One of the advantages of iFreelance is its high tech, graphical representation of your portfolio. Even those who aren't looking to bid on writing jobs may want to consider using their portfolio service- it's just that attractive, and a good place to put up your work samples until you get your blog or website up. Start by signing up and using their profile building service. Yes, there is a fee for freelancers, but it is approximately $4 for one month at this printing.
This will always be a question in contention for bid sites. Many believe that they are a great stepping stone or a way to fill up extra billable hours, while others think that the money will never be up to snuff. Just keep your minimum hourly payment in mind as you bid on projects- don't underestimate.
Bidsites work by competition. A company or individual posts a job that they need done, or freelancers respond by bidding on it- naming the price that they feel they can do the job for. They also attempt to convince the company that they are the best writer for the job. The company or individual chooses a writer, and, in the case of iFreelance, the business relationship then leaves iFreelance for completion.

