Telework is now becoming a far more popular work mode accounting for nearly 50% of projects initiated by Freelance-Market. It is not surprising therefore that Skype, the Internet telephone service, has developed into a very effective business tool for freelancers. Not only does it offer free or very low cost communications, it also allows you to see the person you're talking to.

It is therefore interesting to note the recent development where Google has decided to directly compete with Skype by offering a similar global service. This service, call Google-Voice, is currently available for all Gmail users in the U.S with release planned internationally, including Australia. When available, simply register as a gmail user and you will be able to install Google Voice software.

As with Skype, you can speak to users directly computer to computer as well as any fixed and mobile phones worldwide free of charge. The prices for this vary greatly from country to country, but appear to be modelled on Skype's rates.