Alternatives to Aquent are becoming a game-changer for businesses seeking flexible staffing solutions.
With 59% of small to mid-sized companies already outsourcing to cut costs, it’s clear that finding the right talent isn’t just about convenience—it’s essential for growth.
From startups to CEOs, decision-makers explore more innovative options to fuel their teams without breaking budgets.
Studies show that virtual assistants can increase productivity by up to 13%, making this approach more appealing than traditional staffing.
Alternatives like Stealth Agents vs Aquent offer tailored solutions without compromise for those keen on scaling efficiently.
At Stealth Agents, we provide personalized services, including free consultations to match your preferences and optimize virtual assistant pricing—ensuring your business thrives.
What Are the Benefits of Hiring Through Referral Networks?
1. Cost Efficiency
Hiring through referral networks significantly reduces recruitment costs, making it cost-efficient for businesses of all sizes. Studies show that up to 88% of employers state that referrals are a highly economical sourcing method.
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Expenses for job boards, agency commissions, and recruiters are spared by leveraging existing networks. For instance, a $2,000 referral bonus can save upwards of $18,000 compared to agency fees.
Employees act in a recruiting role themselves, minimizing screening costs. Further, this streamlined process allows companies to allocate savings to other critical areas.
Using applicant tracking systems (ATS) enhances referral programs’ efficiency by tracking candidates seamlessly.
Ultimately, referral hiring combines outsourcing cost savings with quality outcomes for companies aiming at budget optimization with hiring efforts.
2. Quality of Candidates
Referral networks are widely acknowledged for providing high-caliber candidates fitted to specific roles. Referred individuals often come with pre-screening benefits, as employees don’t recommend unsuitable matches.
Harvard Business Review highlights that strong connections between employees and referrals yield three times better hiring outcomes than weaker ties.
This approach allows companies to access a reliable talent pool previously unavailable. Employees tend to refer individuals whose experience and skills align with job requirements.
Furthermore, the likelihood of hiring outstanding candidates is increased when current workers endorse individuals who align with workplace culture.
Aquent Scout may deliver similar automation, but referral networks provide a human touch that is absent in ATS alternatives to Aquent.
Delivering higher quality fits and referrals contributes significantly to company success.
3. Speed of Hiring
Referral networks dramatically shorten hiring timelines, efficiently moving candidates through recruitment. Notably, referred candidates take an average of 29 days to hire compared to 39-55 days from job boards.
This speed benefits companies needing critical roles filled promptly. Employees often pre-establish candidates’ qualifications, enabling employers to skip the initial screening stages.
Interviews quickly become the first step instead of lengthy pre-screening processes. A quicker selection reduces costly downtime with unoccupied positions.
Automatically updating an ATS system allows smooth candidate tracking, further accelerating decisions.
With streamlined steps, referred hires enable businesses to meet pressing timelines effortlessly. Consequently, companies gain both time and productivity with referral hiring models.
4. Employee Retention
Retention rates significantly improve when companies hire through referral networks, ensuring long-term employment stability.
Statistics confirm that referred employees stay in roles for an average of 38 months compared to 22 months for other sources. Referred candidates often better understand workplace expectations due to prior insider insights.
Employees are unlikely to recommend unqualified candidates, positively impacting retention rates.
The approach fosters a long-term commitment that is well-suited to workplace environments. Offering retention-ensuring incentives, such as bonuses or extra PTO, elevates participation in referral programs.
By recommending peers, employees boost company fit and organizational loyalty among referred hires.
This strategy also reduces turnover costs associated with frequent rehiring. Sustainable employment achieved through referrals fortifies stability and organizational trust.
5. Workplace Culture
Hiring candidates through referral networks strengthens workplace culture, fostering value alignment. Employees involved in referrals often feel more committed and engaged at their organizations.
Trust-based referrals cultivate an environment where recruits mesh harmoniously with existing teams.
For example, Tableau’s Recruitment Happy Hours exemplifies cultural cohesion through employee-driven hiring events. Incentives such as gift cards or recognition reinforce employee participation in referrals.
These practices contribute directly to morale and job satisfaction while addressing inclusivity goals.
Additionally, referred individuals integrate readily, reducing onboarding challenges. Enhanced relationships between referred hires and existing staff extend the workplace’s sense of community.
Utilized correctly, referral programs transform a workplace into a collaborative, thriving culture strengthened by excellent hires.
What Should I Look for When Comparing Freelance Platforms and Agencies?
When comparing freelance platforms and agencies, consider key aspects like features, usability, and costs. Freelance platforms often charge lower fees but can have inconsistent talent quality, while agencies may be more reliable but expensive.
