Jul 5 - Written By Pamela Meister
Why Online Freelancers Should Offer Test Projects
Congratulations on landing an interview for one of the online jobs you pitched! Whether you’re talking to someone about a new full-time remote gig or taking them on as a new client, getting face time is a huge first step. However, even if after that conversation you feel optimistic about working together, it’s always a good idea for freelancers to offer test projects before committing to a long-term relationship.
Why test projects are essential for online jobs
If you’ve ever rolled your eyes about taking on a test project, think again. We’re going to dig into these test projects in more detail here to show you exactly why they’re as beneficial for you as an entrepreneur or remote worker as they are for the company considering hiring you.
1. They help you identify red flags
The more remote work you do and clients you take on, the better you’ll get at identifying red flags upfront on that initial call. However, not all red flags are apparent right away. A test project will help you identify areas of concern before you launch into a bigger commitment.
2. Test projects give you an understanding of communication
Although standards of communication should be discussed early on in your working arrangement, it’s good to get a feel for a potential client or employer's communication style and whether or not it’s a good fit for yours. Take a close look at whether they respond to you in a timely fashion or if they go dark for long periods.
3. They give you a feel for what project direction and feedback look like
Early on in the project, you’ll have a good feel for how you work together. If they provide clear direction and are receptive to your feedback, they may consider you to be a partner in their success. If this is the case, you will likely love working together.
By the same token, if you work better with a single round of carefully thought-out feedback, and they are all over the map, you will either need to come up with a system for streamlining their feedback or end the relationship before it drives you crazy.
4. They help you determine how working styles and personalities mesh
Let’s say that during your initial conversation, you had a great vibe and were sure you’d work well together. That may be true, but just because your personalities mesh well doesn’t mean that your working styles will be a good fit. Offering test projects is a great way to evaluate these details.
5. Test projects demonstrate your commitment level
If you’re willing to offer test projects, it shows that you’re committed to the process. Moreover, as long as it’s a paid trial, you should be willing to give it a shot. After all, if you genuinely want to work with a particular company, knocking your test projects out of the park will help them want to work with you too.
6. They give you an opportunity to stand out
Granted, this largely depends on what the project is, your expertise, and how the project is delivered, but a test project lets you highlight your strategy for getting the job done. If delivery takes place via Word or Google Docs, you can add comments that explain your thinking. Other ideas might be to record a short Loom to point out the highlights, present via a Zoom call, or even to include a brief cover letter. If you can explain why you made some of the choices, it will help your prospective client get a good feel for how you can help them grow.
7. They allow you to identify processes you can improve
Over the course of your test project, you may also see where there are holes in the process. These breaches may not be apparent right away, so if you don’t see room for improvement just yet, don’t sweat it. However, if you think you can bring something to the table here, be sure to let your contact know. You don’t have to give your knowledge away free, but you can tell them you’d be happy to conduct an audit and make some recommendations for improvement as your next project.
8. Test projects help you determine if the working relationship will bring joy or stress
Finding joy is one of the biggest reasons that many of us work remotely. In fact, it’s a big part of The Zone Community founder Pamela Meister’s message. If the interactions or the test project is a source of stress, then it’s likely that the relationship won’t improve with time. After all, people are on their best behavior early in a business relationship. Of course, there is a caveat—if stress comes from being unfamiliar with standard operating procedures or guidelines, then that’s something that can change with time. However, if you find working with a contact or client doesn’t bring you joy, then it’s unlikely to change.
Offering test projects for online jobs gives both parties an easy way out
If you’re still asking yourself, “Should I offer test projects?” the answer should be a resounding “YES!”
There is, however, one caveat that we’ve alluded to a few times: test projects should be paid. If a company asks you to take on a test project for free, and they’re not open to compensating you for your work, do not walk, but run the other direction.
The bottom line is that offering test projects is incredibly valuable because it gives you and your prospective client or employer an easy way out if working together isn’t a good fit. Online jobs are a fantastic way to build a life you love, but as with anything, not every remote work opportunity is perfect for every person. It is absolutely worth your while to take the time to find one that works for you.
And, if you’re looking for a way to boost your productivity and accomplish your goals without sacrificing your independent style, start your first month trial at The Zone Community today!
Pamela Meister