$100 - $500 per hour
Bank Transfers
PayPal Credits
Top Expert Network Reviews 2023
Our team has tested over 100 expert networks to find short-term consulting jobs that offer fair rates, data protection and a solid compliance framework. Based on our latest reviews, here are the best expert network consulting gigs in 2023:
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how it works
The Expert Network Process
01
Invitation
You receive an invitation from the expert network to consult.
02
Screening
You answer a few screening questions to confirm that you're qualified.
03
Selection
The client selects among the pre-qualified candidates.
04
The Call
You attend a one-hour consulting call answering questions.
05
Payment
You receive the payment, usually a bank-transfer or pre-paid card.
Examples of Expert Network Consulting Gigs
Here are a few realistic examples of short-term consulting jobs to get a taste of how it to work as an ad-hoc consultant for an expert network:
Aviation industry in Japan
Target: Airline executives in Japan
Type: Industry Overview
Consultation fee: $100-$500 per hour
Duration: One-hour consulting call
Client: Investment management firm
Objective: Understand the competitive landscape & industry dynamics
Shipping in Southeast Asia
Target: Maritime Executives in Singapore
Type: Industry Overview
Consultation fee: $250-$600 per hour
Duration: One-hour consulting call
Client: Consulting firm
Objective: How to optimize trade routes & improve port dynamics
Harvesting agritech in Brazil
Target: Agricultural Executives in Brazil
Type: Industry Overview
Consultation fee: $100-$400 per hour
Duration: One-hour consulting call
Client: Consulting firm
Objective: Learn how to cultivate growth & sustainability in Brazil’s agriculture sector
UK fintech company
Target: Financial services professionals in UK
Type: Company deep-dive
Consultation fee: $250-$600 per hour
Duration: One-hour consulting call
Client: Private equity firm
Objective: Understand business overview, positioning, competitive landscape & industry dynamics
Healthcare analytics firm Germany
Target: Specialists in the German healthcare industry
Type: Company overview
Consultation fee: $150-$400 per hour
Duration: One-hour consulting call
Client: Private equity firm
Objective: Understand competitive positioning and growth opportunities in Germany
Chinese e-commerce firm
Target: E-commerce industry professionals in China
Type: Company deep-dive
Consultation fee: $200-$500 per hour
Duration: One-hour consulting call
Client: Private equity company
Objective: Understand business opportunities and risks, market trends, competitive landscape.
Key Terms Explained
Confused about Expert Networks? Below you’ll find a list of frequently used terms. For more detailed info, check our article on “What is an Expert Network?“.
Compliance
This refers to the process of ensuring that the experts and the clients follow the ethical and legal guidelines of the industry and the platform. Compliance is essential to avoid conflicts of interest, breaches of confidentiality, or violations of regulations.
Single Blinded
This is a type of expert consultation where the expert does not know the identity of the client, but the client knows the identity of the expert. Single blinded consultations are often used to protect the privacy of the client and to reduce bias or influence from the expert.
Consulting Rate
This is the amount that an expert charges for their time and knowledge, and vary depending on the level of experience, demand, and complexity of the topic. As a consultant you set your rate when applying for each consulting gig.
MNPI
Under securities laws, you are prohibited from disclosing so-called “material non-public information” or “MNPI” to expert network clients. The aim of this is to reduce the risk of illegal practice of financial trading through having access to confidential information.
B2B Surveys
These are surveys that target business-to-business (B2B) audiences, such as executives, managers, or decision-makers in various industries. B2B surveys are used by Expert Networks as an effective way to quickly reach a large audience.
Transcript
This is a written record of the conversation between the expert and the client during a consultation. Transcripts can be useful for clients who want to review or share the insights they gained from the expert, and can be used by the platform to monitor quality and compliance.
10 Legit Expert Networks We Trust
1. GLG Insights
GLG Insights is considered the world’s largest expert network with over 1000 employees in 22 offices around the world. They serve clients from different sectors and functions, such as financial services, healthcare, technology, media, education, and government. GLG Insights has a network of over 700,000 experts across different regions and specialities. GLG Insights offers different types of engagements for experts, such as phone consultations, surveys, panels, events, site visits, and reports.