Alternatives to Aquent offer curated services with top-tier talent, making them a premium option for users seeking quality outcomes.
Client support is another factor, with agencies providing dedicated managers, unlike some platforms with limited communication tools.
Reputation and reviews are crucial; platforms like Upwork and Fiverr have mixed feedback, whereas alternatives to Aquent and others ensure consistent client retention and expertise.
Ultimately, choosing between freelance platforms and agencies, including alternatives to Aquent, depends on balancing cost, quality, and service expectations.
What’s the Advantage of Building Long-Term Relationships With a Smaller Talent Provider?
Smaller talent providers offer personalized service by aligning recruitment efforts with your company’s unique needs, improving outcomes and fostering stronger connections.
They swiftly address hiring challenges with faster response times, reducing inefficiencies that typically slow down large agencies.
Their specialized expertise in niche markets ensures a deeper understanding of industry demands, enhancing candidate sourcing compared to conventional alternatives to Aquent.
Stronger relationships develop over time, allowing these providers to become trusted partners prioritizing repeat business and client satisfaction.
Their cost-effective solutions, driven by lower overheads and tailored strategies, save companies significant resources while maintaining quality hires.
Choosing smaller firms as alternatives to Aquent strengthens your recruitment process, offering personalized attention, reliable support, and financial viability.
What Are the Featured 30 Alternatives to Aquent to Outsource?
1. Stealth Agents
Stealth Agents provides virtual assistant services to businesses in need of administrative support. They offer various specialized services, including customer support, data entry outsourcing services, and social media management. Their team of virtual assistants is trained to provide personalized services tailored to meet client needs. Stealth Agents prides itself on providing highly skilled, remote assistants to businesses looking for efficient and cost-effective solutions. The company ensures that all agents are pre-vetted for expertise and reliability.
Web Address: https://stealthagents.com
2. Wing Assistant
Wing Assistant connects businesses with skilled virtual assistants capable of handling various administrative and operational tasks. Their assistants provide support in areas like calendar management, email organization, customer support, and research. Wing Assistant focuses on offering businesses a seamless experience with their fully managed services, allowing clients to delegate tasks without hassle. The platform is known for providing highly flexible pricing options to cater to various business needs. They emphasize productivity and efficiency, ensuring that every task is completed professionally.
Web Address: https://wingassistant.com
3. Support Ninja
Support Ninja specializes in delivering virtual assistant services to businesses looking to outsource customer support, back-office tasks, and marketing services. They cater to various industries, offering services such as live chat support, email management, and inbound call handling. Their goal is to help companies scale their operations while maintaining high levels of customer satisfaction. Support Ninja is known for providing quick, reliable, and efficient support to help businesses grow. The company’s virtual assistants are highly trained in offering multi-channel support solutions.
Web Address: https://supportninja.com
4. Time Etc
Time Etc is a virtual assistant service that provides high-quality administrative support to entrepreneurs and small businesses. They specialize in offering services like email management, scheduling, social media management, and data entry. Time Etc’s team of virtual assistants is handpicked to meet specific client needs, ensuring a practical and personalized experience. The platform allows businesses to focus on core activities while offloading time-consuming tasks. With a strong emphasis on customer satisfaction, Time Etc guarantees top-tier service quality.
Web Address: https://timeetc.com
5. Upwork
Upwork is a leading online platform that connects businesses with freelancers from various industries. Whether you need a virtual assistant, designer, developer, or writer, Upwork offers a vast pool of talented professionals ready to tackle your tasks. The platform provides flexibility, allowing businesses to choose from hourly or fixed-price contracts. Upwork is known for its robust review system, which helps clients choose the best freelancers for their projects. With its global reach, businesses can hire virtual assistants with diverse skills and experience.
Web Address: https://upwork.com
6. Fiverr
Fiverr is an online marketplace where businesses can find affordable services from freelancers across various industries. The platform is designed for short-term and long-term projects, allowing companies to hire virtual assistants for specific tasks like content writing, research, data entry, and more. Fiverr offers diverse virtual assistants who can cater to different business needs at various price points. The platform’s structure enables easy communication, project management, and payment handling. Fiverr is ideal for companies looking for quick and cost-effective solutions.
Web Address: https://fiverr.com
7. Toptal
Toptal is a premium talent marketplace that connects businesses with the top 3% of freelance professionals. Specializing in high-quality work, Toptal offers highly skilled virtual assistants in areas such as project management, customer service, and administrative support. The platform provides clients with rigorous vetting processes to ensure only the best talent is available. Toptal is ideal for companies looking for experienced virtual assistants with a proven track record. It is known for its high-level service and extensive range of capabilities.
