
3 Freelance Websites To Promote Your Side Hustle
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Get Started1. What are the top 3 freelance websites to promote your side hustle?
1. Fiverr
Fiverr has established itself as a leading platform for freelancers to find work. It is particularly useful for creative professionals such as designers, writers, and marketers. The website allows you to create a gig in which you describe your services and set your own fees.
- Pricing: You keep 80% of each transaction.
- Benefits: You can offer a basic gig and then upsell with add-on services.
2. Upwork
Upwork is a very popular and widely used freelancing platform that caters to a broader range of professionals including developers, designers, writers, sales and marketing experts, accountants and consultants.
Pricing | Benefits |
---|---|
20% for the first $500 billed with the client, 10% for lifetime billings with the client between $500.01 and $10,000, and 5% for lifetime billings with the client that exceed $10,000. | It offers a variety of work arrangements such as hourly, part-time or full-time contracts. |
3. Toptal
Toptal, short for Top Talent, is a freelance website that brags about having the top 3% of freelance talent. This platform is for seasoned, experienced freelancers who have gone through a rigorous selection process. It's great for those professionals in the field of software development, design, finance, and project management.
- Pricing: Not disclosed as it varies depending on the project complexity.
- Benefits: Great platform for experienced experts who want to work with top-tier clients.
2. How can I effectively promote my side hustle on freelance websites?
Choosing the Right Platform
When it comes to promoting your side hustle on freelance websites, the first step is to choose the most suitable platform. There are numerous websites available, and the best one for you depends on your specific skills or project. A few popular options are:
- UpWork: This is a fantastic platform for freelance writers, translators, web developers, and many more. When you complete a project, the client leaves a review, helping you to build your reputation.
- Fiverr: One of the largest freelancing platforms, ideal if your side hustle is a creative one such as graphic design, songwriting, or video production.
- Freelancer: A global platform catering to professionals in various fields such as IT, marketing, writing, and design.
Presentation and Visibility
Once you've chosen a platform, the next step is to ensure that your profile stands out. Craft a compelling bio that highlights your skills, experiences, and offers a glimpse into your personality.
Components | Description |
---|---|
Profile Picture | An eye-catching, professional photo that signifies a warm approach, fostering trust and credibility. |
Headline | A compelling headline that quickly explains your main service or skills. |
Portfolio | A showcase of your best works - it's important to keep this updated and relevant to attract potential clients. |
Client Interaction
Finally, the way you interact with potential clients greatly influences the success of your side hustle. Always communicate with clients promptly, address their concerns and provide comprehensive answers to their questions.
- Engagement: Reply promptly to messages and maintain open communication.
- Professionalism: Always conduct business in a respectful and courteous manner.
- Quality: Consistent, high-quality work is a sure way to earn stellar reviews and build a reputation.
3. Which freelance websites offer the most visibility for my side hustle?
Fiverr
An outstanding freelancer website, Fiverr certainly provides much-desired visibility for your side hustle. Boasting over 3.4 million active buyers, you can showcase your side hustle on a global scale. From graphic design to writing, programming, digital marketing, and more, the platform accepts a plethora of skills.
- Broad-spectrum of job categories
- Freedom to set your prices
- Access to millions of buyers
Table:
Pros | Cons | ||
---|---|---|---|
Global reach | Competition can be stiff | ||
Freedom to set your prices | 20% commission on all earnings |
Pros | Cons | ||
---|---|---|---|
Access to a secure payment system | 20% commission on the first $500 billed with the client | ||
Ability to showcase past work | High competition |
Pros | Cons | ||
---|---|---|---|
Provides networking opportunities | No in-platform payment system | ||
Gives a professional outlook | Member fee after 15 free proposals |
Website | Sign Up Cost | Fee Structure |
---|---|---|
Upwork | Free | 20% for the first $500, 10% for $500.01 to $10,000, 5% above $10,000 |
Fiverr | Free | 20% flat fee on all earnings |
The third platform is Freelancer. It is free to join and offers free as well as paid membership options. For free members, for every project, the fee is 10% or $5, whichever is greater. For hourly projects, it's 10%. On paid memberships, fee structures vary.
6. Can I promote multiple side hustles on these freelance websites?
Multiple Side Hustles Promotion on Freelance Websites
Yes, you certainly can promote multiple side hustles on these freelance websites. These platforms are flexible and allow you to offer a variety of services based on your skills and expertise. However, it's essential that each service is clearly defined and separated. Having multiple side hustles on a single platform can increase your visibility and potential for earning.
