As a Nigerian freelancer, choosing the right platform to kickstart your freelancing journey is crucial. In this article, we will compare two popular freelancing platforms—Fiverr and PeoplePerHour—to help you determine which one is best suited for your skills and business needs.
Understanding Fiverr and PeoplePerHour
Both Fiverr and PeoplePerHour are platforms that connect freelancers with clients looking for specific services. However, they differ in their approach and functionality.
Fiverr is a marketplace where freelancers can offer services starting at $5. It is ideal for creative professionals, such as graphic designers, writers, and marketers. The platform allows you to create a profile showcasing your skills, and clients can purchase your services directly.
PeoplePerHour, on the other hand, focuses on connecting freelancers with clients who need specific projects completed. It allows you to bid on jobs posted by clients, and you can negotiate your rates. This platform is suitable for freelancers looking to work on varied projects and for clients who want to find the right talent for their needs.
Sign-Up Process and Verification
Getting started on both platforms requires a simple sign-up process, but there are some nuances to keep in mind, especially for Nigerian freelancers.
Fiverr Sign-Up Instructions
- Visit the Fiverr website and click on the "Join" button.
- Sign up using your email, Facebook, or Google account.
- Fill in your profile details, including your skills, experience, and a professional profile picture.
- To enhance your profile, consider adding samples of your work and a video introduction.
PeoplePerHour Sign-Up Instructions
- Go to the PeoplePerHour website and click on "Join."
- Register using your email and create a password.
- Complete your profile by adding your skills, portfolio, and a professional photo.
- Ensure you have your National Identification Number (NIN) ready as it may be required for verification.
Service Offerings and Pricing
Understanding how to price your services is crucial for attracting clients while ensuring your earnings reflect your skills.
Fiverr Service Offerings
On Fiverr, you create "gigs" that outline the services you offer. Here are tips to maximize your chances of success:
- Be Specific: Clearly define your service. For example, instead of "graphic design," specify "I will design a modern logo for your business."
- Competitive Pricing: Start with a low price to attract your first clients, then gradually increase your rates as you gain reviews and experience.
- Gig Extras: Offer add-ons for additional services (e.g., faster delivery, extra revisions) to increase your earnings.
PeoplePerHour Service Offerings
On PeoplePerHour, you can create offers for clients to view, or you can bid on job postings. Here’s how to navigate pricing:
- Bid Wisely: When bidding, ensure your proposal highlights your unique skills and why you’re the best fit for the job.
- Set Hourly Rates: Many freelancers on this platform charge by the hour. Research similar profiles to find a competitive hourly rate.
- Project-Based Pricing: For larger projects, provide a fixed price based on the estimated hours you’ll need to complete the work.
Client Interaction and Communication
Effective communication is key to building lasting relationships with clients. Both platforms offer different ways to interact with clients.
Fiverr Client Interaction
On Fiverr, clients typically reach out via your gig page. Here are some tips for effective communication:
- Respond Promptly: Aim to reply to client inquiries within 24 hours to improve your chances of securing a sale.
- Clarify Requirements: Always ask clients for clear instructions and details to avoid misunderstandings.
- Request Feedback: After completing a project, encourage clients to leave reviews to increase your visibility on the platform.
PeoplePerHour Client Interaction
With PeoplePerHour, you can communicate directly with clients through proposals and messages. Here are some actionable tips:
- Personalize Your Proposals: Tailor each proposal to the client's specific needs, showcasing your understanding of their project.
- Follow-Up: If you don’t hear back after a proposal, a polite follow-up can show your interest in the project.
- Maintain Professionalism: Always keep your communication clear and professional to build trust with clients.
Payment Options and Withdrawals
Understanding payment options is essential for Nigerian freelancers, as not all platforms support local payment methods.
Fiverr Payment Process
Fiverr pays out via PayPal, but since PayPal does not work in Nigeria, consider the following:
- Use Payoneer: Link your Fiverr account to Payoneer for withdrawals. This will allow you to receive payments directly to your Payoneer account.
- Withdrawal Options: You can also transfer funds to your local bank account through Payoneer or use Grey.co, Wise, Chipper Cash, or Geegpay for currency conversion and withdrawals.
PeoplePerHour Payment Process
PeoplePerHour facilitates payments through various methods:
- Bank Transfer: You can withdraw your earnings directly to your Nigerian bank account. Ensure you have a bank account with a supported bank like GTBank, Access Bank, or UBA.
- Use Payoneer: Similar to Fiverr, you can receive payments through Payoneer, which is widely accepted.
Conclusion
Choosing between Fiverr and PeoplePerHour ultimately depends on your personal preferences and freelancing goals. If you prefer to offer specific services and have a clear idea of your pricing, Fiverr might be the better choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a more dynamic platform where you can bid on various projects, PeoplePerHour is worth considering.
Whichever platform you choose, focus on building a strong profile, effectively communicating with clients, and ensuring a smooth payment process. With determination and the right strategies, you can succeed as a freelancer in Nigeria.