In my experience, once we sign on with GS (usually as a way to organize and find work vs. juggling 20 direct sites) the MSCs have archived our demographics and won’t let us back in unless we close our GS/3rd account. Some MSCs only list on 3rd party platforms. I imagine it’s about security, and the chaos that would ensue if we tried to work the same assignment on both sites..much like what happens if you work an assignment on 2 devices without saving on device “A” and logging out, then logging back in fresh to continue on device “B.”
I’ve cried many tears of frustration over GS, ISS, and others and reached out over tech glitches and to the MSC “handlers” due to poor report design.
This post mentions GS, but all of the platforms (MSC created in-house and 3rd parties) operate differently but share frustrations in common.
Some things I’ve noticed (and am interested to know if others have) are:
1- Both GS and ISS have issues, but ISS support has been far more responsive, professional, and successful with problem solving within their scope of responsibility.
2- Neither thoroughly “vett” the MCS’s, so we need to do our own “due diligence”) about professional affiliation, track record, they’re been bought out, and by whom), before applying for a gig and trusting them with our time, effort, and trust we will be compensated as stated.
3- All list a lot of low paying gigs.
4- The platforms are not responsible for the quality of communication or outcomes we experience with the MSC personnel who (are supposed to) be of “support” as we work, or if they pay us for our work. (But if they don’t, the platforms can influence the platform content to protect their own reputation).
5- Platforms have no control over report content, only the infrastructure. Content and execution are on the MSC.
6- The 3rd parties have no control over MSC scheduling (or other) errors, the MSCs personnel “learning curves” navigating platform details, or if they care to (or have time to) care enough to become better at it and help us individually.
7- Not all MSC/schedulers are proficient in the logistics and finer points of in-house or 3rd party platform navigation, such as modifying due dates and overcoming glitches in completing the reports if there’s an anomaly in performing the assignment, or a missing “N/A” when a yes/no response isn’t accurate. Some schedulers aren’t even interested in trying to learn or blow you off (and may be as overworked under appreciated as we sometimes feel).
8- Has anyone else noticed the quality and quantity of quality of posted gigs has been declining? Is that common at this time of year or…fallout from trickle-down politics?
All of the above challenges can make US look bad and increase our risk of declines/non-payment. I’ve learned to communicate in detail, request replies in writing, and save it all in case the editors don’t have access (or don’t read them), and drive us crazy with back and forth demands for more, or ding us for something out of our control. I’ve learned to save a pdf copy or sequential screen shots of my submissions, as evidence that’s saved me $hundreds in incorrect declines.
Having worked at all levels of the “food chain” except that top 1%, this is no different than what we’d have to do in those trenches, with far less control over the ethics and outcomes.
So, cheers to the freedom we have as entrepreneurs (along with the extra work of wearing ALL of the hats required) to run our own businesses…
…And gratitude to all for all the wisdom and good will here that helps us to be safe and keep it enjoyable.