How to avoid scams when working as a freelancer online

• Check them out online
  • Social: Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn
  • Google them and their business
• If you have mutual friends/connections, ask them about the person
• Meet on video calls (I like Zoom)
• Use your gut instincts
• Ask the right questions to determine if it’s a good fit
  • Trial project/trial month before longer-term contract
• Get paid using a third party like Quickbooks, Paypal, etc.
  • The Bookkeepers I trust and recommend:
    
    • Candie Conat: http://mybackofficecoach.com/
    • Ashley Burton: https://heartandlogicbookkeeping.com/
• Don’t give any personal info like banking, home address…phone # if you feel comfortable but not necessary.
  • Use a Google Phone Number or app messaging service like Voxer or Whatsapp.
  • Set-up a business mailing address (could be a local PO box or a virtual one – I love Anytime Mailbox!)
• You should never need to pay for anything or give any log-ins to anyone.
  • Clients will need to give you access to programs (whether they give you your own login or send you logins securely using LastPass or 1Password) but you should never give any of yours.
  • If they ask you to tell them a password you would like to use on a platform they are setting you up on, give a generic one you haven’t used elsewhere and then change it once you are logged in.

Don’t let FEAR hold you back from connecting with clients. Just be smart!

Use your best judgment and follow your gut instincts.

Connect with potential clients in The Corporate Reject Connection and check the events section for virtual Happy Hour events!