Are you aspiring to be your boss or do you prefer a confined work environment? If you answered the former, you’ve come to the right place. In this article, we will explore the best freelance websites in Pakistan, specifically tailored for beginners.
With many businesses transitioning to remote work to ensure employee safety, traditional office settings have become less prevalent.
Consequently, remote work websites like Upwork, Fiverr, and others have seen a surge in activity, attracting a multitude of skilled freelancers from around the globe. Notably, Pakistan currently holds the 4th position in the global freelancing market.
What is Freelancing?
Freelancing is a freelancing of remote work where clients hire individuals on a project-based, hourly, weekly, or monthly basis. It offers a flexible work arrangement that allows freelancers to work independently, often from the comfort of their own homes.
There are numerous traditional and non-traditional marketplaces available worldwide where clients can find and hire skilled freelancers who possess the specific expertise required for their projects.
One might wonder, why choose freelancing as a career path? Well, freelancing has emerged as a lucrative source of income, particularly for students in Pakistan. It provides an opportunity to earn a substantial income while having the flexibility to manage one’s own schedule and workload.
Additionally, freelancing opens doors to a global marketplace, allowing individuals to work with clients from around the world and gain exposure to diverse projects and industries.
What is Freelancing in Urdu?
فری لانسنگ کام کرنے کا ایک ایسا طریقہ کار ہے جس میں کسی بھی مکمل ملازمت کی بجائے کلائنٹس مختلف پروجیکٹس کیلئے افراد کو معینہ، گھنٹہ وار، ہفتہ وار یا ماہانہ بیس پر ملازمت دیتے ہیں۔ دنیا بھر میں کئی روایتی اور غیر روایتی مارکیٹس موجود ہیں جہاں کلائنٹس ان فری لانسرز کو تلاش اور ملازمت دے سکتے ہیں جن کے پاس ان کے پروجیکٹس کیلئے ضروری مہارتیں ہوتی ہیں۔
Traditional Freelancing Marketplaces
Traditional freelance marketplaces are platforms where clients post job requirements and freelancers with relevant expertise bid on those specific jobs. This process involves clients reviewing the responses from freelancers and selecting the one with the most suitable experience and a reasonable quote.
It’s a competitive and time-consuming process that emphasizes the importance of having a strong profile and leaving a positive impression on potential clients.
In these marketplaces, clients have the opportunity to find freelancers who possess the specific skills and qualifications needed for their projects.
They can browse through the profiles of freelancers, evaluating their previous work experience, portfolio, and client reviews to make informed decisions.
On the other hand, freelancers can showcase their expertise and skills by bidding on relevant jobs. They can highlight their past projects, professional backgrounds, and any certifications or qualifications they possess.
Freelancers must present themselves in the best possible light, as it can significantly impact their chances of being selected for a job.
Traditional freelance marketplaces serve as a meeting point for clients and freelancers, facilitating connections and collaborations. They provide a platform where both parties can negotiate project details, agree on timelines, and establish payment terms.
These marketplaces often have built-in communication tools and milestone-tracking systems to ensure smooth and transparent project management.
Overall, traditional freelance marketplaces offer a convenient and efficient way for clients to find skilled freelancers and for freelancers to secure new projects.
By utilizing these platforms, businesses and individuals can tap into a global pool of talent and expertise, ultimately leading to successful project outcomes.
Non-Traditional Freelance Marketplace
Gone are the days of traditional freelance marketplaces. Non-traditional freelance platforms have emerged as game-changers, offering a fresh approach to connecting talented freelancers with clients in need of their services. But what exactly are these platforms and how do they work?
Unlike their conventional freelance platforms, non-traditional freelance platforms provide a unique environment where sellers can showcase their expertise, experience, portfolio, pricing, and timeline by creating gigs.
These gigs act as comprehensive profiles, allowing freelancers to present a holistic view of their skills and capabilities to potential clients.
The process begins when a buyer visits the platform’s website and searches for a freelancer who matches their specific requirements or skillset. Instead of sifting through countless profiles, the buyer can easily find the perfect match by utilizing the platform’s intuitive search functionalities.
Once a suitable freelancer is identified, the buyer can proceed to place an order directly on the freelancer’s gig. This streamlined approach ensures a seamless transaction, eliminating the need for unnecessary back-and-forth communication or negotiation.
In cases where the buyer has questions or needs further clarification, non-traditional freelance platforms also facilitate direct communication. Buyers can initiate contact by leaving a message, allowing for clear and efficient communication between both parties.
These platforms not only simplify the process of finding the right talent but also foster a transparent and collaborative environment that promotes successful project outcomes.
Freelancer introduction
A freelancer is a self-employed person who offers services to clients, often working on multiple tasks at the same time. These services are typically in areas like writing, programming, design, marketing, and consulting. Freelancers work independently, using their skills and expertise for various businesses and projects.
They have flexible hours, choose clients, and often work remotely. Unlike traditional employees, freelancers are not tied to a single employer long-term. Freelancing allows for continuous learning and development and is appealing to those who value adaptability and independence.
