For Filipino freelancers, Fiverr is better for beginners and those seeking a wide range of gigs while PeoplePerHour is better for experienced professionals wanting more control over project scope. Here's my honest comparison after using both for 6 years.
Quick Comparison Table
| Feature | Fiverr | PeoplePerHour |
|---|---|---|
| Fees | 20% service fee | 20% service fee, reduces with more earnings |
| Payment to Philippines | PayPal, Payoneer, Bank Transfer | Payoneer, PayPal |
| Ease of Use | Very user-friendly | Moderately user-friendly |
| Best For | Beginners, diverse gigs | Experienced professionals, project control |
When to Choose Fiverr
In my 6 years of freelancing, I found Fiverr to be an excellent platform under several circumstances: - **Starting Your Freelance Career**: Fiverr is extremely accessible for beginners. When I first started, the user-friendly interface made it easy to set up gigs and attract clients without any prior experience. - **Offering Multiple Services**: If you have a diverse skill set, Fiverr's gig system allows you to showcase various services. I initially offered writing, graphic design, and social media management, which helped me discover where my strengths truly lay. - **Quick Turnaround Projects**: Fiverr is great for projects that require a fast turnaround. Clients often look for quick and affordable services, which can lead to repeat business if you deliver quality work. - **Building a Portfolio**: For those without a strong portfolio, Fiverr offers a chance to work on numerous small projects to build your credibility.When to Choose PeoplePerHour
PeoplePerHour can be the better choice in specific scenarios: - **Experienced Professionals Seeking Control**: If you prefer more control over project scope and client interaction, PeoplePerHour allows you to set custom proposals. After gaining experience on Fiverr, I transitioned some services to PeoplePerHour for this very reason. - **Higher-Paying Projects**: I noticed that PeoplePerHour's clients often have larger budgets, which can be more profitable for skilled freelancers seeking fewer but higher-paying projects. - **Consultancy or Expert Services**: When I started offering consultancy services, PeoplePerHour's proposal system allowed me to customize my offers based on client needs, creating more tailored solutions. - **Long-Term Client Relationships**: The platform encourages building ongoing relationships with clients through project workstreams, which can lead to steady income streams.Detailed Comparison
Fees and Costs (Philippines-specific)
Both platforms charge a 20% service fee on your earnings. However, PeoplePerHour reduces this fee as you earn more, which is beneficial for high-volume freelancers. In my experience, this can save you a significant amount over time, especially when sending remittances back home. With the current exchange rates, even a small fee reduction can mean a lot, especially when converted to PHP.Payment Methods
For Filipino freelancers, receiving payments efficiently is crucial. Fiverr offers PayPal, Payoneer, and bank transfers, which are convenient with services like GCash and Maya for easier access GCash guide. PeoplePerHour also supports Payoneer and PayPal, which are reliable methods for getting your payment into local bank accounts like BDO and BPI.Ready to Start Receiving Payments?
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Fiverr's platform is intuitive and designed with new users in mind. The gig system simplifies service offering, while PeoplePerHour's proposal system is more complex but allows for detailed project customization. I found Fiverr's mobile app particularly useful for managing tasks on the go, a plus when balancing multiple projects.Client Quality
Fiverr attracts a wide range of clients, from small businesses to individuals looking for affordable services. Meanwhile, PeoplePerHour tends to attract businesses and professionals seeking specialized skills, which often translates to higher-quality clients and more serious projects. During my freelancing journey, I experienced a higher level of professionalism and budget on PeoplePerHour.For Beginners vs Experienced
For beginners, Fiverr is advantageous due to its simplicity and the volume of job opportunities. It allows you to gain experience quickly. As you become more experienced, PeoplePerHour provides opportunities for higher earnings and more complex projects, which is why I shifted some of my focus there after a couple of years.My Personal Experience
In my early freelancing days, I joined Fiverr and earned $2,500 in my first month by offering a variety of services. This initial success motivated me to explore more platforms. As my skills and confidence grew, I transitioned to PeoplePerHour for consultancy work, where I secured a long-term contract that paid $5,000 monthly. This shift allowed me to focus on fewer projects with higher returns, giving me more time to spend with my family in Manila.Common Mistakes to Avoid
- **Setting Unrealistic Prices**: Many newcomers set prices too low in hopes of attracting clients. While this might work initially, it can devalue your services. I learned to adjust my rates based on feedback and demand. - **Ignoring Platform Fees**: Always account for platform fees when setting your rates. In my early days, I often underestimated these, which cut into my earnings significantly. - **Overcommitting**: Taking on too many projects at once can lead to burnout. It’s essential to manage your workload effectively to maintain quality. - **Neglecting Client Communication**: Effective communication is key. I found that regular updates with clients helped build trust and led to more repeat business.Frequently Asked Questions
Is Fiverr or PeoplePerHour better for beginners?
Fiverr is generally better for beginners due to its user-friendly interface and wide range of available gigs, which make it easier to start earning quickly.
Which platform offers better payment options for Filipinos?
Both platforms offer convenient payment methods for Filipinos, like Payoneer and PayPal, which are compatible with local services such as GCash and Maya.
Can I use both platforms simultaneously?
Yes, using both platforms can maximize your opportunities and income. It allows you to reach a broader client base and diversify your projects.
How can I improve my visibility on these platforms?
Enhance your profile with a professional photo, detailed descriptions of your services, and positive client reviews. Consistently delivering quality work will also boost your ratings.
What are the main differences in client interactions on each platform?
Fiverr typically involves less direct client interaction, focusing on gig sales, while PeoplePerHour encourages detailed communication through proposals and workstreams, fostering longer-term collaborations.