Looking for an Upwork Alternative?

Business owners or non-profit directors often encounter technical or design challenges outside their organization’s expertise. Whether building a new website, designing marketing materials, or even building customer-facing applications, many businesses and non-profits resort to freelancer marketplaces like Upwork for additional help.

But, many are finding that Upwork, Fiverr, and the rest of these low-cost marketplaces are often more trouble than they are worth. The bid prices by freelancers often seem too good to be true, and that’s because they are. In these competitive marketplaces, freelancers are compelled to bid lower and lower, sacrificing fair compensation to secure work, and ultimately the talented freelancers go elsewhere to avoid the race to the bottom.

Clients, lured by the promise of rock-bottom prices, are left to grapple with the adage ‘you get what you pay for,’ facing challenges like unresponsive freelancers, subpar work, and missed deadlines. Often, something cheap turns out to be expensive after factoring in the time you spend managing the project, finding the talent, and chasing them up to complete the work by your deadline.

This article will explain in more detail why you should avoid freelance marketplaces like Upwork and what your alternatives to Upwork are.

The Problem with Upwork

I’ve worked on both sides of the Upwork freelance marketplace as a freelancer and a client. For this post, I’ll focus on my problems from the client side. I’d also like to point out that I’ve found great freelancers on Upwork. However, on the whole, my experience has been poor for the following reasons:

Unhelpful Rating Systems

Having been on the client side of a freelance marketplace like Upwork, I see how aggressively freelancers ask for positive reviews. I’ve been strongarmed into giving a positive review despite having trepidations about their work. It often comes from still needing them to complete further work or not wanting to wreck someone’s livelihood.

One freelancer essentially held his work hostage until we gave him five stars.

Generic or Shoddy Work

This is most obvious in design work on Upwork, particularly with logos. The freelancer bidding on your job might have a great design portfolio, but there’s no guarantee it was them. Or, they use templates that make your designs look exactly like something else.

How to get a logo that’s not generic

Outsourcing the Work

I’ve had freelancers on Upwork who outsource the work to someone else who will do it even cheaper. It soon becomes clear that you’re not dealing with the person doing the job because all your requests are going through a game of telephone.

Lack of Communication and Project Management

Upwork freelancers are super communicative during the bidding process but often disappear as soon as the project starts. It can be very frustrating not knowing the status of your project and having to chase them for updates constantly.

Lying

The most egregious issue with Upwork and other freelance marketplace platforms is flat-out lying. The previously mentioned freelancer who held the work hostage for a positive review also managed to get COVID whenever we asked him why the work was taking longer than promised.

What to Look for in Freelance Platforms

When searching for a freelance platform, there are several key features to consider. These features can make a significant difference in the overall experience and success of both freelancers and clients.

Key Features to Consider

1. Project Management Tools: A top-notch freelance platform should offer robust project management tools. These tools help clients manage their projects efficiently, with features like task assignment, time tracking, and progress monitoring. Effective project management tools can streamline workflows and ensure that projects stay on track.
2. Digital Marketing Services: If your project involves online marketing tasks, look for a platform that offers digital marketing services. This can include SEO, social media management, and content creation. Having access to these services can significantly boost your online presence and help you achieve your marketing goals.
3. Skilled Professionals: The quality of freelancers on a platform is crucial. Look for platforms that have a rigorous hiring process to ensure that only qualified and skilled professionals are listed. A large talent pool of skilled professionals increases the chances of finding the right fit for your project.
4. Service Fees: Service fees can impact both freelancers’ earnings and clients’ budgets. It’s essential to consider the fees charged by the platform. Look for platforms that offer competitive fees and transparent pricing to avoid any unexpected costs.
5. Secure Payment System: A secure payment system is vital for both freelancers and clients. Ensure the platform you choose offers a secure payment system that protects both parties, providing peace of mind and ensuring timely payments.

Factors to Consider When Choosing an Alternative

When choosing an alternative to Upwork, several factors can help you find a platform that meets your specific needs and preferences.

1. Niche-Specific Platforms: Consider platforms that specialize in your niche or industry. These platforms often offer more targeted services and a more focused talent pool, making it easier to find professionals with the specific skills you need.
2. Project Management: Platforms with robust project management tools can help you manage your projects more efficiently. Look for features like task assignment, time tracking, and progress monitoring to keep your projects on track.
3. Digital Marketing Services: If you need help with online marketing tasks, consider platforms that offer digital marketing services. These services can help you improve your online presence and achieve your marketing objectives.
4. Talented Professionals: A platform with a large pool of talented professionals increases your chances of finding the right fit for your project. Look for platforms that have a rigorous hiring process to ensure high-quality talent.
5. Service Fees: Service fees can significantly impact your budget. Look for platforms that offer competitive and transparent pricing to avoid any unexpected costs.

What are the Upwork Alternatives

Depending on the work you need, there are several places to get quality design and technical work done outside of a freelance marketplace like Upwork.

Agencies

Agencies like Peak Digital Studio are great alternatives to a freelance marketplace like Upwork. We generally have websites with our prior work, customer testimonials, and case studies, so you can contact references before starting a project.

We even have transparent pricing or affordable subscription services for website packages or ongoing design work.

Book a call with us to start your website or design project

With agencies, you can be more sure of their skills the deliverables, and that they aren’t going to go incommunicado. After all, they have a brand to protect.

Go Direct to Skilled Professionals

Finding talented professionals directly is most straightforward when you can better judge their work, such as a designer. For example, if you’re looking for a logo, you can visit a site like Dribbble and look through portfolios to find someone who meets your standards.

