FreelanceHustle Podcast

Luke’s Fiverr ProfileStarting Out on FiverrQ: Luke, when did you first get involved with Fiverr?Luke: Technically, about eight years ago—I was just helping a friend manage his Fiverr messages. But things did not work out there. You were actually the one who pushed me to give Fiverr a real shot, back when we were in Russia in 2021. I started my own account, and the first few months went well until I got a 4-star review, which kind of threw me off. I stopped for a while… then picked it up again last year in Belgrade.Q: What happened after you restarted?Luke: From August to November, it was great. I reached Level 2 Seller, which was a big milestone for me. Then I got a mediocre review—nothing terrible, but enough to drop me back to Level 1. And last month, I dropped again to Level 0.Riding the Ups and DownsQ: That sounds frustrating. Are you still getting orders?Luke: Surprisingly, yes. Last month, I still made $1,000 on Fiverr—even on Level 0 with no promoted gigs. My best week ever was $3.5K, just before I lost my promoted status.Q: Why not launch a UGC gig? You are a native English speaker from the UK.Luke: I actually did one as my first Fiverr order—it was $500. But I have been hesitant to go all-in. Part of it is that I want to be selective. I do not want to be the face of products I do not believe in. Especially if I go into politics someday, I do not want old videos resurfacing of me promoting some crypto scam or questionable supplement.The Travel LifestyleQ: You have visited over 80 countries now. Where did that passion come from?Luke: I used to watch Top Gear with my dad. Those road trips and adventures they filmed just fascinated me. I always dreamed of seeing the world like that. Fiverr gives me the freedom to travel while I work—I just need decent internet to deliver videos.Q: What are the most memorable countries you have visited?Luke: Russia was definitely one of the best—I ended up staying for three months instead of three weeks. Afghanistan was eye-opening too, even though I visited in winter and had the coldest shower of my life. It is hard to pick just one place. Every country teaches you something different.Mental Growth Through StrugglesQ: Has all this travel changed your perspective on life?Luke: Massively. A few years ago, I hit rock bottom. I was broke, homeless for a few nights, just walking around cities until morning. But those experiences teach you what really matters. You stop caring about being judged. You realize how little you actually need—and how much freedom matters.Direct Clients and Building a BusinessQ: You recently started getting direct clients too, right?Luke: Yeah. In December, I launched a video editing subscription service—mainly short-form content like reels. One client found me through email and reached out at 1:00 a.m. Vietnam time. I took the call outside with mosquitoes buzzing around me, and they are still with me today.Q: How are you finding more clients now?Luke: Some cold email outreach and a lot of referrals. I am up to seven private clients now. It is not stable, but I work hard, stay up till 4:00 or 5:00 a.m. if needed, and meet all deadlines. Clients come back when you deliver well.Plans for Personal BrandQ: What are your plans for Instagram and YouTube?Luke: I want to build my personal brand—travel content, business lessons, maybe even motivation. I posted 24 travel reels in February and started seeing results. But then I went to Turkmenistan and lost internet for a while… and just never got back to it. I need to be consistent.Q: What is holding you back from posting?Luke: Overthinking. I get so many ideas that I end up doing nothing. I confuse myself. I know I need to just start and figure it out along the way. That is what I am working on now.Advice to Aspiring CreatorsQ: What would you say to someone who wants to live with more freedom like you?Luke: Start by connecting with people. Almost every opportunity I have had came from conversations—not from job boards. And do not wait until you are ready. Just start. My first real job came after 120 rejections. You need to take big steps, be willing to move, and be open to change. And if you have a skill, build on it for a few years. That experience will always give you leverage later.Q: What does the future look like for you now?Luke: Keep growing the client side, keep traveling, and finally launch my own content regularly. I do not know what country I will be in next month—but I do know I will be editing videos and building something meaningful wherever I am.Where to find Luke:* Fiverr’s Profile* InstagramThanks for reading this edition. If Luke’s story resonated with you, drop a comment or share it with someone.See you soon,Vasily This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.freelancehustle.com

Denis’s Fiverr ProfileEarly Passion for TechQ: Denis, how did your journey in cybersecurity begin?Denis: My interest started when I was a teenager in the 90s. I was programming in BASIC, Turbo Pascal, and Visual Basic on Windows 3.1 and 95. I fixed computers at school, sometimes better than my computer science teacher. I even created some automated test systems for teachers to save grading time. That was my first exposure to practical IT.Breaking into CybersecurityQ: How did you transition into cybersecurity professionally?Denis: Around 2005, I started working with banks like HSBC, Barclays, and Lloyds as a security engineer. I was securing ATMs, implementing cryptography, and hardening systems. It was the early stage of what we now call cybersecurity.The Oxford DreamQ: What inspired you to study at Oxford?Denis: As a child, I saw the word "Oxford" in science books at home. My grandmother was a paleontologist, and we had many academic books around. That name stayed with me. Years later, after building experience and earning certifications, I applied and was admitted to Oxford for a master’s in Software and System Security.Was Oxford Worth It?Q: Looking back, was it the right decision?Denis: Definitely. It took five years to complete while working, running a company, and raising two children. I passed my CISSP after failing once, got my ISO 27001 Lead Auditor certification, and later added CRISC and CISM. Oxford was tough, but it helped me level up my career.Working with Big Banks & Launching His CompanyQ: What was it like working with major corporations?Denis: I worked with seven