How to Become a Freelancer in Pakistan (Step-by-Step Guide 2024)
1. Identify Your Skill
Begin by identifying a skill that’s in high demand in the freelance marketplace. This could be anything from web development, graphic design, digital marketing, and content writing, to SEO services.
2. Acquire Training
Once you have identified your skill, it’s time to acquire the necessary training and competence. You can take online courses, attend workshops, or even self-study using free resources available on the internet. Websites like Coursera, Udemy, and Khan Academy offer excellent courses in various fields.
3. Practice and Improve
Practice makes perfect. Work on personal projects or volunteer to strengthen your skills. This will also help you build a portfolio showcasing your abilities, which is crucial in attracting potential clients.
4. Create a Strong Portfolio
Your profile is your first impression of potential clients. Highlight your skills, and experience portfolio. Include a professional photo and write an engaging bio that showcases your expertise and personality.
5. Join Freelance Platforms and Social Media
Sign up on traditional and non-traditional freelance platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, or Freelancer. These platforms will help you connect with clients from all over the world. Moreover, Social Media Platforms like Reddit, Linkedin, Quora, and Meta are great sources of clients. you should share your work with people, connect with the target audience, and help other freelancers with their problems.
6. Set Competitive Prices
Pricing your services competitively is key. Research what other freelancers with similar skills are charging and set your prices accordingly. Remember, as a beginner, you might need to price your services moderately to attract clients.
7. Apply for Jobs
Start bidding on relevant jobs. Craft personalized proposals for each job you apply for. Highlight how your skills and experience make you the best fit for the project.
8. Deliver Quality Work
Once you win a project, it’s crucial to deliver high-quality work. This will help you earn positive reviews and potentially lead to repeat business.
9. Network and Market Your Services
Attend networking events, join online communities, and leverage social media to market your services. Word-of-mouth referrals can also provide valuable opportunities.
10. Keep Learning and Evolving
The freelance industry is constantly evolving. Keep up-to-date with the latest trends and developments in your field, and continuously improve your skills and services.
Remember, freelancing is not a get-rich-quick scheme. It requires patience, hard work, and the ability to adapt to new challenges. But with perseverance and dedication, you can build a successful freelance career in Pakistan.
Also read: How to start freelancing as a computer science student
Best Freelancing Platforms in Pakistan 2024
In recent years, there has been a remarkable surge in the freelance community in Pakistan. With limited job opportunities and constrained salaries, many individuals have turned to foreign companies and embraced remote work. Among the top freelance platforms in Pakistan are Upwork, Freelancer, and Fiverr. If you aspire to become a freelancer in Pakistan, here are some actionable steps you can take to embark on this journey. Now, let’s delve into the next section of our article.
1. Upwork
Upwork is an amazing freelance marketplace that connects businesses of all sizes to freelancers doing home-based jobs or working from anywhere, independent professionals, and agencies for all their hiring needs.
This platform, along with other freelancing sites in Pakistan, scales from short-term tasks to full-scale operations. It provides a diverse set of services such as writing, graphic design, marketing, and programming. It’s a fantastic place to find the perfect match for your project!
It’s not just a traditional freelancing platform. Still, it has high-paying jobs and extended opportunities for those interested in remote positions when I started working on Upwork a few years back.
It was not easy to get into it. First, you have to pass the readiness test. Secondly, the Upwork team interviews the candidate to check his personality, communication skills, and the skills he will offer on the platform.
Read more on Upwork: How to Write a Freelance Proposal
Features of Upwork
Upwork is a platform that provides many features for both freelancers and clients.
Wide Range of Job Categories:
Upwork which is one of the best freelance websites offers an extensive range of job categories including writing, graphic design, programming, marketing, admin support, and more. This wide range allows freelancers of many different skill sets to find work.
Flexible Work Arrangements:
Upwork supports various types of work arrangements, including fixed-price projects and hourly work. Freelancers can choose what suits them best.
Secure Payment System:
With Upwork’s secure and streamlined payment system, freelancers can rest assured their payments are safe. Upwork offers multiple payment methods—direct deposit, PayPal, wire transfer, and more.
Upwork Plus:
For a monthly subscription, Upwork Plus offers freelancers and agencies additional benefits like increased visibility, more connections, and a dedicated account manager.
Mobile App:
Upwork’s mobile app is a convenient way for freelancers to stay connected with their clients, respond to job invites quickly, and manage their work on the go.
Upwork Enterprise:
This feature offers customized solutions for larger businesses, providing a platform to manage freelancers at scale, with consolidated billing and invoicing, team reporting, and dedicated account managers.
Connects System:
To apply for jobs on Upwork, freelancers spend Connects, which are essentially tokens. This system helps ensure only serious candidates are applying. Freelancers can purchase extra Connects if needed.
Upwork alternative:
When it comes to freelancing platforms, Upwork is a popular choice. However, several upwork alternatives offer great opportunities for freelancers.
