Proposals - Get the buyer's attention
Proposals are your first chance to differentiate your business by explaining what makes you unique and the buyer's best choice.

• Personalize your proposal. Custom proposals have been rated as extremely important by both buyers and successful service providers.
• Highlight your expertise. Indicate relevant experience and upload relevant samples. As the expert, present solutions and outline your approach.
• Clearly state what you'll deliver. Indicate the services you'll deliver, the schedule and your payment terms. This helps the buyer understand what to expect for your bid amount.

Portfolios - Let your work speak for you
Your portfolio allows a buyer to see your actual work.

• Target your portfolio. Your portfolio should be specific to each sub-category. For example, don't upload writing samples to your Logos portfolio.
• Be selective. Your portfolio will load slowly if it is crowded. Choose only your best work. You can upload more samples directly to your proposal.
• Describe your work. Meaningful captions help buyers find relevant samples. Include a short description of the project in each file.

Profiles - Describe your business and experience
Buyers want service providers with a history of client satisfaction. If you are also successful outside of Elance, communicate this.

• Target your message. Concentrate on marketing to a specific set of buyers or projects. Describe prior projects, list references and industry experience.
• Indicate business history. Indicate if you are an incorporated business and how long your business has been established.
• Get verified. Build trust and credibility by verifying references and credentials.

Private Message Boards - Close the deal
If the buyer opens a private message board with you, convince him you're the best choice for the project.

Respond quickly. Buyers have tight deadlines, too, and are seeking responsive providers.
Ask insightful questions. Help the buyer think through the project. Prove your expertise and commitment to client satisfaction.
Confirm your bid. Clarify the project requirements and your cost. This will help avoid problems later.