A while back, we gave contractors this list of LinkedIn Groups for Freelancers to Network, but we thought it was time to update things and see which groups are still popular (still around) and which ones have made a mark in the mean time. LinkedIn can be a very useful tool for freelancers hoping to network with peers, collaborate, learn and develop their knowledge. So, with that in mind, we’ve compiled a new list (ranked in no particular order other than topic) of 20 LinkedIn Groups for Remote Contractors:
| GENERAL NETWORKING GROUPS FOR REMOTE CONTRACTORS |
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ODESK CONTRACTORS
This subgroup of oDesk on LinkedIn, is specifically for active oDesk contractors who want to network and gain valuable insights and information about freelancing/contracting from other oDesk users. (Of course we’re on our own list!) |
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CONSULTANTS NETWORK
With nearly 150,000 members, this general freelancing and consultant group claims to be the largest of its kind on LinkedIn. It’s worth a look, regardless of your field. (Owned by Larry Zeenny and related to FEACO.) |
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OUTSOURCING & OFFSHORING
Dr. Dan Bhide owns this group, which has tripled in size since we last checked in on them. Nearly 10,000 members exchange ideas on everything from call centers to contract manufacturing and BPO. To check them out, find their website here. |
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INDEPENDENT CONTRACTORS ALLIANCE
Strategic workforce consultant Dave Rice recently started this group to empower remote contractors with information, opportunities and resources, and we recommend you take a look. (Related website here.) |
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FREELANCE FOR MONEY
This LinkedIn group (see their website here), is small, but the advice is good and the concepts for finding clients are solid. Founder Chris Green, is an online media expert, working out of the UK. |
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FREELANCERS.NET FORUM
This forum for participants and fans of Freelancers.net is a great place to see job listings and get advice on your work. Though Freelancers.net is UK-based, it is quickly expanding it’s borders around the globe. |
| GROUPS FOR FREELANCE WRITERS |
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LINK-EDS & WRITERS
This group has more than doubled in size over the last year (over 17,000 members now), and is for anyone who works with words. The group has five subgroups and is owned by Phil Taylor. |
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FREELANCE WRITERS INC.
This group is open to all, and focuses on writing for various Internet publications like Demand Studios, Associated Content, eHow, etc. Network and gather SEO tips in this growing group owned by freelance writer Robin McDaniel. |
| GROUPS FOR FREELANCE DESIGNERS |
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DESIGNERS TALK
Since we last caught up with Designers Talk, the group has grown exponentially, more than tripling in size (currently over 23,000 members). It’s an open group owned by Nick Carter and has a forum for design and development professionals. |
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GRAPHIC DESIGNERS PROFESSIONAL GROUP
A grouping of over 15,000, the GDPG has ten subgroups according to region and welcomes all LinkedIn professionals with skills in design, desktop publisher, production art, etc., listed on their profile. (Owned by Valerie Guerrero.) |
| GROUPS FOR FREELANCE SOFTWARE DEVELOPERS |
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.NET DEVELOPERS
Noah Coad’s group has tripled in size over the last year, now boasting 38,000 members who are interested in C#, VB NET, ASP NET, LINQ, etc. (See the related web site here.) |
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TECHNOLOGY OUTSOURCING
This networking group of 22,000, has three subgroups: Open Networkers & LION of Tech, Social Media Marketing, and Web Design. It’s a networking group run by TechAhead cofounder Saurabh Singh. |
| GROUPS FOR SOCIAL MEDIA MARKETERS & PR PROS |
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SOCIAL MEDIA MARKETING
Over 110,000 members (and 20 subgroups) make up this social media marketing group, owned by Michael Crosson. The group is strict about keeping things productive and collaborative, rather than a tool for self-promoters. |
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THOSEINMEDIA
This group of media-savvy contracted and non-contracted employees seeks to bring together people with ideas, advice and knowledge about media marketing – i.e., ThoseInMedia. Currently there are nearly 80,000 members in this group owned byBrent Willen. |
Let Us Know: Have we missed your favorite LinkedIn group for contract workers? Add your thoughts — or corrections — in the comments below.
Tamara Rice is one of several freelance writers on the oDesk Blog team. She joined the oDesk marketplace in 2009, after more than six years on staff at an award-winning national magazine.
Wow what a list! Thanks Tamara for sharing these groups with us. I’ve got my eyes set on joining 2 out of the 3 freelance writing groups.
Thanks for featuring The Freelance Writers’ Connection Group on your blog! I appreciate your kind words.
That’s a good compliation, will tweet and share now. Thanks for the hard work Tamara!
Awesome work your putting in. I am always thankful on how people giving efforts to help others. thanks for the useful info ^_^
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