PeoplePerHour Website

PeoplePerHour Review: Is It Legit or a Scam?

By WFHR Editor
Published on December 4, 2022
Last updated: July 5, 2024

Are you looking for an online job to earn some extra cash? If so, PeoplePerHour might be the right platform for you. It’s an online marketplace where freelancers can find work and companies can hire them. But is PeoplePerHour a legitimate website? In this article, we’ll review the pros and cons of PeoplePerHour to help you decide if it’s the right choice for you.

PeoplePerHour is an online platform that has been helping freelancers find suitable projects and clients since 2007. The site caters to a wide range of industries, such as writing, design, business, and technology. With a growing user base and popularity among freelancers and businesses alike, it is essential to take a closer look at the platform’s offerings and understand its strengths and weaknesses from the perspective of its users.

The platform’s review system provides a glimpse into users’ experiences, with the majority citing satisfaction with the escrow system and its effectiveness in protecting clients and freelancers.

What is PeoplePerHour?

PeoplePerHour Logo

PeoplePerHour is an online marketplace where freelancers from around the world come together to connect with employers who are looking for skilled professionals. Whether it’s graphic design, web development, writing, or data entry, employers can post a job and receive bids from qualified professionals.

PeoplePerHour is an online freelance platform that connects small businesses and freelancers worldwide. As a marketplace, it provides a trusted environment for people to offer and purchase various services from each other. The platform caters to an extensive range of industries and skill sets, making it an ideal choice for businesses looking for specialized talent and freelancers seeking work opportunities.

One of PeoplePerHour’s unique features is its escrow system, which ensures the protection of buyers and sellers. This mechanism helps build trust and safeguards funds until both parties have fulfilled their contractual obligations. With reliable customer service and smooth funds withdrawal processes, PeoplePerHour has maintained a positive reputation among its users.

As a freelancer on the platform, you can showcase your skills and attract clients by creating a comprehensive profile. Simultaneously, employers can easily search for suitable candidates and explore their portfolios before offering projects. While the free membership option can help you get started on the platform, finding the right opportunities may require patience.

Despite some criticisms about customer service and account management, PeoplePerHour remains a viable option for businesses and freelancers alike. Its user-friendly interface and wide array of services make it an attractive choice in the freelance marketplace.

Signing Up and Profile Creation

PeoplePerHour Account Creation
PeoplePerHour / PeoplePerHour

Signing up on PeoplePerHour is a straightforward process. To register an account, visit their website and click on “I want to become a freelancer”. From there, you’ll be guided through a series of steps to complete your registration.

Once your email address has been verified, it’s time to create a strong profile that showcases your skills and expertise. Start by adding a professional-looking profile picture that represents you well. This is often the first impression potential clients will have of you, so ensure it reflects your work ethic and demeanor.

Next, write a clear and concise description of your skills, experience, and what makes you the ideal candidate for a client’s project. Be specific about your accomplishments, as this will help potential clients assess your capabilities and determine if you’re the right fit for their needs. Using bullet points in your description can help you organize the information effectively and make it more reader-friendly.

As you build your PeoplePerHour profile, keep in mind that the platform values a diverse skill set. Try to showcase a range of abilities, including those that relate to your core expertise and any supplementary skills that may give you an edge over other freelancers. This could include expertise in specific software, experience in a particular industry, or a proficiency in a certain language.

Once your profile has been completed, it’s time to begin bidding on projects and connecting with potential clients. As you gain experience and accumulate positive reviews, you’ll increase your chances of securing future work on PeoplePerHour.

Understanding the Job Market

Business Handshake
Mongkolchon / Adobe Stock

PeoplePerHour is a platform designed to connect freelancers with clients in need of their services. This global job market offers various opportunities for freelancers to find work and showcase their skills and expertise across 15 categories. From design, web development, to writing, the platform serves as a hub where clients and freelancers collaborate to complete projects.

Clients, also known as buyers, can post projects on the site with detailed descriptions and requirements. They can also outline budgets and deadlines, providing a clear scope of what they expect from the freelancers. This gives freelancers a holistic understanding of the job and tailor their proposals accordingly.

PeoplePerHour Project Posting
PeoplePerHour / PeoplePerHour

Sellers, freelancers, can access a vast pool of job listings on the platform. They can submit proposals for projects that match their skillset, experience, and interests.

Once a freelancer submits a proposal, clients review the submitted offers and select the most suitable candidate for their project. This competitive bidding process allows clients to compare and weigh their options, ensuring they select someone capable of delivering quality work.