international banks. At Fujitsu, I was a Principal Security Solutions Architect, reporting to the CISO and signing off on multi-million-pound security solutions. But the pressure was huge. Even while skiing in the Alps, I had to take work calls. That’s why I eventually launched my own limited company—to gain flexibility and balance.Discovering FiverrQ: With all that experience, why try Fiverr?Denis: I had known about Fiverr through a friend but only gave it a serious look in late 2024. Initially, I thought it was not for me, but then I started analyzing the platform. I spent two months watching videos—especially yours—and created around 17 gigs covering different cybersecurity services.First Sales and Niche FocusQ: How did your Fiverr sales begin?Denis: Real traction started in January 2025 after polishing my gigs for a few months. My services cover everything from GDPR to ISO 27001, PCI-DSS, and risk management. Because I worked across many domains in my career, I could confidently offer consultations in all of them.Gig Structure & PricingQ: How do you structure your offers?Denis: Most gigs are one-hour consultations with three tiers:* Basic: Delivery within 30 days* Standard: Delivery within 5 business days* Premium: Delivery within 2 days for urgent casesIn some cases, clients book multiple hours or even larger bundles. I am also preparing to launch subscription-based services for companies that need ongoing support but cannot afford a full-time Chief Information Security Officer.Pro Seller & Top Rated StatusQ: How did you become a Fiverr Pro and Top Rated Seller so fast?Denis: I applied for Pro Seller status shortly after joining. I had all the credentials—Oxford, industry certs, real-world experience—and got approved in about a month. I hit Top Rated Seller status within three months of consistent sales, maintaining a 100% response rate and success score of 10.Fiverr Project InsightsQ: What kind of clients and requests do you get on Fiverr?Denis: Most clients are small businesses, though I have worked with billion-dollar companies through Fiverr too. Some requests are strange—people asking me to hack systems or recover stolen accounts. I report those immediately. But overall, the platform has allowed me to serve a wide range of serious clients.Tips, Tools & WorkflowQ: Do you use any tools or have a team helping you?Denis: I work closely with a trusted colleague—one of the top technical cybersecurity specialists I know. He helps with the more technical engagements. We do not use complex systems—just a clean setup to manage consultations and delivery.Thoughts on Fiverr's 20% FeeQ: How do you feel about Fiverr taking 20%?Denis: It is similar to working with a recruitment agency—they take a cut for connecting you with clients. Fiverr offers infrastructure, support, and traffic. Of course, it would be nice to pay less, but for what it offers, the fee is reasonable.Advice for Experienced ProfessionalsQ: What advice do you have for experienced professionals considering Fiverr?Denis: Define your goals clearly. Understand that you are trading time, energy, and money. Focus on learning how Fiverr works—watch videos, study gig structure, and test. If you are a true expert, there is definitely demand. Just be ready to put in the time initially.Strategic Direction: Healthcare & HIPAAQ: What are your long-term goals beyond Fiverr?Denis: I a

Marko’s Fiverr ProfileDiscovering FiverrQ: Marko, how did you first hear about Fiverr?Marko: Back in college, I was looking up ways to make money online and came across Fiverr through a simple Google search. I had a passion for music production and knew how to use FL Studio, so I thought, why not turn that into a service? That is how it all started.Early Gigs & the First OrderQ: What was your first Fiverr order like?Marko: It took about a month to land my first order. It came from an Eastern European client who wanted a basic remix for $5. That feeling of earning money online for the first time was incredible—I could not believe someone would pay me just through a computer.Building MomentumQ: How did things progress from that first order?Marko: The first few months were up and down. I got a few orders, then one month was dead, then it picked up again. But I kept experimenting—testing new thumbnails, creating multiple gigs in niches like meditation music, lo-fi, podcast intros. That helped me learn what worked.Transition to Full-Time Music ServicesQ: At your peak with music gigs, what were you earning?Marko: Around $2,500/month. A lot of that came from creating original meditation music for faceless YouTube channels. They needed custom audio to stay monetized on YouTube, and I filled that gap.Realizing It Was Time to PivotQ: Why did you shift from music to Webflow websites?Marko: I stopped enjoying music when it became “work.” I even tried automating music generation, but it felt wrong—I originally loved music because it was fun. I wanted to move to something more scalable, more high-ticket. That is when I discovered Webflow. It allowed more customization, and I saw potential for higher-value services.Learning & RebrandingQ: How did you teach yourself Webflow?Marko: I started by creating projects for myself—most of them were terrible at first. I learned on the go, and whenever I got stuck, I turned to YouTube and ChatGPT. Slowly I built confidence.Q: Did you create a new Fiverr profile for Webflow?Marko: No. I decided to keep my original profile and rebrand it completely—new gig titles, new descriptions, new thumbnails. I was worried it might confuse buyers since my reviews were music-related, but it turned out to help.Getting First Website OrdersQ: How did you land your first Webflow orders?Marko: I reached out to some of my old music clients, offering website design instead. Most said no, but a few said yes. That kickstarted my transition. Then promoted gigs started bringing in more organic leads.Order Growth & WorkflowQ: How did orders grow in the first few months of Webflow?Marko: It started slow—1 order, then 3, then 2 the next month. It was not instant, especially since I was still learning. Promoted gigs made a big difference, accounting for about 80–90% of orders.Q: What tools and systems do you use to manage everything?Marko: I work solo. I used to use Notion but now prefer Airtable to manage clients and projects. For scheduling calls, I use a tool called Setmore, which does not