Our opinion
The GLG projects are varied and professionally stimulating, covering topics such as industry analysis, competitive intelligence, product development, customer behaviour, and best practices. The clients are mostly courteous and knowledgeable, and the questions are pertinent and insightful. The compensation is also reasonable and competitive, depending on the level of expertise and time required for the project. GLG Insights pays experts via PayPal or bank transfer within 15 days after the completion of the project.
The support team at GLG Insights is also friendly and helpful. They answer your questions quickly and resolve any problems that occur during the projects. They also provide feedback and suggestions on how to improve your performance and profile. They also appreciate your contributions by sending thank-you notes, certificates, and invitations to exclusive events.
The only drawback of working with GLG Insights is that sometimes the projects are not very well-defined or scoped by the clients, which makes it difficult to prepare and deliver the best possible answers. Also, some projects are very specific and niche, which limits the number of experts who can participate. However, these issues are not very common and have affected our positive view of GLG Insights. Read the full review.
2. AlphaSights
Alphasights is one of the largest and most established expert networks in the world, with offices in 14 countries and over 1,000 employees. Alphasights serves clients from various industries and sectors, such as private equity, consulting, corporate strategy, and non-profits. AlphaSights has a network of over 900,000 experts across different domains and geographies. AlphaSights offers different types of engagements for experts, such as phone consultations, surveys, webinars, workshops, and projects.
Our opinion
The projects were diverse and exciting, ranging from market research to industry trends to product feedback. The clients are primarily professional and respectful, and the questions are relevant and challenging. The compensation is fair and competitive, depending on the complexity and duration of the project. Alphasights pays experts via PayPal or bank transfer within 30 days after the completion of the project.
The only downside of working with AlphaSights is that sometimes the projects are cancelled or rescheduled at the last minute by the clients, which is inconvenient and frustrating. Also, some projects are very competitive and have limited slots for experts, so you have to act fast to secure a spot. However, these issues were not very frequent and have not affected our overall satisfaction with AlphaSights. Read the full review.
3. Third Bridge
Third Bridge is another expert network that connects experts with clients from various sectors, such as private equity, consulting, hedge funds, and corporate strategy. Third Bridge offers different types of services, such as phone consultations, surveys, webinars, events, and reports. Third Bridge has a large and diverse pool of experts, covering over 10,000 topics across 140 countries. Third Bridge also has a high standard of quality and compliance, ensuring that experts provide accurate and reliable information to clients.
Our opinion
As a consultant for Third Bridge, you have the opportunity to work on interesting and relevant projects that match your skills and interests. Third Bridge has a smooth and efficient process for finding and applying to projects, as well as communicating with clients and other experts. Third Bridge also pays fairly and regularly, with rates varying from $100 to $300 per hour depending on the complexity and urgency of the project. Third Bridge also provides support and guidance to help experts grow their network and reputation. Read the full review.
4. Guidepoint
Guidepoint is one of the largest and oldest expert networks in the world, with over 20 years of experience and more than 900,000 experts in its database. Guidepoint serves clients from various industries and sectors, such as healthcare, technology, consumer goods, energy, and finance. Guidepoint offers phone consultations, surveys, webinars, events, custom research, and data products.
Our opinion
Guidepoint has a wide range of clients and topics, so you always find something that matches my interests and expertise. They also pay well and on time, and they have a user-friendly online platform where you can manage your profile and projects. The only challenge is that Guidepoint has a lot of competition among experts, so sometimes it can be hard to get selected for a project or to negotiate a higher rate. Read the full review.
5. Dialectica
Dialectica is a global expert network that specializes in connecting experts with clients in the private equity, consulting, and corporate sectors. They have a network of over 1.5 million experts across various industries and geographies. To join Dialectica as an expert, you need to fill out an online application form and upload your CV. You will then receive an email with a link to complete a short online test to verify your identity and expertise. Once you pass the test, you will be added to their database and receive invitations to projects that match your profile.
Our opinion
Projects with Dialectica are usually short-term, ranging from 30 minutes to 2 hours, and paid well, depending on the level of expertise required. The Dialectica team is very professional and supportive throughout the process. They brief you on project objectives, prepare you for the consultation, and follow up with feedback afterwards. Read the full review.
6. Visasq (VQ)
Visasq is a leading expert network that focuses on connecting experts with clients in the technology sector. They have a network of over 500,000 experts covering various topics such as artificial intelligence, cloud computing, cybersecurity, e-commerce, and more. To join Visasq as an expert, you need to create an online profile and upload your CV. You will then receive a verification code via email or phone to confirm your identity and expertise. Once you verify your account, you will be able to browse through the available projects and apply for the ones that interest you.