Freelance Websites Overview
Website | Multiple Service Support | Notable Feature |
---|---|---|
Upwork | Yes | Allows you to separate different services into different 'Job Categories' |
Fiverr | Yes | Allows you to create different 'Gigs' for each service |
Freelancer | Yes | Uses 'Skills' tags to differentiate your services |
Effective Promotion of Multiple Side Hustles
- Separate Your Services: Ensure each service you offer is clearly separated. This allows clients to easily find and understand the specific service they need.
- Clear Descriptions: Be explicit in describing what each service entails. Include details such as what the client can expect and turnaround time.
- Display Portfolio: Showcase your previous work relevant to each service. This gives the client a taste of what you can do.
7. What kind of side hustles are best suited for these freelance websites?
Freelance Websites Suitable for Various Side Hustles
Finding the right platform for your skills might be challenging. However, sites such as UpWork, Fiverr, and Freelancer are versatile platforms ideal for a variety of side hustles. They cater to different fields, from graphic design to writing, from software development to digital marketing, and much more.
UpWork, Fiverr, and Freelancer: Side Hustles Breakdown
Website | Best Suited For |
---|---|
UpWork | Software Development, Writing, Design & Art, Sales & Marketing, Admin Support |
Fiverr | Graphic Design, Digital Marketing, Writing & Translation, Video & Animation, Music & Audio |
Freelancer | Website Development, Logo Design, SEO, Data Entry, 3D Modelling & CAD |
Choosing the Side Hustle that Fits Your Skills
When choosing a side hustle, always consider your skills and interests. Here are some suggestions:
- Creative professionals: Graphic and Web Designing, Video Editing, Animation, and Digital Art Creation.
- Technical specialists: Software or App Development, Website Development, SEO Specialist, and IT consulting.
- Writers: Content Writing, Blogging, Editing, Proofreading, and eBook writing.
- Marketing experts: Digital Marketing, Social Media Management, SEO Management, and PPC Advertising.
Remember, the key is to leverage your existing skills and find a platform that matches your expertise. Elevate your side hustle game by choosing the right freelance website to promote your skills.
8. How does payment work on these freelance platforms when promoting my side hustle?
Fiverr
On Fiverr, payments are straightforward. When you create a gig for your side hustle, you set the price. Clients, also known as buyers, will place orders on your gig and in the process, Fiverr holds the payment. After delivering and completing an order successfully, Fiverr releases the payment to your account, minus a 20% commission. You can withdraw your earnings to PayPal, direct to your bank, or Fiverr's revenue card. The payment terms are:
- Waiting period: 14 days after order completion.
- Payment methods: PayPal, Bank Transfer, Fiverr Revenue Card.
- Commission: 20% on every order.
Upwork
Upwork has a more complex payment system. When you land a project on Upwork, the client deposits the project funds into an escrow account. Here, the money is held until the work is completed and the client is satisfied. Only then will the client release the funds to your Upwork account. The following table shows detailed payment information:
Payment Schedule | Payment Method | Commissions |
---|---|---|
Hourly jobs: Weekly Fixed rates: Upon project completion | Direct to local bank, ACH direct deposit, wire transfer, PayPal, Payoneer | 20% for the first $500 billed with the client 10% for lifetime billings with the client between $500.01 and $10,000 5% for lifetime billings with the client that exceed $10,000 |
Freelancer
Freelancer works more like Upwork when it comes to payments. Clients deposit funds into milestone payments, which are essentially escrow accounts. The money is only released to the freelancer when the client is fully satisfied. Here are more details:
- Payment Schedule: As per agreement with client.
- Payment Method: PayPal, Skrill, Freelancer debit card.
- Commissions: 10% or $5, whichever is greater.
9. How can I ensure my side hustle stands out on these freelance websites?
Highlighting Unique Selling Points
One effective way to ensure your side hustle stands out on freelance websites is by emphasizing your unique selling points. Be concise and specific about your skills and experiences. Do not forget to mention if you have won any awards or have any recognitions.
- Offer a unique service that sets you apart from the competition. For example, instead of offering general writing services, you might specialize in environmental topics or technology.
- Highlight any special qualifications or credentials you have. This can help you stand out from the crowd.
