Both Odesk and Elance have a feature called "Identity verification". Even though it takes some time to complete this process, this is very useful to ensure potential employers that you are a real person and that you are seriously commited to working on the site.
Odesk ID Verification
In Odesk, the process is actually quite simple. Look for this little box on the "Find Jobs" section:
All you have to do is apply for identity verification and send a copy of a government issued document, displaying your full name, address, and picture (needless to say, it has to match the picture on your profile, and that's why it's so important to put a picture of your face, and not a logo or an avatar).
You are also required to scan a utility bill or a bank statement, displaying only your full name and address. Don't worry about sending this online, they have a secure network and they won't make all of this information public.
A member of the staff will check all these documents, comparing the information with the one you supplied on your profile, and will approve the ID verification within 7 to 10 business days.
Here's the full guide to this process, right from Odesk's help center
Odesk ID Verification
In Odesk, the process is actually quite simple. Look for this little box on the "Find Jobs" section:
All you have to do is apply for identity verification and send a copy of a government issued document, displaying your full name, address, and picture (needless to say, it has to match the picture on your profile, and that's why it's so important to put a picture of your face, and not a logo or an avatar).
You are also required to scan a utility bill or a bank statement, displaying only your full name and address. Don't worry about sending this online, they have a secure network and they won't make all of this information public.
A member of the staff will check all these documents, comparing the information with the one you supplied on your profile, and will approve the ID verification within 7 to 10 business days.
Here's the full guide to this process, right from Odesk's help center
"How and why should I become oDesk ID Verified?".
Elance ID Verification
On Elance, the process is slightly more complicated. Less documents are required, but you're required to have a video interview through Skype. Look for this little box on your profile:
Once you apply, you're required to send a copy of your government issued document (an international passport is the best option). Just like on Odesk, the picture on your profile must match the one on your passport, and the same goes for your personal information (full name, ID number and home address). Once you've done that, you have to schedule a Skype interview with a member of the ID verification staff (you have to add the skype user that they'll supply to you to your contact list). Don't worry if you miss your interview, just let them know and you can re-schedule it. The interview is really short, all they have to do is see you through skype and match your face with the pictures on your profile and ID (just in case, you need to have them at hand during the interview).
Here's the full guide to this process (on Elance help desk):
"ID Verification for Freelancers".
Don't hesitate to do this, it will highly increase your chances of getting hired!
