I saw this back in August but got reminded of it just now via an email from ODesk:
We?re writing to remind you about an upcoming policy change?one that we believe will make oDesk a better workplace for everyone.
Beginning November 15, 2014, a minimum rate of $3.00 per hour (including the oDesk fee) will be required for all new hires on hourly contracts. After considering the diversity of work on our platform and the vast differences in hourly rates worldwide, we believe the new hourly minimum will benefit all clients by setting an expectation for higher quality work. In case you missed it, our August announcement gives the full background on this decision.
We understand this may impact your hiring on oDesk. To minimize disruption to your business, your pre-existing freelancer relationships under $3/hour are exempt from this policy, and you can continue to rehire and work with these freelancers at your existing rate. However, new contracts for freelancers who have not worked with you before November 15 will be subject to the minimum rate of $3/hour.
We truly appreciate your business, and your success on oDesk is our first and foremost concern. If you have any questions or concerns....
like how tripling your employee costs will cause your business to go to shit and make you wonder why you are paying some Haji $3 an hour when a day ago they were willing to take $1. Sure hope it all works out for ya! (I added this last bit.)
Thanks ODesk for making life easier in Third World countries while making it more difficult to do business online.
Hire your new ODesk employees NOW everyone.