- Fiverr
- PeoplePerHour
- Guru.com
- Toptal
- Hubstaff
These are some of the upwork alternatives that provide a wide range of projects and clients for freelancers to choose from. Whether you are a writer, designer, developer, or any other type of freelancer, exploring these alternatives can expand your options and help you find the perfect gig.
2. Fiverr: Freelance Marketplace
Fiverr is one of the best non-traditional freelance websites, especially for beginners. You can start working on this marketplace even if you don’t have many skills. Recently, Fiverr updated its algorithm to give opportunities to new sellers. A few years back, If you were a new seller on Fiverr, it was impossible to get an order because of competition.
Before placing an order, buyers check reviews of sellers. You’re more likely to get more orders if you have one or two on your gig.
In a nutshell, If you’re a newbie, register on Fiverr, create gigs with the skills you’re offering, and stay online to get orders. In the future, I’ll share tips and trips to get orders on Fiverr.
Features of Fiverr
Wide Variety of Services:
Fiverr is one of the best freelance websites that offers a broad spectrum of services, categorized into multiple subcategories known as “Gigs”. These span from graphic design, writing, and translation, to programming services, and much more. This diversity caters to a wide range of skill sets.
Seller Levels:
Fiverr operates on a level system, with sellers progressing through different levels based on their performance, reliability, and quality of work. Each level comes with different benefits and perks, promoting the growth and development of freelancers.
Secure Payment System:
Fiverr ensures the security of payments with its clear and straightforward transaction system. Funds are only released to the seller once the buyer is fully satisfied with the delivered work.
Fiverr Pro:
This feature selects top-quality freelancers, ensuring businesses have access to exceptional talent. Fiverr Pro freelancers are hand-vetted for superior quality, communication, and service.
Learning and Courses:
Fiverr also offers an online learning platform, Fiverr Learn, where freelancers can take courses to improve their skills and increase their marketability.
Mobile App:
Fiverr’s mobile app allows freelancers to stay connected with their clients, manage their orders, send and receive messages, and get notifications, all on the go.
Does pausing your Fiverr gig risk ranking?
Yes, your gig might be removed from the Fiverr search system temporarily. However, once reactivated, it could be challenging to regain a high ranking. But fear not, there are effective strategies to boost your gig’s visibility rapidly! I’ll share some secret tips that can significantly enhance your gig’s performance.
The key is to increase your gig’s impression clicks. How can you do that? Utilize a VPN to change your country/IP and open your gig in incognito mode around 20-30 times daily, not all at once. By following this method consistently, your gig is bound to rank higher, and you’ll start receiving orders much faster.
Or rather than pausing your gig, consider raising your prices significantly. Set your rates at a level that seems almost unattainable. By doing so, you’ll maintain a prominent position in the rankings while reducing the likelihood of receiving numerous orders, or any orders at all. Additionally, you could extend your delivery time to approximately 30 days. This strategy can help you manage your workload effectively. I hope you find this advice helpful!
How to change your Fiverr username?
No, it’s not possible to change your username on Fiverr for any reason. The only way to get a new username is by deleting your current account and creating a new one. However, this would mean losing all your reviews and ratings. Therefore, it’s best to choose a username wisely before creating an account on Fiverr.
3. PeoplePerHour
PeoplePerHour is a unique freelancing platform that empowers people worldwide to express their skills and talents, find projects matching their expertise, and get paid fairly. This platform also works similarly to other freelancing marketplaces, but for newcomers, it is a three-month trial period to prove themselves. Suppose you’re lucky enough to land your first job on this platform. You’ll be allowed to continue providing services on the site.
I had a great experience using this one of the best freelance websites that bridges the gap between clients and freelancers. It makes it simple for clients to post projects and freelancers to offer their services, facilitating a smooth exchange of services.
I was impressed by how the platform prioritizes trust and transparency. They go above and beyond to make sure transactions are secure and promote positive work relationships. It gave me a lot of confidence in using their services.
Features of PeoplePerHour
Wide Range of Categories:
PeoplePerHour offers a wide range of job categories, including writing, designing, programming, marketing, and more. This variety allows freelancers with different skills to find suitable projects.
WorkStream:
This special feature helps you simply organize your projects, making it easier to handle your work, talk to clients, share files, and get paid – all in one convenient place.
Hourlies:
PeoplePerHour’s unique ‘Hourlies’ feature lets freelancers offer packaged services at a fixed rate, turning their skills into marketable products. It’s a great way for freelancers to showcase their talent and attract clients with their specialized services.
Proposal System:
Freelancers can send up to 15 proposals per month for free to potential clients. This system encourages freelancers to carefully select the projects they bid on, ensuring a good match between their skills and the job requirements.
Secure Payment System:
PeoplePerHour uses an Escrow payment system to protect project funds. Once the client approves a proposal, the funds are released to the freelancer upon successful project completion. This ensures secure and fair transactions.
Contest Platform:
PeoplePerHour also hosts contests regularly, providing freelancers with an opportunity to showcase their skills and win prizes. This helps freelancers gain visibility and build their reputation on the platform.
