Linkedin plans marketplace for freelancers
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Since the beginning of the pandemic, the number of searches for freelancers on LinkedIn has increased. The network responds with a new tool.
Linkedin is planning a new offer to book freelancers directly. The magazine did The information learned from two insiders. The marketplace is supposed to start in September.
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Pandemic increased interest in freelancers
Since the beginning of the corona pandemic, more people have searched for freelance services on LinkedIn, a spokeswoman told The Information. Freelancers were particularly in demand in the categories of executive coaching, marketing, design and software development.
Linkedin confirmed that it wanted to develop new ways to enable such mediations.
In October 2019, Linkedin had hired several employees at the startup Up Counsel, which connects freelance lawyers with companies. Since the deal, LinkedIn has been working on the marketplace.
More options than Pro Finder
The new marketplace is supposed to Pro finder replace, Linkedin’s previous tool for the placement of freelancers. As with Pro Finder, companies should be able to post job offers.
The new service should offer price comparisons and experience reports. Freelancers should also be able to place advertisements.
Book through Microsoft Wallet
Probably the most important difference to Pro Finder: Book and pay should also run via LinkedIn. A digital wallet that Microsoft is developing could come into play here.
From this, LinkedIn would then withhold a proportion of money, which, together with paid advertisements from freelancers, would offer a new source of income.