How freelancers choose the right platform to work with

Adeolu Titus Adekunle

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Like many other people, I gave up on freelancing after searching every corner of the earth for opportunities. I later found out I had been looking in the wrong places. Of course, the gig market is highly competitive, but that does not mean there are no jobs. Some other freelancers end up getting exploited by platforms charging high fees or scammers posing as clients.

If you look in the right places, you will find the right jobs. It is not just about signing up to every job board or freelancing platform. Let’s show you how freelancers choose the right platform to work with.

Also read: How freelancers increase earnings year over year

Work type

Freelancers consider their skills and roles when choosing a freelancing platform. Those with specialised skills opt for restricted platforms like Toptal, which have highly selective vetting processes. Others might opt for open talent marketplaces with high client volumes. They consider platforms that value their skills and have a high demand for them. Choosing a niche platform can reduce competition, such as 99designs and Dribbble for designers,  ProBlogger or ClearVoice for writers and content strategists.

Fee structure

Freelancers consider the fee structure when choosing the platform to work on. Platforms take a cut from freelancers’ earnings. That is not a problem. But when it becomes excessive, it can cause problems for freelancers. Look into:

  • Platform commission rates
  • Withdrawal fees
  • Minimum payout thresholds
  • Payout frequency and delays

Prioritise platforms that are transparent with the fees to avoid surprises.

Also read: Freelance platforms vs direct clients: which pays better?

Support and reputation

If you run into trouble, you want a freelancing platform with accessible support channels for conflict resolution. Freelancers consider the responsiveness of the support team and their reputation. As the talent market keeps growing, you might find more freelancing marketplaces springing up and promising heaven and earth. Freelancers do their research and stick with the reputable ones.

Payment options

The entire point of freelancing is to make money, so freelancers cannot compromise on reliable and flexible payout options. Freelancers choose platforms that protect them from non-payment through escrow systems, milestone releases, or platform-backed dispute resolution. They also consider how easy it is to withdraw earnings and whether they can receive funds in stable currencies like USD, GBP, or EUR without forced conversion. Platforms that integrate well with multi-currency accounts offer greater control and reduce losses from exchange rate fluctuations.

Also read: Top sites to get international remote jobs in Nigeria

Managing your freelance income with Grey

Choosing the right freelancing platform puts you one step ahead of others. You are less worried about being scammed or losing your money to high platform fees. Grey takes it up a notch by offering multi-currency accounts that support USD, EUR, and GBP payments. This means you can link your Grey and directly access your income.

Sign up on Grey today and download the mobile app to protect your foreign income.

Open a free Grey account to get startedJoin 1 million digital nomads

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