The Best Freelancing Websites: Starting out as a freelancer can be difficult. There are no job listings to apply to, and it’s hard to find reliable advice on how to go about finding work as a freelancer. One of the best ways to get started, however, is by using freelance websites designed specifically for freelancers and independent contractors.
These sites allow you to find work quickly and easily without having to maintain your own freelance-based website, allowing you more time to focus on the work itself! Check out our list of the best freelance websites below, or read on if you want more information on what they offer.
The Best Freelancing Websites
Freelance Writing
If you’re looking to get paid for your writing skills, it can be difficult to know where to start. Online platforms like Upwork and freelancer have given rise to a new wave of independent contractors, and these sites are fantastic ways to find short-term work—which could lead to long-term projects down the road.
Check out our post on how the best freelance websites can help you land your next gig! Other online tools will give you greater control over what type of jobs you take on. This is especially useful if you’re not sure if freelancing is right for you or if writing isn’t quite your thing but marketing or design might be.
By choosing what kind of project suits you, as well as refining searches by location and skill level, there are endless opportunities to find work that suits your needs.
Freelance Design
iStockphoto – Browse through an extensive database of stock images and video. Sign up for a free account to start contributing your own photos and videos, which can help build your portfolio. DesignCrowd – Start with simple tasks at first, then work your way up to more complicated jobs.
PeoplePerHour – Complete projects ranging from writing blog posts to website development on a pay-per-hour basis. Elance – Get hired by established businesses or individuals looking for help online; you’ll set your own rates.
Web Development and Programming
1. AngelList – If you’re looking for a job as a developer, AngelList is one of your best options. This massive platform connects job-seekers with tons of open positions from some of Silicon Valley’s most well-known companies.
In fact, many startups and companies will post their openings on AngelList before posting them anywhere else. From major brands like Facebook to smaller names like Gamification company Badgeville, chances are you’ll find exactly what you need on AngelList!
The Best Freelancing Websites
Virtual Assistance
Virtual assistants do a little bit of everything—from answering emails and making appointments to handling social media and even doing your taxes. If you want a more hands-off approach to freelancing, consider finding some work as a virtual assistant.
Look for jobs on sites like Upwork or PeoplePerHour, which are a great way to find opportunities (you can generally find most job postings in any major city). Virtual assistants make an average salary of $40/hour, according to MBO Partners.
Online Marketing
If you’re good at Internet marketing, there are a lot of high-paying freelance jobs available. Companies that sell products online need experts to help them make money through search engine optimization and affiliate programs.
If you know how to bring targeted traffic to your employer’s website, you can command high rates. Use freelancer sites like Upwork to find clients quickly!
The Best Freelancing Websites
Photography & Video Editing
If you have a talent for taking photos or editing videos, you can make money online from your creations. Be sure to check out sites like Shutterstock, Dreamstime, and Bigstock Photo for pricing guidelines—making your products available for sale can help drive up interest.
If you’re looking to get started with video editing and don’t have editing software yet, check out Adobe Premiere Pro, which allows you to create everything from simple edits to special effects using your own footage.
Customer Service/Support
Working in customer service is a great way to make some extra cash or build up your resume, but it’s also one of the toughest jobs out there. One of our favorite resources for finding help and part-time work is Upwork. This website allows freelancers to search based on location and skill, making it easy to find available part-time jobs in your area.
It even offers an online training academy where you can learn how to become a virtual assistant. If you want more tips on how to get started as a freelancer, check out our post here: How To Become A Freelance Writer In 5 Easy Steps. And if you have experience working as a virtual assistant, we’d love to hear from you! Leave us a comment below with your thoughts!
