Freelancer’s Guide to Alternative Job Marketplaces

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SelfGood Team
upwork competitors, digital marketing, upwork alternatives, sites like upwork

Are you a freelancer in search of additional job marketplaces and platforms? As a freelancer, you face many challenges, like finding a steady stream of clients and navigating employment regulations. Finding the right job marketplaces is essential for managing your career. Many freelancers know Upwork and its capabilities. However, plenty of other job marketplace platforms are available. Explore their pros and cons that could enhance your freelance journey.

First, go into depth about the 15 most popular Upwork competitors. Learn how they compare fees, payment options, support services, customer ratings, and more! Then, read on for an overview of some great solutions. Finally, expand your avenues for acquiring digital project opportunities with Alternative Job Marketplaces.


1. Fiverr

Alternative Job Marketplaces

Many freelance Alternative Job Marketplaces are available. Two of the most popular are Fiverr and Upwork. So, how do they compare? Let’s look at fees, payments, services offered, and more to understand better how these two platforms measure up.

Fees

The fees charged by Fiverr and Upwork vary depending on the services you offer and the price you set. On Fiverr, the fee is 20% of each transaction. So, if you want to provide a service that costs $100, you will only receive $80 in payment since 20% ($20) will be deducted as the fee.

On Upwork, the fees range between 5-20% depending on your total earnings with them. The cost is calculated based on your entire payments within a billing period. It starts at 5% for anything under $500 but increases as your earning increases.

Payment Methods

Fiverr offers three methods for receiving payments from clients—PayPal, Direct Deposit (for those living in certain countries), or Payoneer (for international transactions). It takes 14 days after the order is marked “complete” before funds are available for withdrawal via PayPal or Payoneer. With Direct Deposit, it takes 2-5 business days after an order is marked “complete” before funds are available.

Upwork offers three payment methods—PayPal, Dwolla (U.S.-based clients only), or direct deposit into an eligible bank account (U.S., U.K., Australia). Payments take 3-5 business days after the client approves an invoice.

Services Offered – Alternative Job Marketplace

One of the main differences between Fiverr and Upwork is the variety of services offered on each platform. Fiverr specializes in digital services such as graphic design, website development/design, SEO optimization, audio/video production & editing, etc. On Upwork, more extensive projects such as software engineering are offered alongside digital services like graphic design & website development/designing.

Fiverr and Upwork have advantages when offering freelance services online. However, which works best for you depends mainly on what kind of services you’re interested in providing or looking for.

Suppose you specialize in digital services such as graphic design and web development/design. Then Fiverr may be a better fit due to its wide range of options. At the same time, if you specialize in larger freelance gigs such as software engineering. Then Upwork might be more suitable due to its variety of projects offered there and its slightly lower fees than Fiverr once your total earnings exceed $500 per billing period.

Ultimately it boils down to personal preference. Both Alternative Job Marketplaces have pros and cons, so research each one thoroughly before deciding which works best for you!


2. PeoplePerHour

If you’re looking for an Alternative Job Marketplace that offers quality talent at competitive prices. Then PeoplePerHour might be just what you need. It is an online marketplace that connects businesses with freelance professionals worldwide. So whether you are looking for graphic designers, writers, or web developers, PeoplePerHour has something for everyone. But first, look at what it offers and how it compares with Upwork.

Services Offered

PeoplePerHour offers various services, from creative design and marketing to development and consulting. Businesses can find help on specific projects up to fully outsourced teams for longer-term projects. They also offer access to various tools, such as project planning software and payment protection plans. So businesses can protect their investments and ensure the timely delivery of projects.

Comparing Fees

One of the most significant advantages of using PeoplePerHour is its low fees compared to other freelance job sites like Upwork. While Upwork charges 20% commission per hire, PeoplePerHour only charges 5%. This makes it much more affordable for businesses to hire freelancers through this platform than other job sites like Upwork.

Payments – Alternative Job Marketplace

PeoplePerHour also offers secure payments via credit cards, PayPal, or bank transfers so businesses can pay freelancers without worrying about security or fraud. They also provide an escrow system that allows companies to pay for projects in installments so that they don’t have to worry about freelancers taking their money and running away with it before completing the project.

Overall, PeoplePerHour is an excellent alternative to Upwork for those looking for quality freelance talent at competitive prices. In addition, with its low fees, secure payments system, and range of services offered, it is sure to be an excellent option for businesses looking to outsource their work or hire freelance professionals. So if you are looking for an Upwork alternative freelance marketplace, consider giving PeoplePerHour a try!