Customer Support:
PeoplePerHour offers reliable customer support, ready to assist with any issues that may arise during the use of the platform. The support team can be contacted through multiple channels including email and live chat.
4. Contra
Contra is a game-changing platform that’s revolutionizing how freelancers and independent professionals work. Let me tell you, it’s been an incredible experience!
This unique platform empowers you to create stunning visual profiles, showcase your projects and skills, and build your professional network. And let me tell you, it’s all about driving connections, collaborations, and success in the new economy.
With Contra, I’ve been able to pursue my passions, work with like-minded professionals, and create value on my terms. Trust me, it’s the future of work! Experience the future of work with Contra.
Features of Contra
The Contra platform is equipped with a wide array of features designed to enhance your freelancing experience and career success:
Impressive Visual Profiles:
Contra lets you create eye-catching profiles to show off your skills and expertise. The platform helps you create a professional image that truly reflects your abilities and work ethic.
Project-Based Collaborations:
Contra encourages freelancers to work together on projects. This creates a sense of partnership and teamwork, giving opportunities for growth and learning.
Networking Opportunities:
Contra helps you build your professional network. By connecting with other professionals, you can form valuable relationships and unlock new opportunities.
Values-Based Community:
Contra values its community and promotes transparency, respect, and fair work practices. We strive to create a safe and supportive environment for all our users.
Secure Payment System:
Contra uses a secure payment system to make sure all transactions are safe and reliable. As a freelancer, this gives you peace of mind that your earnings are protected.
Contra Services:
Contra Services lets freelancers offer packaged services at fixed prices. This gives freelancers the flexibility to manage their work and set their prices accordingly.
Project Management Tools:
The platform offers helpful project management tools that make it easy to manage and track your projects. This can greatly improve your productivity and efficiency.
Quality Customer Support:
Contra offers high-quality customer support to handle any issues or queries you may have. The support team is readily accessible, ensuring you receive assistance when you need it.
Reputation Building:
The platform provides opportunities to build your reputation through positive client feedback and successful project completions. This can significantly enhance your marketability and success on the platform.
5. Toptal
If you want to unlock a world of limitless potential by joining the vibrant community of freelancers and saying goodbye to the 9-to-5 grind where you call the shots and create your own success story Topal is your buddy.
Toptal is an elite freelance marketplace that connects businesses with the top 3% of freelancers worldwide. This platform takes pride in a thorough screening process that guarantees the selection of exceptional freelancers in software development, design, finance, product management, and project management.
As a result, Toptal serves as a go-to platform for businesses seeking exceptional freelancers to work on their critical projects. The freelancers also benefit greatly by having access to high-quality, well-paying jobs from reliable clients. Toptal facilitates seamless collaboration between freelancers and clients, ensuring a superior and effective work experience for all parties involved.
Features of Toptal
Toptal provides several features that make it a desirable choice for both freelancers and clients:
Highly Skilled Freelancers:
Toptal boasts of a pool of freelancers who are in the top 3% of their field, ensuring clients get access to exceptional talent. This also provides freelancers with the opportunity to work on challenging and prestigious projects.
Rigorous Screening Process:
Freelancers undergo a comprehensive and rigorous screening process that meticulously evaluates their abilities, reliability, and qualifications. Only after successfully passing this thorough assessment are they granted the opportunity to join the platform, ensuring that clients can confidently engage with highly skilled and dependable professionals.
Variety of Domains:
Toptal provides talent in various fields such as software development, design, finance, product management, and project management. This diversity enables clients to find the right freelancer for their specific project needs.
Flexible Engagements:
Toptal offers different engagement options to suit the needs of businesses including hourly, part-time, and full-time engagements. This flexibility allows clients to hire freelancers for short-term or long-term projects as needed.
Trial Period:
Toptal offers a two-week trial period for businesses to ensure that the freelancer they’ve hired is the right match for their project. This eliminates the risk of hiring a freelancer who may not meet their expectations.
Quality Customer Support:
Toptal has an excellent customer support system to address any concerns or issues that may arise. This ensures a smooth and satisfactory experience for both freelancers and clients.
Secure Payment System:
Toptal ensures secure transactions, providing peace of mind to both freelancers and clients. Payments are made through their trusted platform, and freelancers can be confident in receiving timely and accurate payments for their work.
6. Guru
Guru.com is the perfect platform that connect employers and talented freelancers worldwide. With a wide range of happy clients, numerous paid invoices, and secure payments, Guru.com is the top choice for all your freelance requirements.
Guru.com, one of the best freelance websites, offers a wide range of skills, including programming, writing, design, administrative tasks, sales, marketing, engineering, finance, education, and legal services. Professionals have given testimonials and insights that prove its effectiveness and value. Whether you’re a freelancer, a business, or in need of marketing services, Guru.com is your one-stop shop for success.
Features of Guru
Guru is a hub of remarkable features that make it a favorite among freelancers and clients, and these features include:
Diverse Skill Pool:
Guru has a wide range of skills available, including programming, writing, design, administrative tasks, marketing, engineering, finance, and legal services. There’s something for everyone!
