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Groups
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Groups are unique marketplaces on oDesk. Each group is sponsored and controlled by an oDesk partner. These sponsored groups provide a way for buyers and providers that are focused on similar skills, certifications or interests to connect with each other. For providers, groups are a great way to enhance your reputation, receive recognition for specialized skills and gain access to exclusive job opportunities. For buyers, posting a job to a group is a great way to reach qualified providers for a specific skill sets.
Each group has custom membership criteria that is set by the group administrator. The group sponsor may require members to have specific certifications, professional affiliations, feedback scores, etc. oDesk does not decide who can or cannot join a group. Click on the Join Group link from a group profile to see a message from the group administrator describing the criteria to join.
Each group has different membership criteria. The group sponsor sets the membership rules and criteria. Each application to join is reviewed by the group administrator. Approval and rejection of applications is at their sole discretion. oDesk does not determine who can or cannot join a group.
To see a specific group's membership criteria and apply to join:
- Go to Find Providers & Jobs > Groups.
- Click on the name of the group in the directory.
- Press the Join this Group button.
- If you meet the displayed criteria (feedback score and skill tests, for example), enter Your Message and press the Join Group button to contact the group administrator.
If you're not accepted into the group, the administrator can contact you for more details or information regarding your membership. They receive your email address when you apply to join so they can reach you. If you are not accepted and want to re-apply later, you may do so. Just press Join this Group again when you meet the administrator's criteria. All oDesk providers are able to join Groups, including independent contractors and affiliated contractors.
Joining a group has several advantages:
- Your profile will be marked with a membership badge that is a smaller version of the Group logo. This is a signal of quality and reputation that will help boost your credibility within the oDesk community.
- The group's sponsor actively promotes the group to attract buyers looking for your unique skill set. These buyers come to the group looking for skilled providers like yourself and can post jobs giving preference to Group members.
- You'll receive exclusive access to these group-member-only job posts.
You may apply to join multiple groups. You'll receive all of the above benefits for every group you join.
Yes, you can leave a group any time you wish. Go to Member Settings and select Leave Group. You can also send a message to the Group administrator.
Any buyer may post a job to a group. This is a great way to target certified providers with a unique skill you require.
- Go to Find Providers & Jobs > Groups.
- Click on the name of the group in the directory.
- Press the Post a Job to this Group button.
- Describe and post your job. The requested Group Membership is automatically added to your Preferred Qualifications. (Read more about posting jobs.)
Non-group members are able to apply if your job is public. However, you can filter your candidates queue to only those who meet your Preferred Qualifications. If you find someone you like who isn't a group member, you should suggest they join the group during your interview.
