Comparison
Upwork vs a Virtual Assistant Agency
A fair look at hiring on a marketplace versus working with a recruiting partner.
What each option is
A freelance marketplace such as Upwork gives you access to a large pool of candidates you screen yourself. A recruiting partner sources, screens and introduces candidates who fit your brief, and you choose who to hire.
Both approaches can work. The right choice depends on how much time you have to run a hiring process.
Side by side
Factor | Marketplace | Recruiting partner |
|---|---|---|
Sourcing | You search and post | Recruiter sources for you |
Screening | You review every applicant | Candidates are pre-screened |
Time from you | Higher | Lower |
Control | Full control over every step | You choose from introduced finalists |
Cost structure | Marketplace and freelancer fees | Recruiting fee or service structure |
Best for | People who enjoy hiring and have time | Busy owners who want a shortlist |
Where a marketplace is a good fit
You have hiring experience and time to screen
You want to try several people cheaply
Your task is short-term or small
Where a recruiting partner is a good fit
You want vetted candidates for a long-term role
You would rather interview three strong finalists than sift through fifty applications
You need help with role definition and screening
How to choose
Estimate the hours you would spend writing the job post, reviewing applicants and interviewing. If that time is worth more than the service cost, a recruiter can be the better option. We are a recruiting service, so weigh our view accordingly and compare with your own numbers.
Still deciding?
Tell us who you need. We recruit, screen and introduce vetted candidates, and you choose who to hire.
Recruiting powered by Globaltize
More comparisons
Keep comparing
FAQ
Frequently asked questions
Short answers to common questions.
Is a recruiter worth it compared with a marketplace?
Can I use both?
Recruiting powered by Globaltize
Tell us who you need. We’ll find them.
We recruit, screen and introduce vetted candidates. You choose who to hire.