Outsourcely is a remote hiring platform founded in 2014 that connects businesses with remote workers for long-term roles rather than short projects. It was created by Nathan Hirsch and Connor Gillivan, who also founded FreeUp. Remote workers join and apply for free, and the platform says workers pay zero fees. Employers hire directly and pay workers directly, which means workers keep what they earn.
At a glance
| What it is | A platform for long-term remote roles |
| Founded | 2014 |
| Cost for workers | Free, no fees |
| Payment | Employers pay workers directly |
| Roles | Developers, designers, marketers, VAs, support |
| Focus | Long-term working relationships |
| Workers | Hundreds of thousands registered, per Outsourcely |
How it works
You create a profile with your skills, experience, availability and expected rate. Businesses post remote positions and search profiles. You apply to roles or receive messages from employers. When hired, you agree terms directly with the employer and they pay you directly, often by your chosen method. Outsourcely doesn’t sit in the middle of payments the way escrow marketplaces do.
Pay
Because Outsourcely doesn’t take a cut from workers, you keep your full agreed rate. Rates depend on skills, experience and location. Agree pay, hours and payment method in writing before starting.
Getting hired
Write a clear headline and summary that shows your main skill and the results you deliver. List tools you know and add samples. Employers on Outsourcely look for long-term reliability, so emphasise availability, communication and consistency.
Staying safe
Since payments happen directly, there’s less platform protection. Agree terms clearly, invoice regularly, and be cautious of employers who ask you to pay for anything or delay payment repeatedly.
Is it worth it?
For remote workers looking for stable, long-term roles, Outsourcely is worth a profile, since it costs nothing and takes no cut. Results depend on how active employers are in your field.
Common mistakes
Some workers leave profiles vague. Others start work without clear written terms. Be specific and agree everything upfront.
Writing a strong profile
Employers searching Outsourcely want to understand quickly what you do and whether you’ll stay. Lead with your main skill, list tools and platforms you know, mention your time zone and hours, and include a short example of results you’ve delivered for a past employer.
Agreeing terms
Before starting, agree in writing your hourly or monthly rate, working hours, payment schedule, payment method and how either side can end the arrangement. Clear terms protect you when there’s no escrow.
Who the employers are
Many employers are startups, ecommerce businesses and small agencies looking for long-term help with development, design, marketing, support and admin.
Final tip
Respond quickly to employer messages, since many roles fill fast.
Is it worth it compared with marketplaces?
Compared with escrow marketplaces, Outsourcely trades protection for zero fees and direct relationships. If you’re experienced and comfortable managing agreements and payments, that trade can pay off. If you’re new, a marketplace with escrow may feel safer at first.
Building long-term roles
Employers on Outsourcely want people who stay. Communicate proactively, meet deadlines and suggest improvements, and a role can last years.
Safety tips
Never pay an employer to start work, and stop working if payments are repeatedly late.
Who it’s best for
Virtual assistants, developers, designers, marketers and customer support specialists who want one or two stable employers rather than many short projects.
Communication tips
Send short daily or weekly updates to your employer, especially early on, so they see progress without asking.
Owen’s take
Outsourcely is a no-fee way to find long-term remote roles. Keep your profile sharp and protect yourself with clear agreements.
Who it suits
It suits remote workers who want long-term roles with one or two employers. It suits less well freelancers wanting many small projects with escrow.
Getting started
Create a free profile, add your best samples, set your availability and respond quickly to employer messages.
Keeping track
Keep records of agreements, hours and payments, especially since payments are direct.
Similar options
- FreeUp is a vetted freelance marketplace.
- OnlineJobs.ph connects Filipino workers with employers.
- We Work Remotely lists remote roles.
- Upwork is the largest freelance marketplace.
More options are in Freelancing.
Pros and cons
Pros
- No fees for workers
- Long-term roles
- Direct relationship with employers
Cons
- No escrow protection
- Activity varies by field
- You manage payments yourself
FAQ
Is Outsourcely free for workers?
Yes, workers pay no fees.
How are workers paid?
Directly by employers.
What kind of roles are on Outsourcely?
Long-term remote roles in development, design, marketing and support.
Who founded Outsourcely?
Nathan Hirsch and Connor Gillivan, in 2014.
Does Outsourcely use escrow?
No, payments are direct.