send emails (important to avoid Fiverr’s terms violations). And for video calls, I use Fiverr’s Zoom integration—it helps when clients need handholding or walkthroughs.Fiverr Strategy & InsightsQ: What pricing strategy did you start with?Marko: Fiverr does not allow Webflow gigs to be under $80. So I priced one page at $80, then upsold extra pages. That helped build momentum.Q: Do you offer unlimited revisions?Marko: I did early on. One project took six months because of unlimited revisions and slow client responses. Never again. It taught me to set clear limits and expectations.Q: What about Fiverr Promoted Gigs?Marko: Game-changer. I once spent $100 and earned over $2,000. Most of my orders come from them. If you are not using promoted gigs, you are invisible—half of Fiverr search results are ads now.Personal Website & BrandingQ: Does having a portfolio website help on Fiverr?Marko: Definitely. Unlike audio, where clients can just listen, website buyers want to see. A personal website builds credibility and makes you stand out. I even used Vasily’s website as inspiration for my own.Exploring Direct Clients & AgenciesQ: Are you considering working with clients outside Fiverr?Marko: Yes. Fiverr is a great lead channel, but I am also experimenting with cold emails and building a brand on X (Twitter). Eventually, I might join a Webflow agency to learn more or even build one myself.Success Score, Consistency & FrustrationsQ: Your Fiverr success score is 9—do you think that matters?Marko: It helps. One buyer told me he chose me simply because I had a gig video. The platform is weird sometimes—traffic comes in waves—but you just have to stay consistent.Q: What frustrates you most about Fiverr?Marko: The imbalance. Some clients want $200 websites with crazy animations. And I do not always know why traffic drops suddenly. But you have to push through and keep improving.Advice for New SellersQ: What advice do you have for people sta

Filip’s Fiverr ProfileDiscovering FiverrQ: Filip, how did you first discover Fiverr?Filip: Everything started in 2021. I was studying animation and 3D design in Serbia, after switching from a physics degree that did not work out. I always had the feeling I was meant for more, and after discovering Fiverr, I was drawn to the idea of setting up a storefront instead of constantly applying for gigs like on Upwork.To create my first gig, I used projects I built during a bootcamp and personal pieces, like a stylized character of my wife. I priced my basic gig at $50 and analyzed other sellers to position myself competitively.First Orders & Key LessonsQ: What was your first Fiverr order like?Filip: It took one month to land my first order—a hair salon owner wanted 3D models for an AR app. I did not even know what AR meant at the time, but I figured it out and delivered. That project led to more work with the same client.My second project got canceled after 7 days, and I felt defeated. But it taught me a key lesson: miscommunication kills projects. From then on, I created pre-written macros, PDF style guides, and asked for references upfront.Going Full-TimeQ: When did you realize Fiverr could become your full-time business?Filip: After just 2–3 months, I went from earning $500/month to $5K/month. That was when I knew Fiverr could be more than a side hustle. I could either keep freelancing solo or start scaling. I chose the second path.Team BuildingQ: How did you start building your team?Filip:* I started locally—Facebook groups and university classmates* My first hire, Dan, is now the technical lead* We are now a team of 9 (including my wife, currently on maternity leave)Hiring was not easy. Some people only lasted a few months, while others like Dan grew with me. Now I am working on building proper processes to train new team members more efficiently.Shifting to Agency ModelQ: You turned your Fiverr profile into an agency. Why?Filip: Because it reflects reality. Clients often prefer working with certain team members based on their visual style. I wanted to be transparent and also attract higher-ticket projects by showing we are a professional studio.Studio OperationsQ: What systems do you use to run your studio?Filip:* Discord – for internal communication* Notion – for project tracking (may switch to Asana)* Google Drive → internal server (32TB) – for file sharing* On-site office in Novi Sad – creative collaboration is better in personI believe in building a physical office culture, especially for creative work. It is not the trendiest thing right now, but it helps grow a strong team and better results.Frustrations with Fiverr ToolsQ: What do you think about Fiverr’s tools?Filip: FiverrGo (AI Assistant)* Cannot read images or interpret links* Sends too many messages that feel spammy* Often underprices projects without understanding complexityFiverr Ads* Too basic—needs better targeting, keyword control, and higher budget optionsThese features feel underdeveloped compared to other ad platforms or AI tools like ChatGPT.Becoming a Fiverr ProQ: How did you become a Fiverr Pro?Filip: I applied several months in and got accepted on my first try. I submitted portfolio work from clients like Decathlon and Kipling, along with side projects and personal animation work.Using Seller PlusQ: What about Seller Plus—what features do you use?Filip:* Priority customer support* Success manager feedback* Buyer insights (order volume, average spend)* I do manual follow-ups instead of using automationEarnings and WorkflowQ: What is your current Fiverr income?Filip: Right now, we average $12K–13K/month. We focus on high-ticket work—each project is usually $1K to $5K. We take on about 5–6 clients per month.Client CollaborationQ: How do clients respond to working with your team?Filip: Most still message me directly, but they like knowing a team is behind the work. Some even request specific team members once they’ve worked with us before.What’s NextQ: What are your future plans?Filip:* Continue using Fiverr as a lead channel* Build more presence on social media to attract direct clients* Train team members to take over communication and salesAdvice for Freelancers & AgenciesQ: What advice do you have for new Fiverr sellers or agencies?Filip:* Yes, Fiverr still works—but you need effort and positioning* Study your competition and do better* Invest in your visuals—especially for design/3D niches* Build structure early on (FAQs, PDFs, macros)* Start local when hiring and scale slowlyWhere to Find Filip* Fiverr Profile* LinkedInThanks for reading this one.If you enjoyed it, feel free to reply, comment, or share your biggest takeaway.See you soon,Vasily This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.freelancehustle.com

