Thinking About Freelancing on Unicorn Factory? Here’s What You Need to Know

So, you’re thinking about freelancing on Unicorn Factory? Smart move. But before you dive in, let’s get a few things straight.

Unicorn Factory isn’t your typical freelance marketplace. We connect New Zealand freelancers with local businesses, but we do it on your terms—no middlemen, no hidden fees. In this guide, I’ll break down how the platform works, what you can expect, and how to make the most of your time here. Let’s see if Unicorn Factory is the right fit for you.

What is Unicorn Factory?

Unicorn Factory is a freelance marketplace designed specifically for New Zealand. Our mission is simple: to connect local businesses with the best freelance talent in the country. We’re similar to platforms like Upwork or Fiverr, but with a key difference—we focus exclusively on New Zealand freelancers and businesses.

Here’s how Unicorn Factory stands out:

1. Local Focus: We’re all about keeping it local. Every freelancer on our platform is based in New Zealand, and our clients are local businesses looking for talent they can trust.
2. No Middlemen: Unlike other platforms that require you to communicate and transact through their system, Unicorn Factory allows you to take your client interactions off-platform. You set your own rates, negotiate your own terms, and maintain full control over your client relationships. For more on why we do this, check out Why Unicorn Factory Doesn’t Handle Contracts and Payments (And Why That’s a Good Thing).
3. No Hidden Fees: We don’t take a percentage of your earnings. Instead, you pay a small fee for each lead, which means more of your hard-earned money stays in your pocket. Learn how our Credit System Helps Freelancers Win More Business.

Now that you know what sets us apart, let’s talk about how you can get started on Unicorn Factory and start landing clients.

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How to Apply and Get Work on Unicorn Factory

Getting started on Unicorn Factory is straightforward, but there are a few key steps to keep in mind. Here’s how to join the platform and start landing clients:

Application Process

1. Submit Your Application: Head to our sign-up page and fill out the application form. We ask for detailed information about your skills, experience, and the services you offer. This helps us assess whether you’re a good fit for the platform.
2. Review Period: Once your application is submitted, our team will review it. We take this process seriously to ensure that only top-quality freelancers are on the platform. Typically, you’ll hear back from us within 7 to 14 days.
3. Get Approved: If you’re a good match, we’ll let you know and get you set up on the platform. You’ll then be ready to start connecting with potential clients. Check out how Samantha Thornton-Jones has optimized her profile for success.

Ways to Get Work

There are two main ways to secure projects on Unicorn Factory:

1. Direct Messages:
   • Clients can reach out to you directly through your profile. If they like what they see, they’ll send you a message to discuss potential projects.
2. Job Board Applications:
   • You can also browse our job board and apply to projects that match your skills. Depending on your category, you might receive more direct messages or need to be more proactive in applying for jobs. For a detailed guide, check out How Our Job Board Works for Freelancers.

Before you even apply, you can check the job listings from the past 30 days to see if the platform has the kind of projects you’re interested in. This gives you a good sense of whether Unicorn Factory is the right place for you to grow your freelance business.

With your profile set up and your approach to landing work clear, let’s dive into the costs involved and how Unicorn Factory makes money.

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How Unicorn Factory Makes Money and What It Costs You

At Unicorn Factory, we believe in transparency, especially when it comes to costs. Here’s how our pricing works and how we keep the platform running:

No Free Plans or Trials

When I started Unicorn Factory, I experimented with free plans and trials, but here’s what I found: freelancers who aren’t willing to invest in their own business tend not to take it seriously. That lack of commitment reflects poorly on the entire platform and ultimately leads to a subpar experience for clients.

So, here’s the deal:

1. Per-Lead Fee:
   • We don’t charge a monthly subscription fee. Instead, you pay for the leads you pursue. This means that if you get a lot of interest from clients, you’ll pay more, but if business is slow, you won’t be stuck with a recurring charge.
2. Credit System:
   • When you sign up, you purchase credits that you can use to unlock introductions to clients. This system ensures you’re only paying for genuine opportunities, and it puts the control in your hands. If you’re curious about why we chose this model over a subscription-based one, you can read more about it in How Our Credit System Helps Freelancers Win More Business.

Why This Model Works

• Fairness: You’re not locked into paying for a service you’re not using. You pay for what you get.
• Flexibility: Your costs scale with your success. The more leads you pursue, the more you pay, but you’re always in control.

Now that you know how the financial side works, let’s talk about who Unicorn Factory is really for—and who it’s not.

Who is Unicorn Factory For (and Not For)?

Unicorn Factory is designed to be a powerful tool for a specific type of freelancer. If you fit the profile, it can be a game-changer for your business. But let’s be clear about who this platform is for—and who it isn’t.

