No matter what kind of freelancer you are, Elance is a great source of work, and can really be a steady stream of income if you can get the great projects being offered there.  However, to many, this seems impossible with so many other providers to compete against. How do you find the great Elance projects? We’ll discuss below how to do just that.

1. Email Alerts – Sign up for the email alerts through Elance so that you receive the top budgeted projects in your category every day.  This is a very helpful reminder to bid on projects, and can highlight which projects are most worth submitting proposals on.  You can see in your own inbox whether there is something you’d like to apply for or not.
2. Profile – Ensure that your profile is filled out and that you have plenty of great samples in the portfolio.  Project posters can invite you to vote on their projects if they think you would be a good match for them.  By creating an inviting and impressive profile, you’ll encourage project posters to invite you.
3. Repeat Work – Do your absolute best on every job that you turn in.  There is a huge percentage of Elance project posters that need more than just one project completed.  Project posters that have used you successfully in the past will most likely want to work with you again if the experience was great and the work was quality.
4. Set a Schedule – Set a schedule of btime each day so you’re able to submit proposals on several projects.  Set a timer and then go through your category searching for the highest budgeted projects or the auctions ending soonest.  Then, apply for the ones you think would be great for you.
5. Set Your Budget Amount – In your profile, Elance gives you the option to set your budget amount, or what you seek to get paid hourly.  Set this amount to what you feel you’re worth, so that you can be sure clients see exactly what you want to make.  The ones willing to pay will be the ones who approach you, and you’ll attract the kinds of jobs that pay what you want to make.

By utilizing these 5 tips, you can really find great Elance projects and create a steady stream of freelance work coming your way.

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