👋 Meeting Again, Years LaterBack in 2019, I hosted a small Instagram marketing event in London. One of the people who showed up was Pascu — a talented videographer, fitness enthusiast, and aspiring entrepreneur.Fast forward to 2025:We reconnected again, this time in Belgrade.Since that event, Pascu’s journey has been anything but linear — moving from fitness, to freelancing, to agency-building, and to building a strong personal brand online.📸 From Fitness to Freelancing to Agency OwnerAfter graduating in London, Pascu was working odd jobs, filming events, weddings, and slowly building a portfolio.But when the pandemic hit in 2020, all his videography work disappeared overnight.Instead of giving up, he pivoted:* Started a podcast* Took on podcast management clients* Transitioned into remote video editing* Later, worked for one of London’s fastest-growing agencies, learning how video must sell — not just look goodEventually, he realized he wanted to run his own business.That decision pushed him to leave London, move back to Romania, and double down on building something that truly fit his lifestyle and values.🛫 Leaving London: Why Geography Does Not Matter AnymoreIn the early days, London gave Pascu opportunities, clients, and perspective.But once he built his skills and network, being physically based in London no longer made sense. The expenses were high. The opportunities were shifting online. The need to "be in the city" was fading.Today, he works fully remotely, building his brand and client base while living in Eastern Europe — proof that geography matters less than ever if you know how to position yourself.🎯 Reinventing His Offer: From Videographer to Creative StrategistPascu realized early that being "just a videographer" would not be enough.He evolved into a Creative Strategist, combining his skills in:* Video production* Paid advertising knowledge* Direct-response marketing principlesToday, he helps DTC brands (direct-to-consumer companies) improve their creative assets and advertising strategies, driving real results in highly competitive markets.And he found his niche by blending his past passions — not abandoning them.🔥 Building a Real Sales FunnelInstead of relying on Fiverr or Upwork forever, Pascu built a real funnel:* Personal branding on LinkedIn and X (Twitter)* A clean, simple landing page that builds trust immediately* Direct booking into discovery calls* Diagnosing client needs before offering solutionsToday, his sales cycle includes discovery, audits, custom proposals, and long-term client relationships — not one-off gigs.🧠 Lessons on Personal Brand and AuthorityIf you are trying to build a serious freelancing or agency career today, personal brand is non-negotiable.As Pascu put it perfectly:If someone Googles your name and only finds your Upwork profile, you are just another freelancer.If they find your YouTube videos, interviews, articles, and real content — you become an authority.In a world flooded with AI-generated content, real personality and depth will stand out more than ever.📚 Learning by Doing, Not WaitingPascu’s early career was built by learning the hard way:* Buying a camera before he knew how to use it* Learning videography on YouTube* Editing obsessively, spending 20+ hours on 1-minute clips* Reaching out directly to businesses when platforms were too competitiveThe key was never being afraid to start imperfectly — and figuring things out on the way.📞 Sales Calls vs. No-Calls: What Works Best?For higher-ticket clients, Pascu still believes in sales calls:* Building human connection matters* Understanding client pain points personally* Setting clear expectations before starting a projectInstead of pushing for immediate sales, he focuses on diagnosis first — analyzing ad accounts, spotting real issues, and only offering solutions when it makes sense.📈 Client Retention Over Client ChurnPascu’s agency focuses on long-term relationships, not quick wins.* His average client stay is 9–10 months* Some clients have been with him for 2+ years* Delivering consistent results builds loyalty — and referralsIn contrast to platforms where clients come and go quickly, direct relationships offer much higher LTV (lifetime value) and stability.🏆 Thinking About Coaching and MastermindsWe also discussed the idea of Pascu eventually coaching others.His view is refreshing:* No fake promises of "10K months in 90 days"* No mass-marketed info products* Focused, intentional help for serious entrepreneurs who want real mentorship, not shortcutsMaybe in the future, you will see Pascu hosting masterminds, private events, or selective programs.(And who knows — maybe we will collaborate on one.)🚀 Key Takeaways from This Conversation* Adaptability is everything. You can pivot your skills without starting over.* Personal brand is the future. People want to know the person behind the service.* Direct client relationships offer more freedom. Platforms are great for starting, but long-term growth

❄️ One Cold Evening, One Familiar QuestionIt is the end of a workday here. Snow started falling outside the office — one of those days that suddenly feels quieter, slower. And as I was wrapping things up, something Mila said stuck with me.She told me she wants to start running her social media. Simple statement, but it triggered something.Because, this question of where to post and what to focus on has been bouncing around for years.🤹‍♂️ The Pressure To Be EverywhereEverywhere you look, creators are dominating on multiple platforms:* Someone tweets 5 times a day on X* Another person’s LinkedIn carousels are going viral* Reels, Threads, newsletters, podcasts — it is nonstopAnd then you ask yourself:Where do I go? What should I focus on?I have asked myself that a thousand times. And even after almost 10 years of creating, I still come back to the same answer.🎥 Why I Keep Choosing YouTubeFor me, it is YouTube. I am not sure why exactly — but the rhythm just works.