Job Boards Every Freelancer Should Know (and How to Actually Use Them)

Pheew! I get it. It’s not even funny trying to sell yourself as a freelancer. When I first dipped my toes into freelancing, I thought getting clients would be as simple as opening a laptop, signing up on a platform, and waiting for jobs to pour in. If you’ve freelanced for more than five minutes, you already know that’s not how it works at all.

Job boards are not magic wands. They’re like marketplaces. You may want to think of them as open-air markets where thousands of people are all shouting: “I can design your logo!” “I’ll edit your video!” “I’ll write your copy!”  at once . Your task isn’t just to show up. It is to try as much as possible to stand out among others.

But here’s the thing: job boards are still one of the easiest entry points for freelancers to get their first gigs, build a portfolio, and learn what clients actually want. Let’s talk about some of the most useful ones, ones I have used in the past and how to approach them differently so you don’t get lost in the noise.

1. Upwork – The Busy Highway

Upwork is huge. And because it’s huge, it can feel overwhelming. You’ll see hundreds of listings that make you wonder if people actually expect freelancers to work for $3. Don’t let that scare you.
The trick with Upwork is filtering aggressively and tailoring your proposals. Clients there are sifting through dozens of pitches. What makes you different is not sending a copy and paste CV, but showing in two sentences how you’d solve their specific problem. They do not care about your qualifications. They care more about what solutions you are bringing.

As a Nigerian freelancer signing up on Upwork, you should expect a thorough verification process to confirm your identity and payment details. Competition can be tough, especially at the beginning, so building a strong profile and portfolio is essential. Many clients may initially prefer experienced freelancers, so you might need to start with smaller or lower-paying jobs to build reviews. Payment is secure, but you’ll need to set up a reliable withdrawal method that works in Nigeria, like Payoneer or direct to local bank. With consistency and professionalism, you can gradually attract better-paying international clients and grow your freelance career.

How to Get Started on Upwork:

• • Go to upwork.com → click Sign Up → choose “I’m a freelancer.”
  • Complete your profile with a photo, title (e.g., Graphic Designer | Branding & Logos), and an overview that speaks directly to clients’ needs.
  • Add skills, portfolio samples, and set your hourly rate.
  • Search for jobs in your category under Find Work.
  • When you see a fit, click Submit a Proposal.
  • Use 150–200 words to show the client you understand their problem and how you’ll solve it. Attach samples if you have them.

Upwork is better than many other job boards because it provides a built-in system for secure contracts and payments, protecting both freelancers and clients. Unlike traditional job boards that only list opportunities, Upwork allows you to apply, communicate, and get paid all in one place. It also has a wide range of job categories, from entry-level gigs to highly specialized roles, making it easier to find work that matches your skills. The platform gives freelancers visibility to a global client base, not just local postings. Most importantly, client reviews and ratings help you build credibility over time, something regular job boards don’t typically offer.

2. Fiverr – The Shopfront Approach

Fiverr flips the script. Instead of applying to jobs, you create “gigs” and let clients come to you. The key here is packaging. Think of it like setting up your own mini-store: clear titles, attractive visuals, and honest pricing. What I love about Fiverr is that you can experiment. Start small, deliver fast, gather reviews, then raise your rates as you grow.

Signing up on Fiverr, you should expect to create service “gigs” that showcase exactly what you offer rather than applying for jobs. The platform is competitive, so standing out with clear descriptions, professional images, and strong pricing is key. You may start with low-paying orders to build reviews before attracting higher-paying clients. Payments are secure, but you’ll need to connect withdrawal options like Payoneer or bank transfer for Nigeria. With consistency, good ratings, and repeat buyers, Fiverr can become a steady source of international income.

Here’s how to join and get seen on Fiverr:

• • Go to fiverr.com → click Join → select “I’m a seller.”
  • Build your seller profile with a photo, description, and your skills.
  • Create a gig: choose a service, write a catchy title (e.g., “I will design a modern logo for your brand”), add clear descriptions, pricing tiers, and upload images or samples.
  • Publish your gig and share it if possible.
  • When clients order, respond quickly, deliver quality work, and collect good reviews—your gigs will rise in search rankings.

Unlike regular job boards that only list vacancies, Fiverr makes it easy to package and market your services like products. The platform covers a wide range of niches, giving freelancers room to specialize and stand out. Payments are processed within the system, offering both security and convenience. Most importantly, Fiverr’s review system and gig ranking can quickly boost your visibility and attract more buyers over time.

3. Toptal & Expert Networks – The Exclusive Clubs

These are harder to get into. They will test you, interview you, and sometimes even make you feel like you’re applying for a corporate job again. But if you get in here, the projects are usually higher paying and with more established clients. If you’ve already built some credibility, this might be  a better spot to take your next step.

How to Get Started on Toptal (and Similar Networks):

1. Go to toptal.com → click Apply as a Freelancer.
2. Be ready for a rigorous screening process:
   • Application form → skills, experience, portfolio.
   • Language & personality test → communication skills.
   • Skill review → live exercises or technical interviews depending on your field.
   • Test project → a short project to show your real-world ability.
3. If you pass, you’ll be matched with clients and get premium, long-term opportunities.

Important to note: Other “exclusive” boards like Flexiple, Braintrust, or Gun.io have similar processes.

4. Niche Boards – Where the Hidden Gems Are

This is my personal favorite category. Instead of the massive platforms, there are smaller boards like We Work Remotely (for remote jobs), ProBlogger (for writers), or 99designs (for creatives). These feel less crowded and more tailored. It’s like finding that quiet corner shop where you don’t have to shout to be heard.

How to Get Started on Niche Boards:

• • We Work Remotely (remote jobs): Go to weworkremotely.com. Browse job listings, click the one that interests you, and follow the company’s application instructions (usually via email or a company website).
  • ProBlogger (for writers): Visit problogger.com/jobs. Pick a listing, then submit your pitch as instructed (cover letter + writing samples).
  • 99designs (for creatives): Sign up on 99designs.com. Build your profile, showcase design samples, and start by joining “contests” where clients pick the best design. Once you win a few, you’ll be invited to direct projects.

How to Make Job Boards Work for You

• • Don’t chase everything. Apply only to jobs that truly fit your skills. Clients can smell desperation in a generic pitch.
  • Build outside the boards. Use them to get started, but don’t depend on them forever. Your long-term freelancing security comes from referrals and repeat clients.
  • Think of it as practice. Even if you don’t land every gig, writing proposals teaches you how to pitch, how to price, and how to position yourself.

It is important to note that jobs or gigs are not guaranteed on these platforms. You have to stand out. Beat geographic constraints as a Nigerian, let your skills speak for you. Less talking. More doing.

Freelancing isn’t always smooth, and job boards won’t solve all your problems. But they can be stepping stones. They are places to learn, to experiment, and to get your name out there. The real win isn’t just in landing a gig; it’s in building relationships that go beyond the platform.

So, if you’ve been doubting whether to put yourself out there, consider this your sign. Pick a board, polish your profile, send that proposal, and see where it takes you.

 I’m curious. Has job boards helped you in your freelancing journey, or do you think they’re overrated? Drop your thoughts in the comments. I’d love to hear how others navigate this freelancing maze.