Perfect — here’s your second Intercom Help Center article written in the same clear, step-by-step format. This one walks freelancers through how to start a project with a client on Hiry.
🚀 How to Start a Project with a Client
Starting a project is the first step to getting paid — and ensuring you and the client are aligned on deliverables, rates, and expectations.
This guide walks you through the full process, from creating the project to getting the contract signed.
Option 1: Start a Project from Chat
If you're already speaking with a client:
Go to your Chat with the client.
Click Start Project.
Option 2: Start a Project Manually
From the left sidebar, click the little ➕ icon next to "Projects."
Click "Start a New Project."
Step 1: Fill in the Project Details
Title: Give your project a short, clear title.
Company: If you're not starting from chat, select the client’s company.
Project Scope: List what you’ll be doing — be specific.
Deliverables: Bullet out what you’ll hand over and what success looks like.
Step 2: Choose the Project Type
You’ll have 3 payment model options. Choose the one that best fits your agreement with the client:
🟢 One-Time Job
Deposit is paid upfront and held in escrow.
Funds are released when the project is approved.
Ideal for fixed-scope, short-term work.
🟡 Hourly Job
You log hours, and the client pays based on time worked.
Great for flexible or open-ended projects.
🔵 Recurring Job
Fixed weekly or monthly payments.
Best for long-term ongoing collaborations.
Step 3: Set the Payment Terms
For hourly or recurring jobs:
Choose invoice frequency: Weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly.
Set your start date and optional end date.
Example: If you start on July 1st with monthly invoicing, you’ll automatically invoice on the 1st of every month.
Step 4: Add Your Rate and Taxes
Set your monthly, weekly, or hourly rate (e.g. $2,000/month).
You can also add taxes if needed, depending on your location and setup.
Step 5: Finalize the Contract
Choose between:
✅ Standard Hiry Contract (auto-generated)
📄 Custom Agreement (upload your own file)
Click Preview Contract to double-check the terms.
Once ready, click Review and Sign.
The contract will then be sent to the client for approval or a counterproposal.
⚠️ Important Protections to Keep in Mind
To protect yourself as a freelancer:
Always require a deposit, especially for one-time or hourly jobs.
If the client has no reviews, this is extra important.
Never submit final deliverables until the client has approved the project via the platform.
This ensures your payment is secured and released properly.
🔒 Hiry does vet all clients, but deposits add a critical layer of security.
You’re All Set!
Once the project is accepted by the client, you can start work confidently knowing everything is documented and secure.
Need Help?
If you run into any issues during project setup, message us through the chat bubble or reach out to support.