* I record a video* I send it to Nikolay or Luke* They edit it* I add the title and description* It goes liveThat system makes creating feel easy. More than that — I actually enjoy doing it.YouTube lets me deliver real value. I can sit down, talk through an idea, and share a message that lasts longer than a tweet or a Reel.✍️ X, AI, and the Strange World of "Consistency"I still use X. I like it. I write thoughts there.But something about the platform has shifted — and I know I am not the only one noticing it.You can see when people are using AI.Sometimes, it is fine. I even use ChatGPT myself.I’ll transcribe my YouTube audio, feed it into GPT, and get ideas for posts.And I will be honest — some of the results are decent. But they still do not sound like me.🔁 What Actually Wins Is RepetitionLet us be real — on X, nobody remembers what you posted yesterday.It is all about the next post. The next impression.You win by showing up consistently, not by going deep.But YouTube?That content sticks. Someone might watch a video from a year ago and still take something valuable from it.That is the difference.And that is why I keep coming back to YouTube.🎯 The Real Answer: Pick One PlatformHere is what I have learned:Pick one platform and go all in.* Choose the one that feels natural* The one that works with your workflow* The one that fits your message* The one you actually enjoy usingYou will only stay consistent if you enjoy the process.That is what makes it sustainable.👋 Final ThoughtsThis is not a growth hack or content plan.It is just a real reminder from someone who is also figuring it out.You do not need to be everywhere.You just need to be somewhere — and show up consistently.So take a moment.Think about what platform feels right for you.And then… go all in.See you next time,Vasily This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.freelancehustle.com

March 2025 closed out at just over $38,000 in earnings from Fiverr.That number still surprises me. Last year, most of my months were below $30K. The key takeaway is this: Fiverr can still work if you treat it like a real business.I am not just sitting back waiting for orders. I am building, experimenting and adapting. The platform is changing and if we want to grow, we need to grow with it.🛠 What Fiverr Is Doing Right NowYes, there have been updates. Fiverr Go, AI tools, new features — all rolling out.I know some sellers feel uncertain about these changes. I have had mixed feelings too.That said, Fiverr is still investing in growth. They are running commercials in the U.S., including during major events like March Madness. That tells me they are still focused on bringing in high-quality buyers.This gives me a sense of optimism.Not every update will feel right immediately. Some might seem unclear or out of place. But Fiverr has made adjustments in the past and they will probably continue evolving based on feedback.❗ The Old Way of Waiting on Fiverr Search Is OverIf you are still depending only on Fiverr's search to send you traffic, it is going to be tough.Some of my gigs get just 1,000 to 2,000 impressions per day — sometimes even less. That is not where the revenue comes from.I bring in my own traffic.* I reach out to past clients* I promote my services through YouTube* I link to my Fiverr profile from X and Instagram* I talk about what I do and share results regularlyThis is what works now. Not waiting. Not hoping. Showing up and building momentum.📱 You Need to Be on Social Media (But Not Everywhere)Pick one platform. Make it your home base. Post consistently.Here are my top 4 choices:* LinkedInGreat for building credibility and a professional brand. Easy to set up and good reach potential.* YouTubeIf you're comfortable speaking on camera, this is one of the most valuable platform. Just from my own channel, I consistently get 5 to 10 new newsletter subscribers per day. That kind of long-term traffic and connection is powerful.* InstagramIdeal for visual content like design, branding, or social media work. Share behind-the-scenes, client work, or updates in stories and DMs.* X (Twitter)Probably my favorite right now. Super fast. Great for posting results, screenshots and personal thoughts.You do not need to post everywhere. Just pick one, stick with it and start showing what you are working on and learning.🧠 You Do Not Need Perfect English or a Polished VoiceI am not a native English speaker. I still make mistakes sometimes.But people know it is me. They can tell it is real — and that is more valuable than sounding perfect.Use tools like ChatGPT to check grammar or spark ideas, but try to write in your own voice. You will improve quickly and people will connect with you more.🔍 Look for Underrated Gigs and Niche AnglesThere are still services on Fiverr that most sellers overlook — but buyers are actively searching for them.For example, I saw someone offering social media profile setup for $250. He had 3 orders in queue at the time I recorded my video.If you are offering services like logo design, website development, or social media, try to niche down early. Instead of saying:I will create a logo for your businessSay something like:* I will create a logo for your restaurant business.* I will create a logo for your real estate agency.* I will create a logo for your med spa business.This approach helps you stand out more clearly and face less competition in Fiverr's search results.📈 What I Am Focusing On Right NowHere is what I am currently working on in my business:* Posting results and updates on X.* Sharing behind-the-scenes agency work on Instagram.* Publishing consistently here on Substack.* Driving traffic to Fiverr through YouTube.* Promoting my new Instagram Strategy gig.* Preparing to launch a platform in April to help sellers reply faster, track leads and manage communication more efficiently.I will share more about this tool soon.🎯 Final ThoughtsYou are never going to feel fully ready. You will never have the perfect setup. You just have to start.Even if it is one post per week. One service. One client. That is enough to begin creating momentum.Thank you so much for reading and if you enjoyed this piece, please consider subscribing and sharing with someone who you feel needs to write this. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.freelancehustle.com

