Choosing your platform, landing your first client, and freelance scams to avoid
You've seen 37 places to find work. Spreading yourself across all of them is the fastest way to get nowhere. Pick one main platform and one backup, and give them 90 days.
Which platform fits you?
| You are… | Main platform | Backup |
|---|---|---|
| A beginner with one skill | Fiverr (packaged services) or Upwork (proposals) | LinkedIn + local clients |
| A graphic designer | Fiverr or 99designs | Dribbble or Behance portfolio |
| A writer | Upwork | ProBlogger Jobs, LinkedIn |
| A translator (Kiswahili–English and more) | ProZ.com | Upwork |
| A WordPress developer | Upwork | Codeable once experienced |
| A senior software engineer | Andela, Toptal or Turing | Arc, We Work Remotely |
| A voice-over artist | Voices | Fiverr |
| Looking for local work first | LinkedIn + BrighterMonday + direct outreach | Ajira Digital community |
Landing your first client (a 30-day plan)
| Week | Do this |
|---|---|
| 1 | Pick one niche; build 3 portfolio samples (portfolio without clients); set up your payout method |
| 2 | Create your main profile; write 2–3 specific services; ask two past contacts for testimonials |
| 3 | Send 5 tailored proposals a day (or post gigs and promote them); message 5 local businesses |
| 4 | Follow up politely; deliver your first job brilliantly; ask for a review |
Proposal formula: their problem in one line → how you'll solve it → a relevant sample → a clear next step. Keep it short.
Freelance scams to avoid
| Scam | The giveaway |
|---|---|
| Fake cheque or overpayment | The “client” sends too much money and asks you to refund the difference |
| Pay for training, software or equipment | Any request for you to pay before working |
| Move off the platform immediately | “Let's continue on Telegram/WhatsApp and I'll pay you there” |
| Unpaid “test” projects | A long free test that looks like real work |
| Account renting | Someone offers to “use your account” or let you work on theirs for a cut |
| Fake job offers with interviews on chat apps | Interviews only by text, with pressure to start fast and share ID |
| Crypto payments to “unlock” earnings | Any fee to withdraw your own money |
More: Freelance scams and disputes.
Think about it: A new Upwork client says: “Great profile! Before we start, install this paid app (KSh 3,500) for time tracking. I'll refund you in your first payment.” What do you do?Show answer
Decline and report the job. Real clients never ask freelancers to pay for software; Upwork has its own free time tracker. It's a common scam.
Summary
- Choose one main platform and one backup based on your skill and level; commit for 90 days.
- Use the 30-day plan: niche, portfolio, profile, daily tailored proposals, ask for reviews.
- Overpayment refunds, paying for tools or training, moving off-platform and account renting are scams.
Check yourself
How many main platforms should a beginner focus on at first? (number)
Show answer
1
A client overpays and asks you to refund the difference. Is this likely a scam? (yes or no)
Show answer
yes
Should you pay a client for software before starting work? (yes or no)
Show answer
no