3. Toptal

Guide to Alternative Job Marketplaces

In the modern global economy, freelance work is increasingly becoming a viable option for many individuals looking to make money on their terms. However, finding a reliable platform to connect freelancers to potential clients can be complex. Enter Toptal, a freelance marketplace that has quickly become one of the most popular Upwork alternatives in recent years.

Services Offered – Alternative Job Marketplace

Toptal offers various services, from software development to web design. Most notably, it is one of the few platforms where freelancers can find high-paying jobs without paying upfront fees. This makes it particularly attractive for those with limited financial resources looking for lucrative opportunities outside traditional 9-5 employment. Furthermore, Toptal prides itself on its rigorous vetting process, ensuring that only top-tier talent is accepted onto the platform. That gives potential clients peace of mind when hiring freelancers.

Comparing Fees and Payments

Unlike other Upwork competitors like Fiverr or Freelancer, Toptal does not charge any upfront fees to use its platform. That’s a significant plus for freelancers who may not have much money available at the start of their project. Instead, they charge a 20% fee on each job completed through their service. That’s significantly lower than most other platforms (Upwork charges anywhere from 10%-20%). What’s more, payments are typically sent out within 24 hours after the completion of each job. So, it’s straightforward for freelancers to collect their earnings quickly and easily.

All in all, Toptal is among the best Upwork alternative and other freelance marketplaces out there. Their no-fee policy makes it accessible to freelancers regardless of financial resources. At the same time, their rigorous vetting process ensures that only top-tier talent gets accepted onto the platform. That gives potential clients peace of mind when hiring through them.


4. Guru

As the freelance industry grows, an ever-expanding range of options is available to those seeking work. Among these options is Guru, a popular online Alternative Job Marketplace that allows service providers to search for and find freelance projects.

Services Offered

Guru offers its users a wide variety of services from which to choose. So whether you’re looking for a digital marketing expert, a project manager, or a freelance writer, you’ll be able to find someone who can meet your needs on Guru. In addition, the platform allows users to access a vast network of top professionals in their chosen fields. This makes it easy for employers to find skilled professionals who can help them complete their projects quickly and efficiently.

Fees & Payments

Regarding fees and payments, Guru freelancers get some of the most competitive rates in the industry. Unlike other freelancing platforms such as Upwork, where costs are often charged per hour or project completed, Guru charges only a flat monthly fee, depending on the plan selected. That means employers can easily create ongoing relationships with reliable service providers without worrying about paying high hourly or project fees each time they need something done. Additionally, payment processing is handled securely via PayPal or Stripe, so employers can rest assured that their payments are safe and secure.

So, if you’re looking for an Upwork alternative with competitive rates and better security measures, look no further than Guru! With its wide range of services provided by top professionals in their respective fields and its flat monthly fee structure instead of hourly or project fees, it’s no wonder why so many employers are turning to Guru when they need quality freelance work done quickly and securely.


5. Freelancer.com

This Alternative Job Marketplace offers services for various professionals and specialties, including graphic and website designers, freelance writers, and so much more. With its simple hiring process, low fees, and secure payment system, this platform quickly becomes the go-to source for finding freelance jobs. So let’s take a closer look at what Freelancer.com has to offer!

Services Offered

Freelancer.com prides itself on offering extensive services for freelancers and employers alike. So whether you are a professional needing extra work or someone looking to hire talented individuals from around the world, this platform has something for everyone. Graphic designers can create stunning graphics for websites. Writers can provide quality content. Web developers can build responsive websites. App developers can develop robust mobile applications — endless possibilities!

With its vast user base of over 14 million members in over 247 countries and territories worldwide, you can find the perfect match for your project needs with Freelancer.com.

Fees

One of the most significant advantages of using Freelancer is that it offers competitive fees compared to other marketplaces like Upwork or Fiverr. The basic plan is free with no subscription fee. However, if you want access to advanced features like unlimited projects and skills tests, consider an additional $2 monthly. Additionally, they only charge a 10% commission on each successful project (compared with 20-30% commission charged by other marketplaces). Therefore, Freelancer is very attractive if you’re looking for affordable freelance services without compromising quality or customer service experience.

Payments

Another great thing about freelancers is their secure payment system, which ensures employers and freelancers get paid quickly and safely without the risk of fraud or scamming. They use PayPal as their primary payment provider but accept payments through credit cards, bank transfers, and your preferred payment method. It’s safe with Freelancer!