Lambros’s Fiverr ProfileAdvice for FreelancersQ: Lambros, how did you first discover Fiverr?Lambros: Initially, I was studying law in Newcastle, UK, and during my third year, I started looking for ways to earn extra income. I did some research work for the New York Times and also used a site called Prolific for online surveys, which paid small amounts but helped with pocket money.Then, COVID hit in 2020. I was supposed to move to London for my master’s degree in international business, but I ended up staying in Cyprus and studying online. That was when I lost access to Prolific since it only worked in certain countries.While looking for ways to replace that income, I came across a CNBC Make It article about freelancing platforms like Upwork, Freelancer.com, and Fiverr. I first created an account on Freelancer.com but did not get any work. I also applied to business consulting roles and internships at firms like KPMG.One major inspiration for me was Chris Sacca, a venture capitalist from Shark Tank. He also had a law degree but later shifted into business. His transition was a blueprint for me, and I decided to put myself on Fiverr, thinking I could offer contract-related services.Getting Started on FiverrQ: What was your first experience like selling on Fiverr?Lambros: I created my Fiverr account in June 2020, and it took me about two months to land my first order in August. Funny enough, I actually missed the first message from a buyer and saw it a day later. Thankfully, they still went ahead with the order.I had no prior experience drafting contracts, but I figured it out by researching for a few days. The client left a 5-star review, and I even received a tip. That was the moment I realized, "Wow, I can actually make money online!"In September, I got no orders. But in October, I received eight, in December, I got 15, and by January 2021, I had 50 orders in a single month. At that point, I was balancing Fiverr with my master’s degree.Scaling Beyond ContractsQ: You started with legal contracts, but now you offer a variety of services. When did you decide to expand beyond law?Lambros: While I enjoyed my law degree, I realized my real passion was business. I was already considering switching into business consulting.I started diversifying my Fiverr gigs not just because I wanted to try new things but also because it turned out to be a great business model. Many of my clients who bought legal services came back for other services, like Twitter management.For example, I worked with a transportation company on their terms and conditions and privacy policy. Later, they saw my Twitter management gig and purchased that service too. Because I built trust with them through communication and quality service, they were comfortable ordering from me again.Building a Team on FiverrQ: You have multiple gigs now. How do you manage everything?Lambros: Once I became a Top Rated Seller in 2022, I realized I had the credibility to scale further. I started opening more gigs and involved people from my circle to help.* My brother helps with travel itinerary gigs because he loves researching travel destinations.* Nicolas, my right-hand man, is amazing at graphic design and helps manage our social media services.* I also have a few freelancers on a flexible basis for different projects.At first, my idea was to use my account to bring in leads and refer them to my friends. But we found that some clients preferred working directly with me, so I built a system where my team handles delivery, while I manage communication and quality control.Dominating X (Twitter) on FiverrQ: Your Twitter (X) management gig is one of your most successful. How did that happen?Lambros: Originally, Nicolas wanted to showcase his designs on Twitter. While engaging with the Fiverr community there, we built an audience.One day, a Top Rated Seller who offers book publishing services messaged us and asked if we could manage his Twitter for $500 per month. We jumped on a call, set up the service, and realized this could be a viable offering.Since then, our Twitter gig has gained momentum and consistently ranks at the top of Fiverr’s search results.Fiverr’s AI ChangesQ: What do you think about Fiverr’s AI Assistant and the Fiverr Go program?Lambros: The AI assistant is a step in the right direction but still has flaws. Sometimes, it misinterprets client needs and sends them vague responses. Some clients even message me saying, "I want to talk to a human, not AI."As for Fiverr Go, it is a bit scary. The AI-powered service generation could replace some sellers, especially those offering basic services. We will have to see how it evolves.Earnings & Growth PotentialQ: What does your Fiverr income look like today?Lambros: I average $8,000 to $10,000 per month, but some months go as high as $12,000 to $13,000. My best month was November 2024, when demand for Twitter and social media management services surged.I believe $20K+ per month is achievable, especially if my s

Last week, I had the chance to travel through Hungary and Austria, where I met my long-time buyer, Ron. He has used my service more than five times and was happy to share his overall experience using Fiverr, including the most important factor that every freelancer should keep in mind.Since you are a subscriber of this newsletter and a listener, you get exclusive access to listen to and read this interview first! It will also be released on my YouTube channel next week!Ron runs a successful YouTube channel where he reviews various PC parts and builds while collaborating with many well-known brands.Ron's YouTube ChannelExperience as a Fiverr BuyerQ: What has been your experience using Fiverr as a buyer? Are you still using it?Ron: Yes, I still use Fiverr for various tasks, such as web server setup. However, my experience has been mixed. Just because a seller has five stars or is a Pro Seller does not always guarantee the best service. I tend to stick with sellers I have built a relationship with rather than constantly searching for new ones.Leaving Reviews and Seller CommunicationQ: Do you rate sellers lower than five stars?Ron: I do not typically leave bad reviews unless absolutely necessary. If I encounter an issue, I reach out to the seller first to see if we can work things out. I only consider lower ratings if there is no response or if the service is completely unsatisfactory.Changes in Buyer Experience Over the YearsQ: Do you feel Fiverr has improved or worsened as a buyer experience over the years?Ron: Honestly, it has gotten worse in some aspects, but not because of Fiverr itself. The platform has become overcrowded, making it difficult to choose the