FreeUp uses a freelancer badge system to help recognize top performers on the platform and provide clients with additional signals when reviewing candidates.
Here at FreeUp, we always want to be transparent about what goes into both our freelancer and client experiences + updates.
Let’s get into it!
What Are Freelancer Ratings + Badges?
Freelancer ratings and badges are a new release by FreeUp to help our top freelancers on the platform be recognized and stand out to their clients.
Your freelancer badges are now displayed on your FreeUp profile.
There are 3 levels of freelancer badges:
Rising Star
Top Talent
Top Talent Plus
What Goes Into a Freelancer’s Rating?
There are several points that go into a freelancer’s rating on the FreeUp platform:
How long the freelancer has been on the platform.
How many hours the freelancer has billed on the platform.
If the freelancer has had any client issues.
How recently the freelancer has billed a client (how active they are).
FreeUp uses a formula to calculate a freelancer rating which then freelancers receive a badge based on their status compared to other freelancers on the platform.
Top Talent Plus = Top 30% of Freelancers on the Platform
Top Talent = 30% – 70% of Freelancers on the Platform
Rising Stars = 0% – 30% of Freelancers on the Platform
It’s important to note that all freelancers go through a strict vetting process to get onto the FreeUp platform. The freelancer badges simply represent the freelancers experience level on the FreeUp platform and is not indicative of their qualifications as a whole.
Why Did We Implement Freelancer Ratings?
The freelancer badge system is meant to provide a better experience for both freelancers and clients.
Experienced freelancers on the platform are now recognized for their client success.
Clients are now able to see which freelancers they are matched with have had success on the platform previously.
If you have any feedback at all about the freelancer badge system, we’d love to hear it!
You can provide any feedback you have here: FreeUp Freelancer Badge Feedback Form
How Clients Can Use Freelancer Badges When Shortlisting Candidates
Freelancer badges can be a helpful signal when you're reviewing candidates, especially if you're new to hiring on FreeUp or trying to narrow down a larger group of applicants.
Because badges reflect a freelancer’s activity, reliability, and history of successful projects on the platform, they can give you a quick snapshot of who has consistently delivered results for clients.
Here are a few ways to use badges as part of your shortlisting process:
Use Badges as a Starting Point
If you're reviewing multiple candidates with similar experience levels, a Top Talent or Top Talent Plus badge can be a helpful tiebreaker. These badges indicate freelancers who have built a strong track record on the platform through successful client relationships and ongoing work.
For clients who want someone with a proven history inside the FreeUp ecosystem, filtering your shortlist to include freelancers with higher-tier badges can be a useful first step.
Look Beyond the Badge
While badges highlight experience on the FreeUp platform, they are not the only indicator of a freelancer’s ability.
Many freelancers join FreeUp with years of professional experience from outside the platform. Because badges are partially based on hours billed and activity within FreeUp, newer freelancers may not yet have reached higher badge levels — even if they bring significant expertise to the table.
For that reason, it’s always worth reviewing:
The freelancer’s profile and past experience
Relevant portfolio work or case studies
Communication style during the interview or initial messages
Their understanding of your specific project
Consider Rising Stars as Hidden Gems
Freelancers with a Rising Star badge are often newer to the platform but can still be highly skilled professionals.
Some of these freelancers may have:
Recently joined FreeUp
Just begun working with clients on the platform
Extensive experience outside of FreeUp that hasn’t yet translated into platform hours
Because of this, Rising Stars can sometimes represent great opportunities to work with talented freelancers who are still building their track record within the marketplace.
Combine Badges With the Matching Process
FreeUp’s matching system is designed to connect you with freelancers who fit your project requirements. Badges can simply add another layer of insight when you're reviewing the candidates sent your way.
By combining badge status, relevant experience, and your own evaluation of communication and expertise, you can confidently build a shortlist of freelancers who are well-positioned to help with your project.