Each company is as different as every High Flyer, so there is no βmagic formulaβ that works for every bid. To increase the chances that a potential customer will seriously consider your proposal, we recommend that you practice a few things:
- Read the project description thoroughly.
- Take the time to review the project description. If the company feels that you don't understand the project enough, you may not be shortlisted.
- Research the company.
- Make sure you understand what the company does, and make that clear in your proposal. Try to match your skills and experiences with what the company needs for its freelance job. Relate your experience and interests to the company or project.
- Keep your answers clear, concise, and relevant.
Make it short but sweet. Now is your time to shine and stand out from the crowd! You want to make it clear why you're interested in this project and why the company should choose you. If you have relevant experience, be specific. Include concrete information, for example about a relevant project you've done in the past. What was your responsibility, what were the objectives, what were the results? Try to quantify as much as you can.
- Be competitive with your prices. Being competitive doesn't mean you have to bid low (after all, you have a minimum hourly rate of 20 euro). If you're relatively new to freelancing, you may need to build a reputation first. But if your work is really above average, you should praise it well. Companies are often willing to pay for quality.
- Don't overdo yourself, but don't underestimate yourself either. Confidence is good, but exaggerated claims don't impress anyone. Being honest about your skills takes you far beyond a lot of hype. But don't underestimate yourself either. You often have far more experience, skills and knowledge than you attribute to yourself.
- Relate yourself to the company. Make a point to mention skills or experiences that can add value to you as a candidate. Another important element is how to add value to the company. Try to see yourself from the company's lens and don't mention why you like the job or how it fits your ambitions.
- Proofread your answers before submitting them. No matter what type of freelance job you're bidding for, a poorly written proposal suggests a lack of attention to detail and poor work habits, and neither will work to your advantage.
- Short and to the point is the name of the game - don't make an essay out of it! Stay to the point and highlight anything that is relevant and can strengthen your position. After you submit your proposal, we recommend that you respond quickly if the company invites you to an interview. If you are awarded the project, make sure you continue to response/communicate in a timely manner.