Hello!

I would like to ask a few questions about how to work effectively on oDesk as I am planning to transition to full-time freelance.

To give you some background, I am currently working as a 1C programmer and live in a provincial area. I earn 15k a month, but my job requires very little actual work. At first, I didn't enjoy it, but I eventually got used to it. However, I recently found out that my classmate is a successful freelancer who earns $1.5K a month. This inspired me to also pursue freelancing.

The problem I faced was that I used to have the misconception that freelancing would be easy and require minimal effort. I thought I could work for just five hours a day and make 100 thousand a month. Obviously, such a mindset wouldn't take me far. It took me four years to realize this. Another challenge was that being underemployed made it difficult for me to adjust to a proper work routine. However, during this period, I was able to work on my own projects and improve my English skills. Eventually, the situation at my current job worsened, with decreasing salaries and unreasonable demands of overtime. My colleagues weren't taking any significant action to address the issue, which further exacerbated the situation. As a result, I now find myself in a chaotic work environment.

In the evenings, I work on my personal project, which brings in decent money, although not quite $500 per month. Therefore, I cannot afford to stay at my current job without being paid.

One positive outcome of this situation is that I have developed valuable skills, such as configuring 1C, providing user support, network administration, and scriptwriting. Now, I feel confident in my abilities and know that I can find a job paying at least $500, if not more.

Upon searching for work, I discovered that jobs offering more than $500 are scarce, and the average salary for a programmer in my city is 15 thousand per month. This was not very impressive. However, considering it as a backup option, I found out from friends that not all companies have the same chaotic work environment as mine.

Due to these circumstances, I have been actively exploring freelancing opportunities. Currently, I find the idea of working on oDesk to be promising.

Since it is challenging to balance my demanding current job with freelancing, I plan to become a full-time freelancer. To ensure my financial security, I have my own project as a backup plan (which will also give me more time to wait for freelance orders). Here is what I have done to prepare for a successful start:

- I have registered on various freelance platforms, activated my accounts, and completed readiness tests.
- I discovered that on oDesk, the average PHP programmer earns $15 per hour.
- Through multiple attempts, I have passed tests in the areas I plan to work in, such as PHP, HTML, DHTML, JavaScript, AJAX, CSS, JSON, MySQL, PHP Programming Skills, SQL, and Regular Expressions.
- I have extensively studied books related to my chosen fields.
- I familiarized myself with payment systems like WebMoney, PayPal, and I plan to order Payoneer for withdrawing money from oDesk (though I need to earn something first).
- I have saved up money for initial expenses.
- I have set up a comfortable workspace, purchased a modern laptop, and installed ADSL internet.
- I obtained hosting for my website on the internet.
- Lastly, I have mentally prepared myself to dedicate time and effort towards my work. I do not plan on taking any breaks or vacations for at least two days to build my confidence.

In conclusion, I am determined to transition into full-time freelancing and have taken various steps to set myself up for success in this new endeavor.

- When working through Team Viewer, dealing with high pings can be frustrating.
- The choice of when to work and when not to work is yours. If you have long-term contracts, it's advisable to plan vacations in advance. Generally, you are not obligated to work on weekends unless specified in fixed-term contracts.
- If something is not working, don't force it. If you realize you won't be able to complete a task on time, promptly notify the employer and discuss the possibility of an extension or refund based on your circumstances.
- Timing should be used for tracking bugs, tests, documentation, etc. However, reading manuals or educational resources should not be limited by time. If you reach a time limit, provide a report or progress update to the employer.
-Tasks can vary greatly, from simple instructions like "press 5 buttons in the WordPress admin panel" to complex projects like "create a webmail service better than Google."

I would suggest maintaining open communication with clients, building a strong portfolio, and continuously expanding your skills to stay competitive in the freelancing market. Remember, freelancing offers flexibility and independence, but it also requires discipline and professionalism to thrive in this dynamic field.

