On October 31, 2023, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) issued a master circular on the import of goods and services titled <a href="https://m.rbi.org.in//Scripts/NotificationUser.aspx?Id=12561&amp;Mode=0">Regulation of Payment Aggregator – Cross Border</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

According to the circular, the RBI will regulate all Indian entities facilitating online cross-border payments for the import and export of permissible goods and services. Moreover, these entities will be collectively termed Payment Aggregators Cross Border (PA-CB).

The circular comprises guidelines to streamline the existing cross-border payment framework in India. Previously, cross-border transactions were carried out through Online Payment Gateway Service Providers (<a href="https://www.skydo.com/blog/online-payment-gateway-service-provider-opgsp?utm_source=blogs&amp;utm_medium=website&amp;utm_campaign=post_link">OPGSPs</a>) as per a circular issued by RBI in 2015.

OPGSPs operate by partnering with an Authorised Dealer (Category I) Bank (AD Bank) and notifying the RBI. According to RBI guidelines, no formal license is needed to function as an OPGSP.

Hence, RBI has issued a circular to establish a concise and clear framework for cross-border payments. RBI will now oversee all cross-border payments in India related to the import and export of goods. The circular applies to PA-CB, PAs, authorised banks and OPGSPs.&nbsp;The PA-CB circular also denotes that there can’t be any new OPGSP.

This blog discusses the key provisions related to the latest RBI circular on the import of goods and services, RBI guidelines for payment gateway, and OPGSP guidelines.

Master Circular on Import of Goods and Services: RBI Bank Guidelines

The following are the key guidelines mentioned in the circular.

The following entities need to adhere to RBI guidelines/instructions provided in the circular.

Here are the key developments included in the new PACB circular.

Categories of Authorisation as per PA-CB Activity&nbsp;

Based on the cross-border payment activity undertaken by the PA-CBs, they can seek authorisation for one of the following three categories.

PA-CB, facilitating cross-border payments for Indian exporters, has to open an Export Collection Account (ECA) with an AD bank.&nbsp;

ECAs can be opened in either Indian currency or foreign currency. In the case of the latter, various ECAs have to be opened for different currencies.

The PA-CBs will credit all export proceeds in the respective ECAs. Additionally, export PA-CBs need to follow the below guidelines:

Similar to export PA-CBs, import PA-CBs have to open an Import Collection Account (ICA) with an AD bank.&nbsp;

They will collect the payment from importers in an escrow account managed by the payment aggregator. It will then be transferred to ICA and will eventually be transferred to the bank account of the foreign merchants.

These entities are allowed to directly onboard foreign merchants, e-commerce marketplaces, or other overseas entities that offer payment aggregation services.&nbsp;

Here are the guidelines Import PA-CBs need to follow.

Those PA-CB who engage in both import and export activities have to comply with the requirements for both Import PA-CB and Export PA-CB.

They also need to ensure that the maximum value per unit of exported or imported goods or services should be ₹25,00,000.

Non-banks who want to provide PA-CB services will have to seek authorisation from RBI. However, before seeking RBI authorisation, it is necessary to register with the Financial Intelligence Unit-India (FIU-IND).&nbsp;

However, RBI has issued the following net-worth criteria for non-banks providing PA-CB services.

The accounts of existing non-bank PA-CB who are unable to meet the net worth requirement will be closed by banks by 31 July 2024.

Snapshot Comparison Between OPGSP Circular (2015) and PA-CB Circular (2023)&nbsp;

Here are the key differences between the OPGSP Circular (2015) and the PA-CB Circular (2023)

Here is the process of seeking approval from RBI for existing or new PA-CBs.

Step 1: Draft the application through Form A, which includes the following parts.

Step 3: The RBI will process the application.

(RBI may raise queries related to various aspects such as shareholding, product processes, etc.)&nbsp;

Step 4: In principle approval from RBI.

Step 5: Filing of system Audit Report

(RBI may raise queries related to SAR audit observations)&nbsp;

Step 6: Final authorisation(state additional conditions that must be complied with)&nbsp;

The evolving cross-border payments environment and the emergence of several OPGSPs and other fintech entities encouraged RBI to issue the circular. Its main purpose is to ensure seamless and more transparent cross-border payment transactions.

