There’s an issue we need to bring forward.

It doesn’t often show up in board meetings or quarterly reviews, but it affects the people who help keep businesses running behind the scenes.

Many modern businesses rely on freelancers, virtual assistants, and outsourced teams. This model has clear advantages. It reduces overhead costs, opens access to specialized skills, and allows teams to scale without long-term commitments.

However, the cost savings must never justify poor treatment.

Respect and dignity should not be optional, even in flexible work arrangements.

Across industries, there are examples of workers being undervalued and overworked. Let’s start with manufacturing, it’s common to find factory workers in developing countries spending 12-hour shifts producing high-priced goods, yet earning just a fraction of what their work generates.

Similar problems exist in remote service work.

A freelancer recently shared an experience where, after completing 30 days of work for a client who insisted on bypassing the platform, they were suddenly blocked.

No payment. No explanation.

The client had done the same to others. One freelancer eventually discovered that they had been falsely reported to the platform. Their account was damaged, and their reputation was at risk.

Stories like this are not rare.

They are shared in private groups, passed along as warnings, and quietly accepted by many as the risk of doing freelance work.

---

Lessons We Must Not Ignore

• Success without ethics is not success.

Titles, TED Talks, or sleek branding do not guarantee someone’s integrity. Always look deeper. Research their digital footprint. Ask questions. Check reviews. If something feels off, trust that instinct.

• Truth reveals itself eventually.

People can only hide so much. Look at the way they treat the least visible people in their world, like their assistants, VAs, textile workers, cleaners, says everything about their character. Watch closely.

This poor treatment can also create a risk.

Freelancers and service providers speak with one another. Negative experiences get shared quickly. I was fortunate to be able to spend time in the Human Resources Department, and I learned quickly that a poor hiring reputation can reduce access to skilled support and create reputational damage.

• Platforms are shifting, but not always in a freelancer’s favor.

A popular platform, for instance, has become increasingly client-centric. With rising costs for connects, many talented freelancers now face added barriers just to be seen. The promise of fair opportunity has dimmed for some. This makes it even more essential to approach projects with caution and to advocate for systems that protect both sides.

• Do not be blinded by polished appearances.

Not all professional appearances reflect behind-the-scenes practices, and some of the most ruthless practices hide behind smiling photos and good press.

• You deserve better.

Fair pay. Respect. Safety.

There is a saying, “You deserve what you tolerate.” There are people that enable this thinking it is normal, but they do not have to be luxuries; they are actually rights. And while we can’t control how others behave, we can equip ourselves and our communities with the wisdom to move smarter and safer.

---

Practical Safety Tips for Freelancers

• Stay on Platform:

Always conduct work and transactions through the freelancing platform to ensure protection and recourse in case of disputes.

• Verify Clients:

Research potential clients, check their reviews, and be cautious of those who insist on moving off-platform.

• Use Escrow Services:

For fixed-price projects, use platforms that offer escrow services to secure payment upon project completion.

• Document Everything:

Keep records of all communications, agreements, and work submissions.

• Set Clear Boundaries:

Define the scope of work, deadlines, and payment terms before starting any project.

---

Positive Developments in the Gig Economy

Despite the challenges, there are stories of resilience and positive change

Policy Reforms:

Some regions are implementing policies to improve gig workers’ rights and protections.

Community Support:

Online communities and forums provide support, resources, and advocacy for freelancers.

Platform Improvements:

Certain platforms are enhancing their dispute resolution processes and offering better support to freelancers.

---

A Side Note to Business Owners and Clients

Outsourcing can offer significant cost savings, allowing businesses to access specialized skills and scale operations efficiently.

Cost-saving is only a benefit if it aligns with quality

Long-term results depend on the commitment and reliability of the people involved. Fair treatment helps maintain that reliability.

Evaluating Your Options: In-House vs. Outsourced

Advantages of Outsourcing:

• Reduces salary and infrastructure costs
• Provides access to highly skilled professionals
• Allows quick team adjustments for projects or seasonal demand

Challenges of Outsourcing:

• Less visibility and control over daily work
• Possible time zone and communication barriers
• Ethical gaps exist if expectations and standards are not clearly defined

Advantages of In-House Hiring:

• More direct team oversight
• Easier alignment with company culture
• Stronger team integration and loyalty

Challenges of In-House Hiring:

• Higher overhead from salaries, benefits, and office needs
• Less flexibility during low-demand periods

Both approaches have merit. What matters is how your business ensures fair treatment, regardless of the method.

---

For Those Hiring Freelancers or Remote Teams

• Use platforms with clear protections for both sides
• Keep communication and payments transparent
• Set expectations clearly at the beginning
• Pay fairly and on time
• Treat every worker as a part of the success, not just a transaction

I look forward to a time when everyone, no matter where they are hired from, is paid fairly, respected in their role, and proud of the work they do. People should feel secure knowing they are contributing to a company that values them not just for output, but as individuals.

That kind of workplace does not depend on a physical office. It depends on leadership.

The Bottom Line.

The gig economy holds incredible potential.

It gives many of us the flexibility and freedom to work in ways that align with our lives. For single parents, it can mean more time with children. For those caring for elderly family members or children with special needs, it offers a chance to earn while remaining present for their loved ones.

This flexibility is powerful. It shouldn’t be taken for granted.

But let’s not ignore the cracks in the system.

Let’s be the ones who speak up, who mentor others, who say, “No more,” to questionable arrangements and silent exploitation.

Advocate for fairness by staying informed, setting clear boundaries, and sharing what you’ve learned. These small actions can help create a more respectful and secure environment for everyone working independently.

Open the conversation…

• Have you ever been asked to work off-platform? What did you do?
• What’s one policy you wish every platform or client would implement?
• How do you protect yourself from being underpaid or ghosted?
• What’s the biggest myth about freelancing that you think needs to be corrected?

About Naomi

When content feels scattered or operations slow things down, it’s often a sign that a bit of structure and support is needed. Naomi Fellizar works with teams and independent professionals to help simplify those moving parts—whether that’s through consistent content creation or practical day-to-day support.

With experience in outsourcing, executive assistance, and brand communication, she brings flexibility and focus to fast-paced environments. Her skillset includes brand identity development, copywriting, long-form content, multimedia design, customer support, and task automation.

Naomi has quietly supported leaders across different industries, including Forbes 30 Under 30 nominees, blockchain advocates, and members of the World Economic Forum, by helping turn ideas into clear, actionable outcomes.

#EthicalOutsourcing #FutureOfWork #GigEconomy #RemoteWorkLeadership.