http://www.writingfornonprofits.com/freelance/2010/04/20/what-i-tell-nonprofits-about-evaluating-freelancers/ A blog and coaching program about building a successful freelance business serving the nonprofit community. Fri, 16 Dec 2011 03:00:04 +0000 hourly 1 http://wordpress.org/?v=3.1 http://www.writingfornonprofits.com/freelance/2010/04/20/what-i-tell-nonprofits-about-evaluating-freelancers/comment-page-1/#comment-26474 Rebekah Hickey Tue, 20 Apr 2010 18:35:19 +0000 http://www.writingfornonprofits.com/freelance/?p=557#comment-26474 Kivi, These are great suggestions to help nonprofits find a freelancer who is not only professional, competent, and reliable, but who also fits with an organization's work style. As an independent web designer myself, I appreciate clients who have taken the time to look over my portfolio and client lists before getting in touch with me; it lets me know they're serious about finding someone who is the right fit for their project. The point about listening is a good one because communication is one of the hardest things to get right (as a freelancer or client!). The way a freelancer communicates with you initially is a good indicator of how the project will go. Do they respond promptly (within 24 hours) to your emails and phone calls? Do they answer your questions knowledgeably and without attitude? It sounds like common sense, but if your initial communications with a freelancer are difficult, they won't improve once you've hired them. Asking for references is always a good idea, professional freelancers will expect it! Kivi,
These are great suggestions to help nonprofits find a freelancer who is not only professional, competent, and reliable, but who also fits with an organization’s work style. As an independent web designer myself, I appreciate clients who have taken the time to look over my portfolio and client lists before getting in touch with me; it lets me know they’re serious about finding someone who is the right fit for their project.
The point about listening is a good one because communication is one of the hardest things to get right (as a freelancer or client!). The way a freelancer communicates with you initially is a good indicator of how the project will go. Do they respond promptly (within 24 hours) to your emails and phone calls? Do they answer your questions knowledgeably and without attitude? It sounds like common sense, but if your initial communications with a freelancer are difficult, they won’t improve once you’ve hired them. Asking for references is always a good idea, professional freelancers will expect it!

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