Land your first job in Web3

The traditional 9-to-5 grind might offer stability, but it rarely delivers the freedom, creativity, and financial independence that so many of us crave. If you’ve been dreaming of a career that lets you break free from the monotony and dive into something exciting and innovative, Web3 freelancing might just be your golden ticket.

But how do you land your first job in a space that's changing by the minute? Today, we will break it down step by step.

You've been around Web3, you know your DAOs from your dApps, and your NFTs from your DeFi protocols.

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You’ve dipped your toes into the decentralized world, maybe even completed a few small projects, or contributed to a community or two. But now, you’re ready to take things to the next level

Specialization is key

If you already know the basics of Web3, now it's time to get deeper. In an environment so complex, being a generalist won't cut it. Clients are looking for experts who can solve specific problems and deliver tailored solutions, therefore creating a specialization will become your greatest asset.

Finding your niche not only makes you more attractive to clients but also allows you to command higher rates. Clients are willing to pay a premium rate for freelancers who deeply understand their problems and can deliver results without a steep learning curve. Through mentioning your skills and areas of knowledge, you’re not just another professional - you're the go-to expert in your field.

At HYVE, we take pride in showcasing the powerful tools built directly into our platform. A standout feature is our Freelancer Review System, which provides genuine, real-world insights into a freelancer’s performance.

Clients have the ability to rate freelancers across critical areas like availabilityskills, and communication. Beyond ratings, detailed comments offer nuanced feedback, highlighting both strengths and areas for growth. Curious to see how it works? Click the link below to explore this feature in action!

Feature Spotlight: Using reviews to get more clients
It hasn’t been that long since our last development update, as we released the Activity Log last week. Our progress with the First Era has been right on track, as we have implemented 10 out of a total of 15 features. New feature: introducing the Activity LogWith the four Eras

Be flexible about payments

Gone are the days of being tied to traditional payment systems with their high fees and slow processing times. Today, you have the freedom to explore new ways of getting paid, which can significantly enhance your earning potential.

Of course, trust is paramount in a space as substantial as Web3, thus our platform implemented the Escrow Now feature, which allows you to focus on delivering exceptional work without worrying about payment disputes. How, you might ask? By holding funds in smart contracts until both parties fulfill their agreed-upon terms, HYVE ensures that payments are secure and transparent. Read more here:

Feature Spotlight: Using the Escrow Now Feature
One of the main pillars of freelancing is trust. You’re performing work for a client you’ve met through a freelancing platform or directly online; most likely you’ve only had a couple of discovery calls with them or exchanged a few messages. Now that the work is complete, you wonder how

Verify projects before you commit

In Web3, due diligence is your first line of defense. Opportunities can appear out of nowhere, but not all of them are legitimate. Before committing to a project, thorough research is non-negotiable. 

Before diving into a project, take the time to research the client, the team, and the project itself. Are they transparent about their identities and backgrounds? Do they have a track record of successful projects or contributions to the Web3 ecosystem? 

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Look for transparency in their communication, a clear roadmap, and a well-defined use case. Check if the project has an active community, a verified GitHub repository, or a presence on reputable platforms like Discord or Telegram.

Spot the red flags

Some projects thrive on ambiguity and urgency, often using high-pressure tactics to push freelancers into making hasty decisions.

By staying vigilant and recognizing these red flags, you can protect yourself from scams and ensure that your freelancing journey is both safe and rewarding. Here's some common warning signs to watch out for:

  • unrealistic promises - if a client claims that working on their project will generate overnight success, guaranteed returns, or life-changing profits, be wary: the crypto space is innovative, but sometimes doing your own research can save you loads
  • vague contracts - a legitimate project will have clear terms, deliverables, and payment structures. If a client is unwilling to provide a detailed agreement or avoids answering specific questions about the scope of work, it’s a major red flag
  • requests for upfront work - clients who ask you to start working without a signed contract, an escrow arrangement, or any form of security should be avoided
  • lack of transparency - if a client is evasive about their project’s goals, technology, or team, it’s a clear red flag

Ready to take the leap?

You’ve put in the work, learned the ropes, and built your skills. Now it’s time to take the next step and land your first serious Web3 job.

With the right platform, the opportunities are endless. Join HYVE today and start your journey toward a more flexible, innovative, and rewarding freelancing career. The future of work is here, and it's decentralized.