How can you find freelancers using LinkedIn ProFinder? This post outlines four steps to help you start finding freelancers to get your projects done.
When you’re a small business looking for some outside help, the last thing you want to do is worry about learning a new platform. LinkedIn is one way to find a freelancer, since the people who possess the skills you need are already using the network. The problem, however, is not only finding someone who can fulfill that need, but locating a qualified individual who is also available. LinkedIn ProFinder makes that process simple by providing a tool that makes it easy for you to connect.
Getting started with LinkedIn ProFinder is a simple process for small businesses and individual clients looking for outside help. There are just four steps to get you started.
ProFinder Request Process
Watch this video to see how easy it is to request proposals. Then read about the steps below.
1) Tell LinkedIn ProFinder what type of work you need
When you first visit LinkedIn ProFinder you’ll immediately see a box that asks “What service do you need?” (see skills available) Begin typing the category of skills you’re looking for and a list of options will appear in the drop down. Select the one you need and then click on Get Started.
Because LinkedIn Profinder is primarily a local marketplace, depending on where you’re located, there may not be anyone available. If there isn’t, you’ll be directed to a page that says that category of specialist is coming soon, and you can request to be notified when it’s available.
Once you’ve selected the category of specialist you need, you’ll be asked questions that will help narrow down the scope of your project requirements. For example, if you’re looking for a videographer, you’ll indicate if you need video for an event, if it’s a corporate or commercial project, if you’re creating a music video, etc. Then you’ll indicate how many videographers you need and for how long. The questions are specific for each service and are designed to provide the most qualified leads.
After providing the deadline for the project, there’s a field to include more details before requesting proposals. You’ll definitely want to add as many details as possible to make sure you’re connected with the best prospects. The ProFinder staff review each proposal request for clarity.
2) Review proposals
Within 24 hours, you’ll receive up to five qualified proposals. You may not receive any, but you’ll never receive more than five and they can only be submitted within 48 hours after they receive the project request. This cap keeps the proposal review process manageable and makes sure potential job listings don’t get stale.
3) Respond to the most qualified applicant
Each single page proposal will include a direct message from the applicant and a link to his or her ProFinder profile. Thus you can review each applicant’s posts, recommendations, and any mutual connections. If you find someone you think would be a good fit, you can reach out directly.
4) Review and negotiate
Once you’ve connected with the potential freelancer, LinkedIn ProFinder is no longer part of the process. You can communicate through LinkedIn messaging, email, by phone, or in person, since the freelancer will most likely be nearby. You and your candidate will finalize the details of the project, including setting your detailed expectations and payment arrangements. If you find this person is not a good fit, you can review the other proposals.
As of now, ProFinder is free for those with work to be done. Learn about ProFinder costs here.
5) Best practices
Once you’ve selected a qualified applicant, be sure to let the others know that you won’t be needing their services. You’ll also want to close the project request.
Summary
By utilizing data that are already part of its extended network, LinkedIn ProFinder makes finding a freelancer less time consuming than it can be with other marketplaces. With just four steps, business clients can begin using this service to fulfill their outsourcing requirements.
Related Post
The Ultimate Guide to LinkedIn ProFinder
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