Finding Freelance Opportunities Away from the Indian Dominance

Finding freelance opportunities outside the overwhelming presence of Indian freelancers is indeed a challenging yet rewarding endeavor. There are several platforms that, while still featuring active freelancers, are notably less dominated by applicants from India. Below, I present some of these platforms along with insights from my personal experiences.

Less Crowded Freelance Platforms

When you're seeking out freelance opportunities where the Indian presence isn't as dominant, here are a few options you might consider:

Contra: A platform focusing on specialized services and a more niche approach compared to broader sites, offering a cleaner user experience. People Per Hour (PeoplePerHour): Strongly UK-based with a significant European presence, making it a more diverse marketplace. Simply Hired (Simply Hired): Offers a mix of opportunities that aren't as flooded with Indian submissions.

While these platforms may not be entirely free from Indian freelancers, their less crowded nature can offer better visibility and increased chances for your work to stand out.

Top-End Freelance Platforms

For those targeting the most selective projects, here are some platforms where the competition can be more intense but also more rewarding:

Toptal (Toptal): Super exclusive and only for top-tier talent, a platform for the very best in the industry. Guru (Guru): A balanced platform with freelancers from various parts of the world, providing a more diverse pool of talent. CloudPeeps (CloudPeeps): A platform known for its top-notch talent in design, development, and marketing, competing for high-quality projects. WorkingNotWorking (WorkingNotWorking): Ideal for high-end creatives with a focus on design, art direction, and writing. Dribbble (Dribbble): A community for designers, perfect for showcasing professional design projects. Behance (Behance): A major platform for creatives to showcase their work and attract clients, offering a wide range of opportunities.

While these platforms do attract a fair share of Indian freelancers, they are generally less crowded and can present a more competitive environment, which might be beneficial for career growth.

Personal Experiences and Insights

I have been a member of the website Freelancer (Freelancer) since 2004, long before it came under its current ownership. Over the years, I have accumulated over 200 positive references and no negatives as both a provider and an employer. India is the most populated country in the world, and my country of birth stands 21st in population, while my current residence is ranked 23rd in terms of population. Despite this, the most common rivals bidding against mine are usually from Bangladesh, not India. This is more likely due to demographics and regional factors.

However, the quality of bids I see from Indian freelancers can often be disappointing. Over 95% of members on the site have incomplete profiles and poor marketing flair when bidding. This inconsistency in quality can make the competition seem less intense compared to the overwhelming number of applicants.

My experience as an employer also challenges the notion that location is a significant factor. I currently employ someone from India who is a Wix expert, chosen for their excellent proposal, comprehensive detailing, and competitive pricing. The decision was based on merit, not country of origin. The key is in the skills, portfolio, and personal brand that make one stand out.

If you are an aspiring freelancer on these platforms, complete your profile entirely, fill in all necessary details, and showcase your skills and experiences. Polishing your profile and ensuring it is comprehensive and professional can make a significant difference in your visibility and success.

Final Thoughts

The lesson here is that while these platforms may still attract Indian freelancers, they are generally less crowded and can present a more competitive environment. The deciding factor is not the platform but the quality of your work, your profile, and your personal brand. Remember, it's about standing out in a way that showcases your unique skills and value to potential clients.