Create a Winning Freelance Project Description

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With the shift in today’s hiring climate, many companies are choosing to hire freelancers to get projects completed efficiently and inexpensively. In order to get the maximum financial benefit from outsourcing, it’s essential that your project descriptions are crafted to attract qualified freelancers and promote effective communication.

Taking the time to organize your project description, requirements, an accurate budget, and realistic deadline will help freelancers discern whether or not they are a good fit for the project, thereby narrowing your pool of candidates and saving you time and money.
 

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Follow these simple steps to create a winning project description, be a great client, and connect with thousands of qualified technology professionals available for freelance work to get your projects completed now.


Craft an Eye Catching Title


Your project title is the first thing that a freelancer sees. Be mindful that your project will be one of many on a list, and will often be viewed at a glance by someone looking for freelance work. Make sure your title stands out in the crowd. Many sites have a character limit for titles, so make it simple, catchy, and informative. If you’re stumped, try writing the project description first and coming back to the title afterward.


Carefully Consider Budget


Determining a budget can be difficult if you aren’t familiar with the tools required to complete your project, so you may have to do a little bit of research. How long do similar projects generally take to complete? What is the typical hourly rate for someone with the skills you require? What is the maximum amount that you are willing to spend on this project? How tight is your deadline?

Be aware that rush jobs generally come with a higher price tag. It’s important to be flexible where appropriate, as freelancers may have different insights into the time and skills necessary for completing a project.


Plan your Timeline


Having a reasonable and accurate deadline is key for setting realistic expectations within your team and with freelancers. What is the hard deadline for completion? At what point would you like to see progress updates, a first draft, etc.? Time is money for both of you, so be sure to plan accordingly.


Provide Details


To minimize the back and forth required to begin work, be as detailed as possible in your project description. Context is key when trying to solve a problem, so when you outline the work that you need done, it’s helpful to describe why it needs to be done as well. What is the project attempting to accomplish? What is the expected functionality? What have you tried already? What tools can you provide to help the freelancer complete the project? These are all questions that should be addressed in your initial project outline, and attaching examples of what you have in mind can often convey the message even more effectively.

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To make your project easy to find, add simple, descriptive keywords into the body of your description (and the title!). This helps freelancers quickly identify if they are qualified to help.


Respond in a Timely and Professional Manner


If a freelancer asks clarifying questions or submits a proposal, make sure to keep the lines of communication open. Be professional and courteous in all interactions and take the time to provide feedback, even if you decide to go with someone else. If you need to post another project down the road, you will have already built positive relationships with more than one freelancer.

Providing information up front and answering questions in a timely manner cuts down production time and improves your bottom line. The better the communication, the better equipped potential freelancers will be to get work completed fast.

Once your description is perfected and your project is posted, you can begin the process of hiring intelligently. When proposals come in, learn more about the freelancer’s skills and qualifications by researching their online profiles, professional certifications, and portfolios. On sites like Experts Exchange, freelancers can build their online presence, showcase their skills and submit proposals for projects, making the process of hiring talented tech professionals quick and easy.
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