The answer is 1. having a network of trusted people you've worked with in the past 2. building some sort of public reputation where people seek you out. They

The answer is 1. having a network of trusted people you've worked with in the past 2. building some sort of public reputation where people seek you out. They're not mutually exclusive, but #1 is probably easiest for people already in a job. Go to networking events (covid has muted a lot of this, I know, but it's coming back). Tell people you're looking for consulting work or open to new jobs. Be nice. Yes, the answer for most people is not fiverr or upwork. I've known a few folks who've done good there, but they're outliers in my network. And even then, the few businesses I've known that have used platforms like that use it as a test ground, and then go direct with someone they click with. That said, I've never taken a full year salary in 2 weeks. I have taken my own full year salary matching my early earning days from 30 years ago in 2-3 months now.