Workroom Feature:
Guru’s exclusive Workroom provides a space where you can manage your work, communicate with employers/employees, and track your progress effectively.
Secure Payment System:
With Guru’s SafePay system, you can be assured your payments are secure and stable, adding an extra layer of trust to your transactions.
Quality Customer Support:
Guru’s customer support is always ready to lend a helping hand, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free experience for its users. They are available 24/7 to address any concerns or issues that may arise.
Daily Job Matches:
Guru sends daily job match emails to freelancers, making it easier to find the right job for your skill set. This saves time and effort, allowing you to focus on your work.
Effortless Collaboration:
Through its simple and user-friendly platform, Guru makes collaboration between freelancers and clients easy and stress-free. This allows for seamless communication and efficient completion of projects.
7. Freelancer
Freelancer is an amazing platform that allows individuals and businesses to connect with a vast network of talented freelancers from around the world. With a vibrant community of millions of professionals from around the globe, Freelancer serves as a marketplace where skills meet opportunities.
Whether you are a business looking for an expert to bring your project to life, or a freelancer seeking exciting and rewarding projects, Freelancer connects you with the right resources to accomplish your goals. Discover a world of infinite possibilities with Freelancer, where anyone can work on anything, anywhere, anytime.
Features of Freelancer
Here are some of its key features:
Expansive Global Network:
With millions of freelancers from around the globe, Freelancer has an expansive network that covers a wide range of expertise and skills. Whether you require a developer, a designer, a writer, or any other professional, you can find them on Freelancer.
Competitive Bidding System:
On Freelancer, freelancers compete for projects through a bidding system. This way, clients can get the best price for their projects, and freelancers can work on projects they’re interested in.
Secure Payment System:
Like other prominent platforms, Freelancer also ensures secure transactions through its platform. This adds a layer of trust and confidence for both freelancers and clients.
Project Management Tools:
Freelancer provides a range of project management tools to keep projects on track. These tools allow clients to effectively manage their projects and freelancers to keep track of their work.
24/7 Customer Support:
Freelancer offers round-the-clock customer support to address any issues or concerns that may arise. This ensures a smooth and satisfactory experience for its users.
User-Friendly Interface:
Freelancer’s platform is intuitive and easy to navigate, making it easy for both freelancers and clients to use. This allows for efficient communication and smooth project completion.
Feedback and Rating System:
Freelancer has an effective feedback and rating system, encouraging freelancers to deliver high-quality work and allowing clients to choose freelancers based on their previous performance.
8. 99 design
Are you seeking a design solution that speaks volumes? Look no further than 99designs, where designers pour their passion into every pixel, creating visuals that leave a lasting impression.
99designs is a creative platform that connects talented designers with individuals or businesses who require design work. With a worldwide community of skilled designers, 99designs makes it simple and affordable to source high-quality design work for logos, websites, book covers, and more.
Whether you’re a small business owner needing a new logo, an author in need of an eye-catching book cover, or a freelancer looking to offer your design services, 99designs provides the platform for all your design needs.
Features of 99designs
99designs offers a host of features that make it an exceptional platform for designers and clients alike. These include:
Design Contest:
99designs provides a unique ‘design contest’ feature where you can describe your design needs, and multiple designers will submit their concepts. You only choose and pay for the one you love the most.
High-quality Designers:
The platform proudly boasts a diverse and global community of highly skilled and exceptionally talented designers. With their expertise and creativity, you can expect nothing short of outstanding and high-quality results that perfectly align with your expectations.
Affordable Pricing:
With a flexible pricing model that fits different budgets, 99designs makes quality design accessible and affordable for individuals and businesses. From logos and websites to packaging and marketing materials, their talented community of designers can bring your creative vision to life.
Secure Payment:
Like other major platforms, 99designs also ensures secure transactions, providing a safe environment for both clients and designers. You can trust that your payments will be handled securely and efficiently.
Design Categories:
Whether you require a logo, website, book cover, or any other design, 99designs offers a wide range of design categories to meet diverse needs. This makes it a one-stop shop for all your design requirements.
Customer Support:
99designs provides dedicated customer support to handle any concerns or queries, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free design process. This allows both clients and designers to focus on what they do best.
User-friendly Interface:
The platform is intuitive and simple to navigate, making it easy for clients to detail their design needs and for designers to showcase their skills and creativity.
99 Design’s Competitors
Here is the list of 99Design competitors:
- DesignHill
- Design Pickle
- Designbro
- DesignCrowd
- Fiverr
9. Design Crowd
DesignCrowd is a game-changing platform that brings together over 1 million talented designers from around the globe and has completed more than 500,000 design projects. At its core, DesignCrowd is about harnessing the power of creativity to transform ideas into over 250,000 distinct, visually compelling designs.
From logos to websites, brochures to t-shirt designs, DesignCrowd offers an array of services to cater to all your design needs. With a commitment to quality, affordability, and customer satisfaction, DesignCrowd is the ideal destination for individuals and businesses seeking exceptional design solutions.