In addition to their secure payment system, they also have an escrow feature that allows employers to hold funds until freelancers have submitted satisfactory work – this way, everyone is protected against any potential scams or frauds that may happen during transactions on the platform!


6. SimplyHired

The need for remote workers and freelancers is growing exponentially in today’s digital world. This has led to a surge in job boards and marketplaces that connect remote workers with potential employers. One such Alternative Job Marketplace is SimplyHired, a popular Upwork alternative. Let’s look at what SimplyHired offers and how it compares to other job boards.

Services Offered

SimplyHired offers a comprehensive suite of services to help freelance and remote employees find work. This includes job postings from thousands of employers seeking part-time and full-time remote employees. On top of this, SimplyHired also provides access to online courses and certifications that can help you gain new skills or improve existing ones.

Fees

SimplyHired does not charge any fees for either employers or employees. Employers do not have to pay anything to post their jobs on the platform, while employees can apply for those jobs without incurring any cost. This makes it an attractive option for employers and employees alike, as there are no hidden costs associated with using the service.

Payments

SimplyHired uses PayPal for payments between employers and employees, with all fees going directly into your account once the platform’s secure payment system has processed them. You can also set up recurring payments if you need them for regular work assignments from a particular employer.

SimplyHired utilizes industry-standard encryption protocols and two-factor authentication when logging into your account to ensure security during transactions. This ensures that all your data is kept secure throughout the process, making it safe to transfer money on the platform without worrying about data breaches or fraud.


7. WeWorkRemotely

Finding the right job board can be problematic in the ever-evolving world of freelancing. WeWorkRemotely is an Upwork alternative marketplace offering a unique platform for connecting project managers and multiple freelancers. With hourly projects, monthly retainers, and more, WeWorkRemotely is an ideal solution for anyone looking for freelance work. So let’s take a closer look at what this job board offers.

Services Offered

WeWorkRemotely specializes in connecting project managers with multiple freelancers with the needed skills. Whether looking to hire someone on a one-time basis or as part of a long-term project, WeWorkRemotely can provide you with quality candidates worldwide. It also is an excellent resource for those looking for remote jobs without committing to full-time employment.

Fees

The fees associated with using WeWorkRemotely vary depending on the type of job you are posting. For hourly projects, there is no fee to post your assignment. In addition, no commission is charged when you hire someone through the platform. However, if you are looking to hire someone for a longer-term project, you must pay $279 per month plus a 10% commission when you hire someone through the platform.

This fee gives you access to premium features such as priority placement on search results and additional resources such as webinars and tutorials for finding freelance work online.

Payment Systems

WeWorkRemotely provides secure payments through their platform so that both parties can feel confident in their transactions. Freelancers can be paid by credit card or PayPal, while employers must only use credit cards. Payments must be made within 60 days after each invoice has been sent out. Failure to do so will result in penalties being assessed by WeWorkRemotely against both parties involved.

WeWorkRemotely is an excellent choice for those seeking freelance work or hiring individuals on a one-time basis or for longer-term projects. With competitive fees and secure payment options, it’s easy and safe for employers and freelancers alike to take advantage of this popular job board without breaking the bank! So whether you’re seeking remote work or hiring help from around the globe, consider giving WeWorkRemotely a try today!


8. FlexJobs

FlexJobs is an Alternative Job Marketplace that connects qualified freelancers with clients seeking help with their projects or tasks. With job categories ranging from web development and data entry to copywriting and translation, there’s something for everyone on FlexJobs. But first, look at the services and fees associated with using FlexJobs.

Services Offered

FlexJobs offers a variety of services for freelancers and employers alike. For freelancers, job postings match their skills, interests, and resources, such as resume advice, salary information, and networking opportunities. Employers can find qualified freelancers in the fields they need help with and post jobs quickly and easily.

Fees

The fees associated with using FlexJobs vary depending on the type of job posting you are looking at. For example, the postings are available for some jobs, while others may require a subscription fee or a one-time payment per post. Fees paid by employers also depend on the type of job they are posting. Some may have a flat price, while others have more complicated pricing structures based on different criteria (e.g., project size).

Payments – Alternative Job Marketplace

When it comes to payments, FlexJobs is flexible in its approach. Freelancers can receive payments through credit cards, PayPal accounts, direct deposit into their bank accounts, or even through check-in-the-mail options. The same payment methods apply to employers who hire freelancers through FlexJobs. They can choose which payment method works best for them and pay accordingly.

If you’re looking for the best Upwork alternative to find freelance work, consider trying FlexJobs! With services explicitly tailored to employers and freelancers alike, you’ll be sure to find what you’re looking for here – job postings or potential employees – without worrying about expensive fees or complicated payment options. Try out FlexJobs today!


