Freelancing isn’t just a side hustle anymore — it’s a game changer for anyone looking to earn a solid income. If you are a freelancer or would like to start freelancing, choosing the right freelance platforms can be the key to unlocking your earning potential. After testing several options, I found four top freelance sites that helped me reach over $30,000.
In this guide, I’ll break down what makes them unique, how to get started, and the key tips to maximize your success. Let’s dive in:
Fiverr.com — The giant of freelance work
Fiverr is the cornerstone of my freelancing income. It’s a global marketplace where you can offer services (called “gigs”) starting at $5, but experienced freelancers often charge premium rates.
I started freelancing on Fiverr in June 2020. Back then, the process was much simpler — standing out and making sales was done quickly with less competition than today. Since then, I’ve made over $10k, and at the time of writing this post, I’m still making money on this platform. And this amount is only a fraction compared to what people earn on Fiverr! However, with the right strategy, this platform offers great earning potential for those who are prepared to put in the effort.
Why Fiverr?
- High Traffic: Millions of potential clients visit Fiverr daily.
- Diverse Niches: From writing to graphic design, you can offer almost any service.
- Custom Orders: Clients frequently contact you directly with special requests, boosting your income.
*Tip: Optimize your gig titles and descriptions with the right keywords, and adding a professional portfolio and customer reviews can improve the visibility of your profile.
*Con: The 20% fee from Fiverr may seem high for someone just starting out.
Legiit.com — The Underrated Gem
If Fiverr feels oversaturated, Legiit.com is a fantastic alternative. This platform is smaller but designed similarly, making it easy to use.
Why Legiit.com Stands Out?
- Less Competition: Ideal for newer freelancers trying to establish themselves.
- User-Friendly: It’s intuitive, with features modeled after Fiverr.
- Active Community: The platform has an engaged user base, making networking easier.
*Key Consideration: Since it’s a growing platform, you might have to market your services more actively to draw clients initially.
Contra.com: The fee-free revolution
Contra offers a unique selling point: 0% commissions. That means you keep every dollar you earn.
What Makes Contra Special?
- Commission-Free: No platform fees mean higher earnings.
- Modern Design: The site is sleek and easy to navigate, appealing to both freelancers and clients.
- Showcase Your Brand: Contra allows you to build a personalized profile with a professional aesthetic.
*Con: Contra’s user base is still growing, which might mean fewer opportunities compared to larger platforms. However, the lack of fees is a massive advantage for established freelancers.
LinkedIn.com — More than just a social network
Although generally perceived as a platform exclusively for professional networking, LinkedIn is also an invaluable resource for freelancers.
Why Use LinkedIn?
- Freelance Services Page: You can add services directly to your profile, making it easier for potential clients to find you.
- Inbound Leads: Clients often reach out via direct messages.
- Professional Branding: LinkedIn showcases your skills, connections, and endorsements all in one place.
*Tip: Use LinkedIn’s search filters to connect with recruiters and small business owners in your niche. Share valuable content to build authority and attract clients.
*Con: LinkedIn is less structured than traditional freelancing platforms, so you’ll need to manage contracts and payments independently.
Choose What Works for You
Each of these freelance platforms offers unique benefits. Fiverr remains a heavyweight for its massive client base, while Legiit.com and Contra shine with less competition and no commissions, respectively. LinkedIn, meanwhile, is a goldmine for professional networking and high-value gigs.
Action Steps:
- Sign up on all four platforms to maximize your reach.
- Focus on optimizing your profiles with keywords like freelance writing and content creation.
- Regularly update your offerings to align with market trends.
Freelancing is about consistency, learning, and adaptability. Whether you’re starting or scaling up, these platforms can help you reach your financial goals as a freelancer.
Looking to refine your strategy? Check out our in-depth guides on Freelancing Tips for Beginners and How to Rank Your Fiverr Gigs Faster.
