Quality work deserves quality pay, no matter where in the world we’re from.

[#1]

I recently had an eye-opening experience with a potential client that I think is worth sharing. I’m a freelancer from the Philippines (a developing country), and this client had a budget of $20-30 per hour for their project. I placed my bid at $25 per hour, which is my standard rate.

Everything was going well until the client found out where I was from. Then they said, “I have friends who work with freelancers from the Philippines, and I heard that $5 per hour is already big there, is it true?”

Now, I’ve heard variations of this before, but I’m always amazed at how common these misconceptions still are. It got me thinking how often do people assume that freelancers from developing countries should charge rock-bottom rates just because of where we live?

Yes, $5 may seem like a lot in certain places, but the work we deliver has the same value, regardless of our geographical location. What’s frustrating is that this attitude completely overlooks the skill, expertise, and value we bring to the table.

Let’s change the narrative. Quality work deserves quality pay, no matter where in the world we’re from. 💪

[#2]

I have had clients in the Phillippines that pay my $200 per hour rate and it's been this way in 30 different countries.

There are successful business owners across the planet.

[#3]

Exactly! There are successful businesses in the Philippines that can afford to pay high rates, just like the one you mentioned. It's important for clients from other parts of the world to realize that there are equally skilled and professional freelancers here who deserve to be compensated with globally competitive rates.

[#4]

It really shows that there are businesses everywhere that recognize and value quality work. Successful collaboration knows no borders, and it’s inspiring to see how talent is appreciated globally.

[#5]

I agree, many people across india, pakistan, etc are making a lot of money freelancing and as long as you can give them HUGE value, they are willing to pay.

[#6]

Regardless of where they are, every professional deserves fair compensation that reflects their skills and contributions. We must challenge these misconceptions and advocate for ourselves. Let’s keep pushing for a culture that recognizes quality work—no matter the price tag tied to a location. Thanks for sharing your story and sparking this important conversation!

[#7]

Thank you for your thoughtful reply! I completely agree that every professional deserves fair compensation that reflects their skills and contributions. It’s frustrating to see these misconceptions persist, but conversations like this are essential for change. Together, we can advocate for a culture that recognizes and values quality work, regardless of where it comes from. All the best!

[#8]

Cheap clients look for cheap solutions.

They get cheap solutions from US freelancers too.

Say no to cheapos.

Check out this thread for cheap clients: https://community.upwork.com/t5/Coffee-Break/Crazy-Job-Postings/td-p/1019028/page/3

[#9]

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 wrote:

Cheap clients look for cheap solutions.

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I agree. Let us not settle for less than our worth! Thanks for sharing.

[#10]

Another cheapo client from the US.

See https://community.upwork.com/t5/Coffee-Break/Crazy-Job-Postings/td-p/1019028/page/3