In the midst of the worst recession since the Great Depression, a new sector has blossomed: the virtual work world. It's an oasis of sorts, one brimming with unfilled jobs. Elance.com is one of the largest and fastest-growing portals that connects freelancers who need work to businesses that need flexible, cost-effective workers in areas such as software development, creative and marketing, administration, writing and editing, engineering, accounting, legal, and more.

The Complete Idiot's Guide® to Elance holds the key to business growth in the global age, for freelancers and employers alike. Through its step-by-step, illustrated advice, readers learn how to:

Get started and register with Elance.

Develop a contractor profile that stands out and sells their services.

Win clients through targeted pitches and top-notch proposals.

Find and attract the best contractors with advanced search tools and a well-done client profile.

Write clear job postings quickly and easily.

Use Elance's tools to manage projects efficiently.

Negotiate deals and project agreements that protect both contractor and employer.

Manage earnings and expenditures using Elance's account pages.

Develop best practices using example and template profiles, proposals, and job postings.