I have experienced both sides of the situation multiple times, but recently, I have been more involved as a customer. Therefore, my perspective will lean towards that side.

1) The approach varies depending on the task and the customer. If the customer does not have any specific requirements or preferences, it is possible to work locally.

2) It is important to inform the customer as early as possible if there are any changes or unexpected circumstances that may affect the project. This gives them time to find a replacement if needed. Adequate customers are understanding and can accommodate such situations. However, delaying communication will only worsen the situation.

3) You can take vacations, even for an extended period, as long as it does not disrupt the deadlines. If there are specific dates you plan to be unavailable, it is best to inform the customer in advance (except for weekends).

4) Freelancing offers flexibility, allowing you to adjust your schedule according to your needs and preferences.

5) The worst thing you can do is disappear without any communication or make yourself difficult to find. If something unexpected happens, it is crucial to let the customer know as soon as possible.

6) Referring back to point 2, if there are missed deadlines or critical issues with the project, it may result in seeking a new person to complete the work or address the situation.

 building strong and reliable relationships with customers is essential in freelancing. Open communication, meeting deadlines, and delivering quality work are keys to success in the industry. It's also important to continuously improve your skills and stay updated with the latest trends and technologies.

The primary commandments:
1) Avoid working with unreasonable customers. It is crucial to disengage from them promptly. These customers often use excessive capital letters in their job postings, rush to hire without proper consideration, and dismiss valid arguments. It is also important to review both the feedback given to the client and the feedback they provide themselves. Some clients are perpetually dissatisfied.
2) Timely completion of work is essential.

It is essential to prioritize working with respectful and reasonable clients who value your expertise and contribute to a positive working relationship. Meeting deadlines demonstrates professionalism and builds trust with clients. Additionally, maintaining open and effective communication throughout the project helps ensure that expectations are aligned and any issues can be addressed promptly. Remember, building a successful freelancing career requires not only technical skills but also the ability to cultivate strong client relationships based on mutual respect and clear communication.

That's great to hear that you are determined to transition into full-time freelancing and have taken the necessary steps to prepare yourself for success. Freelancing can offer a lot of opportunities, flexibility, and potentially higher earnings compared to traditional employment.

To work effectively on oDesk (now known as Upwork), here are some tips:

1. Create an impressive profile: Make sure your profile stands out by highlighting your skills, experience, and accomplishments. Use keywords related to your field to increase your chances of being found by potential clients.

2. Build a strong portfolio: Showcase your best work in your portfolio to demonstrate your skills and expertise. Include samples of projects you have completed, preferably in different areas you plan to work in.

3. Be proactive in submitting proposals: Look for job postings on oDesk that align with your skills and interests, and submit well-crafted proposals to showcase your suitability for the project. Tailor each proposal to the specific requirements mentioned in the job posting to increase your chances of getting hired.

4. Set competitive rates: When starting, it's important to set competitive rates to attract clients, even if they're lower than what you ultimately want to earn. As you gain experience and positive feedback, you can gradually increase your rates.

5. Communicate effectively: Clear and timely communication is crucial when working remotely. Respond promptly to client messages, ask clarifying questions when needed, and provide regular updates on your progress.

6. Deliver high-quality work: Aim to deliver exceptional work to build a strong reputation and gain positive reviews from clients. Meeting deadlines and exceeding expectations will help establish long-term relationships with clients and lead to more opportunities.

7. Continuously improve your skills: Freelancing requires staying up-to-date with the latest trends and technologies in your field. Dedicate time to continuous learning, take online courses, attend webinars, and participate in professional communities to enhance your skills.

8. Network and seek referrals: Building a strong professional network can lead to new opportunities. Connect with other freelancers, join relevant online communities, and ask satisfied clients for referrals or testimonials to boost your credibility.

9. Focus on building long-term client relationships: While one-off projects can provide income, developing lasting relationships with clients can lead to repeat work and steady income. Provide excellent customer service, go the extra mile to exceed client expectations, and maintain clear and open communication to foster trust and loyalty.

