LinkedIn has launched its new Services Marketplace, which aims to link clients looking for services with freelancers able to provide these. The platform will compete with well established freelancer sites such as Fiverr, Upwork and PeoplePerHour.
Services Marketplace was launched as a small beta in the US in March this year, and LinkedIn says it has already picked up 2 million users. The service has now been launched officially and is available to all globally.
LinkedIn says it is offering a unique way to bridge the gap between service providers and buyers, enabling providers to digitize the “word of mouth” recommendations valued by buyers.
How it works
You can set up your professional freelancer profile directly from your LinkedIn profile page. Your freelancer profile will be linked at the top of your profile page, so your identity and page are connected.
Enter the services you offer, and ratings and reviews from past clients on your profile. Potential buyers will be able to see if you have any mutual connections.
There's a dashboard on your Service Page where you can manage project requests, messages, client lists and reviews directly from LinkedIn.
Potential clients will be able to search for freelancers via a Services filter. They will be able to message providers about services without needing to follow or connect with them first.
Over the past few years the gig economy has been thriving. Large numbers of people have opted for a different work-life balance, moving away from full-time, long-term employment into short-term freelance roles. LinkedIn’s new Services Marketplace is a move to keep up with this trend and keep its platform relevant for a wider range of people in diverse work roles.