9. Remotive.io

If you’re a freelancer looking for an alternative to Upwork, Remotive.io is worth considering. It’s a marketplace designed to connect companies with remote workers and provide freelance professionals with the tools they need to be successful.

Services Offered

Remotive.io offers a wide range of services for both employers and freelancers alike. For example, companies can post job openings on the platform to find qualified candidates who fit their needs and skill sets. They can then use the platform’s messaging system to communicate directly with potential hires before making a final decision. The platform also allows companies to create teams of freelancers, which makes it easier for them to manage their projects more efficiently.

Freelancers benefit from the platform in several ways as well. For example, they can search through posted jobs relevant to their skill set, apply for those jobs, and communicate directly with potential employers through Remotive’s messaging system. In addition, freelancers can access tutorials, webinars, and podcasts. They’re created by experienced professionals that help them stay up-to-date on industry trends and develop new skill sets to make them more competitive.

Fees & Payments – Alternative Job Marketplace

One of the significant benefits of using Remotive is that it doesn’t charge any fees or commissions from employers or freelancers. All payments go directly from employers to freelancers without any middleman involved. You don’t have to worry about hidden fees or commissions eating into your earnings when you find freelance work through Remotive’s marketplace. Furthermore, payments are secure. All transactions are securely processed through PayPal or Stripe, so you know your money is always safe!

Remotive has quickly established itself as one of the best Upwork alternatives available today thanks to its wide range of services and features designed specifically for employers and freelancers – not to mention its fee-free payment system!


10. Dribbble

freelancer's guide

Dribbble is a marketplace where freelancers can find work and post their portfolios for employers to view. It’s the perfect platform for businesses seeking creative talent and freelancers seeking job opportunities worldwide.

Services Offered

Dribbble connects freelance designers with employers who need design services. Designers create portfolios on the site, and businesses can use them to find the right fit for their projects. In addition, it’s easy to create custom requests on the site that detail exactly what you need from a designer and set a budget. This makes it simple to browse potential candidates while staying within your budget constraints.

Fees

The main difference between Upwork and Dribbble is their fee structures. With Upwork, there is an 8% fee for each transaction (4% for each side), while Dribbble does not charge any fees! This means employers can hire directly from the site without worrying about paying additional fees or commissions.

Payments – Alternative Job Marketplace

Another great feature of Dribbble is its payment system. The site offers two different payment methods: direct deposit and PayPal. Both options are safe, secure, and easy to use. It makes the Alternative Job Marketplace ideal for freelancers and employers. Plus, payments are processed quickly, so you don’t have to wait long before receiving your money!

Dribbble is an excellent Upwork alternative with many benefits, including no fees, a wide selection of talent, and quick payments via direct deposit or PayPal. So whether you are looking for freelance work or trying to hire one, this platform can help meet your needs without breaking the bank! Plus, with its clean interface and user-friendly features, it’s easy to use regardless of experience level, so give it a try today!


11. Behance

Behance is an Alternative Job Marketplace that provides access to millions of creative professionals worldwide. It is used by businesses and individuals to find talent for projects and showcase their work. There are no fees for signing up, so any individual or company can use the platform.

Services Offered

The services offered on Behance include design, photography, illustration, video production, web development, copywriting, and more. In addition, you can find freelancers who specialize in these areas and hire them for one-time projects or ongoing contracts. The platform also has tools to help employers manage their projects, including collaboration and project tracking tools.

Fees

One of the great things about using Behance is that no fees are associated with finding freelancers or managing projects on the platform. Freelancers do not pay fees either – they sign up, create a portfolio and wait for employers to contact them with job offers. This makes it easier for businesses to source talent without worrying about high fees associated with other popular freelance websites like Upwork or Fiverr.

Payments – Alternative Job Marketplace

Behance allows employers to pay freelancers directly via PayPal or other payment methods such as Stripe or Apple Pay. Payments are fast and secure, allowing employers to track freelancer payments easily. Employers can also set up milestones to release amounts only after the Freelancer has completed specific tasks. This helps ensure that employers don’t end up paying for incomplete work done by freelancers.

Behance is an excellent alternative marketplace for finding freelance work due to its low fees, wide range of services, and secure payment options on the platform. Whether you’re looking to outsource tasks or grow your career as a freelancer, Behance should be considered when deciding where to find work online!


