How to Write a Freelance Proposal That Gets a Reply

When someone posts a job request, they usually get several answers. The ones that get a reply are rarely the longest; they are the ones that are specific, short and easy to answer.

A simple five-part structure

1. Greet by name and show you read the request. One sentence that repeats the key detail, such as the age of the child, the type of work or the deadline.
2. Say why you are a fit. One relevant sample or experience. If you have none for this exact job, do not stretch the truth; say what you can do and ask about the details.
3. Ask one concrete question. It shows you are thinking about the job and gives the other person an easy way to reply.
4. Make scope, timing and price clear enough. A range or a way of working is better than silence, for example "a first session is about an hour, we can agree on the rest after we talk".
5. Suggest the next step. "Would a short call or a few messages tomorrow work for you?"

An example

"Hello Ayşe, I saw you are looking for someone to help your daughter with homework on weekday evenings. I have taught primary school students for two years and can share a sample worksheet I made. Which subjects does she need most help with? I am available Monday to Thursday after 17:00."

Only include experience that is true. If this example does not match your situation, write your own version with your real details.

Things to avoid

• The same copy-pasted message to every request.
• Promises you cannot keep, such as guaranteed results or unrealistic deadlines.
• Asking for payment before you have agreed on anything, or moving the conversation to an unfamiliar channel.

Follow up once

If you do not hear back in two or three days, send one short, polite follow-up. After that, move on to the next request.

On İşinn

When you tap "Teklif Ver" (Make an Offer) on a job request on İşinn, a conversation opens with the person who posted it. İşinn can draft a first message from the job text and your own listings; read it, correct anything that is not true for you and send it in your own words. Payments are agreed directly between the parties and İşinn does not mediate them.