Who It’s For

1. Professional Freelancers:
   • If you’re running your own freelance business—whether full-time or part-time—Unicorn Factory is built for you. It’s a platform to showcase your services, connect with local clients, and grow your business on your terms.
2. Entrepreneurs at Heart:
   • We’re looking for freelancers who take their work seriously, who understand that freelancing isn’t just about getting gigs—it’s about building a brand and a business. If you’re ready to invest in yourself and treat freelancing as a real business, you’ll thrive here. Check out our article on How to Close More Deals on Unicorn Factory to help boost your success.
3. Freelancers Who Want Control:
   • If you value setting your own rates, negotiating your own terms, and managing client relationships directly, Unicorn Factory gives you the freedom to do just that. There’s no middleman getting in the way of how you do business.

Who It’s Not For

1. Job Seekers:
   • If you’re looking for a traditional job or a steady stream of part-time work, Unicorn Factory isn’t the right fit. We’re not a job board like Seek or a platform for employment; we’re a marketing tool for freelancers.
2. Agency Owners:
   • Our platform is tailored for individual freelancers, not agencies. If you run an agency or represent one, Unicorn Factory probably won’t deliver the results you’re looking for. Clients come to us specifically for freelancers, not for agency services.
3. Employees of Agencies:
   • Similarly, if you’re an employee of an agency, this isn’t the platform for you. We’ve seen agencies try to use our site as a workaround to get leads, but this approach hasn’t worked well for anyone involved.

If you’re still reading and think you’re a good fit, that’s great news. But before you jump in, let’s talk about what you can expect when you join Unicorn Factory.

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What to Expect When Joining Unicorn Factory

So, you’ve decided that Unicorn Factory is the right fit for you. That’s awesome! But before you dive in, it’s important to set realistic expectations about what the platform can and can’t do for your freelance business.

Visibility, Not Guarantees

Unicorn Factory is designed to give you visibility among New Zealand businesses that are actively looking for freelancers. But here’s the thing: while we can help you get noticed, we can’t guarantee paid work. Here’s why:

1. Client Decisions:
   • Whether or not a client hires you depends on a variety of factors—your portfolio, how well you present yourself, your pricing, and even how well you communicate during initial interactions. These are things you have control over, and they’re crucial in landing projects. If you’re new to freelancing, our guide on 7 Common Mistakes to Avoid When Hiring Your First Freelancer might help you get a sense of what clients are looking for.
2. No Promises:
   • We don’t make promises about how many leads you’ll get or how quickly you’ll secure a project. Some freelancers hit the ground running and get projects quickly, while others take longer to find the right fit. It’s all part of the freelancing journey.

Support for New Freelancers

If you’re new to freelancing, don’t worry—you’re not alone. We welcome new freelancers, but it’s important to understand that you’ll need to invest in yourself just like any seasoned professional would. Here’s what you can expect:

1. No Special Discounts:
   • We don’t offer discounts for new freelancers or university students. Everyone makes the same investment to join the platform, which ensures that those who sign up are serious about their business.
2. Resources to Help You Succeed:
   • We provide a range of resources designed to help you get started, from tips on building a strong portfolio to advice on closing deals. Our goal is to make freelancing more accessible, but success ultimately depends on your commitment and effort. For instance, learning how to conduct effective sales calls can be crucial—check out our guide on How to Run a Successful Sales Call as a Freelancer Using Gap Selling.

With a clear understanding of what to expect, let’s talk about one of the most critical aspects of freelancing: managing your client relationships.

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Managing Client Relationships

When you’re freelancing on Unicorn Factory, you’re in the driver’s seat when it comes to managing your client relationships. This level of control is one of the biggest benefits of the platform, but it also means that the responsibility is squarely on your shoulders.

No Middleman

Unlike other platforms that act as intermediaries, Unicorn Factory gives you full control over how you interact with clients. Here’s what that means for you:

1. Direct Communication:
   • From the moment a client reaches out to you, all communication is direct. You’ll handle all the back-and-forth, from discussing project details to negotiating terms.
2. Set Your Own Terms:
   • You’re in charge of setting your rates, deadlines, and scope of work. This allows you to tailor each project to fit your business model and working style.
3. Client Management:
   • You’ll need to manage all aspects of the client relationship, including invoicing, contracts, and ensuring that you get paid on time. This is where your business acumen comes into play. For more details on how to navigate these aspects, you might find How Our Credit System Helps Freelancers Win More Business helpful.

Handling Non-Payment or Issues

With great power comes great responsibility. Here’s how to handle some of the challenges you might face:

1. Perform Due Diligence:
   • Before agreeing to work with a client, make sure to do your research. Check their background, review any available information, and don’t be afraid to ask for references. This can help you avoid issues down the line.
2. Use Contracts:
   • Always use a contract to outline the scope of work, payment terms, and deadlines. This protects both you and the client and helps prevent misunderstandings.
3. Dealing with Non-Payment:
   • If a client doesn’t pay you, it’s up to you to address the situation. Whether that means sending follow-up invoices or seeking legal advice, you’ll need to be proactive in protecting your business.

Managing your client relationships effectively is crucial to your success on Unicorn Factory. If this level of responsibility is new to you, consider getting some experience by working with an agency first.

With client management covered, let’s move on to understanding the platform’s policies on guarantees and how we handle re-crediting for leads.