Post a Job Description Outside of Freelance Platforms

Instead of trying to source freelancers from a freelance marketplace like Upwork, post the job description on traditional channels, like LinkedIn, your local job board, or an industry-specific job board. Posting job descriptions on these traditional channels can help attract top talent, ensuring high-quality work and better project outcomes. Set the budget you’re happy with, and interview the people over Zoom and get their references. It might seem like more work than just posting to Upwork and finding the cheapest option available, but generally, in the long run, you’ll save time, money, and heartache.

Other Freelance Platforms

If you are set on using freelancing platforms, then there are several to consider, each with their own pros and cons.

Freelancer

About: Freelancer is a platform where freelancers bid on projects posted by clients. It covers a broad spectrum of industries

Pros:

• Diverse range of projects.
• Allows freelancers to showcase their skills through contests.

Cons:

• Competitive bidding can drive down prices.
• Reports of scam jobs.

Link: Freelancer

Fiverr

About: Fiverr uses a "gig" system where freelancers offer specific services at set prices, starting from $5. It's popular among creative professionals

Pros:

• Easy to set up and start selling services.
• Payment integration simplifies transactions.

Cons:

• High commission fees.
• Can be challenging to stand out due to the large number of sellers.

Link: Fiverr

Toptal

About: Toptal is tailored for top-tier freelancers in software development, design, and finance. It focuses on connecting clients with the top 3% of freelancers

Pros:

• Access to high-quality clients and projects.
• No fees for freelancers.

Cons:

• Rigorous screening process to join.
• Limited to specific fields.

Link: Toptal

Guru

About: Guru provides a platform for freelancers to showcase their portfolios and collaborate directly with

Pros:

• Flexible payment options (hourly, fixed price, etc.).
• Secure payment system with SafePay.

Cons:

• Fees can be high depending on membership level.
• Smaller client base compared to other platforms.

Link: Guru

PeoplePerHour

About: PeoplePerHour specializes in web development projects, marketing, writing, and design. It allows freelancers to create customizable service packages

Pros:

• Focus on creative industries.
• Flexibility in setting service packages.

Cons:

• High competition in popular categories.
• Service fees can be significant.

Link: PeoplePerHour

99designs

About: 99designs is dedicated to designers. It hosts design contests where freelancers compete based on client briefs

Pros:

• Great for building a portfolio through contests.
• Access to a community of designers.

Cons:

• Income can be inconsistent due to contest-based work.
• High competition among designers.

Link: 99designs

FlexJobs

About: FlexJobs focuses on remote and flexible jobs across various categories. It's ideal for freelancers seeking project-based or part-time work

Pros:

• Thoroughly vetted job listings.
• Variety of job types available.

Cons:

• Subscription fee required for access.
• Not exclusively freelance-focused; includes part-time jobs as well.

Link: FlexJobs

Tips for Success on Freelance Platforms

Effective Communication

Communicate your project requirements clearly to avoid misunderstandings, and respond quickly to messages and inquiries. High responsiveness can improve your visibility and attractiveness to potential freelancers

Set Realistic Pricing

Remember, you get what you pay for! Understand the going rates for your services by researching what others charge, not just on these platforms, but outside of them as well. This helps you set competitive yet fair pricing.

Conclusion

Unhelpful rating systems, generic work, outsourced projects, poor communication, and dishonest practices underscore the need for a more reliable and transparent approach to hiring freelancers outside of a freelance marketplace.

Agencies like Peak Digital Studio offer an alternative. We provide transparency, accountability, and a commitment to quality that’s often missing in the gig economy. We protect our client's brand integrity and prioritize customer satisfaction, offering assurance that’s hard to find in a marketplace like Upwork.

For those who prefer a more hands-on approach, going directly to individual freelancers or using traditional job posting channels can be a more effective strategy. This approach allows for better vetting, transparent communication, and realistic expectations of the work and process.

Ultimately, whether you choose an agency, directly approach freelancers, or use traditional job posting methods, the key is prioritizing quality, communication, and a fair working relationship. Doing so, you avoid the pitfalls of low-cost marketplaces and their race to the bottom.

Remember, investing a little more time and resources upfront in finding the proper help can save you considerable time, money, and frustration in the long run.

Freelance Platform FAQs

Why hire freelancers?

Hiring freelancers allows businesses to access specialized skills on a flexible, project-by-project basis without the commitment of hiring full-time staff. This can be cost-effective and efficient, especially for short-term projects or tasks that require niche expertise.

Why do companies hire freelancers?

Companies hire freelancers to fill skill gaps, manage fluctuating workloads, or complete projects that require specific expertise. Freelancers provide flexibility, allowing companies to scale up or down as needed without long-term employment obligations.

How to hire freelancers?

To hire freelancers, first clearly define the project scope, timeline, and budget. Then, look for candidates through platforms like LinkedIn, specialized job boards, or by contacting agencies and professionals directly. Always review their portfolios, request references, and conduct interviews to ensure they are a good fit.

Where to hire freelancers?

Freelancers can be hired from various platforms, such as LinkedIn, Dribbble (for designers), or job boards tailored to specific industries. Additionally, many businesses hire freelancers directly through agencies or by posting jobs on local or industry-specific job boards.

Where to post freelance services?

If you're offering freelance services, platforms like LinkedIn, Dribbble, and traditional job boards are good options. You can also advertise your services on personal websites or industry-specific forums to attract clients looking for your expertise.

Where can I hire freelancers?

Freelancers can be hired through various online platforms, agencies, or by posting job descriptions on platforms like LinkedIn or local job boards. Agencies like Peak Digital Studio are also a reliable source for vetted professionals.