How to Post a Job Listing on Craigslist
A lot of businesses and websites use craigslist to find freelance writers, designers and other professionals to do work for them. While it may not yield the highest quality results all the time, you might be surprised at who checks Craigslist to find work . . . myself included.
There are a number of benefits to using Craigslist to outsource:
- It`s free
- You can reach large numbers of applicants
- You can post anywhere in the world or locally
- You can set up multiple listings in different cities
- You get replies to an anonymous email
If you really want to get applications from professional writers and designers, though, there are a few things you need to know.
Detail. I`m stunned by the number of Craigslist ads for writers simply state something like, “I need a writer.” Without details, how is the potential applicant supposed to know whether or not they are suitable? You need to include the details of the project, what kind of writing or design, how many words or the size of the application required, possible deadline. The more details, the more likely professionals are to respond.
Spellcheck. Too many ads post things like “Need wrtiers.” This indicates a severe lack of interest in being professional and just that simple error will make me think twice about applying for a job. After all, if someone can`t be bothered to spellcheck their ad, how do I know they will bother to pay me?
Compensation. Professionals don`t work for free. Most will not work for revenue shares, either. Even if you can`t pay top rates, make sure you state your pay rate or range, it lets applicants know if it`s worth their time to respond and saves you responding to a ton of emails asking about the compensation.
Requirements. If you want someone with a BA, make sure you mention that. If experience is a must, put it in the ad. While some people who are not qualified will still apply, you`ll weed out a lot of those who realize they don`t measure up.
Instructions. How do you want the applicant to apply? Do you need a resume or just links to sample work? Asking for samples created specifically for you will usually turn off professionals who aren`t about to give their work away for free and who have been burned before.
Craigslist can be a great place to look for freelancers, but you do need to know how to attract quality, not just the riffraff, if you want it to be worthwhile.
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One can use your advice as a guide how to hire staff. I hope some employers will read how the procedure looks like and will be able to formulate their requirements for candidates to get a definite job.
Hey, I cant say Ive used Craiglsit for post jobs or looking for them. I have used it often for searching for temporary rental apartments which I use when I travel however. If you rent these through Criagslist – be VERY careful, there are a lot fo scams going on these days…