Features of DesignCrowd
DesignCrowd offers a variety of features that make it an excellent platform for both designers and clients. Here are some of the key features:
Large and Diverse Design Categories:
DesignCrowd offers a wide range of design services, including logo design, website design, graphic design, t-shirt design, business card design, brochure design, flyer design, and more. Whatever your design needs, from corporate identity to unique illustrations, DesignCrowd has a category that fits your requirements.
Community of Talented Designers:
DesignCrowd has a big community of more than 1 million designers from around the world. Their diverse skills and creativity guarantee that you’ll discover a designer who can make your vision a reality.
Custom Design Contests:
At DesignCrowd, you can start design contests. Multiple designers compete and offer designs based on your brief, giving you many unique options to choose from.
Secure Payment System:
Like other major platforms, DesignCrowd ensures secure transactions, providing a safe environment for both clients and designers.
Quality Assurance:
DesignCrowd provides a money-back guarantee, which assures you of the quality of the designs. If you’re not satisfied with the designs, you can get your money back.
Responsive Customer Support:
DesignCrowd offers dedicated customer support to handle any concerns or questions, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free design process.
User-friendly Platform:
The DesignCrowd platform is easy to navigate, making it simple to post design projects, communicate with designers, and finalize your desired design.
99designs vs Designcrowd
While 99designs and DesignCrowd might look similar, they’re not exactly the same. To figure out the real differences, you’d usually need to spend money on both. But here’s the thing—I’ve already done that for you. In my search for the perfect new logo for Website Planet, I tried both platforms and got logos made. This way, I could see which one gives the most professional results. And let me tell you, I’m pretty picky about quality! Here’s what I found out:
- Both platforms have excellent, easy-to-use interfaces that allow you to post design projects and interact with designers.
- 99designs has a larger community of designers than DesignCrowd.
- DesignCrowd offers more diverse design categories, including niche industries such as tattoo designs and cupcake logos. However, 99designs has a larger variety of subcategories within each design type.
- Both platforms offer custom design contests, where multiple designers compete to create the perfect design for you. However, DesignCrowd’s contest duration is shorter than 99designs’.
- DesignCrowd offers more affordable pricing options for small businesses and individuals.
- In terms of quality, both platforms deliver exceptional results. However, 99designs has a higher likelihood of providing more unique design options due to its larger design community.
- Customer support is responsive and helpful on both platforms, making the design process smooth and efficient.
So we can say that DesignCrowd is a contest-based platform that’s the most similar to 99designs but a cheaper alternative. It’s an online marketplace where nearly a million designers readily offer services in over 50 different categories. Choose DesignCrowd IF you’re on a tight budget and looking for a platform just like 99designs.
Also Read: How to find work without freelance marketplace
10. Behance
Behance is a well-known online platform that acts as a showcase for creative professionals from various fields like graphic design, photography, and illustration. It functions as a social network, enabling designers to display their portfolios and explore the work of others in their industry. With over 18 million members and counting, Behance has become a go-to destination for inspiration and connecting with talented designers.
Features of Behance
Behance offers an array of features that make it a popular platform among creative professionals. These include:
Portfolio Showcase:
Behance provides a visually appealing showcase for designers to display their work in an organized and professional manner. This allows clients to browse and discover new talent easily.
Global Reach:
Being part of the Adobe family, Behance has a worldwide presence, giving designers extensive exposure and chances to connect with potential clients from around the globe.
Networking Opportunities:
Behance operates as a social network for creatives, allowing them to follow and interact with other designers, collaborate on projects, and gain industry insights.
Job Opportunities:
Through the Behance job board, creatives can explore various job opportunities and freelance projects posted by companies and individuals looking to hire talented designers.
Creative Insights:
Behance also offers a section for creative insights, with articles and resources discussing design trends, tips, and other relevant topics for design professionals.
11. Dribbble
Dribbble is a popular online platform that serves as a digital playground for designers of all kinds. It’s a global community where millions of designers and artists showcase their work, get inspired, and connect with potential employers and collaborators. Whether you’re a graphic designer, illustrator, typographer, or web designer, Dribbble is the place to show off your creativity, discover trending designs, and build a professional network in the creative industry.
Features of Dribbble
Dribbble offers many features that make it a top choice for designers and businesses alike. These include:
Showcase Your Work:
Dribbble allows designers to display their work in an organized and visually appealing manner, making it easy for clients to view and discover new talent. Designers can also participate in design challenges and contests to showcase their skills and creativity.
Community Engagement:
With millions of creatives from around the world, Dribbble provides a space for designers to engage with their peers, share knowledge and insights, and support one another’s growth.
Diverse Design Categories:
Whether you’re looking for logo design, branding, web design, or illustration services, Dribbble has a category that caters to your specific design needs. This makes it a one-stop destination for all your design requirements.
Job Opportunities:
Through its job board, Dribbble provides designers with opportunities to connect with potential clients and employers from various industries. This includes full-time, remote, and freelance job positions.