10. Create a professional proposal template: To save time when submitting proposals, create a professional template that you can customize for each job application. This can include an introduction, your relevant skills and experience, how you can add value to the project, and any specific questions or clarifications you may have.

11. Be proactive in marketing yourself: Don't solely rely on job postings. Promote your services and expertise through social media platforms, your website or blog, and other relevant online channels. Develop a strong personal brand as a freelancer and highlight your unique selling points.

12. Take advantage of oDesk's features: Explore the various tools and features available on the oDesk platform to streamline your freelancing process. Use the time tracker to accurately log your hours, communicate with clients through the messaging system, and utilize the feedback and rating system to build your reputation.

13. Continuously update your skills and adapt to market demands: The freelance industry is ever-evolving, so staying updated with the latest trends and technologies is crucial. Identify emerging skills and niches within your field, and focus on acquiring them to stay competitive in the marketplace.

14. Manage your time effectively: As a full-time freelancer, time management becomes even more critical. Set realistic goals and deadlines for your projects, establish a routine, and practice good time management techniques to ensure you're maximizing productivity.

15. Prioritize self-care and work-life balance: Freelancing can sometimes be demanding, but it's important to prioritize your well-being and maintain a healthy work-life balance. Take breaks, engage in hobbies, and set boundaries to avoid burnout and maintain your motivation.

16. Specialize in a niche: Consider specializing in a specific area or niche within your field. This can help you stand out from the competition and attract clients who are specifically looking for expertise in that area.

17. Develop a marketing strategy: Create a marketing plan to promote your services and attract clients. This can include creating a professional website, optimizing your online profiles, networking with potential clients and industry peers, and utilizing content marketing through blog posts or guest articles.

18. Set realistic expectations: Understand that freelancing may not immediately provide stability and high income. It takes time to build a reputation and a steady client base. Be prepared for fluctuations in workload and income, especially in the early stages of freelancing.

19. Continuously seek feedback: Actively seek feedback from clients to understand what you're doing well and identify areas for improvement. Use this feedback to refine your skills, enhance your service offerings, and build a stronger freelance brand.

20. Stay organized: Maintain a well-organized system for managing your projects, deadlines, and client communications. Utilize project management tools or platforms to help you stay on top of your tasks and ensure timely delivery of your work.

21. Build a strong online presence: Establish yourself as an authority in your field by creating valuable content, sharing insights and expertise on social media, and participating in relevant industry forums. This can help you attract clients and establish credibility.

22. Be flexible and adaptable: Freelancing often requires you to adapt to different client needs or project requirements. Be open to learning new skills, working with diverse clients, and taking on challenging projects that can expand your portfolio and expertise.

23. Save for emergencies: As a full-time freelancer, it's essential to have financial stability. Set aside savings for emergencies or periods of low income. This will give you peace of mind and help you navigate any unexpected challenges that may arise.

24. Stay updated with industry trends: Keep yourself informed about the latest trends, technologies, and best practices in your field. This will not only help you stay competitive but also allow you to offer valuable insights and solutions to your clients.

25. Continuously seek professional growth: Invest in your professional development by attending webinars, workshops, or training programs. Stay updated with certifications or qualifications that are relevant to your field and can enhance your credentials.

26. Take advantage of oDesk's features: Utilize the various features within the oDesk platform to enhance your freelancing experience. This includes setting up automated proposals, saving job searches, and monitoring job feeds to be notified of relevant opportunities.

27. Nurture client relationships: Once you've landed a project, focus on building strong relationships with your clients. Regularly communicate with them, provide progress updates, and address any concerns or questions they may have. Good client relationships can lead to repeat work and positive referrals.

28. Leverage positive feedback and testimonials: As you complete projects, ask satisfied clients for feedback and testimonials to showcase on your profile. Positive reviews and testimonials can help attract new clients and build trust in your abilities.