Even though regulatory authorities are constantly working on making cross-border payment transactions seamless, transparent, secure, and quicker, businesses often face difficulties in receiving timely payments.&nbsp;

Skydo aims to simplify the cross-border payment landscape for businesses by automating various tasks and helping businesses open foreign bank accounts. <a href="https://www.skydo.com/?utm_source=blogs&amp;utm_medium=website&amp;utm_campaign=demo_click">Join Skydo today</a> to streamline your invoicing and financial management activities!

Q1. RBI’s master circular on the import of goods and services and cross-border payments applies to which entities?

Ans. AD banks, PAs, and PA-CBs involved in the online processing/settlement of cross-border payment transactions related to the import and export of goods and services have to comply with the guidelines mentioned in the circular.

Q2. What are various compliances according to RBI payment aggregator guidelines for cross-border payments?

Ans. All PA-CBs have to follow the guidelines provided in the circular dated October 31, 2023. Additionally, they also have to follow the various guidelines for payment aggregators mentioned under a circular issued by RBI on March 17, 2020.&nbsp;The circular includes guidelines related to customer grievance redressal and compliance with Baseline Technology Guidelines to ensure fraud prevention and risk management.

Q3. How can PA-CB seek authorisation for facilitating cross-border payment transactions?

Ans. AD banks do not need to seek authorisation to facilitate cross-border payment transactions. However, a non-bank PA-CB can seek authorisation from RBI by sending the application to the Department of Payment and Settlement Systems (DPSS), RBI, Central Office (CO), by April 30, 2024. PA-CB entities must fulfil the minimum net worth criteria before applying to RBI.

 Know more about RBI's circular that mandates payment aggregators to seek authorization for facilitating cross-border transactions by April 30, 2024.

BI’s PACB Circular: Key OPGSP Updates of 2024 to Note 

RBI’s PACB Circular: OPGSP Update 2024 th

Sukanya

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<a href="https://www.skydo.com/blog/how-to-build-a-professional-portfolio-as-a-freelancer?utm_source=blogs&amp;utm_medium=website&amp;utm_campaign=post_link">Freelancing</a> is a satisfying profession, bringing unlimited earning potential and flexibility. However, some freelancers struggle to book clients or build their portfolios to charge a rate they feel resonates with the quality of their work. But why do some freelancers easily book clients and negotiate a high rate while some freelancers struggle to sustain?&nbsp;

The answers lie in some ‘truths’ about freelance that are often overlooked but are crucial for success. This blog will unravel these freelancing truths, demystifying the secrets that can empower you to not only survive but thrive in the freelancing world.

Truth #1: You're worth more than you think (and your rate reflects it)

Myth: “Other freelancers are charging way less than you are; your rate seems high.”

The <a href="https://skydo.com/blog/freelancer-earning-potential-in-2024?utm_source=blogs&amp;utm_medium=website&amp;utm_campaign=post_link">rates you charge as a freelancer</a> are justified based on your expertise and experience. You should own them as you can add value through your qualitative work. For companies, hiring employees may cost more than your combined rates as the companies have to pay numerous benefits over salaries to employees but not to you.&nbsp;

Most freelancers charge on a per-project basis, further reducing the retaining nature of employee payments without factoring in the monetary consequences of sick leaves and paid vacations.&nbsp;

Hence, do not underestimate your value, be firm on your rates, and let your work do the talking!&nbsp;

Truth #2: Six-Hour Projects Are Eight-Hour Realities

Myth: “The work is not that extensive, that’s why the short deadlines.”

Projects rarely go exactly as planned. Unforeseen challenges, technical issues, or unexpected revisions can significantly extend the time needed to complete a task. Clients rarely understand a freelancer’s workflow and may set inadequate deadlines.&nbsp;

A six-hour deadline to complete a task may require more hours to research, edit, or align the task as per the objective.&nbsp;

Client communication, feedback loops, and revisions can consume more time than initially anticipated. Hence, it is important to analyse the communicated task extensively before starting the project to set realistic expectations from the outset.&nbsp;

If such is the case, you can charge on a per-day basis to factor in the extra time spent.&nbsp;

Truth #3: Downtime is not the enemy; it's your BFF

Myth: “The longer a freelancer works, the higher the earnings.”&nbsp;

<a href="https://skydo.com/blog/how-to-find-freelance-job-quickly?utm_source=blogs&amp;utm_medium=website&amp;utm_campaign=post_link">Freelancers</a> often view downtime as unproductive and feel they are wasting time when they can work and earn. However, without a definitive downtime like salaried employees, freelancers must define their working hours and create a work-life balance.&nbsp;

Freelancers often work on tight schedules, and constant productivity without breaks can lead to burnout.