Creating a Professional Profile
A professional-looking profile is also key in standing out on these freelance websites. Freelancers often underestimate the impact a well-crafted profile can have on their visibility and attractiveness to potential clients. So, take the time to create a well-organized, visually appealing, and comprehensive profile.
Profile Element | How to Optimize |
---|---|
Profile Picture | Choose a clear, professional-looking photo that conveys your seriousness and commitment. |
Headline and Summary | Use compelling, salient information in your headline and summary to quickly grab attention and interest. |
Portfolio | Display high-quality examples of your work that directly relate to the services you offer. |
Focusing on Client Relationships
Your relationship with clients can also make your side hustle stand out. Building a good reputation can increase your visibility on the platform, and positive feedback from clients can significantly boost your appeal to potential clients.
- Please respond promptly and professionally to potential client inquiries. Excellent customer service can distinguish you from other freelancers.
- Ask satisfied clients to leave positive reviews. Good reviews can enhance your reputation on the platform.
10. What are some success stories of people promoting their side hustles on these freelance websites?
Success Stories On Freelancer
A noteworthy story on Freelancer is of a Canadian developer who took on a small job building a website, which later turned into a full-fledged, thriving online business. Another example consists of a New York graphic designer who, after initially working part-time, managed to quit her day job and triple her income, thanks to consistent gigs she gathered on Freelancer. In addition, a tech enthusiast from the UK took on a pipelining project in Africa, which expanded his professional network and drastically amplified his skills and experience.
Name | Location | Jobs taken | Outcome |
---|---|---|---|
Canadian developer | Canada | web development | Started successful online business |
New York graphic designer | USA | graphic design projects | Tripled income |
British tech enthusiast | UK | pipelining project | Amplified skills and experience |
Success Stories On Upwork
Upwork has a share of success stories, such as an Indian app developer who has earned over $160,000 by taking mobile app development projects. Another freelancer from the Philippines began writing resumes and managed to make more than $30,000 while refining her writing skills. Furthermore, a Serbian software developer turned his side job into a professional career, earning over $1 million on Upwork alone.
Name | Location | Jobs taken | Outcome |
---|---|---|---|
Indian app developer | India | mobile app development | Earned over $160,000 |
Philippine resume writer | Philippines | resume writing | Earned over $30,000 |
Serbian software developer | Serbia | software development | Earned over $1 million |
Success Stories On Fiverr
The success stories from Fiverr includes a Brazilian artist who has earned more than $10,000 by selling her art. A digital marketer from Jamaica managed to make over $20,000 by offering his marketing services. Finally, a voice-over artist from the UK, with an outstanding voice, managed to earn a six-figure income on Fiverr.
Name | Location | Jobs taken | Outcome |
---|---|---|---|
Brazilian artist | Brazil | Art selling | Earned over $10,000 |
Jamaican digital marketer | Jamaica | Marketing services | Earned over $20,000 |
British voice-over artist | UK | Voice-over services | Earned six-figure income |
Conclusion
Finding the Right Freelance Website for Your Side Hustle
Freelancing can serve as a lucrative side hustle that provides extra income and allows you to utilize your skills to the fullest. Various websites offer a platform for connecting freelancers with potential clients. Here are three sites designed to help you maximize your success in this venture:
1. Upwork
With a vast global network of professionals and clients, Upwork caters to freelancers of all expertise levels. It offers secure and convenient payment options, and its job categories range from writing to programming to marketing.
2. Fiverr
Fiverr has gained popularity due to its straightforward structure: freelancers sell services as 'gigs' starting at a $5 minimum. This pricing flexibility enables freelancers to set up shop with minimal stress, making it an excellent choice for beginners.
3. Freelancer
Freelancer offers a vast array of job categories, from website design to mobile app development. This site highlights the competitive aspect of freelancing, with clients often hosting contests for freelancers to submit their best work.
Fine-Tuning Your Freelance Management with Retainr.io
Once you've chosen your platform and started receiving orders, consider utilizing a software like Retainr.io to streamline your workflow. As a whitelabel software, Retainr offers an all-in-one solution for managing your freelance business. It's designed to help you sell your services, manage your clients, handle orders, and process payments, all under your own brand.
With Retainr.io, you have complete control of your freelance business with an easy-to-use interface that simplifies every aspect of your work. With your Own Branded App, it's never been easier to manage your clients and showcase your work. Transform your side hustle into a full-blown business with Retainr.io.
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