right seller. When you search for something, you get hundreds of options, which can be overwhelming.For urgent tasks, sometimes the top-rated sellers have long wait times, so buyers are forced to choose less experienced sellers. This creates a challenge in finding the right balance between quality and availability.Long-Term Seller RelationshipsQ: Do you tend to work with the same sellers, or do you try new ones often?Ron: I prefer long-term relationships with sellers. If I find someone reliable, I keep working with them rather than switching. Even though I stopped using Instagram growth services, it was not because of bad service—it was just not a focus anymore. I always prioritize communication and consistency when choosing a seller.AI in Fiverr’s Buying ProcessQ: How do you feel about Fiverr introducing AI assistants to the buyer experience?Ron: I am not a fan of AI for customer service. It usually makes things more complicated. Instead of getting direct help, you have to go through unnecessary steps before reaching a human.If Fiverr adds AI chat for sellers, buyers will have to type “Chat to human” just to get real interaction. That is frustrating. I have seen it happen on platforms like Amazon, and I do not like the trend.AI-Generated Project AssistanceQ: What do you think about Fiverr’s AI helping buyers define project requirements and match them with sellers?Ron: It could be useful, but it depends on the niche. In graphic and design services, it makes sense because AI can generate baseline concepts that sellers can refine. But in other categories, I am skeptical about how effective it would be.Buyer Fees on FiverrQ: Does the service fee Fiverr charges buyers bother you?Ron: Not at all. The fee is reasonable and provides a security net. Every platform has some sort of fee, so I do not mind paying a little extra for protection and support if something goes wrong.Overall Rating of Fiverr as a BuyerQ: On a scale of 1 to 10, how would you rate Fiverr as a buyer?Ron: I would give it a solid 7. It is still a great platform, but it used to be better. The biggest issue is the overwhelming number of sellers, making it harder to find the best ones.Final Advice for Freelancers and BuyersQ: What is the most important thing sellers should keep in mind when working with buyers?Ron: Communication is the key. Even if the result is not exactly what the buyer expected, good communication helps build trust. A seller who is willing to listen and make adjustments will always have repeat buyers.If you liked this interview and are interested in more stories like this, consider subscribing and sharing this newsletter on social media. This would mean a lot to me, and I will continue to produce similar stories like Ron’s, as well as stories of sellers on Fiverr. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.freelancehustle.com

Florian’s Fiverr ProfileGetting Started on FiverrQ: How did you first discover Fiverr, and what was your journey like in the beginning?Florian: I first discovered Fiverr back in 2017 when I was around 15 or 16 years old. At that time, Fortnite was trending, and I decided to offer animated intro videos for gamers. My first gig took me 16 hours to create, and I only earned $5, but it showed me that the platform worked.I did not know much about freelancing or other platforms like Upwork—Fiverr was my first introduction to the online work world. What I liked about it was the ability to set up a gig and have clients find me without needing to do outreach.Transitioning to Social Media MarketingQ: How did you move from Fortnite intros to social media marketing and design?Florian: After realizing that making intro videos was too time-consuming for the small income, I started exploring other areas.At that time, I got interested in Instagram growth and started a fashion-themed page. Within a few months, I grew it to 10,000 followers and eventually reached 150,000 followers. I started selling shoutouts on the page, but when I tried offering them on Fiverr, I realized there was no real demand.That led me back to Fiverr to see what social media services were in demand. That is when I discovered organic Instagram growth, which you (Vasily) were already offering. I analyzed your profile, pricing, and service structure, then decided to try offering a similar service at a lower price. After a few months, I got my first order, and from there, I kept refining my approach.Expanding into Design ServicesQ: How did you transition from Instagram growth to content creation and design?Florian: Managing multiple Instagram growth orders became difficult because it was so time-consuming. After around 10 active orders, it became hard to handle alone.At the same time, I was helping my brother with his social recruiting agency, where I learned to design ads, social media posts, and Facebook campaigns. Seeing an opportunity, I decided to expand my Fiverr offerings to include content creation and ad designs.I never had formal graphic design training. I learned it over time through dropshipping, where I had to create ads. I started with Photoshop and later discovered Canva and Figma, which made the process easier.Fiverr Earnings & Business GrowthQ: How much are you currently making on Fiverr, and how has your revenue grown?Florian: My Fiverr profile has generated close to $50,000 in total revenue, and I currently make between $2,000 and $4,000 per month. My highest month was slightly over $4,000.Fiverr has been great, but I was balancing it with my university studies, so I could not dedicate 100% of my time. Since I finished my studies last year, I have been focusing more on growing my business.Team & Scaling ChallengesQ: Are you working alone, or do you have a team?Florian: Right now, I am handling everything on my own, except for some help from my girlfriend, who assists with manual Instagram growth tasks.I have hit a point where I feel limited because:* I cannot take on more orders without sacrificing quality.* I have high standards for my design work, making it hard to delegate.