Our opinion
Visasq projects are usually longer-term, ranging from a few days to a few weeks, and they pay well, depending on the scope and complexity of the project. The Visasq team is very friendly and helpful throughout the process. They matched you with the right projects, provided you with clear guidelines and expectations, and supported you with any issues or questions you might have. You also get the chance to showcase your expertise and expand your knowledge by working on diverse and challenging projects. Read the full review.
7. Tegus
Tegus is an expert network that specializes in providing in-depth research and insights for investors. They connect experts with clients who are looking for primary sources of information to make better investment decisions. Tegus has a rigorous screening process for experts, requiring them to have relevant industry experience, credentials, and references. Tegus also has a strict compliance policy that ensures the confidentiality and integrity of the information shared by experts. Read the full review.
Our opinion
As consultants for Tegus, we have enjoyed working on diverse and challenging projects that allow us to showcase our expertise and learn from other experts. Tegus has a user-friendly platform that makes it easy to create a profile, browse projects, and schedule calls with clients. Tegus also pays well and promptly, with rates ranging from $100 to $500 per hour depending on the level of expertise and demand. Tegus also offers feedback and coaching to help experts improve their performance and reputation.
8. ProSapient
ProSapient is a UK-based expert network that focuses on providing high-quality experts for clients in the private equity, consulting, and corporate sectors. ProSapient has a global network of over 500,000 experts across various industries and functions. ProSapient offers different types of engagements, such as phone consultations, surveys, webinars, panel discussions, and in-person meetings.
Our opinion
We have always been very impressed by their professionalism and responsiveness of ProSapient. The team is always friendly and helpful, and they match you with relevant and interesting projects based on your profile and preferences. The payment process is smooth and transparent, and you receive my fees within a few days after completing a project. The only downside is that ProSapient is not very active in some regions or sectors, so the number of projects available may vary depending on your location and expertise. Read the full review.
9. Catalant
Catalant is a digital platform that connects businesses with independent consultants and experts for project-based work. Catalant has a network of over 70,000 experts across various industries and functions. To join Catalant as an expert, you need to create a profile on their website and fill out your skills, experience, availability, and rates. You can also upload your resume and portfolio. Catalant will review your profile and approve it if you meet their quality standards. Once approved, you can browse and apply for projects that match your expertise and interests. You can also receive invitations from clients who find your profile relevant for their needs.
Our opinion
Catalant’s platform is easy to use and allows me to communicate with clients effectively and efficiently. The payment process is also smooth and transparent. The only downside is that the competition for projects can be high, so you need to have a strong profile and proposal to stand out. Read the full review.
10. Maven Research
Maven Research offers expert interviews, surveys, consultant sourcing, B2B market research sample, and highly customized expert network management services. Maven has a network of over one million experts across various domains and geographies. To join Maven as an expert, you need to create a profile on their website and fill out your basic information, education, work history, and areas of expertise. You can also add keywords that describe your knowledge and interests. Maven will verify your identity and credentials and approve your profile if you meet their criteria. Once approved, you can receive inquiries from clients who have questions related to your expertise. You can accept or decline the inquiries based on your availability and interest.
Our opinion
Maven provides multiple ways to share your expertise and earn money. You can join their platform as an expert, create a profile, and answer questions from clients via phone calls, surveys, or messages. You can also join their Knowledge Marketplace, where you can offer your services as a consultant for longer-term projects. You can set your own hourly rate, and Maven pays you monthly via PayPal or direct deposit. We like the flexibility of Maven’s platform and the responsiveness of their team. Read the full review.
Expert Network
Payment Options
We always make a thorough evaluation of the payment options when reviewing expert networks. Here are the most common options:
Bank transfer / Wire transfer
Bank transfer is a secure and direct method of payment offered by many expert networks. Bank transfers are favored for their speed and reliability, making them an excellent choice for professionals seeking prompt payment for their consulting services.
Physical Check
A traditional yet widely accepted payment option in the US, physical checks offer a tangible way to receive funds. After the consultation or project is completed, the expert network sends the check to the consultant’s mailing address. Physical checks require manual processing and may take longer to clear than electronic methods.
