# Best Practices (https://terac.com/docs/experts/working/best-practices)

Tips for building a strong track record and maximizing your success on Terac.

Want to get more opportunities and earn more on Terac? Follow these best practices to stand out.

## Profile Optimization [#profile-optimization]

### Complete Every Section [#complete-every-section]

A complete profile gives us more to match you on. From **Profile** in your dashboard, make sure you have:

* [ ] A profile photo and your full name
* [ ] A verified phone number
* [ ] A verified identity
* [ ] LinkedIn connected
* [ ] Your resume uploaded (PDF)
* [ ] Your experience, education, and skills filled in
* [ ] Your preferred hourly rate set
* [ ] Your Google Calendar connected, or a booking link saved, under **Availability**
* [ ] The onboarding interview taken

### Add LinkedIn [#add-linkedin]

LinkedIn helps show your professional background:

* It fills in your work history for you
* It helps researchers trust your experience
* It can get you put forward for more work

### Keep Information Current [#keep-information-current]

Update your profile when things change:

* A new job or role
* New skills or certifications
* Your preferred hourly rate
* Your primary email and phone number, under **Identity & Security**

## Quality Submissions [#quality-submissions]

### Follow Instructions Carefully [#follow-instructions-carefully]

Not following instructions is a common reason for rejection:

* Read the full task description
* Note any specific requirements
* Do exactly what's asked

### Be Thorough [#be-thorough]

Detailed responses are more valuable:

* Answer questions completely
* Provide context and examples
* Don't give one-word answers to open questions

### Be Authentic [#be-authentic]

Researchers value genuine insights:

* Share your real experiences
* Give honest opinions
* Don't try to give "right" answers

### Proofread [#proofread]

Before submitting:

* Check for typos
* Ensure completeness
* Review your responses

## Interview Success [#interview-success]

### Technical Preparation [#technical-preparation]

* Check your camera and microphone before every interview
* Use a quiet, well-lit place
* Use a stable internet connection and an up-to-date Chrome or Edge

### Communication [#communication]

* Speak clearly and at a moderate pace
* Let the interviewer finish before responding
* Keep pauses short, and say "let me think" if you need a moment

### Engagement [#engagement]

* Stay focused on the questions
* Provide detailed, relevant answers
* Stay in the interview window until it ends

## Building Your Track Record [#building-your-track-record]

### Consistency [#consistency]

* Finish the applications you start
* Maintain quality across all tasks
* Check Explore regularly for new opportunities

### Reliability [#reliability]

* Follow through on commitments, such as sessions you book
* Keep the time tracker honest on hourly projects
* Respond promptly to any follow-ups

## What Researchers Look For [#what-researchers-look-for]

### Qualified Background [#qualified-background]

* Relevant experience for the study topic
* A verified identity and connected profiles
* A complete and accurate profile

### Quality Responses [#quality-responses]

* Thoughtful, detailed answers
* Consistency between screening and tasks
* Following instructions

### Professionalism [#professionalism]

* Completing submissions in a timely manner
* Honest, authentic responses
* Technical reliability (clear audio, a working camera, a stable connection)

## Common Mistakes to Avoid [#common-mistakes-to-avoid]

### Rushing Through Tasks [#rushing-through-tasks]

Take your time. Rushed responses are often lower quality and may be rejected.

### Inconsistent Answers [#inconsistent-answers]

Make sure your responses are consistent with:

* Your profile information
* Other answers in the same study
* What you've said in past submissions

### Ignoring Requirements [#ignoring-requirements]

Read **Who Should Apply** before you start. If an opportunity is not a fit for you, it is listed under **Refer & earn** on Explore instead.

### Starting What You Can't Finish [#starting-what-you-cant-finish]

Only apply to opportunities you have time to complete.

### Technical Negligence [#technical-negligence]

* Not checking your equipment
* Using unstable internet
* Taking interviews in noisy or dark places

## What's Next? [#whats-next]

Now that you know best practices, review our [policies](https://terac.com/docs/experts/policies) to ensure you understand the terms and conditions.