Question: How do freelance developers get work without using platforms like UpWork or Fiverr?

Hi, all freelance developers or recruiters.

I saw many times that Senior freelance developers don't like the platforms like UpWork or Fiverr because of the price cut and low price works. I also face this problem.

But, without these kinds of platforms, how can a developer meet or find potential clients? (FYI, I am not asking about local clients). What is the process to get clients?

Thanks in advance.

Cover Photo by Annie Spratt on Unsplash

Comments

[Dmitrii Pashutskii]

Unfortunately without these platforms is really hard to get clients. You need to work on a portfolio, marketing, selling skills a lot.
I'd say if you want to make it a business for the long term go for it but be ready for hard work.
If you just want to earn some money on a side or even longer use the platforms.

PS I used Upwork for 2 years and eventually find my current job there and moved to the direct contract.

[Anower Jahan Shofol]

Thanks for the input, Dmitrii. I don't want to run a business as I don't want to spend a lot of time on that. I just want to do Freelancing as single or maybe with a team. But, I also think it will be hard to get clients without these platforms 😞 This is bit annoying.

[Jonathan Yeong]

You're right those sites really cut into your bottom dollar. Unfortunately, getting clients is a lot of work which is why those sites exist in the first place. When I was working for a consulting company they used to cold call clients. Asking if they needed something built or seeing who did. When I used to freelance myself, I went to local meetups to try and meet people who might have freelance work. At the end of the day, it's all about word of mouth.

[Anower Jahan Shofol]

Thanks for your insight.