Are you a freelancer looking for work? If so, you may be considering using a freelance platform such as Upwork or Fiverr. However, before you do, there are some things you should know. While these platforms can be helpful for finding work, they also have a lot of issues. In this blog post, we’ll discuss some problems with freelance platforms and why it may be better to find work without them. Stay tuned!
The Actual Problem with Freelance Platforms
There are a number of freelance platforms out there that allow people to find work and make money. However, these platforms often have a number of issues that can make them difficult to use. For example, many platforms charge high fees for users to list their services or apply for jobs. Additionally, these platforms often have a low success rate for actually connecting freelancers with clients who are looking for their services.
As a result, it can be difficult to find work using these platforms. It is often better to look for work without using freelance platforms. This can be done by networking with people in your field or searching online job boards. Additionally, many businesses are now turning to social media to find freelance workers, so this can be another good option to explore. By taking the time to look for work outside of freelance platforms, you will likely have more success in finding good quality work that meets your needs.
Centralized Systems
Specific companies own Freelance platforms, making money from each sale of a freelancer. These platforms can be very unpredictable and they can ban freelancers at any time for not following their policies, resulting in Years of effort and hard work lost overnight. It is important for freelancers to be aware of the risks involved in using these platforms. While they can be a great way to make money, they can also be very volatile and unpredictable. Freelancers should always be prepared for the possibility that their accounts could be banned at any time.
Commission
Freelance platforms typically take a cut of each sale that you make, which can eat into your profits. Fortunately, there are ways to get around this. One way is to find clients outside these platforms. This can be done by networking or through online directories. Another way is to negotiate lower fees with the platform. This is often possible if you’re a high-volume seller. By taking these steps, you can save money on freelance platform fees and keep more of your hard-earned cash.
Compromise on Prices
As a freelancer, I’ve often found myself in the position of having to compromise on prices in order to compete for projects on freelance platforms. It’s an unfortunate reality of the freelance world that there is always someone who is willing to work for less than you. As a result, it can be difficult to get the projects that you really want, or to earn the rates that you feel you deserve. In order to be successful on freelance platforms, it’s important to be realistic about your pricing. If you’re not willing to lower your rates, then you might have to accept that you won’t always be the successful bidder on every project. However, by being mindful of your pricing and staying competitive, you can still land some great projects and earn a good living as a freelancer.
How to get Clients without Freelance Platforms
Stay connected with your previous Clients
As a freelancer, one of the most important things you can do is stay connected with your previous clients. This not only helps to build a reputation and get repeat business, but it also makes it easier to find new clients. The different ways to stay connected with your previous clients are freelance platforms, social media, and email newsletters. Freelance platforms like Upwork and Fiverr provide a built-in messaging system to stay in touch with your previous clients. You can also use social media and freelance platforms to post updates about your work. Finally, email newsletters are a great way to keep your clients up-to-date on your latest projects. By staying connected with your previous clients, you can build long-lasting relationships that will benefit both you and your business.
Social media platforms
Social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram can be great ways to attract new clients, especially for freelance professionals. By sharing your work and connecting with potential clients on these platforms, you can reach a larger audience than you would through traditional marketing channels. Additionally, social media provides an easy way for potential clients to learn more about your work and contact you directly. Finally, many freelance platforms now allow users to connect their social media accounts, making it even easier for potential clients to find and hire you. With a little effort, you can use social media to get more clients and grow your freelance business.
Related: How to Make Money with Social Media Marketing
Offline Marketing
Offline marketing can be just as effective as online marketing. One way to promote your business offline is by visiting different companies in your city and leaving business cards. You can also post flyers in public places like coffee shops and laundromats. Another way to market your business offline is by taking out ads in local newspapers or on community bulletin boards. You can also participate in local trade shows and fairs. By getting your name and face out there, you’ll be able to attract more customers and grow your business.
Projects from Reference
As a freelance web developer, I often get new projects by staying connected with clients that I have worked with in the past. By keeping in touch and being available for new work, I’m usually able to get repeat business from satisfied clients. Additionally, I also use freelance platforms to find new clients. By bidding on relevant projects and showcasing my previous work, I’ve been able to expand my client base and get more work. In the freelance world, it’s important to be proactive in order to get the best projects. By staying connected with past clients and using freelance platforms, I’ve been able to get great work and grow my business.
Starting your own Company
Entrepreneurship is not for the faint of heart. It takes a lot of hard work, dedication, and determination to start and grow your own company. However, the rewards can be great. When you are your own boss, you have the freedom to choose your own projects and set your own hours. If you are thinking about starting your own company, First, you need to come up with a business idea. What product or service will you offer? Who is your target market? Once you have a solid business plan in place, you need to raise capital. This can be done through partners, investors, or loans. Once you have the necessary funding in place, you can start working on your project.
Read More: How to Make money with TikTok
Conclusion
It’s hard to make a case for freelancing platforms when you consider the benefits of working outside them. The freedom to work from anywhere, set your own rates, and build a client base without restrictions are some reasons many people choose to freelance outside these platforms. If you’re looking for more control over your business and career, then it may be time to ditch the freelancing platform and go it alone.