Once you start experiencing burnout, you will feel highly unproductive and struggle to do even the smallest tasks, forcing you to furnish mediocre work. Hence, it is important to take regular breaks, both daily and overall. Build "annual leaves" into your contract, and do take those breaks.&nbsp;

Remember, a rested freelancer is a productive freelancer (and a happy one, too).&nbsp;

Truth #4: You're a CEO, not a cubicle dweller

Myth: “As a client is paying a freelancer, the freelancer should behave as an employee.”&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.skydo.com/blog/how-to-file-itr-for-freelancer?utm_source=blogs&amp;utm_medium=website&amp;utm_campaign=post_link">A freelancer</a> is not an employee and is not obliged to participate in a client’s micromanagement strategies. As a freelancer, you are your boss and should dictate your terms, which should be clearly defined in the freelance contract. Negotiations are always fine, but clients should not dictate your schedule and rates.&nbsp;

Recognise yourself as a CEO to create a mindset shift from thinking as an employee to a business owner. Approach your future decisions with a strategic mindset, considering the overall vision and goals you have to achieve through your work.&nbsp;

Reading business books can help create an authoritative mindset and set you apart from other freelancers.&nbsp;

Truth #5: Rush jobs deserve rush prices (and maybe a side of eye rolls)

Myth: “We don’t have the budget; can you complete it as fast as you can.”

<a href="https://dribbble.com/resources/about-freelance">As a freelancer</a>, you may often encounter clients who request urgent or last-minute work, expecting quick turnarounds without considering the impact on the freelancer's schedule. When clients think less time would mean lower payments, it should always be the other way around. For a freelancer, ‘urgent’ work should translate to ‘increase rates.’&nbsp;

Since freelancers work with multiple clients simultaneously, urgent work means that they have to work extra hours, and rushed jobs deserve rush prices. For urgent or tight-deadline work, ask for a higher rate. If it's a real emergency, they'll pay. If not, it can wait like any other request.

Truth #6: Work should fit your life, not the other way around

Myth: “A freelancer working from home can just start working any time of the day.”&nbsp;

Maintaining a healthy work-life balance is crucial, and it's essential to prioritise <a href="https://www.skydo.com/blog/personal-finance-tips-and-tricks-for-freelancers?utm_source=blogs&amp;utm_medium=website&amp;utm_campaign=post_link">personal well-being</a> and lifestyle. It ensures longevity in your profession and reduces the risk of feeling burned out or disenchanted with your work.

Work is a part of your life, and it never benefits to make your whole life about working. Remembering that work should enhance your life rather than dominate it is a key principle for freelancers.&nbsp;

Create a balanced work schedule and communicate it with all your clients. Try not to think about work during your time, and ensure that you give ample time to your friends, family, and activities you love.&nbsp;

Truth #7: Honesty is the best policy (even when it's uncomfortable)

Myth: “As per the work schedule, it should not take more than the communicated deadline.”&nbsp;

No freelancer likes to miss deadlines, but there is no denying that project hiccups are as real as clients' missing payment deadlines!&nbsp;

They may not understand that there is always a possibility that something might come up for the freelancer to miss the deadline and ask for more time. However, on the freelancer’s part, it is always important to be honest when completing work within a set time frame.&nbsp;

While agreeing to a project’s deadline, it is important to factor in such hiccups and agree on a stretched deadline rather than waiting until the last day to confess project hiccups and ask for more time. Be honest with the client; they may surprise you with understanding and a revised timeline.