PeoplePerHour  for Freelancers
PeoplePerHour / PeoplePerHour

The platform offers diverse job opportunities for freelancers spanning across multiple industries. As a result, sellers can expect to find several projects that cater to their expertise. PeoplePerHour’s user-friendly interface and advanced search features enable freelancers to easily filter projects based on preferences, such as keywords, budget, and deadlines. This way, they can efficiently navigate the job market and apply for projects that align with their goals.

Furthermore, PeoplePerHour has a built-in payment system, ensuring freelancers receive their earnings securely. The fee structure for freelancers is tiered based on earnings per client:

  • Project earnings below $700: 20% service fee excluding VAT.
  • Earnings between $700-$7000: 7.5% service charge including VAT.
  • Earnings more than $7000: 3.5% service charge including VAT.

This flexible job market empowers freelancers to grow their professional network, increase job opportunities, and secure earnings while working on diverse projects. PeoplePerHour fosters an environment where buyers and sellers can confidently collaborate to achieve their goals.

Features and User Experience

PeoplePerHour offers a diverse range of features and functionalities that enhance the user experience on the platform. It is designed to cater to the needs of various professionals, ensuring a seamless and efficient platform where clients and freelancers can connect and collaborate.

The service provided by PeoplePerHour is recognized for its user-friendliness, enabling individuals to navigate the platform easily. With the help of advanced algorithms, freelancers with suitable skills are matched to the appropriate projects posted by clients, thereby simplifying the process of finding the right talent for a job.

A key aspect of PeoplePerHour is the two-way messaging system, which allows seamless communication between clients and freelancers. This facilitates quick and efficient collaboration, leading to a smooth and fruitful working relationship. Additionally, the platform’s workstream feature ensures that all communication, file sharing, and transaction details are organized within a single thread, making it simple to track the progress of a project.

Apart from providing a platform for experts to showcase their skills, PeoplePerHour prioritizes the security and satisfaction of its users. The built-in escrow system ensures the protection of both clients and freelancers, safeguarding funds until the project is completed to the satisfaction of both parties. Moreover, the customer service team is available to address any concerns users may encounter while using the platform.

PeoplePerHour has created an environment conducive to efficient and effective collaborations between clients and freelancers. Its emphasis on providing a user-friendly experience and secure transactions makes it a viable choice for professionals seeking a reliable and productive freelance platform.

PeoplePerHour Fees and Payments

PeoplePerHour Fees and Payments
PeoplePerHour / PeoplePerHour

PeoplePerHour operates with a transparent fee structure, ensuring that freelancers and clients can easily understand the costs involved. This platform uses an escrow system to protect the financial interests of both parties when a project is started. This section will discuss the fees, payments, and other monetary aspects associated with PeoplePerHour.

  • Service Fees: Freelancers need to be aware of the service fees charged by PeoplePerHour on their earnings. For the first £500 (or equivalent) earned from a client, the platform charges a 20% commission. The commission rate decreases to 7.5% for the next £5,000 (or equivalent) earned with the same client. Once earnings exceed £5,000, the commission rate drops to 3.5%. This tiered fee system rewards long-term collaborations with clients.
  • Escrow: The escrow system protects clients and freelancers throughout their transactions. Funds are securely held until the project is completed, and any disputes can be resolved with PeoplePerHour’s customer service.
  • VAT: Value-added tax (VAT) applies to clients based in the European Union. The VAT rate applied depends on the client’s country of residence. Freelancers are responsible for handling their VAT in their country of residence, if applicable.
  • Account Management: PeoplePerHour provides a feature-rich account management dashboard for its users. Invoicing, project management, and payment tracking can all be managed through the platform, reducing administrative overhead for freelancers.
  • Invoicing: Invoices are generated automatically on completion of a project or at set milestones. The platform offers an invoicing tool for freelancers to create and manage their invoices.
  • Payments: Withdrawals can be made from the freelancer’s PeoplePerHour account once funds have been cleared. PeoplePerHour supports various payment methods, including PayPal, Payoneer, and bank transfers, making it convenient for freelancers to access their earnings.

By understanding the fees and payments structure of PeoplePerHour, both clients and freelancers can better navigate this platform and make more informed decisions about collaborating on projects.

Freelancing Opportunities on PeoplePerHour

Freelancing Opportunities on PeoplePerHour
PeoplePerHour / PeoplePerHour

PeoplePerHour offers diverse freelancing opportunities for skilled professionals seeking remote work. The platform caters to various industries, from design and programming to marketing and writing services. This broad spectrum of categories allows freelancers to find suitable projects that align with their expertise.

