E-lancing (in gig economy): Offering freelance services online.
E-lancing
Elancing, short for electronic freelancing, refers to the practice of offering and delivering professional services through online platforms. Unlike traditional freelancing, elancing leverages digital marketplaces and tools to connect skilled professionals with clients worldwide, creating unprecedented opportunities for remote work and flexible careers.
How Elancing Works
The elancing ecosystem operates through specialized platforms such as Upwork, Fiverr, and Freelancer.com. These platforms serve as virtual marketplaces where:
- Professionals showcase their skills and portfolios
- Clients post project requirements and budgets
- Secure payment systems facilitate transactions
- Project management tools enable collaboration
- Rating systems build trust and credibility
What sets it apart from traditional freelance work is its reliance on digital platforms for finding jobs, managing contracts, and receiving payments. Instead of relying solely on word-of-mouth or local connections, e-lancers can tap into global clientele.
However, e-lancing is not just about posting a profile online and waiting for clients to come. It requires an understanding of market demands and the ability to present oneself effectively through online channels. Crafting a compelling profile, actively bidding on projects, and building relationships with clients can significantly impact success in this realm.
E-lancers need to be wary of the pitfalls associated with this gig economy sub-sector, such as inconsistent income and the challenge of work-life balance. Unlike traditional job roles with a steady paycheck, e-lancers often face fluctuations in workload, making financial planning essential.
E-lancing also often involves contractual obligations and negotiation skills that can differ greatly from the informal arrangements characteristic of local gigs. For example, understanding the implications of a non-disclosure agreement (NDA) when working on sensitive projects is vital.
How we can help
Sometimes you need a flexible way to manage e-lancers in-house. Zelos is a modern workforce management app that lets you keep file of an internal talent pool for your company or staffing agency. It’s an easy way to post jobs for your own community, and communicate with the bid winner until tasks are completed. Sign up for a free account on our website today!