29. Develop a clear contract and scope of work: Before starting any project, ensure that you and your client have a clear understanding of the scope of work, project deliverables, timelines, and payment terms. Having a well-defined contract can help avoid misunderstandings and disputes down the line.

30. Stay organized with finances: Keep track of your income, expenses, and invoices using accounting tools or software. This will make tax season easier and help you maintain financial transparency with clients.

31. Be proactive in self-promotion: Don't rely solely on the oDesk platform to generate clients. Use social media, industry-specific websites, and your personal network to promote your services. Actively participate in discussions and contribute valuable insights to establish yourself as an authority in your field.

32. Develop a diverse client portfolio: Instead of relying heavily on one or two clients, aim to diversify your client base. This can help mitigate the risk of losing income if a client terminates or pauses a project.

33. Continuously improve your skills: Dedicate time to improving your skills and staying updated with advancements in your field. Take online courses, attend workshops, and engage in self-study to expand your knowledge and offer premium services to your clients.

34. Network with other freelancers: Engage with fellow freelancers, both within your field and other complementary fields. Connecting with freelancers can provide support, collaboration opportunities, and potential referrals.

35. Stay motivated and maintain a work-life balance: Freelancing can come with its own set of challenges, such as fluctuating income or maintaining a healthy work-life balance. Stay motivated by setting realistic goals, celebrating milestones, and taking breaks when needed to avoid burnout.

36. Polish your communication skills: Communication is key when working remotely. Practice clear and concise communication with clients, ask for clarification when needed, and ensure that you fully understand the project requirements before starting any work.

37. Be proactive in seeking feedback: Don't be afraid to ask clients for feedback during and after the completion of a project. Constructive criticism can help you improve your skills and provide a better service to future clients.

38. Develop a strong personal brand: Define your unique selling points and create a strong personal brand that sets you apart from other freelancers. Showcase your expertise, values, and professional achievements across your online profiles.

39. Create an effective proposal strategy: Craft customized proposals that clearly address the client's needs and demonstrate your suitability for the project. Highlight relevant experience, showcase your portfolio, and explain how you can add value to their business.

40. Stay organized with project management tools: Utilize project management tools or apps to stay organized, track deadlines, and manage multiple projects efficiently. This will help you stay on top of your tasks and ensure timely delivery of work.

41. Research your clients: Before accepting any project, do some research on the client. Look for reviews and ratings from other freelancers who have worked with them in the past. This will help you gauge their reputation and professionalism.

42. Develop a marketing strategy: Promote your services outside of the oDesk platform by creating a marketing strategy. This can include content marketing, social media promotion, guest blogging, and attending industry events or conferences.

43. Dedicate time for self-improvement: Set aside time each week or month to invest in your own learning and self-improvement. This could involve taking online courses, reading industry-related books or articles, or attending webinars or workshops.

44. Be transparent about your availability and deadlines: Clearly communicate your availability and estimated turnaround times to clients. Setting realistic expectations upfront will help manage client relationships and avoid any misunderstandings in the future.

45. Stay updated with oDesk policies and guidelines: Familiarize yourself with the terms of service, policies, and guidelines set by oDesk. This will ensure that you are following best practices and guidelines to maintain a positive reputation within the platform.

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Another programmer thinking they can make it big on oDesk. Newsflash: it's not as easy as it looks. You'll be competing with thousands of other freelancers, all vying for the same clients and projects. And don't even get me started on the rates – $15 per hour is not exactly a king's ransom. But hey, if you're willing to put in the work and deal with the occasional difficult client, then go for it.

Just don't say I didn't warn you. On a more serious note, it's great that you've taken steps to prepare yourself for freelancing, but don't underestimate the challenges that lie ahead. As a freelancer, you'll need to be able to handle rejection, criticism, and uncertainty. So, buckle up and get ready for the wild ride that is freelancing.