* Fiverr pricing makes it challenging to scale with a team while staying competitive.I know I need to optimize my systems before I can scale. That includes automating repetitive tasks like client onboarding and file creation.Growing on Twitter/XQ: You have seen massive growth on X (Twitter). How did that happen?Florian: I originally joined Twitter two years ago but was not posting. I noticed a large design community sharing work and engaging with each other.In January 2025, I decided to start posting my designs. At first, I had zero engagement, but I spent time connecting with other designers, commenting on their posts, and forming relationships. After building a network, my posts started taking off, with some reaching 30,000+ views.Now, I consistently generate 3+ leads per week, and I have already converted two small clients and one high-ticket client from X alone.Fiverr vs. X for Client AcquisitionQ: Are you getting more clients from Fiverr or from X?Florian: Right now, my X (Twitter) clients have surpassed my Fiverr revenue.* Fiverr brings consistent orders, but the pricing makes it harder to scale.* X attracts higher-budget clients, and I do not have to give up 20% in platform fees.That being said, I am not leaving Fiverr. It is still a great source of inbound clients and provides stability, while X is helping me diversify.Challenges with FiverrQ: What do you find frustrating about Fiverr?Florian: There are a few challenges:* Success Score is unclear – It affects visibility, but Fiverr does not explain exactly how to improve it.* Subscriptions cannot be canceled within 10 days – This makes managing long-term clients difficult.* Limited path to Top Rated Seller – I meet the criteria, but Fiverr seems to be limiting how many new sellers get promoted.* Many clien

I am excited to start the new series of showcasing Fiverr seller stories. One of my first interviews was this year with Borislav Angelov, who is offering paid ads services on Fiverr. This is the video that did not get published on my YouTube channel, so you can enjoy some behind-the-scenes of our conversation.On my YouTube channel, you can watch a full story of Borislav and how he got started on Fiverr and operates his business now.Borislav currently makes $30,000+ per month on Fiverr and one of his main services is offering Facebook Ads to clients.IntroductionQ: Can you introduce yourself and share what you do on Fiverr?Borislav: I’m Borislav, based in Sofia, Bulgaria, and I make over $30,000 per month on Fiverr. My services include paid ads and content creation. I’m excited to share how I got started, reached this level, and how my operations work.Getting Started on FiverrQ: How did you get started on Fiverr, and why did you choose this platform?Borislav: Thank you for the invitation! I think it’s important to share stories like this because they inspire others, especially those in tough situations. I’m actually a pharmacist by education, and my journey started while I was still in university.At the time, I didn’t have enough money, so I began experimenting with various side hustles like reselling headphones and flowers, but they all failed. During that period, I took a free course on how to create ads. A friend gave me the login details since I couldn’t afford it myself.He also told me about Fiverr. I created my first gig in 2017, offering audience research for Facebook and Instagram ads for just $5. I didn’t have serious intentions initially—it was more like a joke—but I got my first order within a month.The Journey from $5 to $10,000+ Per MonthQ: How did you go from your first order to making $10,000 per month?Borislav: It took me about four years to go from $5 to $10,000 per month. After my first order, it was slow—I didn’t get more orders for a few months. I also kept my prices low because I lacked confidence in my services.One buyer changed that. They told me, “You’re doing an amazing job; why is your service $5?” They suggested I charge at least $30. After raising my prices, orders started coming in more frequently. By the time I graduated, I was making $2,000 per month—more than I would have earned as a pharmacist in Bulgaria. That’s when I saw the potential of Fiverr and decided to go full-time.Challenges and Staying on FiverrQ: What challenges did you face, and what kept you motivated to stay on Fiverr?Borislav: There were many challenges. The biggest one was the lack of a fixed income. Some months were great, while others were significantly slower. Another challenge was not being able to take real vacations. You can take time off, but you still need to stay connected to your work.In 2020, I faced my toughest challenge when my gigs were pushed to the last page, and my income dropped to $0 for three months. It was a wake-up call. I realized the importance of focusing on customer experience. After that, I made changes like managing expectations better, creating videos for clients, and improving communication. Things improved significantly after that.Scaling to $30,000+ Per MonthQ: How did you scale from a few thousand dollars to $30,000+ per month?Borislav: Scaling required two major transitions. First, I improved my skills and expertise. I expanded my services from audience research to offering complete Facebook and Instagram ad setups, which are more complex and valuable.Second, I built a team. Scaling isn’t possible alone. My team now consists of six people, including me. We have a project manager, a designer, and three Facebook ad specialists. I’m still 100% involved in the process because marketing is my passion, and I love staying on top of trends, especially with AI evolving rapidly.Improving Customer ExperienceQ: What tips do you have for improving customer experience on Fiverr?Borislav: Start with the fundamentals: be polite, friendly, empathetic, and respond quickly. Fast responses are critical because if you delay, buyers might go to someone else.More advanced tips include managing expectations. This means understanding what the client needs before accepting an order and being honest about what you can deliver. If you’re unsure about fulfilling a project, it’s better to say no than risk disappointing the client. Happy clients lead to repeat business, recommendations, and higher rankings in Fiverr’s algorithm.Team Management and GrowthQ: How do you manage your team, and what challenges have you faced with hiring?Borislav: Building the right team was gradual. I didn’t hire six people at once; it happened as the workload increased. Finding the right people is tough. I’m very picky during the hiring process, but it’s worth it. I rely on recommendations, LinkedIn, and local job sites in Bulgaria.Trust is crucial. I treat my team like family. We grow and learn together, and I always ensure th