Surprising Way To Find Clients (Alternative to Upwork / Fiverr)

Introduction.

Finding clients in the crowded world of freelancing can feel like navigating a maze.  While platforms like Upwork and Fiverr are popular go-to solutions, they’re not the only paths to success.

If you’re looking for a surprising alternative to these well-trodden paths, you might be in for a pleasant surprise.

Imagine this: you’re able to connect with potential clients in a way that’s less competitive, more personal, and potentially more lucrative.

This method isn’t about bypassing mainstream platforms altogether, but rather complementing them with an approach that leverages your unique strengths and interests.

By exploring alternative strategies, you can tap into markets and opportunities that are often overlooked by the masses.

In this blog post, I’ll walk you through innovative ways to discover and attract clients beyond Upwork and Fiverr.

Why Should I Find Clients Outside Upwork and Fiverr?

Platforms like Upwork and Fiverr are often the first places people turn to find work.

They offer a structured environment where clients and freelancers can connect, and they handle many aspects of the transaction process.

However, relying solely on these platforms can limit your opportunities and potential income.

Here’s why it’s worth exploring ways to find clients outside Upwork and Fiverr.

1. Diversify Your Client Base.

While Upwork and Fiverr are popular, they are also highly competitive. Thousands of freelancers compete for jobs, which can drive down rates and make it harder to stand out.

By seeking clients outside these platforms, you open up opportunities to work with a broader range of businesses and individuals who might not be active on these sites.

A diversified client base also means you’re not overly dependent on any single platform. If a platform changes its policies or fees, you won’t be left scrambling for work.

This diversification helps stabilize your income and provides a buffer against potential disruptions.

2. Increase Your Earning Potential.

Platforms like Upwork and Fiverr take a commission from your earnings. For example, Upwork charges between 5% to 20% depending on your total billings with a client, while Fiverr takes a flat 20% commission.

Over time, these fees can add up significantly, especially for higher-value projects.

Finding clients outside these platforms allows you to negotiate rates directly and avoid these fees.

For instance, if you’re working directly with a client, you might be able to set your rates and retain more of your earnings.

3. Build Stronger Relationships.

Direct client interactions often lead to stronger relationships. When you work outside of platforms, you have more control over communication and project management.

This can result in better collaboration, clearer expectations, and more personalized service, which can enhance client satisfaction and lead to repeat business.

Moreover, building relationships directly with clients can help you establish a network of referrals.

Satisfied clients are more likely to recommend you to others if they’ve had a positive experience working with you directly.

4. Showcase Your Skills on a Personal Platform.

Having a personal website or portfolio is a powerful way to showcase your skills and attract clients.

A well-designed website can serve as a central hub for your work, testimonials, and contact information.

It also allows you to present your brand in a way that platforms like Upwork and Fiverr don’t.

According to a study by Clutch, 64% of small businesses invest in a website to grow their business.

A personal website can help you stand out from competitors who rely solely on freelancing platforms.

5. Gain Access to Different Types of Projects.

Upwork and Fiverr cater to a wide range of project types, but some niche or high-profile projects might not be listed there.

By exploring other avenues, such as networking events, industry conferences, or specialized forums, you can gain access to projects that are not advertised on these platforms.

For example, if you specialize in a niche area, such as high-end graphic design or advanced programming, you might find clients through industry-specific channels or by reaching out directly to companies that align with your expertise.

How do I Find Clients (Alternative to Upwork / Fiverr)?

When it comes to finding clients online, Upwork and Fiverr are often the go-to platforms.

They’re both excellent resources, but they’re also crowded, and standing out can be a challenge.

If you’re looking for a fresh approach to attracting clients, consider tapping into a surprisingly effective strategy: leveraging niche communities and forums.

Why Niche Communities?

Niche communities are specialized groups or forums focused on specific interests or industries.

Unlike broader platforms like Upwork or Fiverr, these communities consist of individuals who are already engaged in a particular field or topic.

This targeted environment can be a goldmine for finding clients who are genuinely interested in your services.

The Power of Targeted Connections.

In niche communities, your potential clients are often more engaged and specific about their needs.

These groups allow you to showcase your expertise directly to people who are more likely to value and require your services.

For instance, if you’re a web designer specializing in e-commerce sites, participating in forums related to online retail can connect you with business owners looking for your skills.

1. Identify Relevant Communities.

Start by identifying communities that align with your expertise. For example:

• Reddit has numerous subreddits for various industries and interests. For a graphic designer, subreddits like r/Design or r/graphic_design can be valuable.
• Facebook Groups can also be useful. Search for groups related to your field or industry and request to join.

2. Contribute Value.

Once you join these communities, avoid directly promoting your services right away.

Instead, focus on offering valuable insights and answering questions. This approach helps build trust and demonstrates your expertise.

For instance, if you’re a digital marketer, you might share tips on effective SEO strategies or offer advice on PPC campaigns.

3. Network and Build Relationships.

Engage with other members, participate in discussions, and offer genuine help.

Building relationships within these communities can lead to referrals and direct inquiries.

Being active and supportive in these groups increases your visibility and credibility.

4. Showcase Your Work.

Many niche forums allow members to showcase their work in specific threads or sections.

Use these opportunities to present case studies or examples of your projects.

This not only highlights your skills but also attracts potential clients who need similar services.

5. Use Specialized Platforms.

Beyond traditional forums, there are also niche platforms tailored to specific industries. For example.

• Behance and Dribble are excellent for creative professionals to showcase their portfolios and connect with clients.
• AngelList is great for startups looking to hire freelancers for tech and business needs.

Conclusion.

So, there you have it. A world of untapped potential exists beyond the familiar platforms of Upwork and Fiverr.

Remember, the key is to identify your ideal client, understand their needs deeply, and position yourself as the expert they can trust.

It might require more upfront effort, but the long-term rewards are often substantial.

Are you ready to explore these alternative avenues for finding clients? Let me know in the comments if you’ve tried any of these strategies or if you have other methods to share.