Getting the most out of Discover
How the search algorithm works, what affects your visibility, and how to find the right providers faster.
How search works
When you type in the search bar, Plugr matches your query against provider names, skill titles, and bios. The results are then sorted by a ranking algorithm that considers verification status, credibility score, how recently the profile was updated, and how well the profile matches your search term. Verified providers with higher credibility scores appear first.
- 1Use specific skill names for the best results. “Web Development” will find more relevant providers than “tech.”
- 2Filter by faculty or department if you want someone local to your area.
- 3Check the credibility badge and score on each profile before contacting.
- 4Tap into a provider’s full profile to see their reviews, products, and contact options.
Best practices
- Start with broad searches and narrow down as you see results.
- Use the same terminology that providers use in their skill titles.
- If you are not finding what you need, try different keywords or check related skills.
Avoid these
- Searching with overly specific phrases that might not match any profile.
- Ignoring credibility scores. A lower score does not always mean bad service, but it is a useful signal.
- Contacting the first result without checking other options. Comparing profiles leads to better choices.
Improving your visibility in search
If you are a provider and want to appear higher in Discover results, the ranking algorithm considers several factors. Verification and credibility are the most important, but profile completeness, recency, and engagement also play a role.
- 1Complete your profile fully. Every field you fill adds to your ranking weight.
- 2Get verified. Verified providers are prioritized in search results.
- 3Keep your profile updated. Profiles that are recently modified tend to rank higher.
- 4Collect positive reviews. Higher credibility scores push you up in the results.
- 5Add products or services. Profiles with products have more surface area for search matching.
Best practices
- Update your profile every few weeks to signal that you are active and available.
- Use the exact skill name that students search for in your title and bio.
- Keep your credibility score climbing by delivering consistent work and earning reviews.
Avoid these
- Keyword stuffing your bio with unrelated terms. This does not improve ranking and can hurt trust.
- Neglecting your profile after initial setup. Stale profiles drop in ranking over time.
- Expecting instant results. Search ranking improves gradually as your profile matures.
Contacting a provider
When you find someone you want to work with, tap the Contact button on their profile. This opens a direct channel to reach them. Providers list their preferred contact method — typically phone or the platform’s messaging system. Be clear about what you need, when you need it, and any budget details in your first message.
- 1Open the provider’s full profile from the Discover feed.
- 2Review their products, reviews, and credibility score.
- 3Tap Contact and choose the available channel.
- 4Send a clear, concise message describing your request.
Best practices
- Be specific in your first message. Instead of “Hey, are you available?” try “Hi, I need a flyer designed for a department event on March 15. Do you have availability?”
- Include your budget or price range if you have one in mind.
- Mention if the request is urgent. Some providers have faster turnaround times than others.
Avoid these
- Sending vague messages that require back-and-forth to understand what you need.
- Contacting multiple providers simultaneously without telling them. This creates confusion and wasted effort.
- Expecting instant replies. Providers are students too and may take a few hours to respond.
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