Collaboration Opportunities:
Dribbble’s Pro feature allows designers to collaborate on projects and receive feedback from other professionals, helping them improve their skills and expand their network.
Creative Inspiration:
Dribbble’s popular “shots” section is a hub for the latest design trends, providing designers with inspiration and ideas for their projects. Overall, Dribbble is a valuable resource for any creative looking to showcase their abilities and connect with the design community.
Dribbble Alternatives
Here is a list of a few alternatives to Dribbble:
- Behance
- DeviantArt
- Ello
- Artstation
- Awwwards
12. Reddit
Reddit is a distinctive platform known for its robust community engagement and diverse content. Recognized as the “front page of the internet” Reddit offers a unique blend of content sharing, discussion forums, and experience exchange across an extensive array of topics. From technology to design, cooking to personal finance, the platform houses communities, known as ‘subreddits,’ for virtually every interest imaginable.
Looking to share knowledge, seek advice, or just dive into lively discussions? Reddit’s got you covered! It offers an open and inclusive environment where you can share your experiences and learn from others. Trust me, it’s a fantastic platform to connect and grow!
Features of Reddit
Reddit offers a host of features that make it a unique and versatile platform for users worldwide. Here are some of its key characteristics:
Community-Driven Discussions:
Reddit is known for its lively community-based discussions. Users can join ‘subreddits,’ or specific communities based on their interests, and engage in lively conversations, share ideas, and offer advice.
Diverse Content:
Whether you’re interested in technology, design, cooking, or personal finance, Reddit has it all. The platform boasts a wide range of topics, making it a one-stop destination for learning and sharing about virtually anything.
Upvotes and Downvotes:
Users can vote on posts and comments, pushing the most liked content to the top. This feature encourages quality contributions and makes it easier to find valuable content.
Ask Me Anything (AMA) Sessions:
Reddit’s famous AMAs allow users to interact with celebrities, industry leaders, and experts in various fields. These sessions offer unique opportunities to learn directly from the source.
Sharing and Saving Content:
Users can share their favorite posts and comments with others. If you stumble upon something you like, you can also save it for later viewing.
Overall, Reddit is a platform that offers a unique blend of learning, sharing, and connecting with a global audience.
13. Quora
Imagine a world where questions are answered and diverse perspectives are shared. Welcome to Quora, the global Q&A platform that goes beyond mere information. It’s a thriving marketplace of freelancers, a wealth of insights, and a hub of knowledge-sharing. With Quora, you can tap into the wisdom of experts, engage in thought-provoking discussions, and connect with a vibrant community. It’s time to unleash your expertise and embrace the power of Quora!
How to Find Clients on Quora?
Quora is not just a great source of knowledge and wisdom, but it can also be a valuable resource for finding potential clients if used strategically. To make the most of Quora for client obtaining, follow these steps:
Complete Your Profile:
Start by creating a compelling profile that showcases your expertise in your industry. Include relevant details about your profession, skills, and experiences. Remember, first impressions count.
Identify Relevant Topics and Communities:
Look for topics and questions related to your industry or services. Join Communities and Start answering these questions with insightful responses. This will help establish your authority in your field and attract potential clients.
Provide Value:
Don’t just sell your services outright. Instead, offer value by providing helpful answers. People appreciate expertise and are more likely to reach out to you if they find your content beneficial.
Engage with the Community:
Regularly engage with the Quora community. Comment on other people’s responses, upvote valuable answers and follow experts in your field. This will enhance your visibility on the platform.
Follow Up:
When someone expresses interest or inquires about your services, make sure to follow up promptly. Engage in a conversation and provide further details about how you can assist them.
Remember, client acquisition on Quora is all about providing value and building relationships. By showcasing your expertise regularly and engaging with the community, you are likely to attract potential clients who value your knowledge and are interested in your services.
Features of Quora
Quora offers a variety of features that make it a valuable resource for users worldwide. Here are some of its key characteristics:
Knowledge Sharing and Learning:
Quora is a platform where users can ask questions on a wide range of topics and receive answers from others, including experts in the field. This enables a robust exchange of knowledge and insights.
Topic Following:
Users can follow specific topics that interest them. When a question is posted under these topics, it appears in the user’s feed, increasing the likelihood of a prompt and knowledgeable answer.
Upvotes and Downvotes:
Similar to Reddit, Quora also allows users to vote on answers, promoting quality content to the top.
Spaces:
Quora Spaces are akin to virtual groups or clubs within the platform. Each space is dedicated to a certain topic, and members can share related content within the space.
Blogs:
Users can create their blogs on Quora, providing a platform for longer-form content and thought leadership.
Request Answers:
If a user posts a question and wants a specific person to answer, they can use the “Request Answer” feature to directly solicit input.
In summary, Quora offers a unique platform for knowledge sharing and learning from a diverse, intelligent community.
14. Facebook
Facebook is not only the world’s largest social media platform, but it also serves as an effective marketplace for freelancers. With billions of active users, Facebook offers a vast audience to showcase your skills and services.
