Most people misunderstand the concept of “Freelancing.” They think they must work on freelancing websites such as Upwork, Fiverr, Toptal, etc. But that’s not always the case.
If you want to develop & establish your career as a freelancer, stop depending on freelancing marketplaces.
Some people do freelancing as a part-time job, while others do it as their full-time job, which is their primary source of income.
Why you should not work on freelancing websites?
In this post, I will discuss full-time freelancers, why they should not depend on freelance websites, and how they can establish their careers as freelancers.
Overcrowded platforms
All the freelancing websites/marketplaces are overcrowded. Landing your first job takes a lot of time, and it’s very hard to get jobs regularly.
There is huge competition for downgrading the prices and getting (begging) reviews.
Marketplace commissions & long time clearing period
A large amount of marketplace commissions (generally 20%) and a long time wait to get the fund in your hand (normally 14 days clearing period).
After you complete a project, you receive 80% of the order, and the freelancing website receives a 20% commission.
Also, you don’t get the funds immediately, even after completing the order. The funds are added to a clearing period, generally taking 14 days to release the money.
Unwanted disputes and revisions
It’s obvious to receive disputes over some of your orders. A few of them may be legitimate, but some scammers make disputes by intention. I came across many different cases like this on Fiverr and Upwork.
Most importantly, the clients are always correct in freelancing marketplaces. Many buyers don’t want to understand ‘Scope & Out of Scope‘ and ask for many revisions, which are not worth the freelancer’s time.
If you go through any dispute process, the freelancer never wins.
I can list 50 more reasons, but you got the idea and understood the environment.
Where exactly should you work as a freelancer?
Don’t get me wrong! I never told you to stop working on freelance marketplaces. I said, “Do not depend on them.” That means you should not rely on or trust them completely.
You can work on freelancing websites when you find/get a job without much trouble. If a client sends a message to you, just follow up with them and try to make a conversion on the marketplace. But do not hang on with finding jobs in freelancing marketplaces.
Everyone wants to establish their career. It’s not easy, and that’s why most freelancers give up. They lose a lot of time, effort, and energy.
Be your boss and take full advantage of freelancing
But if you put your most effort into your website, it will help you grow your career consistently and get clients regularly.
Use your website for freelance work instead of depending on marketplaces. This is the most reliable & efficient way to become a successful freelancer.
You’re the boss of your website; no one can hijack your reputation or rank from there.
It takes a lot of time and effort to become a reputable freelancer on marketplaces. Most of the freelancing marketplaces have level or rank systems, such as rising talent, level 1, 2, top-rated, etc.
There is no guarantee that you will always be in the top position. A single refund or order cancellation may drop your rank.
How to start your freelancing website?
Freelancing refers to working independently, so you don’t have to wait for sine die to get orders on marketplaces.
Your job is to create opportunities, not wait for them. So go ahead and buy a domain and hosting today and start building your personal website.
Your website does not need to be super fancy or gorgeous. Just make sure people can feel comfortable reading the text, the information is helpful, your site is easy to navigate, and it works well on mobile devices. That’s it!
Content is always powerful, and it should be your top priority. So put your highest effort into the content.
Clearly describe the services you offer, your past work samples, how to contact you, the prices, the payment methods, terms of services & refund policy, and visitor/client’s privacy policy. Okay enough!
Should you do marketing for your freelance marketplace profile?
Simply no. Because you’re almost paying them 20% commission for driving clients to you.
Instead, if you are capable and curious enough, you can market your business website. At least, it will help your business grow.
Most freelance marketplaces tell you to share your profile and service catalog on social media. This means they are encouraging you to market for their platform.
That’s why many unsmart people pop up on social media with their crazy links. Don’t do it because it’s not professional and is not accepted by others.
How much time does it take to get clients from your website?
Normally, 6 months. Do not just sit there after creating your freelancing website. Keep posting on your website/blog regularly. At least two posts per week, and every post should cover a full topic.
If you follow the above guidelines, you may start getting clients from your website after/within six months.
Conclusion
Do not depend on freelance marketplaces to establish your freelance career. To become a successful freelancer, work for your business website. Do not leave the freelance marketplace completely until your website is established.
