When a client wants to hire you, Gun.io negotiates rate on your behalf. Negotiations are not required the vast majority of the time, as clients typically agree to pay the hourly rate you requested in your profile. As a Gun.io contractor, you will execute a contract with Gun.io. You only have to do this once, and it applies to all work you do on the platform. For each new gig, Gun.io executes a contract with the client, secures pre-payment if possible, and introduces you directly so you can begin work. Clients typically start with a one-time block of hours to be sure the fit is right. That means these first hours are the most important part of the engagement - it’s your chance to really shine. After that, the goal is to get each client on a recurring subscription so you can forecast your work several months out. Gun.io handles these agreements, and you’ll always be informed of how many hours your client has purchased from you.