Its array of features such as pages, groups, and the marketplace section, allow freelancers to connect with potential clients, engage in community discussions, and even carry out business transactions. This social media giant provides immense opportunities for freelancers from diverse industries to grow their client base and expand their business.
Facebook as a Freelancer Marketplace
Facebook Pages:
Build your professional page to showcase your portfolio, establish your brand, and connect with your audience. A well-managed page can greatly boost your visibility and attract potential clients.
Facebook Groups:
Join groups in your field or create your own. Groups are great for discussions, networking, and knowledge sharing. They can also help you find clients or collaborations.
Facebook Marketplace:
This feature allows you to list your services just like products in an online store. Potential clients can browse the marketplace, and if they’re interested in your service, they can contact you directly through Messenger.
Facebook Ads:
Facebook’s ad system is highly targeted, allowing you to reach potential clients based on their interests, demographics, and behavior. This paid feature can significantly increase your reach and visibility.
Messenger:
Facebook’s integrated messaging system allows for direct and real-time communication with clients. It’s a great tool for discussing project details, sharing updates, and building relationships.
Facebook Live:
Use this feature to host live sessions, webinars, or Q&As. It can help establish your authority in your field and engage your audience in real-time.
Facebook Stories:
Share day-to-day updates or behind-the-scenes glimpses of your work. Stories can help to humanize your brand and engage your audience on a more personal level.
In conclusion, Facebook provides a comprehensive suite of features for freelancers to showcase their services, connect with potential clients, and grow their businesses.
15. Linkedin
LinkedIn is a popular professional networking platform and a powerful marketplace for freelancers. It allows professionals worldwide to connect, work together, and seize valuable opportunities. With its emphasis on networking, LinkedIn is an ideal platform for freelancers to connect with clients, showcase their skills, and establish their reputation.
The combination of networking and job search features makes LinkedIn a top choice for freelancers and businesses in need of specialized skills. Like any other social media platform, it also provides the opportunity to create and share valuable content, engage with others in your field, and build your brand.
LinkedIn for Freelancers
Profile:
Create a professional profile that showcases your skills, experience, and achievements. Use relevant keywords in your headline and summary to make it easier for clients to find you in search results.
Posts and Articles:
LinkedIn allows users to publish content, share updates, and engage with others in their field through posts and articles. This feature can help establish your expertise and attract potential clients.
Ads:
Similar to Facebook, LinkedIn also offers paid advertising options to reach a targeted audience of professionals in your industry or niche.
Groups:
Join groups related to your field, industry, or interests. Network with other professionals, share knowledge and insights and establish connections that may lead to potential collaborations or clients.
Job Search:
LinkedIn’s job search feature allows you to filter by job type, location, and keywords relevant to your skills. It can be a helpful tool in finding freelance opportunities within your desired niche.
ProFinder:
This feature is specifically designed for freelancers and allows businesses to post project requests, while freelancers can submit proposals to bid on these projects.
Best Banks for Freelancers in Pakistan
When you’re freelancing, choosing the right bank becomes more than just a convenience—it becomes a strategic move for your business. As a freelancer in Pakistan, you need a bank that offers flexible banking options, low transaction fees, online banking facilities, and excellent customer service. In the following sections, we’ll explore some of the best banks in Pakistan for freelancers.
1. Allied Bank is one of the first banks in Pakistan to offer digital account opening services to the residents of Pakistan.
2. BOP‘s freelancer digital account is a Current account designed to cater to the needs of independent laborers who earn wages on a per-job or per-task basis.
3. BankIslami Pakistan Limited also offers a wide range of solutions to facilitate I.T Exporters and freelancers.
4. UBL has taken the lead by launching the ‘UBL Freelancer Account’ and empowering freelancers through comprehensive banking solutions that meet their unique needs.
5. SadaPay, a Pakistani Fintech company, announced that their SadaBiz freelancers will now be able to receive payments via Apple Pay.
Best Laptops for Freelancers
Choosing the right laptop is a crucial decision for freelancers, as it can significantly impact productivity, creativity, and overall job satisfaction. In an increasingly digital world, your laptop is not just a tool—it’s your office, your communication link, and your primary resource for work.
Any Laptop with min 8GB RAM, 256GB SSD, and i3 4th gen and with Good Battery time will be sufficient for lightweight operations of freelancers.
PSEB freelancer registration
Here are the steps to register with the PSEB:
- Sign up on the PSEB website to receive a temporary login.
- Complete the online form with all the details and docs required.
- Submit the form along with the necessary documents.
Conclusion
Freelancing is a field that can provide you the freedom to manage your time and living standards. You can work as much as you want and earn a decent amount every month while working a few hours a day. However, I recommend you not rely on a single platform or source of income. Join multiple platforms, build your portfolio, and create a social media presence to pitch to clients.
If your family depends on you for a living, you can start freelancing while doing a job and later switch to full-time Freelancing when your income is stable. Hopefully, the mentioned best freelance websites will help you get started.
