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Covid-19 greatly affects each one of us, not only the serious implication on People’s health but also significantly affecting Businesses. Some companies were forced to shut down or to cut down their employees salaries or asked them to work remotely thus, increasing the number of people seeing Freelancing as their best option of getting the income they need to provide for their family. But even with these trying times, there are still people out there who will take advantage of you. So , Whether you are thinking of getting a Freelancing job or already getting started , here are some of the points to take when you are applying as a freelancer, and what are the red flags to look out for.
1. Review your Freelancing Contract
One of the main issues usually encountered by the Freelancers is with their contract. They were either asked to work beyond what was agreed or were not paid as per the contract. So before you commit with a certain job or task , review the contract first. Be mindful about the scope of the work and if the employer will ask you to do an extra job, ask for the revision of the contract.
2. Research about the Company
If you are a freelancer applying through Upwork , take time to read the “About the Client” Section just right below the Job Details. While you are there, it is good to note the Payment Verification status and the reviews given to the client by those previously hired Freelancers, for me, information from these two points should be considered in making your decision on whether you will apply to the posted freelancing job or not.
Generally, if a company contacted you regarding a job offer, right off the bat, ask him about the company details, name, location and take your time visiting your Best Friend-Google.
3. Keep your Information Safe
You should always keep in mind that scammers and hackers are always available online. They can be found in almost every platform you can think of. That is why you have to keep your information safe while using the internet.
a. Never share your banking information
As a remote worker, you are not required to provide your personal Banking information to your employer even if they will ask you to submit such information to make direct deposit payment. Instead, provide them with your PayPal Account, GCash, Payoneer or even through freelancing sites such as Upwork’s Direct Contracts.
b. Use VPN
VPN or Virtual Private Network helps in keeping your information safe such as your location and encrypts all your data .If you are a freelancer who loves to travel and can only rely on public Wi-Fi available in a certain location, VPN can keep you safe as it provides a secure tunnel for your internet connection.
c. Avoid using your Personal Social Media Accounts for your Client’s Transaction
You should learn to limit the information that you are willing to share to your client. Better keep your personal details to yourself including your Social Media Accounts. If your Client is asking you to provide them your Social Media Information for their Marketing campaigns better consider cutting ties with them as it is very unusual for an employer to ask the same.
4. NEVER ever go for a project that is asking for Payment from YOU.
If you receive a job offer promising you a lot of money for a little work required, and will ask you to provide “SECURITY DEPOSIT” or any payment to be done just for you to get the job, please don't fall for that. Its a SCAM. Your employer should never ever ask payment from you, it should be the other way around for the Freelancing services you provided.
It is true that there are so many freelancing opportunities available out there, but looking for your dream freelancing job can be so risky as well. That is why you should be vigilant when you are looking for a job by keeping in mind the above mentioned tips. So how do you keep your freelancing Journey safe? Share your tips now!
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