Truth #8: Desperation doesn't attract good clients; it attracts chaos

Myth: “Pleading clients for projects may help get projects”&nbsp;

Yes, there are times when freelancers need projects to earn enough to pay the bills. However, showing desperation to a client is never a good strategy, as leverage is one of the most important negotiating factors for getting good projects. Since clients need the work, you have leverage to negotiate better terms.&nbsp;

Being desperate and pleading with them to give you the project creates an impression that you are not getting regular work, possibly because of furnishing mediocre quality. Walk away from projects that smell like trouble. A good project is better than ten mediocre projects filled with headaches.&nbsp;

Truth #9: You're not alone. Community is your secret weapon

Myth: “A freelancer is a person who has to do all the work alone.”&nbsp;

One of the best things <a href="https://www.skydo.com/blog/transitioning-from-full-time-job-to-full-time-freelancing?utm_source=blogs&amp;utm_medium=website&amp;utm_campaign=post_link">about freelancing</a> is that numerous other freelancers are trying to book the same clients as you. Although such competition may seem like a threat, it can be a freelancer’s greatest asset. Why? Because you can book as many clients as you want and give the work to other freelancers at a lower rate than what you are getting.&nbsp;

Subcontracting the work to a fellow freelancer will help you earn more while allowing other freelancers to do the same and build their portfolios. Furthermore, collaboration is important to create a business synergy as fellow freelancers may also give you work in a similar situation.&nbsp;

The freelancing community is your biggest asset for insights, tips, and solutions to challenges you might face, contributing to your professional growth.&nbsp;

Truth #10: Your project is your baby, but your client has their priorities

Myth: “A freelancer’s work is the core of a client’s business.”&nbsp;

As a freelancer, furnishing quality work is of the highest priority. However, you should understand that the work you furnish may be the most important for you but is a small part of running a successful business for your client. A client is paying you for the work, and they just want your work to be their money’s worth.&nbsp;

As a <a href="https://medium.com/the-post-grad-survival-guide/the-honest-article-about-freelancing-i-wish-i-read-earlier-c81c4e080ffd">freelancer</a>, be true to yourself and work as hard as you can, but don’t take it personally when the client does not show the same interest and enthusiasm for your work as you. You should remember that as <a href="https://www.skydo.com/blog/the-essential-elements-of-a-successful-freelancer-contract?utm_source=blogs&amp;utm_medium=website&amp;utm_campaign=post_link">freelancing is your business</a>, they also have a separate business to run.

You are being paid to complete a project at the end of the day. Once you complete it, there is no point in thinking about how the client utilises it for the business.&nbsp;

From recognising your true worth to understanding the delicate balance between your passion projects and client priorities, these insights form the foundation of a resilient freelancing career.

Keep in touch with other freelancers, as they can help you learn and grow as a freelancer. It is true freelancing that is one of the most flexible and rewarding professions, but it has its own set of challenges. By setting apart the myths with reality, you can ensure that you have leverage and negotiate the best terms.&nbsp;

Ans: Freelancing refers to a work arrangement where individuals, known as freelancers or independent contractors, offer their services to clients or businesses on a temporary, project-based, or part-time basis.&nbsp;

Q.2: Which skill is best for freelancing?

Ans: The best skill for freelancing depends on various factors, including your interests, expertise, and the current demand in the market. However, certain skills are consistently in high demand across different freelancing industries, such as writing, content creation, graphic design, web development, software design, etc.&nbsp;

Ans: Yes, a fresher can start freelancing. Freelancing can be a great way for individuals just starting their careers to gain valuable experience, build a portfolio, and earn income. However, it is important to first research the business type and the targeted industry to determine sustainability.

Top 10 Freelancing Truths You Should Know

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The rise of freelance opportunities has led to a surge in freelancer scams. Several fraudulent activities in the gig economy may drain your time, efforts, and hard-earned money. These freelance scams make it tough to land a genuine gig and can exploit you if you are not careful.&nbsp;

To avoid them, you must stay vigilant and learn how to spot them.

Before accepting your next freelance project, watch out for these 10 common red flags and warnings.

Here are ten common red flags and warning signs of freelance scams and how to avoid them.&nbsp;

1. Suspicious job postings or client profiles

Incomplete or vague project descriptions are common red flags these days. Not only are they suspicious, but also indicative of poor project quality. These postings may pay either too much or below-market rates. Such clients often post a project multiple times and are likely to have fake and unverified profiles.

A common example is those 'work-from-home' jobs requiring no skills or screening tests. They may seem attractive but invite many risks. It's always better to steer clear of such unclear roles.

