Many of us probably check Craigslist when we want to see whether something that we want is available used for a good price from someone who lives nearby. Of course, there are many other ways that people use Craigslist besides buying and selling stuff. Today, I learned that freelance writers can actually use Craigslist to find work. Of course, like any place where freelance jobs are posted, writers must be cautious in responding to Craigslist ads in order to protect themselves from scams and people who are trying to get quality work without paying a quality price.
Craigslist is such a popular classified advertising source that people and companies that need writing work done know that if they place an advertisement on Craigslist, they will most likely get a whole pile of responses from which to choose. Also, new jobs are listed every day so you can look for projects whenever you need more work. Since you interact directly with the people who need the writing work done, you are free to negotiate payment terms and conditions as well as any other contractual details that are important to you. The process of negotiating terms with a potential client can give you a good idea of what it will be like to work for them. If something does not seem right, you can end the business relationship before it even officially starts.
Of course, like any source of writing work, Craigslist has its drawbacks too. For example, some freelance job sites like Elance and oDesk provide financial services like escrow and guarantee payment for hours worked. They do take a cut of your fee, but at least you know you will get paid. Getting work through Craigslist can be wonderful, when clients are honest and pay as they say that they will. If you do fall victim to a scam, it is, unfortunately, your loss. Since I just learned today that freelance writing gigs are available through Craigslist, I do not have any experience with getting work this way and can not give it a “thumbs up” or “thumbs down”. If you are looking for freelance work, why not investigate it for yourself and see whether there are any jobs that appeal to you which appear to be posted by trustworthy clients.
Photo by xandert on morguefile.com.