The platform enables potential clients to post jobs through an intuitive posting process that accurately describes their requirements, ensuring a smooth selection and negotiation process. Freelancers can browse these job postings to find work aligned with their skills. Additionally, they can actively market their services by creating “Hourlies,” fixed-price offers that clearly outline their capabilities and expertise, allowing clients to view and order them directly.

To maintain a sense of flexibility and work-life balance, PeoplePerHour freelancers can choose between hourly rates or fixed-price projects for their services. This allows freelancers to take control of their financial expectations by setting clear boundaries and priorities depending on the type of work offered.

PeoplePerHour operates on a credit-based system, where freelancers must utilize their “hour account” to bid on related projects. Credits are required to submit proposals for various freelancing opportunities, and they can be purchased directly through the platform. Freelancers are encouraged to use their credits wisely, crucial in securing work with potential clients.

From the available opportunities to efficiently showcasing one’s skills, PeoplePerHour provides a convenient and dynamic marketplace for freelancers to thrive in. With the ability to work remotely for a diverse clientele, freelancers can access a vast, global network that allows their professional growth in a flexible and dynamic work environment.

Quality Control Measures

Why Choose PeoplePerHour
PeoplePerHour / PeoplePerHour

PeoplePerHour implements several quality control measures to maintain a high standard of work on their platform. One of these measures is the meticulous vetting process for freelancers aiming to join the community. This process helps ensure that only skilled and experienced professionals can offer their services on the platform, thereby maintaining quality standards.

The platform encourages freelancers to create well-thought-out proposals for projects. These proposals are crucial in showcasing their expertise and understanding of the client’s requirements. Providing detailed and relevant information in the proposal increases the chances of being awarded the project.

Proposal credits are another feature that PeoplePerHour has introduced to help maintain the quality of project bids. Freelancers get a limited number of monthly proposal credits, which they can use to submit job proposals. This ensures that freelancers submit proposals to only those projects they are genuinely interested in and fully capable of completing. This leads to better quality bids for clients to choose from, resulting in successful collaborations.

PeoplePerHour also considers customer feedback, allowing clients to rate and review each completed project. This helps the platform build a reliable reputation system that assists clients in their decision-making process when selecting freelancers for future projects. Furthermore, freelancers who consistently receive high ratings and positive feedback will likely attract more clients and projects, fostering a supportive environment for talented professionals.

In essence, PeoplePerHour’s quality control measures, including the vetting process, proposal structuring, proposal credits, and the feedback system, contribute to a robust platform that effectively connects clients with the right talent to deliver high-quality work.

Comparative Analysis with Similar Platforms

Upwork Reviews landing page
Fiverr / Fiverr

When comparing PeoplePerHour with other freelance marketplaces like Elance, Fiverr, and Upwork, it’s essential to consider several factors to determine the strengths and weaknesses of each platform.

Pricing: PeoplePerHour has a minimum project cost of $10, while on Fiverr, you can find freelancers offering services for as low as $5. However, it’s worth noting that prices vary depending on the project’s complexity and the freelancers’ expertise.

Size of Freelance Market: Upwork and Fiverr have a more extensive freelance market, offering a broader range of services and talent than PeoplePerHour and the now-closed Elance platform. This means clients have more options for finding a suitable freelancer for their projects.

Project Management: Upwork offers sophisticated project management tools and comprehensive communication channels for clients and freelancers to collaborate on projects. This feature is not as well-developed on PeoplePerHour or Fiverr, which may make tracking progress and communication more challenging for users.

Platform Usability: Fiverr, PeoplePerHour, and Upwork all have user-friendly interfaces, but each platform has its unique take on connecting businesses with freelancers:

  • Fiverr focuses on offering “gigs,” which are pre-defined, one-time jobs for a fixed price.
  • Upwork allows businesses to post projects and receive proposals, or they can browse freelancer profiles and invite them to apply.
  • PeoplePerHour combines both approaches, allowing clients to post projects or purchase pre-defined services called “Hourlies.”

When selecting the ideal platform for your project needs, it’s essential to weigh the different features each marketplace offers. For instance, if you’re looking for an affordable and straightforward solution, Fiverr might be an ideal choice.

On the other hand, if you require more comprehensive project management tools and access to a broader talent pool, Upwork could be more suitable. Finally, PeoplePerHour offers a hybrid approach that may cater to clients desiring the best of both worlds.