Before starting any project, any <a href="https://www.skydo.com/blog/networking-for-freelancers?utm_source=blogs&amp;utm_medium=website&amp;utm_campaign=post_link">legitimate client</a> would want to evaluate a freelancer's skills. If a client shows excessive urgency to start a project without clear agreements, be cautious.

Scammers often rush and use personal communication channels like WhatsApp, Skype, or email. They may say it's more convenient. However, this convenience compromises your security.&nbsp;

Official chat systems help protect both you and the client from potential abuse. Strictly adhere to official platforms so you can get support if needed.

If you aren’t using a <a href="https://skydo.com/blog/how-to-find-freelance-job-quickly?utm_source=blogs&amp;utm_medium=website&amp;utm_campaign=post_link">freelance platform</a>, use a separate business email and phone number.

Scammers may ask you to pay for a tool, training, registration, or deposit security before the project begins. Whatever the reason, do not make any upfront payment. It only makes sense that all the necessary resources are accessible to you. Say no, stay safe.

Transparency is key to any successful project. Constant revisions, additions, and changing timelines are unfair practices. Clients may request free assignments or add new tasks to exploit your time and efforts.

It is understandable for a client to request a small assignment to assess your skills. However, this should happen before the start of the project.

In some cases, it is also understandable to make some revisions during the project. However, too many requests are fishy and unjust. Documenting the scope and goalposts of your project in your agreement is a good practice to avoid such situations.

Unofficial means of payment and communication are clear red flags. All transactions should happen via your freelancer platform or trusted platforms like PayPal, <a href="https://www.skydo.com/blog/increase-freelance-income-zero-markup?utm_source=blogs&amp;utm_medium=website&amp;utm_campaign=post_link">Skydo</a>, or Stripe. If your client shares vague payment terms or requests for alternate payment methods, simply refuse.&nbsp;

Additionally, vanishing clients at the time of payments is not new. Payment delays, excuses, and confusion are unfortunately common. Include payment timelines in your <a href="https://www.skydo.com/blog/the-essential-elements-of-a-successful-freelancer-contract?utm_source=blogs&amp;utm_medium=website&amp;utm_campaign=post_link">contract</a>. Consider asking for upfront payment or setting milestones to ensure your efforts don’t go in vain.

The fake cheque scam is another example. The scammer emails you a poorly photoshopped image of a fraudulent check that is likely much more than they owe you. Then they come back to you and say, "Oops! We paid you too much! Send some back, would you?"&nbsp;

If you agree to it, the amount is deducted more than the amount transferred to you, leading to unnecessary losses. Therefore, carefully check all payment information beforehand.

Freelancer scammers may request your personal information like bank account details, address, tax info, UpWork credentials, etc. Some scammers may propose to help you grow on freelance platforms and ask for your credentials.

Do not entertain such proposals, and never disclose your credentials.

They may also produce fake payment invoices or share malware links to receive payments. If you click on such URLs, immediately call your bank, change your passwords, and run an antivirus scan.

The classic trap! These 'too good to be true' jobs offer great pay for minimal effort. To add to this, scammers may lure freelancers with exclusive or limited-time opportunities.

Always research industry rates for similar projects and ask for more details if a client offers an unusual rate. Don't rush!

Scammers may even push you to join pyramid schemes or invest in non-existent projects. This short and easy path to riches is also the riskiest of all.&nbsp;

Suspicious digital presence and incomplete contact information are alerts you should never ignore. You may find inconsistencies in their profiles or even big claims without proof.

As a standard practice, <a href="https://www.skydo.com/blog/how-to-verify-a-company-legitimacy-as-a-freelancer?utm_source=blogs&amp;utm_medium=website&amp;utm_campaign=post_link">thoroughly research potential clients</a> before committing to any work. Check their reviews on freelance platforms and forums. Do a quick Google search, such as “[site name] reviews”. Found negative reviews or an unverified profile? Walk away!

These include projects involving plagiarism, copyright infringement, or fraud. Clients may ask you to produce unethical work promoting hate speech or misformation. It is against the law, and you risk losing your reputation, income, and freedom.

It is inappropriate for a client to pressure you into activities that don't feel right. You should not have to go against your moral values for any gig.

