Linkedin ProFinder – Hiring, Landing Gigs, & More
What Is Linkedin ProFinder?
Back in 2016, Linkedin ProFinder rolled out nationwide in the US. It’s intended to be LinkedIn’s professional services marketplace matching the best freelance/independent professionals with requests for proposals (RFP’s). Linkedin’s goal is to provide five responses from highly qualified, local professionals within 24 business hours of submitting a request.
Pay attention to this. Linkedin is steadily moving toward becoming a business services search engine – though you may not be readily aware of the changes. In 2019 alone “Service providers” was introduced as a search option, along with “showcase services” (to be eligible for the services search), and “find an expert” was added as a primary CTA when sharing content in the newsfeed in the mobile app.
Article Index
- How Much Does ProFinder Cost
- Where To Find ProFinder
- How To Apply & Get Accepted
- What To Do If You Were Rejected
- Viewing Requests & Submitting Proposals
- Comparing Upwork & ProFinder
- How To Submit An RFP
- Choosing A Service Provider
- ProFinder Service Categories
How Much Does Linkedin ProFinder Cost?
Any Linkedin member can request proposals for free. Verified Linkedin Pro’s (we’ll talk about being verified in a moment) can submit 10 proposals for free. It’s like a trial run to get a feel for the platform and gauge if it’s a good fit for you. After that, a Linkedin Premium subscription (which runs about $60/month USD) is required to continue answering an unlimited quantity of RFP’s.
Where Do I Find Linkedin ProFinder?
To access ProFinder (job posters and freelancers alike) go here. It’s also accessible from the 9 dotted work menu in both the normal and Sales Navigator menus (see below).
Before Applying > Follow These Steps
Acceptance isn’t guaranteed. Your account will be manually reviewed by a Linkedin employee and accepted or rejected. Remember, LinkedIn is committed to providing top quality freelancers/independent professionals.
Make sure you address the following parts of your Linkedin profile before applying.
- Profile photo – Must have a professional headshot.
- Headline – Should match the services you will request to provide.
- Summary – Mention your accomplishments and passions.
- Recommendations – Have at least one recommendation. If possible, related to the services you’ll be requesting to provide.
- Published Articles – Write several Linkedin Articles (on Linkedin’s publishing platform). Write about anything from industry trends to career accomplishments.
- Skills – Should match the services you’re requesting to provide.
How To Become A Service Provider On Linkedin ProFinder
After you’ve followed the steps above go here. You can either click “Are you a Pro” from the dropdown menu at the top right near your headshot or the “Apply now” button farther down the screen.
Choose the the types of services you provide. You’ll be limited to the existing categories. You can edit your services later (though it will have to be re-approved).
Choose a sub-category of your main service.
The ProFinder concierge team will then manually review your application. They typically review and respond to all applications within 1-2 business days (expect some delays over weekends and holidays).
Was Your ProFinder Application Denied/Rejected?
Did you get an email saying your ProFinder application was rejected? Don’t panic! The first time I applied mine was. You can apply again after you’ve gone and addressed the issues mentioned to do above (to do before applying).
Usually a ProFinder application is rejected because the headline, skills, recommendations, summary, or articles are not all in line with the services you’re applying for or too sparse. Update those and re-apply in ProFinder. You may be able to reply to the rejection email as well (read the email sent notifying your of your rejection and follow instructions).
What Happens After You’re Accepted?
You’ll be notified by email/notification. A ProFinder profile will automatically be created using your Linkedin profile information. They always update together. Any changes made to your Linkedin profile will occur in your ProFinder profile.
Make sure you have your Linkedin ProFinder notifications and Linkedin ProFinder email notifications turned on. You’ll start receiving notifications as RFP’s come in.
Viewing ProFinder Proposal Requests
When a potential client in your location submits a ProFinder RFP in your industry you’ll receive a notification in the Linkedin navigation menu and by email (if enabled).
Linkedin notification
Email notification
Submitting ProFinder Proposals
Some requests are more clear than others – because some people know what they’re looking for more than others. If the request matches your service offering you can submit a proposal. You may be able to submit a proposal with a bid. Other times you’ll have to submit a plan but need more details before giving a price.
Your proposal needs to stand out. When submitting your proposal give them a link to your portfolio/website. Be aware, there’s a check box that’s automatically set to “yes” including a free 15 minute phone call.
In addition to submitting your proposal it’s a good idea to find the individual who sent the request and send them a connection request or InMail. The extra touchpoint helps you stay top of mind.
If you find yourself receiving similar RFP’s (requests for proposals) create a message template that you can copy/paste.
Remember, time is of the essence. As soon as you see a ProFinder request submit your proposal. Linkedin will eventually stop allowing proposals to be sent or the requestor will close it. The submission window is usually only open for a few days.
Not Hearing Back From Sent Proposals?
There could be a number of reasons. Let’s start with the easiest. The submitter may have been casually looking, changed their mind, or just curious to see how ProFinder works. They didn’t respond to anyone. But that’s not going to be the case every time.
If no one is ever responding to your proposals you might need to consider changing your POM (product, offer, message), improving your profile, update your portfolio, and go the extra mile of connecting with them outside of ProFinder.
Is Profinder Better Than Upwork?
Each has their own pro’s and con’s. ProFinder is currently only available in the US. ProFinder does not handle payment, service agreements, time tracking, or all the other features that make Upwork such a strong freelance platform. At the same time, ProFinder does not charge either party for the services (other than requiring a premium account to submit unlimited proposals) and has less competition among freelancers. If you’re a freelancer in the US – try both.
