Job cuts and major changes in corporate strategies have left millions of Americans without jobs, and the technology sector is one of several industries suffering the consequences of the recent economic turmoil. However, the talented pool of technology professionals making their way out of the workforce - at least temporarily - can pick up work easily with the help of online job sites such as oDesk.

oDesk is a global marketplace for freelancers, where certified professionals can pick up real jobs with guaranteed payment - and do it all from the comfort of home. oDesk provides services to create an 'on-demand global workforce', making it easy for technology professionals to network with companies in need of their services. The recent economic upheaval is making sites like oDesk a tremendously valuable resource for technology professionals who are now desperately hunting for legitimate jobs online.

What Makes oDesk Different than Freelance Job Boards?

The San Jose Business Journal reports that oDesk currently features over 125,000 freelance technical professionals from around the world. Companies can hire skilled talent on an outsourcing basis from countries in the Far East, South America and even Australia.

oDesk serves as a global job marketplace where freelancers can pick up work on a contract basis and keep track of their projects on a web-based interface. The key difference between oDesk and the average online job board is that skilled workers can obtain certification for their particular niche so that job providers can track them down with ease.

Each oDesk member creates a working profile page that allows them to list all of their skills, experience, and background so that companies can 'pre-qualify' candidates for certain jobs. oDesk also makes it easy for freelancers to join a remote team of a company; the oDesk interface helps break down the barriers of communicating with in-office staff members, making it easier for the freelancer to work in an online collaborative environment.

oDesk charges a fee for professionals to post their skills, but companies can post jobs for free. Companies have the ability to create and control their own 'team room' where the freelancer can log in their time. This web-based platform reduces the need for excessive invoices and keeping track of hours during each work session.

More Companies Outsourcing with oDesk During Tough Economy

Technology departments, software development companies, data systems engineering companies and dozens of other companies in the technology sphere are tapping into the pool of talent listed on oDesk during the weakened economy. Companies that are growing rapidly despite the economy and looking for skilled workers are also able to spur development with the help of freelancers on oDesk. InternetNews.com reports that Apple's iPhone launch in Fall 2008 led to an over 500% increase in developer jobs per month; in-demand freelancers include programmers, engineers and consultants.

As more firms lose key staff members due to job cuts, they may need freelancers to pick up work and projects until they can rehire or change direction. oDesk makes it easy for companies to fill the gaps during this challenging time.