If you have any questions about a job or need clarification you can always post your queries under the 'Project Clarification Messages' section.
Once you have found a job that matches your skills you need to click the
'Submit Proposal' button to be able to apply for it. In case you do not see the
'Submit Proposal' button it could be because you are logged in from a buyer account and would need to sign out and log in from a freelancer profile. Another reason could be that the job is closed, you can apply for open jobs and our
Find a Job article will help you search for open jobs.
If you are on the right track a short form with 3 empty fields would open up asking for the:
1. Bid Amount: This is the amount you will charge for the job. This can be the same as, or higher, or lower than the offer placed by the buyer. If you feel that the buyer is under paying for the job and various skills and additional time is required for the job then add in a higher amount, but make sure to describe in the cover letter your reasons, and all extra services you are offering for this higher amount. You can add a lower amount if you are ready to perform the job for less, this may make you a more viable candidate when compared to others in terms of cost.
2. Estimated Duration: This is the duration that you are promising to complete the project in once it has started. Remember to add a duration that is enough for you to work in without compromising quality and meeting the buyers need for project completion for as soon as possible. If you feel that the project requires excessive time compared to what is demanded, enter it here and explain it in the cover letter section.
3. Cover Letter: This is what the buyer will read first when he sees your application, this is your first chance, your chance to dazzle him, sell yourself and convince him to choose you, it's a valuable chance, don't miss it! Give details about yourself, add a link to your portfolio, explain why they should choose you and what you can offer in the designated time and duration.
Anatomy of a winning Cover Letter: