How to Write Your Perfect Job Description When Hiring Freelancers

The rule of thumb in hiring freelancers is that the better your vacancy is worded, the more views your job posting is likely to get and, consequently, the faster you will find the right contractor. That’s why you should not underestimate the drafting stage. Unambiguous and concrete description of required skill sets and jobs to be done helps freelancers understand what the project is about and if it is something they want to work with. Here’s our advice on how to write an effective freelance job posting.

Essential elements of a freelance job description

The title/name of the job. Naturally, the name is the first thing that freelancers pay attention to. So it needs to be comprehensive and reflect the major idea behind the project. As a rule, candidates search through a search bar or a filter and skim through search results. The more accurately your job posting is called, the more freelancers are likely to see it.
Salary. This is the next important detail that candidates take into account when considering a job opportunity. Mysterious wording like ‘hourly rate to be discussed’ will not intrigue freelancers. Instead, it is likely to earn you a ‘shady client’ label. How much a freelancer can make with your project is one of the key reasons to take it or pass it on. No need to expect excited freelancers ready to jump at your job fueled solely by enthusiasm. Statistics show that response rate for job postings without clearly stated salary/hourly rate is 10% lower as compared to more informative freelance job descriptions.
Required skills and working environment. To make your job offering attractive and clear, you need to prepare two descriptions where one is a short summary and the other is a full picture. The summary is what candidates are likely to see among other job postings. So it needs to be compelling to spark freelancers’ interest and make them want to learn more by reading the longer description of work conditions and expected skill set.
The summary needs to state upfront that the job is remote. This note will help filter out candidates that are looking for a permanent staff position. Also, if a specific skill or tool is necessary for the project, it should also be noted in the short job description.
Legal company name. Candidates need to know the actual name of your business so they can look you up to learn more. Of course, small starting out businesses may not have any serious media coverage online. Yet if you have already built a name, then mentioning it in the job description is a great flex.

Here is an example of a short freelance job description that precedes the fuller presentation:

Complementary parts to add to a freelance job ad

  • Require recommendations and reviews from previous clients. Seeing what others had to say about a candidate gives you a valuable insight into how they are at work. Understanding what they have previously worked on helps you make an informed decision on the candidate.
  • Survey or test. To filter off unqualified performers, ask questions or demand that they complete a small test. Results will support your future decision.
  • Test job. Giving candidates a test assignment is a common practice for both regular employment and part-time freelance hiring. Although the approach lets you find out more about their qualifications, you need to understand that not all freelancers are willing to complete a test for free.

Conclusion

The goal of the article was to help you write a perfect freelance job ad for remote workers. Work environment, job description and the name behind the hiring client all define how popular the job posting will be among freelancers.
EasyBusy is the new freelance management platform where you can quickly find qualified freelancers for your projects. Create and post a job description, check out candidates who apply for your project and choose the best match among verified professionals from all over the world.