What Type Of Jobs Should You Expect To Get From ProFinder?
In short, ProFinder proposal requests are usually smaller projects requested by smaller companies. In other words, good long term opportunity. Linkedin released data one year after ProFinder came out. About half of all RFP’s came in from the owners of small companies. Which makes sense considering the type of company who tends to hire freelancers (and their budgets) instead of doing the same work in-house.
Currently ProFinder is a good avenue to connect freelancers with smaller companies at a low price point in hopes that other opportunities for work result. But that will likely change as Linkedin’s user base becomes more familiar with and trusting of ProFinder. Don’t put all your eggs in the ProFinder basket, and don’t neglect it either.
How To Submit Request For Proposals On Linkedin ProFinder
Let’s talk about the other side of the coin; what it looks like to actually submit a request for proposals.
As we mentioned above, any Linkedin member can submit a request for a proposal (RFP) for free. You do not have to be a verified service provider to ask freelancers for proposals. To submit a request go to the ProFinder home page (here) and select your service (“Graphic Design” in the example below).
There are 4 Steps. You’ll start by choosing the category/subcategory of services you’re requesting.
Give further details on stage and scope.
Enter the timeline you need the work done by and if you’re comfortable working with someone remote.
Add final details, describe unique specifications, enter your ZIP code, and submit.
How Do I Choose The Right Proposal?
When a freelancer/contractor submits a proposal you’ll be notified by email and receive a Linkedin notification (if enabled). You can also view your projects here.
Each proposal will vary since they are created individually by numerous freelancers/contractors. Review the information in each proposal. View the freelancer’s Linkedin profile and look at their recommendations, profile content, Linkedin company, and website. It’s your responsibility to choose the right professional and work out the terms of your agreement; money, milestones, expectations, etc.
Linkedin ProFinder Available Service Categories
Software Development
- iOS Development
- Android Development
- Application Development
- Web Design
- Web Development
- Business Analytics
- Cloud Application Development
- Cloud Management
- Custom Software Development
- Database Development
- Enterprise Content Management
- Information Management
- Information Security Consulting
- Mobile Development
- SaaS Development
- Software Testing
- UX Design
IT Services
- IT Consulting
- Computer Repair
- Computer Networking
- Home and Office Networking
- Storage and Backup
Design
- 3D Design
- Ad Design
- Brand Design
- Graphic Design
- Interaction Design
- Logo Design
- Print Design
- UX Design
- Visual Design
- Web Design
- WordPress Design
- Animation
- User Experience Research
- Video Editing
- Videography
- Illustration
- Interior Design
- Industrial Design
Writing and Editing
- Translation
- Copywriting
- Content Strategy
- Technical Writing
- Editing
- Writing
- Blogging
- Ghostwriting
- Grant Writing
Marketing
- Advertising Consulting
- Email Marketing
- Social Media Marketing
- SEO Consulting
- SEM Consulting
- Market Research
- Content Marketing
- Brand Marketing
- Event Marketing
- Mobile Marketing
- Lead Generation
- Digital Marketing
- Direct Mail Marketing
- Marketing Consulting
- Real Estate Marketing
- PR Consulting
Business Consulting
- Advertising Consulting
- Brand Consulting
- Business Consulting
- Educational Consulting
- Email Marketing
- Environmental Consulting
- Finance Consulting
- Healthcare Consulting
- Human Resources Consulting
- Legal Consulting
- Political Consulting
- PR Consulting
- Pricing Consulting
- SEO Consulting
- SEM Consulting
- Strategy Consulting
- Tax Consulting
- Marketing Consulting
- Nonprofit Consulting
- Project Management
Legal
- Notary
- Personal Injury Law
- DUI Law
- Criminal Defense Law
- Divorce Law
- Family Law
- Estate Planning Law
- Bankruptcy Law
- Immigration Law
- Real Estate Law
- Wills Planning Law
- Tax Law
- Labor Law
- Patent Law
- Trademark Law
- Trust and Estate Litigation
- Business Law
- Technology Law
- Consumer Law
- Corporate Law
- Entertainment Law
- Copyright Law
- Intellectual Property Law
Accounting
- Accounting
- Tax Preparation
- Bookkeeping
- Certified Public Accountant (CPA)
- Financial Advisor
- Mortgage Broker
- Small Business Taxes
- Personal Taxes
Financial Services
- Financial Advisor
- Wealth Management
- Retirement Planning
- Certified Financial Planner (CFP®)
- Certified Public Accountant (CPA)
- Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA)
- Insurance
Coaching
- Career Coach
- Resume Writing
- Executive Coach
- Life Coach
- Public Speaking
- Leadership Development
- Interview Coach
Real Estate
- Real Estate Agent
- Property Management
- Mortgage Broker
- Commercial Real Estate Agent
- Real Estate Law
- Real Estate Appraisal
- Relocation
- Real Estate Marketing
- Commercial Lending
Insurance
- Insurance
- Home Insurance
- Life Insurance
- Small Business Insurance
- Health Insurance
- Auto Insurance
- Commercial Insurance
Photography
- Wedding Photography
- Real Estate Photography
- Nature Photography
- Video Editing
- Sports Photography
- Event Photography
- Pet Photography
- Portrait Photography
- Headshot Photography
- Commercial Photography
- Videography
Home Improvement
- Interior Design
- Architecture
- Landscape Design