I've worked with more than 50 freelancers, it's amazing how low the bar is. And I'm not even talking about technical skills. Do those easy things and I'll guarantee you'll be in the top 5%: ‧ answer emails in < 48h ‧ deliver on time ‧ notify when having delay ‧ communicate clearly what you can and can't do : top 0.1% On the other hand, I’ve never once tried to negotiate rates with someone who does all of the above. And never considered hiring someone else.