12. 99Designs

It is a marketplace that connects freelancers and employers from all over the world for collaborative projects. Here is a short overview of the services, fees associated with the platform, and payments on offers.

Services Offered

99Designs offers services in various creative fields, including graphic design, logo design, web design, illustration, branding and packaging, and more. Employers can post their project needs, and freelancers can submit their proposals in response. This makes it easier to connect with clients who need help with projects quickly and efficiently. The platform also provides resources such as tutorials, templates, and other helpful tools to ensure freelancers have everything they need to succeed in their projects.

Fees

The fees associated with 99Designs vary depending on the service type. The website charges 10% of the total cost of each project as its commission fee plus any additional transaction fees that may be required depending on your payment method (credit card or PayPal). In addition, there are also subscription plans available that offer discounts on certain services but require a monthly subscription fee.

Payments – Alternative Job Marketplace

Once a project has been completed successfully, payments are made via PayPal or direct bank transfers. No minimum amount is required for charges. However, if you withdraw funds from your account via PayPal, there is a $5 minimum requirement. Payments can also be made in multiple currencies, including USD, EURO, and GBP, making it convenient for international clients.

99Designs is an excellent alternative to Upwork for finding freelance work online. It provides an easy-to-use platform with plenty of resources to help freelancers succeed in their projects while charging reasonable fees for its services.

Plus, multiple payment options in different currencies make it easy for employers and freelancers to get paid quickly without worry or hassle. So if you’re looking for an Upwork alternative, give 99Designs a try today!


13. Contently

Alternative Job Marketplaces

Finding reliable freelance work can be daunting, as many online marketplaces can lead to confusion and frustration. That’s why Contently is an up-and-coming alternative marketplace for finding freelance work. With its comprehensive services, fees, and payment system, Contently makes it easy for freelancers to find jobs that match their skills and interests.

Services Offered

Contently offers freelancers various services from job searching to project management tools. In addition to providing access to thousands of job postings, Contently also assists freelancers in creating professional portfolios and invoicing clients. These features make it easier for freelancers to showcase their talents and maximize their freelance opportunities.

Fees

Unlike Upwork, which charges a 20% fee for every job completed on its platform, Contently does not charge any fees for completing assignments or withdrawing earnings from the site. This is great news for freelancers who want to maximize their profits while taking advantage of all the site offers.

Payments – Alternative Job Marketplace

Contently uses PayPal as its payment processor, meaning that payments are sent directly into your PayPal account once you complete a job. This makes tracking your earnings and taxes easy. You don’t have to worry about extra paperwork or complicated processes. In addition, you can withdraw funds from your PayPal account without additional transaction fees.

Contently is an excellent alternative marketplace for freelancers looking for quality work opportunities with no extra fees attached. With its wide range of services, low costs, and seamless payment processing system, Contently is quickly becoming one of the go-to places for finding reliable freelance work online.


14. Gun.io

It is one of the most popular Upwork alternatives, offering a wide range of services and features that make it an excellent choice for finding freelance work. Let’s explore some benefits of using Gun.io, including the services, fees associated with using the platform, and payment methods available to freelancers.

Services Offered

Gun.io offers an array of services to its users, such as project management software, job posting and searching capabilities, task tracking and invoicing tools, and much more. The platform also includes a built-in messaging system allowing users to address through the venue, making connecting and collaborating with potential employers or clients easier.

Additionally, Gun.io provides its users access to an extensive network of professionals in various industries who may provide valuable advice or assistance when needed.

Fees

One of the most significant advantages of using Gun.io is that no membership fees are associated with using the platform. However, processing fees are associated with payments made via credit card or PayPal ranging from 2% – 4%. In addition, Gun.io charges a transaction fee for each payment processed through its system, usually 5%. This small fee ensures that all transactions go through smoothly without issues or delays in payment processing times.

Payments – Alternative Job Marketplace

Gun.io also provides its users with various payment options, including credit cards and PayPal accounts, and an opportunity to send payments via bank or wire transfers if necessary. This makes it easy for employers and freelancers to receive payments quickly and securely without worrying about additional fees or delays in processing times. Furthermore, all payments made through Gun.io are secured by encryption technology so users can rest assured that their personal information remains safe while on the platform.


15. LinkedIn

If you’re looking for freelance work, you’ve probably heard of Upwork. But did you know LinkedIn is also an excellent Alternative Job Marketplace for finding freelance opportunities? With its vast network of professionals, LinkedIn is one of the best Upwork competitors for connecting with potential employers and showcasing your skills. Let’s look at why LinkedIn is such a great resource when searching for freelance work.

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