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Guarantees and Re-Crediting

One of the most common questions we get from freelancers is about guarantees—whether we can promise that the leads you pursue will turn into paid projects. The short answer is no, but here’s what you need to know.

No Guarantees

At Unicorn Factory, we provide the platform for you to connect with potential clients, but we can’t guarantee that every lead will result in paid work. Here’s why:

1. Too Many Variables:
   • The success of a lead depends on many factors, such as how well you present your portfolio, how effectively you communicate, and whether your skills match the client’s needs. These are things we can’t control, so we can’t make promises.
2. Investment in Your Business:
   • When you purchase credits and pursue leads, you’re making an investment in your business. Just like any other business expense, there’s a level of risk involved. But with the right approach, that investment can pay off. For more insights, check out How to Close More Deals on Unicorn Factory.

Re-Crediting Policy

While we don’t offer guarantees, we do have a re-crediting policy to help protect you from time-wasters. Here’s how it works:

1. Case-by-Case Basis:
   • If you pursue a lead that turns out to be a dead end—maybe the client ghosts you or isn’t serious about hiring—we’ll review the situation. If we find that the lead was a genuine time-waster, we’ll re-credit you so you can pursue another opportunity.
2. How to Request Re-Crediting:
   • If you find yourself in a situation where you believe a lead should be re-credited, simply reach out to our support team. Provide details about the situation, and we’ll assess it fairly.

Our goal is to make sure Unicorn Factory works for you, and re-crediting is one way we help ensure you get value from the platform.

Now that you understand the guarantees and re-crediting policies, let’s address another common question: Can you join Unicorn Factory if you’re based overseas?

Location Requirements: Why We Only Accept New Zealand-Based Freelancers

OOne of the unique aspects of Unicorn Factory is our focus on connecting New Zealand freelancers with local businesses. This approach has its benefits, but it also comes with certain restrictions. Let’s talk about why we only accept freelancers who are based in New Zealand.

Why Local Matters

1. Time Zone Alignment:
   • Working within the same time zone as your clients makes communication smoother and more efficient. It’s easier to schedule meetings, respond to messages promptly, and maintain a good working relationship when you’re in the same or a similar time zone.
2. Understanding the Local Market:
   • As a New Zealand-based freelancer, you’re likely more attuned to the needs, preferences, and nuances of local businesses. This understanding can give you a competitive edge when it comes to delivering work that truly resonates with your clients.
3. Building Local Networks:
   • Unicorn Factory is as much about community as it is about business. By focusing on local freelancers, we foster stronger connections and networks within New Zealand, which can lead to more opportunities for collaboration and growth.

Why We Don’t Accept Overseas Freelancers

1. Past Experiences:
   • In the past, we experimented with accepting freelancers based overseas, but we found that time zone differences and communication challenges often led to unsatisfactory experiences for both freelancers and clients.
2. Consistency and Quality:
   • By keeping our freelancer pool local, we can maintain a consistent standard of service and ensure that both clients and freelancers have the best possible experience on the platform.
3. Community Focus:
   • Unicorn Factory is designed to support the New Zealand freelance community. By limiting our platform to local freelancers, we’re able to focus our efforts on helping Kiwi businesses and freelancers thrive.

If you’re based in New Zealand and ready to take control of your freelance career, Unicorn Factory could be the perfect fit for you.

Let’s wrap things up with a quick recap of what you’ve learned and how to get started.

Ready to Join Unicorn Factory?

By now, you should have a clear understanding of what it means to be a freelancer on Unicorn Factory. We’ve covered everything from how the platform works, to the costs involved, who it’s designed for, and what you can expect in terms of client relationships and earning potential.

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Here’s a Quick Recap:

1. Unicorn Factory is a local-focused platform: We connect New Zealand freelancers with Kiwi businesses, giving you the freedom to set your own terms and manage your client relationships directly.
2. Application and Work Opportunities: You’ll go through a simple application process, and once approved, you can start receiving direct messages from clients or apply for jobs on our job board.
3. Cost and Earning Structure: You pay per lead using a credit system, with no ongoing fees. While we can’t guarantee paid work, we do have a re-crediting policy to help protect you from time-wasters.
4. Who It’s For: Unicorn Factory is perfect for professional freelancers who are serious about their business, but it’s not the right fit for job seekers, agency owners, or those looking for traditional employment.
5. Managing Client Relationships: You’re in charge of everything—from setting your rates to handling contracts and ensuring you get paid. This autonomy is a key benefit, but it also comes with responsibility.
6. Location Matters: We only accept freelancers based in New Zealand to ensure quality, consistency, and the best possible experience for both freelancers and clients.

If you’re ready to take the next step in your freelance journey and believe Unicorn Factory is the right platform for you, we’d love to have you join our community. Simply head over to our application page, submit your details, and start connecting with local businesses looking for your skills.

And remember, we’re here to support you along the way. If you have any questions or need help, don’t hesitate to reach out. Welcome to the Unicorn Factory family!

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