The one that does not lie! If a job or client appears too good to be true, trust your instincts—it probably is. It's safer to trust your instinct and say no instead of taking big risks. Value your efforts, skills, and time. Only say yes if it feels right.

Whether you are new to freelancing or experienced, it is vital to stay wary. Risk awareness is the first step to risk avoidance. With proper caution, you can dodge scams and identify the right roles.

P.S. If you use Upwork, we recommend you also check out <a href="https://www.skydo.com/blog/how-to-spot-scams-on-upwork?utm_source=blogs&amp;utm_medium=website&amp;utm_campaign=post_link">how to stop scams on Upwork.</a>

Q1. What should I do if I think I've been scammed?

Ans. Immediately report the incident to the platform you used. Gather evidence like chats, emails, and contracts. If your bank account is at risk, contact your bank to temporarily block your account. Change your passwords and run an antivirus scan.

You should also file a complaint with your local cyber crime cell or online <a href="https://cybercrime.gov.in/">here</a>. If you've suffered significant financial loss or your information is at risk, consider consulting a lawyer specialising in cybercrime.&nbsp;

Q2. What resources are available to help me stay safe?

Ans. Most authorised platforms offer safety tips and resources in their 'Help' section. Use these resources and check out their dispute resolution process.

Various freelance communities and online forums can help you learn from others' experiences.

Ans. Go to the 'Report' option of the platform you are using. You should also file a complaint with your local cyber crime cell or online <a href="https://cybercrime.gov.in/">here</a>.

If you face any issues, contact customer support of your platform.

Q4. How can I protect my personal information as a freelancer?

Ans. Never disclose your details. Stick to official channels, use a professional email address and phone number, and enable two-factor authentication to keep your accounts safe.

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India is one of the fastest-growing freelancer markets, <a href="https://explodingtopics.com/blog/freelance-stats#:~:text=By%20number%20of%20freelancers%2C%20India,15%20million%20freelancers%20in%20India.">with over 15 million professionals</a> offering their skills and services online.&nbsp;

However, <a href="https://www.skydo.com/blog/how-to-find-freelance-job-quickly?utm_source=blogs&amp;utm_medium=website&amp;utm_campaign=post_link">finding digital freelancing jobs</a> or clients is challenging, especially if you are new to freelancing or have a limited network. That's where freelance digital marketing websites come in handy.&nbsp;

These platforms connect freelancers with potential clients, offering various opportunities for different skill sets, project types, and budgets.&nbsp;

But which freelance site is best for digital marketing? There are dozens of platforms, each with its pros and cons. To narrow your options, here’s a list of the top 7 freelance sites for digital marketing in India based on factors such as popularity, reputation, features, and fees.&nbsp;

1. <a href="https://www.upwork.com/">Upwork</a>

With over <a href="https://www.skillademia.com/statistics/upwork-statistics/#:~:text=Summary%3A%20Upwork%20Statistics&amp;text=Upwork%20operates%20in%20178%20countries.,adults%20between%2025%20and%2034.">12 million freelancers and 5 million clients</a>, Upwork is one of the most popular and established freelance platforms. Upwork offers a global reach and a variety of project types, from small projects to large-scale contracts, in a wide variety of categories, including social media, <a href="https://www.skydo.com/blog/best-seo-tools-for-freelancers-in-2024?utm_source=blogs&amp;utm_medium=website&amp;utm_campaign=post_link">SEO</a>, email marketing, web design, and more.&nbsp;

This freelance digital marketing job platform also has a competitive pricing system, allowing you to set your hourly or fixed rates or bid on projects that suit your budget.&nbsp;

However, it is hard to score jobs on Upwork since thousands of freelancers will be competing for the same projects. It can be challenging for a beginner to stand out and land their first client, especially with Upwork's limited number of free connects (credits you need to apply for jobs).&nbsp;&nbsp;

2. <a href="https://99designs.com/">99designs</a>

If you are a graphic designer, illustrator, or branding expert, check out 99designs, a platform that focuses on creative projects. This platform is ideal for freelancers who want to showcase their design skills and work on projects that match their style and preferences.

