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PeoplePerHour (PPH) is a UK-based freelance platform that connects clients with freelancers for a variety of services, including writing, design, programming, marketing, and more. Known for its flexibility and global reach, it offers a unique approach to hiring through “Hourlies” and custom projects. Here’s a detailed review of the platform, focusing on its features, advantages, and drawbacks.
Key Features
- Hourly and Project-Based Work:
- Freelancers can offer pre-defined services called “Hourlies” (fixed-price jobs with clear deliverables).
- Clients can also post custom projects for freelancers to bid on.
- Category Diversity:
- Covers fields like IT, writing, design, marketing, business support, and more.
- AI-Powered Matching:
- The platform uses AI to match freelancers with relevant projects, reducing the need for excessive bidding.
- Global Marketplace:
- Access to clients and freelancers worldwide, though it is particularly popular in Europe.
- Escrow Payment System:
- Payments are secured through an escrow system, ensuring freelancers are paid once work is completed and approved.
- Cert Levels:
- Freelancers are ranked based on performance and client reviews, which improves visibility and credibility.
- Freelancer and Client Reviews:
- Two-way feedback system ensures accountability and builds trust.
Pros of PeoplePerHour
- Unique “Hourlies”:
- Freelancers can create and sell pre-packaged services, allowing them to showcase expertise without bidding.
- Global Reach:
- Opportunities to work with clients from various industries and countries.
- Secure Payments:
- Funds are held in escrow, ensuring payment security for freelancers.
- Fair Competition:
- AI-matching reduces reliance on bidding wars, making the platform less competitive than some alternatives.
- Flexible Work Options:
- Offers a mix of quick “Hourlies” and longer-term custom projects.
- Reputation System:
- Cert Levels and reviews help skilled freelancers gain better visibility and more opportunities.
Cons of PeoplePerHour
- Service Fees:
- The platform charges freelancers a commission based on earnings:
- 20% for the first £250 billed with a client.
- 7.5% for £250.01–£5,000.
- 3.5% for amounts over £5,000.
- High Competition in Certain Niches:
- Categories like graphic design and writing are saturated, making it challenging for new freelancers to stand out.
- Limited Free Bids:
- Freelancers are given a limited number of free proposals per month. Additional bids require purchasing credits.
- Slow Payouts:
- Payments can take several days to clear after approval, especially for new freelancers.
- Emphasis on UK Market:
- While it’s a global platform, PeoplePerHour is more popular with UK-based clients, which may limit opportunities for freelancers in other regions.
Who Is PeoplePerHour Best For?
- Freelancers:
- Ideal for skilled professionals in writing, design, programming, and business support.
- Especially suitable for freelancers in the UK or Europe.
- Clients:
- Best for small businesses and startups seeking affordable, high-quality freelance work.
Pricing
- Freelancer Fees:
- 20% on the first £250 billed with a client.
- 7.5% for £250.01–£5,000.
- 3.5% for earnings over £5,000.
- Client Fees:
- Clients are charged a small processing fee in addition to the freelancer’s payment.
- Proposal Credits:
- Freelancers receive a limited number of free credits to bid on projects. Additional credits can be purchased.
Tips for Success on PeoplePerHour
- Optimize Your Profile:
- Include a professional photo, detailed bio, and relevant portfolio items to attract clients.
- Create Attractive Hourlies:
- Focus on specific, high-demand services and offer competitive pricing for your Hourlies.
- Respond Quickly:
- High responsiveness increases your chances of winning projects and gaining positive reviews.
- Leverage Cert Levels:
- Deliver quality work to climb the Cert Level rankings, improving visibility and trust.
- Target Your Proposals:
- Customize proposals to highlight your experience and understanding of the client’s needs.
Comparison with Other Platforms
| Platform | Strengths | Weaknesses |
|---|---|---|
| PeoplePerHour | Hourlies, AI-matching, secure payments | High fees, competition in some categories |
| Upwork | Long-term projects, global clientele | Bidding wars, strict entry requirements |
| Fiverr | Gig-based, passive income opportunities | 20% fees, high competition in popular gigs |
| Freelancer | Contests, variety of jobs | Complex UI, high fees, low-budget projects |
Overall Verdict
PeoplePerHour is a strong platform for freelancers offering a mix of creative, technical, and administrative services. Its unique “Hourlies” feature, AI-matching, and secure payment system make it a great option, particularly for UK and European freelancers. However, the service fees and competition in saturated fields may pose challenges for newcomers.
Rating: 4/5
- Best For: Freelancers in writing, design, and tech, especially in the UK or Europe.
- Consider Other Platforms If: You prefer platforms with lower service fees or more opportunities in non-European markets.