Prepaid debit cards
Prepaid debit cards provide a convenient and flexible way to receive payments. In this scenario, the expert network loads the payment amount onto a prepaid debit card, which can then be used for purchases or cash withdrawals.
PayPal
Through PayPal, consultants can receive payments electronically by linking their PayPal account to their expert network’s payment system. This method offers speed and convenience, as funds can be transferred to a linked bank account or used for online transactions.
Charity Donations
Some expert networks offer a unique option for payment: the ability to direct a portion of the consulting fee to a charitable cause of the consultant’s choice. After the consultation, a specified amount is donated to the chosen charity on behalf of the consultant.
PayPal is a quick and convenient way to transfer smaller amounts.
Prepaid Visa Cards
Earning cash is great as it gives you the flexibility to shop anywhere.
Physical check
In the US, physcial checks are still a widely accepted payment option.
Bank transfers is the most popular payment method among expert networks.
Chinese expert network offer digital payments through WeChat Pay or AliPay.
Charity
Having the option to donate to your favourite charity is a great advantage.
How we review EXPERT NETWORKS
Our Review Process
100% Independent
We pride ourselves on genuine, 100% editorial independence. This means we never accept money to review a gig or to improve a review.
Expert Reviewers
Our expert network reviews and guides are all written by our on-staff experts, who have years of experience.
Original Research
Our reviews are the result of first-hand experience based on our consultants working with a wide range of expert networks.
Up-to-Date Information
To ensure our expert network reviews remain accurate and relevant, our team is continually updating our content.
Rating Methodology
We evaluate expert network sites based on a standardized set of criteria that’s applicable to all users .
Consistency
With expert consultants based in several different regions around the world, we ensure that ratings are consistently compared
CONSIDER ThiS BEFORE SIGNING Up
Pros and Cons of Expert Networks
While doing ad-hoc expert consulting can be very rewarding, it can also be frustrating. That’s why we always aim to give you the real deal when reviewing expert network platforms.
Here’s a sneak peek at some common pros and cons we have come across after reviewing expert networks:
Positives:
1. Financial Rewards
Expert networks often offer competitive compensation for your specialized knowledge, frequently exceeding the earnings of traditional salaried roles.
2. Professional Growth
Your consulting journey enhances your communication, problem-solving, and research abilities as you take on diverse challenges, leading to continual development.
3. Flexible Schedule
The autonomy that comes with consulting lets you set your own working hours, providing the freedom to balance your professional commitments with personal life on your terms.
4. Influential Impact
Your insights and expertise will wield a tangible influence on senior business decision makers, with the potential to contribute significantly to major M&A events and other developments in your industry.
5. Networking Opportunities
Collaborating with professionals from various sectors not only widens your perspective but also creates invaluable connections that can lead to future collaborations and growth.
Negatives:
1. Compliance Risks
Navigating potential compliance issues, such as intellectual property concerns vs. current or previous employers requires careful attention to avoid legal complications.
2. Discrupting Calls
Some expert networks will bombard you with calls and messages when they urgently need your expertise, which can be disrupting.
3. Privacy Concerns
While platforms often promise anonymity, you might still worry about the potential for your employer or business partners to get access to your consulting work (e.g. through transcript libraries).
4. Wasted Time
Most expert networks will ask you to answer so-called qualifying questions before each consultation, taking 10-20 minutes (which you don't get paid for).
5. Hard to Qualify
Some expert networks focus exclusively on high level executives, and it can be difficult to win gigs if you're a "regular joe" or don't have the recent enough experience within a specific field.
Great Alternatives
to expert networks
Not interested in expert networks? Luckily, in today’s gig economy, plenty of alternatives exist to earn money online. Here are a few suggestions:
Participants share health-related information, opinions, and experiences, contributing to advancements in healthcare.
Reward sites offer users small earnings for completing online tasks such as taking surveys, watching videos, and participating in offers.
Business-to-business (B2B) surveys target professionals and decision-makers in specific industries gathering insights on industry trends, challenges, and preferences.
Data tracking apps offer a passive way to earn money by sharing anonymous usage data from your mobile devices.
Testers navigate through tasks, voice their impressions, and highlight areas for improvement. This process assists companies in refining their digital offerings. A meaningful way to earn money while shaping the development of user-friendly digital interfaces.
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