This digital freelancer jobs platform has two ways to find work: contests and direct contracts. Contests are where clients post a brief and invite designers to submit their ideas. The client then chooses the best design and awards the prize money to the winner. Direct contracts are where clients hire designers directly for one-on-one projects.&nbsp;

There are several benefits to 99designs, including the ability to set your rates and negotiate directly with clients. However, it also has a high service fee, and you may have to deal with the risk of not getting paid if you participate in contests and don't win.

3. <a href="https://www.freelancer.in/">Freelancer</a>

Freelancer is another well-known freelance digital marketing jobs platform, which is good for finding long-term projects, as many clients are looking for ongoing collaborations with freelancers.&nbsp;&nbsp;

This digital marketing freelance jobs platform has a bidding system similar to Upwork, where you can apply for projects matching your skills and budget. However, it also has some drawbacks, such as an outdated interface, a high service fee, and a competition level.&nbsp;

You may also have to pay for additional features such as membership plans, exams, and project upgrades.

4. <a href="https://www.guru.com/">Guru</a>

Guru is an affordable freelancer online marketing platform focused on small and medium-sized businesses. Its user-friendly interface allows you to create your profile, browse jobs, and make proposals quickly.&nbsp;

Its <a href="https://www.escrow.com/support/faqs/how-does-online-escrow-work">escrow payment system</a> protects your earnings and lets you choose multiple payment options. However, Guru has lower project values compared to other platforms, limited high-paying gigs, and a service fee for members.

5. <a href="https://www.peopleperhour.com/">Peopleperhour</a>

Peopleperhour, another popular freelance digital marketer website, aims to simplify the process of finding and hiring freelancers for various digital marketing projects, including SEO, content writing, social media management, web design, and more. It has a simple and intuitive interface, allowing you to create a profile, browse jobs, and send proposals quickly.

Peopleperhour's escrow payments system ensures that you are paid on time and securely, and you can join a forum to interact with other freelancers and get tips and advice. The downside to Peopleperhour is its limited project variety, fewer high-end opportunities, and a service fee for the first few months.

6. <a href="https://www.fiverr.com/">Fiverr</a>

Fiverr specialises in low-cost microservices and gigs. This platform is easy for beginners since you don't need to bid on projects or compete with others. In addition, Fiverr offers fast project turnaround, as most gigs are completed within a few days or even hours. You just create a gig, set a price, and wait for clients to order your service.&nbsp;

Due to Fiverr's low project values, building long-term client relationships and earning a decent income can be difficult.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

7. <a href="https://www.flexjobs.com/">FlexJobs</a>

FlexJobs is a platform that aims to provide the best remote work experience to freelancers, focused on reputable and verified clients screened and vetted by their employees.

This freelance digital marketing website offers a wide range of flexible work options, including part-time, full-time, contract, or freelance. However, FlexJobs requires a high subscription fee.

Bonus: <a href="https://www.truelancer.com/">Truelancer</a>

Truelancer is a growing digital marketing freelancer website with a focus on the Indian workforce and offers a variety of digital marketing projects, such as SEO, content writing, social media, web design, and more.&nbsp;

This marketplace has a similar bidding system as Upwork and Freelancer, where you can apply for projects that match your skills and budget. However, it also has some limitations, such as being relatively new and having a smaller user base compared to established platforms. You may also have to pay a service fee.

Tips For Indian Freelancers to Attract Clients

Here are some tips and best practices to stand out and attract clients.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Freelancing is a great way to earn money, gain experience, and pursue your passion in digital marketing. However, it also comes with its challenges and opportunities. You need to find the best freelance digital marketing websites that suit your skills and goals and follow some tips and best practices to stand out and attract clients.&nbsp;

Q1. Which freelancing platform is best for digital marketing?

Ans. There is no definitive answer to this question, as different freelance sites have their advantages and disadvantages and suit different freelancers and clients. Choose the platform that matches your skill level, project type, budget, and goals. Try multiple platforms and compare their features and results.

Ans. To start freelancing, you need a marketable skill, a portfolio, and a profile. Research the market, set your rates, and find your niche. Then, sign up for one or more freelance platforms, browse and apply for projects, and communicate and negotiate with clients. Deliver high-quality work, ask for feedback and reviews, and build your reputation and network.

Ans. To start digital marketing, you need to–

Top 7 Freelance Sites for Digital Marketing in India th