LinkedIn Marketplace is suitable for users who prioritize leveraging their existing network and direct communication for simple projects, while PeoplePerHour is better for those needing a full-featured platform with project management and payment security, despite the associated fees and potential support delays.
| Attribute | LinkedIn Marketplace | PeoplePerHour |
|---|---|---|
| Freelancer Vetting Process | LinkedIn allows buyers to review freelancer profiles to assess their experience and vet them for the services they offer. LinkedIn profiles showcase work experience, skills, and industry expertise, which helps validate credentials. However, there are no customer reviews for individual freelancers on the platform, making it difficult to know who is good. | Hand-reviews and approves every freelancer, uses CERT algorithm, 3-month trial period |
| Project Management Tools | LinkedIn Services Marketplace does not offer project management tools. | Workstream tool for collaboration and file sharing, integration with Trello, FreshBooks, and ClickUp |
| Payment Security and Escrow | The platform does not facilitate payment between parties. Payment negotiation and invoicing are handled off-platform. | Escrow system to hold funds until client approval |
| Dispute Resolution Mechanisms | Implement a structured dispute resolution system that includes a step-by-step process for users to submit and resolve disputes. Disputes should be resolved fairly and swiftly. | Encourages self-resolution, dispute raised through Workstream, customer support review |
| Communication Channels | Clients can contact freelancers directly without needing to connect. | Workstream for collaboration, file sharing, video conferencing |
| Pricing Structure and Fees | It is free to use for both freelancers and employers. LinkedIn does not charge transaction fees or commissions for using the marketplace. However, freelancers may need a premium account after submitting a certain number of proposals. LinkedIn offers different pricing tiers for premium accounts: Career, Business, Sales, and Hiring. | Tiered service fee structure for freelancers (3.5% to 20%), fees for clients |
| Freelancer Skill Verification | LinkedIn helps validate past work experience, skills, and expertise. | CERT ranking algorithm, readiness test for profile badge |
| Client Support Responsiveness | Invest in training programs to ensure the support team has the necessary skills and knowledge, including communication techniques and problem-solving skills. | Slow response times, support via support ticket |
| Range of Available Services | The platform focuses on services like consulting, writing, marketing, and graphic design. Categories include administrative support, accounting, customer service, design, IT, legal, and more. | Writing, design, programming, and more |
| User Interface and Experience | The UI is simple but different from other freelance sites. | Easy to use and navigate for many users |
| Mobile App Availability | LinkedIn has a mobile app. | Mobile app for Android and Apple devices |
| Global Reach and Language Support | LinkedIn Services Marketplace is available worldwide. A mobile version is available in Chinese, English, French, German, Japanese, and Spanish. | Global reach in over 100 countries |
| Pros | Easy to validate freelancer's experience and skills through LinkedIn profiles, Direct communication with freelancers without needing to connect, Free to use for both freelancers and employers | Wide range of services, Escrow system for payment security, Mobile app availability, Global reach, Project management tools available, Freelancer vetting process |
| Cons | No customer reviews for individual freelancers, No project management tools, No payment facilitation or escrow services, No dispute resolution mechanisms, UI is different from other freelance sites | Slow client support responsiveness, Dissatisfaction with dispute resolution process, Some users have trouble with the interface |
| Price | Free to use (premium accounts available) | Not available |
| Ratings | Not available | Not available |