There’s a strong reason I paid someone not to complete a freelance project, and my story might help you better navigate Fiverr and other freelancer platforms. By sharing my experience, you’ll learn how to:
- Find better freelancers on Fiverr.
- Spend less money on freelance projects.
- Stress less over new projects.
Your business “pockets” will thank me later.
Why I Chose to Pay for No Work Completed
Recently, I was thinking about running a new social media ad campaign to reach a target market outside my comfort zone. I had no idea where to start. Naturally, I turned to Fiverr and similar platforms. After some searching, I found a highly-rated freelancer whose package aligned with my needs. She came recommended with glowing five-star reviews.
I reached out with a few questions. Her responses were gold—but they also revealed that I wasn’t ready to start the project yet. Instead of proceeding, I paid her for her time and saved her to my favorites. This wasn’t an act of kindness; it was a strategic decision. Here’s why.
1. Paying for Education Saves Money Long-Term
A lot of people complain about finding quality talent on freelancer sites. It’s true that hiring the right person can feel overwhelming when you’re already stretched thin. Many jump onto platforms like Fiverr expecting to outsource tasks for $5, only to end up disappointed.
The reality? Unless you know exactly what you need and what sets a freelancer apart, you’re bound to run into issues. That’s why I value freelancers who educate me. By taking the time to explain what’s needed and why it matters, they help me make smarter decisions and avoid costly mistakes down the road.
2. Do Your Homework Before Hiring
When hiring for a new project, preparation is key. My process includes:
- Reading blogs and industry how-to articles.
- Listening to podcasts to understand common pitfalls and best practices.
- Exploring forums or Facebook groups where professionals share advice.
- Analyzing job descriptions on Fiverr and other platforms, especially those with higher budgets, to identify recurring responsibilities.
This research helps me clarify my goals and ask better questions when reaching out to freelancers. It also means I’m more open to paying higher quotes when freelancers take the time to explain their pricing.
3. Look for Freelancers Who Are Willing to Educate
Not every project requires a long-term relationship, but starting something new often does. You’ll make mistakes—and that’s okay. What’s important is finding freelancers who are patient and willing to guide you through the process.
For example, the Fiverr freelancer I reached out to walked me through her approach in several messages. She listened to my goals, explained what it would take, and quoted a price far above my original budget. While I didn’t move forward with the project, her insights were invaluable.
4. Test Multiple Freelancers for Education on the Job
When I first hired freelancers for writing projects, I didn’t settle on one or two. Instead, I hired seven people for the same task. Some delivered stellar work; others didn’t. But having all the results in hand helped me identify what quality looked like.
If you’re new to a task, it’s worth working with multiple freelancers to get a better understanding of what you’re looking for. You’ll make more informed decisions in the future.
5. Hire with a CEO Mindset
A freelancer’s expertise can elevate your project far beyond what you envisioned. Years ago, I hired a “graphic designer” on Upwork who turned out to have extensive experience in magazine production. He didn’t just improve my client’s workbook design; he educated me about whitespace, color bleed, stock photos, and other design nuances. His insights saved me time and money on revisions and ensured a polished final product.
Even when my budget is tight, I prioritize working with freelancers who bring this level of expertise. The ROI on quality talent is undeniable.
6. Focus on Long-Term Relationships
Running a small business means being selective about who you bring on your team. That’s why I invest time and money vetting freelancers. When I find someone who shares my values and works in a similar manner, I stick with them.
Take my first web developer, for example. He emphasized making my site mobile-ready years before it became standard practice. That foresight saved me from scrambling when Google prioritized mobile-first indexing. His patient, educational approach has made him a trusted partner ever since.
Actionable Strategies for Hiring Freelancers
If you want to find better freelancers and reduce stress, follow these steps:
- Research Thoroughly: Read industry articles, listen to podcasts, and study job descriptions before hiring.
- Ask Questions: Look for freelancers who explain their process and pricing clearly.
- Test Multiple Freelancers: When possible, hire a few people for the same task to compare results.
- Invest in Education: Prioritize freelancers who help you understand the project better, even if their quote is higher.
- Build Relationships: Focus on finding long-term partners who align with your values and can grow with your business.
Final Thoughts
Freelancer platforms like Fiverr can be goldmines for small business owners—if you approach them strategically. By doing your homework, valuing education, and prioritizing long-term relationships, you’ll not only stress less but also save money in the long run. Your business deserves the best, so invest the time and resources to find it.
