Upwork and similar gig sites are the go-to for many freelancers and entrepreneurs. It makes sense. These platforms congregate clients and workers together to make finding clients/employees very easy. While it used to be better than it is today, I'm not a huge fan of them. Today, I'd like to talk a bit about why you shouldn't be using websites like Upwork to find freelance work, and what you can do instead.
It's a race to the bottom
The main issue with websites like Upwork is that it's a race to the bottom. What does that mean? Well, it means that a lot of freelancers are racing to the bottom in terms of rates and payment. They are charging less and less to increase their chances of landing projects. Undervalued work becomes the result. People expect you to do cheap projects, or for free, because it's a part of the culture on these websites. Don't get me wrong, there are people that make 6 figures and develop great relationships with clients, but it's exceedingly rare.
Time spent elsewhere is better
The time you spend perfecting your profile, completing tests, and pitching projects could be better spent elsewhere. For example, you could be collecting lists of leads through tools like LeadFerret, then pitching them your services. This would help you find higher paying and higher quality clients. You could also be creating your own website, building content, and have leads organically coming to you. The same goes with social media. The time you put into gig sites could be put into growing a following.
It doesn't develop relationships
Building relationships with your clients is a huge part of becoming successful as an entrepreneur. You don't just do the work and say goodbye. You find other ways to help each other, be yourself, and be a fun person to work with. I've had so many other opportunities flood my inbox because I went out of my way to help clients and did an excellent job. The problem with Upwork is you are expendable to most clients. You're just another drone. Yes, you can build long term relationships and move off of Upwork, but it doesn't happen often. People are looking for workers on Upwork and gig sites for a reason -- they're trying to keep it on the platform, not off.
So, what you should focus on?
Here's what you need to do instead.
One. Focus on pitching leads outside of Upwork. You can use gig sites as a supplementary way to get work, but it shouldn't be the main strategy. LeadFerret, Zoominfo, and similar services will supply you with contact information to decision makers of any company. Find the VP of marketing, CMO, or other positions related to what you offer. Give them a genuine pitch about what you can do for them and you'll be surprised where it can go.
Two. Check out job board websites like ProBlogger. These have high quality listings posted on a daily basis. Apply to them as often as possible, and I'm certain that you will find consistent work from them.
Three. You need, need, need a website! Your own professional website helps your image, attracts clients naturally, and lets you grow a real brand. Don't work from a Google Drive portfolio(it's okay in the beginning). Write blog posts to show off your skills if you're a writer, create a portfolio page, and be proud of having a real business asset.
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