelance opportunities seemed to come one after another. There is what we call “dry” periods in freelancing where there seemed to be fewer opportunities. That was when I went to Elance to try to find job opportunities. I was not able to get my first job but since my profile was linked to my first profile, then I was able to easily get the attention of buyers without applying to their job opening.
Elance is a large freelance site where it offers opportunities for freelances to find IT-related freelance jobs. Writers can also find writing gigs and even those who know the computer basics can find a huge number of data entry jobs posted out on the site. What I just do not like with the site is the limited number of connects that I have each month with the site. Connects are like credits, to gain more connects I have to upgrade my membership or purchase more connects. Unlike oDesk, Elance often involves money to avail of more opportunities. Even if the buyer initiated an invitation for a job, it is still requires to use a number of connects. Perhaps this is because Elance is one of the famous freelance sites which offer more job opportunities.
I think that maintaining a number of freelance sites will not dry me up from great opportunities that await me.
This is a great heads up for me. I’m planning to try out Odesk and Elance and other freelancing sites. I’m not thinking of turning into a complete freelancer like you, I just would like some extra jobs.
Anyway, thanks. I’m glad I read your post.
August 13, 2008 at 6:59 am
@PinoyCopyWriter
Thanks! I’ve often met more Filipinos who are more into finding part-time jobs to earn additional income. It is easier to find these if you had developed enough skills and experience. Good luck!
August 13, 2008 at 9:44 am
Hi Gem! I see that you also joined Elance. Can you help me out on this? I joined Elance a month ago and never completed a profile because I was just looking around, I also tried to bid on one project. Now, the employer sent me a message asking if I’m still interested. I do not have Escrow and still do not have an EON account to link into my paypal account. Is it ok if I accept the job? Will I still be able to get my money when I choose a payment method later? Thank you in advance!
October 4, 2008 at 5:19 pm
@Cams
Whether you are in Elance or oDesk, it is still perfectly okay to accept work right away. Paypal and Payoneer accounts are simply withdrawal methods that work with many sites. Your earnings will simply be inside your account and you can decide to withdraw these later.
October 4, 2008 at 8:47 pm
Thank you for the help.
I think signing up for Elance is a bit complicated than oDesk. Oh well, I’m going to try and see if it will work out for me. Thanks again!
October 5, 2008 at 10:01 am
@Cams
Yes it is, for one you get to apply to a few jobs if you are going for a free membership.
Still, Elance remains one of the famous freelancers’ site.
October 5, 2008 at 7:06 pm
Hi Gem! I find you very helpful to everyone about freelancing. I’m new to Elance and have just received a contract. I’m not familiar on how to withdraw the payment. Can you please help me? Can I withdraw it through BPI bank?
September 26, 2011 at 1:36 pm