Here I provide a compilation of the best freelancing resources,
some of which are already mentioned in this guide. Bookmark these,
you're going to need them!
For general job-hunting advice, you can read a piece I wrote for the website
Bargaineering.com on how to maximize your time and efforts.
Before I jump into my own list, here is a long list of resources compiled by a
colleague of mine.
-
About.com: You may have some success on the freelance job sites
listed here, but I wouldn't make it my first stop. I have never
personally used it and it seems only a few links provide real
leads.
- Contently:
Simply upload your portfolio to be seen by users looking to hire.
Even if nothing comes of it at first, you will still have a concise
portfolio of your work.
- Craigslist:
Some people swear by Craigslist, personally I never use it.
Craigslist can most likely be a terrific resource, but for me it
falls too much into the "uncertainty" category. I try to steer
clear.
- Demand
Media Studios: As I mentioned previously, DMS is a great way to
get your freelancing off the ground by writing basic, AP-style
articles about things you already know about and getting a byline.
DMS will help you become an even better writer by teaching you all
the basic rules of writing you may have forgotten. DMS also helps
you keep track of all your earnings in a comprehensive way.
- Elance: Elance is a free
platform that connects those looking to hire to their best
prospects.
- Ed2010: This website updates
frequently and is particularly good for editing, marketing and
magazine jobs. It also provides other services (how to fix up your
resume) as well as meet-ups.
- Entrepreneur.com: Pretty much what it sounds
like!
- Etsy.com:
Make and sell your own crafts and other DIY items at your own
online store.
- Freelancer.com:
There is a ton of varied info available for freelancers on
Freelancer.com.
- Idealist: Idealist is a fairly basic job hunting
site.
- Indeed:
Indeed is also a job hunting site where you have slightly more
control over the process.
- JournalismJobs.com: As
the name suggests, this is a great resource for anyone looking for
freelance writing opportunities. However, JournalismJobs has
positions that run the gamut, making it a great resource for
photographers, editors, designers and more. I have personally found
numerous jobs here.
- LinkedIn: The
professional profile website LinkedIn seems to get more popular by
the day, and with good reason. Not only does the site provide
opportunities that fit with your experience and skill set, it
allows you to connect with others in your line of work. Even if you
don't use your LinkedIn account everyday, if an employer searches
you online, a LinkedIn is a great way to display your professional
skills.
- Men With Pens:
I'm not sure why this is called "Men with Pens" because it applies
just as much to women, but it offers great advice for prospective
teachers from all walks of life.
- QuickSprout: QuickSprout teaches you ways to get more
traffic to your site.
- Social Triggers: I've
already expounded on the benefits of Social Triggers, but it truly
gets straight to the point when it comes to marketing your
work.