Customer Support Analysis

PeoplePerHour is known for its freelancing platform where clients and freelancers can connect and collaborate on projects. A key aspect of the platform’s success lies in the quality of its customer support. This section will analyze the customer support offered by PeoplePerHour based on the users’ feedback and available information.

The support team at PeoplePerHour is responsible for addressing concerns and queries raised by clients and freelancers. Their primary role is to maintain a smooth user experience and ensure that issues are resolved promptly. Users have reported mixed experiences with customer support at PeoplePerHour.

Some users have praised their experiences with the platform’s customer support. They mentioned that the support team provided timely assistance and resolved their issues effectively. One user even stated that the customer service and skills of the freelancers are “unmatchable.” This indicates that the platform’s support team has the potential to excel in resolving user concerns.

However, other users have shared negative experiences with customer support, mainly mentioning problems with service, support from the team, and issues with payment accounts. These concerns have led to a mixed overall impression of PeoplePerHour’s customer service, as indicated by a 1.77-star rating from 175 reviews on Sitejabber, where customer support was among the most frequent complaints.

To enhance the quality of their customer support, PeoplePerHour needs to address the concerns raised by unsatisfied users and strive for better service. This includes ensuring that the support team members are well-trained and possess up-to-date knowledge on the platform’s features, issues, and policies.

In the competitive world of freelance platforms, PeoplePerHour must maintain a reliable and efficient customer support system. The platform can attract more clients and freelancers by improving in this area, leading to higher satisfaction and increased trust in their services.

Community Feedback and Reviews

PeoplePerHour  
 Community Feedback and Reviews
PeoplePerHour / PeoplePerHour

PeoplePerHour (PPH) has received various reviews from its users, with both positive and negative experiences. As a platform that facilitates freelance work, it is essential to know what the users think about their service.

Positive feedback on PeoplePerHour mainly revolves around the opportunity for freelancers to find short-term jobs with high payment rates, making it a great source for generating additional income. Users also appreciate the escrow system that PPH employs. It ensures buyer and seller protection, and fund withdrawals are reportedly smooth. Freelancers have also praised PPH for their responsive customer service. As per the reviews on Trustpilot, customers commend the professional and helpful service that PeoplePerHour provides.

However, there are negative reviews too. Users have encountered scams on PeoplePerHour; resolving such issues can take time. Some freelancers face challenges with the bidding system, sometimes taking longer than expected to secure a project. Certain reviewers on SiteJabber have also reported receiving spam invitations that could negatively impact their experience on the platform.

When it comes to ratings, PPH has a mixed response. On platforms like Trustpilot, it holds 4 out of 5 stars, while SiteJabber holds 3.5 out of 5 stars. As with any service or platform, users are encouraged to exercise caution and due diligence to maximize PeoplePerHour’s opportunities.

It is important to consider that an individual user’s experience with PeoplePerHour could differ significantly. Factors such as their area of expertise, project quality, communication, and professionalism contribute to varied feedback and reviews.

While PPH has the potential to be a lucrative option for some, it may not be suitable for everyone. The community feedback and reviews on PeoplePerHour provide valuable insights for potential users to gauge whether the platform is suited to their needs.

Analyzing Negative Reports

When evaluating PeoplePerHour as a freelance platform, it’s important to consider users’ negative reports and experiences. By doing so, potential freelancers and clients can make informed decisions before joining the platform.

One common concern among users is the lengthy payment processing time. Some freelancers have reported waiting up to 17-18 days to receive their earnings, which can be inconvenient and frustrating for those who rely on the platform as a source of income. In the past, the payment process took only 1-2 working days, leading long-term users to lament over the platform’s decline in efficiency.

Another issue reported by users is the lack of adequate financial protection. While PeoplePerHour employs an escrow system to protect clients and freelancers, there are cases where disputes arise, and the platform’s intervention may not always be satisfactory. Thus, financial protection may not be as robust as one would hope for with this platform.

Additionally, there are occasional reports of scams, fraudulent clients, or freelancers on PeoplePerHour. While the platform tries to maintain a secure environment for both buyers and sellers, users must be cautious and make sure to verify the legitimacy of potential clients or freelancers before accepting or submitting proposals.

Despite these concerns, many freelancers have succeeded on PeoplePerHour, securing long-term clients and establishing a solid reputation on the platform. As with any marketplace, due diligence, caution, and a keen awareness of potential scams are critical for a positive experience.

