Working with Freelancers for the First Time

Perhaps you are not accustomed to working with freelance writers and other creative freelance talent. You may wonder if freelancers provide the kind of high-quality services that are available, for example, through a corporate communications department or an advertising agency. Most of the freelancers in this directory are seasoned professionals who perform top-notch work that is highly competitive with others in their field.

Selecting the right freelancer for your specific project is the most important first step. Here are a few tips to help you establish a successful consumer/freelancer relationship.

• First, understand that not every freelancer is right for every project. A good way to refine your search is to review the professional profiles of the freelancers who appear to possess the skills you are seeking, such as business writing or graphic design.
• Meet with one or more of the writers or other freelancers who seem most appropriate for your project.
• Request and review samples of their writing or other work.
• Ask for professional references and check them out. You'll be glad you did. For example, a freelancer with excellent work samples may be hard to work with or unreliable in meeting deadlines.
• Explain your project to the freelancer and ask for an estimate of the cost.
• If you decide to proceed, you or the freelancer should create a letter of agreement, which is the equivalent of a contract