While PeoplePerHour may have its share of negative reports, users should consider these concerns alongside the platform’s positive aspects, such as the opportunity to connect with clients worldwide and the potential for a thriving freelance career. By weighing the pros and cons, potential users can decide if PeoplePerHour is the right platform for their freelancing needs.

Potential Challenges and Downsides

PeoplePerHour, like any freelance platform, has its set of challenges and downsides that users may face when using the service. It is essential to be aware of these potential issues to make an informed decision before committing to the platform.

One significant challenge that freelancers may face on PeoplePerHour is competition. Since the platform is open to freelancers from around the world, finding work can be difficult, especially for those who are just starting out. With a vast pool of talented workers, standing out and landing projects may require much effort and dedication.

Another potential downside is the fee structure. PeoplePerHour charges a service fee to both freelancers and employers. The platform takes a percentage of the freelancer’s earnings, decreasing as the freelancer’s lifetime earnings increase. This fee structure may deter some users who prefer a flat-rate or subscription-based system.

Additionally, users have reported occasional issues with the platform’s functionality. Some freelancers and employers may face challenges in navigating the website or app or encounter technical difficulties, leading to potential delays or misunderstandings in communication and project completion.

Lastly, the quality of clients on the platform may not always meet the expectations of some freelancers. Unreliable or difficult clients may delay payment or project scope, leading to dissatisfaction and wasted time.

While PeoplePerHour is a popular and viable option for freelancers to find work, knowing these potential challenges and downsides can help users make an informed decision and prepare for possible hurdles during their freelance journey.

Pros of PeoplePerHour

How to Get The Most of PeoplePerHour Works

One of the biggest advantages of using PeoplePerHour is its free use. Both employers and freelancers can sign up and use all of the features available on the platform without paying any fees.

The platform also has a robust search function so employers can easily find qualified workers for their projects. Finally, people who use PeoplePerHour report having good experiences with customer service and finding quality work quickly.

Cons of PeoplePerHour

One potential downside to using PeoplePerHour is that it can be difficult to get noticed as a freelancer due to the high volume of applicants vying for each job posting.

Also, there have been reports of low pay rates on some projects, which could lead to lower-than-expected earnings if you don’t take the time to research each job before applying. Finally, some users have reported difficulty in withdrawing funds which could be an issue depending on how often you need access to your money.

Overall, PeoplePerHour is a legitimate online marketplace for employers and freelancers. While some projects may have minor issues with payment processing or low pay rates, these seem like isolated cases rather than systemic problems with the platform. So if you’re looking for extra income opportunities as an employer or freelancer, try PeoplePerHour!

Frequently Asked Questions

Is PeoplePerHour a legitimate platform?

Yes, PeoplePerHour is a legitimate platform for freelancers and clients to connect and collaborate on projects. Established in 2007, it has become a trusted marketplace for freelancers seeking short-term jobs with high payment rates. The escrow system implemented by the platform ensures protection for both buyers and sellers.

How much can I earn on PeoplePerHour?

Earnings on PeoplePerHour can vary greatly depending on factors such as your skills, experience, and the nature of your projects. Some freelancers may earn a higher income due to the availability of short-term jobs with high payment rates. However, it’s important to note that the platform takes fees into account for its services.

Can beginners succeed on PeoplePerHour?

Absolutely. PeoplePerHour caters to freelancers of all experience levels, including beginners. As long as you can showcase your skills, propose competitive bids for projects, and deliver high-quality work promptly, the platform has the potential for success. Building a reputation and cultivating positive client relationships can lead to more opportunities.

What types of jobs are available on PeoplePerHour?

PeoplePerHour offers a wide range of job opportunities across various categories, including but not limited to web development, graphic design, writing, video editing, social media management, and virtual assistance. Clients post projects with specific requirements, and freelancers can bid on these projects or post pre-defined service offers with a fixed fee.

How do payments work on PeoplePerHour?

Payments on PeoplePerHour are facilitated through an escrow system, which ensures the protection of both buyers and sellers. Clients deposit funds for a project into the escrow account, and once the work is completed and approved, the funds are released to the freelancer. Withdrawals can then be made smoothly via the platform’s payment options.

How does PeoplePerHour compare to platforms like Upwork?

PeoplePerHour is comparable to platforms like Upwork in offering a marketplace for freelancers and clients. However, there might be differences in project types, payment structures, and fees. PeoplePerHour is known for its short-term, high-paying jobs, while Upwork may have more long-term contracts. It’s essential to weigh the pros and cons of each platform and choose the one that best suits your preferences and skills.

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