Web Address: https://toptal.com
8. Robert Half
Robert Half is a global staffing firm that provides businesses with various temporary and permanent staffing solutions, including virtual assistants. They specialize in finding high-quality candidates for administrative, accounting, legal, and technology roles. Robert Half ensures that their virtual assistants are highly trained, experienced, and ready to meet the demands of different industries. The platform’s thorough recruitment process ensures that clients get the right person for their specific needs. Robert Half also offers various other business services beyond virtual assistance.
Web Address: https://roberthalf.com
9. Creative Circle
Creative Circle is a staffing agency focusing on creative professionals, including virtual assistants. They offer services in marketing, graphic design, and content creation. Creative Circle matches businesses with assistants with specialized skills, providing a tailored experience for clients needing creative support. The agency’s rigorous vetting process ensures that all virtual assistants are highly skilled and experienced. Creative Circle is ideal for businesses looking for a creative touch in their administrative or operational support.
Web Address: https://creativecircle.com
10. 99designs
99designs is a platform specializing in design services, but it also offers virtual assistants skilled in design-related tasks. Businesses can find virtual assistants to support creative processes, handle client communications, or help with project management. With a focus on design and branding, 99designs connects businesses with experts who understand the creative needs of their clients. The platform also offers an easy-to-use interface to manage tasks and projects. Ideal for businesses needing design expertise alongside virtual assistant support, 99designs caters to various business sectors.
Web Address: https://99designs.com
11. Freelancer.com
Freelancer.com is a popular global platform that connects businesses with freelancers across many industries, including virtual assistance. The platform allows clients to post job listings for various tasks, including administrative support, customer service, and research. Freelancer.com provides businesses with access to a large pool of global talent, offering flexibility in pricing and project timelines. The site’s reputation system helps clients select top-rated virtual assistants who meet their needs. It’s an excellent option for businesses looking for cost-effective outsourcing solutions.
Web Address: https://freelancer.com
12. DesignCrowd
DesignCrowd is a creative services platform that connects businesses with freelance designers and virtual assistants. It offers a collaborative environment where companies can source design work and administrative support from a diverse pool of talent. DesignCrowd allows clients to post jobs and receive custom proposals from freelancers, making finding the right assistant for the task easy. It’s ideal for businesses that require both creative and administrative services. The platform’s review system ensures clients get high-quality work from trusted freelancers.
Web Address: https://designcrowd.com
13. TaskRabbit
TaskRabbit is an online platform that allows businesses and individuals to find virtual assistants who can handle various tasks. They can help with anything from personal errands to administrative tasks, including customer service and scheduling. The platform connects businesses with local and remote freelancers, providing a flexible and convenient way to manage day-to-day operations. Their quick booking system and review platform make it easy to hire trusted assistants. The service is ideal for businesses that need fast, reliable help with specific tasks.
Web Address: https://taskrabbit.com
14. Virtual Staff Finder
Virtual Staff Finder specializes in connecting businesses with Filipino virtual assistants who are highly skilled in administrative tasks, customer service, and project management. The service focuses on providing businesses with assistants who offer a high level of experience and professionalism. Virtual Staff Finder’s vetting process ensures that only qualified assistants are matched with clients. The platform is ideal for businesses looking to hire affordable yet highly skilled virtual assistants for various tasks. Virtual Staff Finder offers a streamlined process for hiring reliable remote workers.
Web Address: https://virtualstafffinder.com
15. OnlineJobs.ph
OnlineJobs.ph is a job board that connects businesses with virtual assistants based in the Philippines. The platform is known for offering a wide range of highly skilled assistants who specialize in various industries, including administrative support, marketing, and customer service. OnlineJobs.ph provides businesses with access to affordable labor while ensuring a high standard of work. The platform allows businesses to post jobs and find virtual assistants who meet their needs. It’s ideal for companies looking for skilled, reliable, and cost-effective remote workers.
Web Address: https://onlinejobs.ph
16. PeoplePerHour
PeoplePerHour is a freelance marketplace that connects businesses with professionals offering virtual assistance services. The platform allows businesses to browse freelancer profiles and hire assistants specializing in administrative tasks, customer service, and marketing. PeoplePerHour offers flexibility in terms of contract type, with options for hourly or project-based work. The platform’s reputation system helps businesses find top-rated assistants for their needs. PeoplePerHour is suitable for companies looking for various virtual assistant services.
Web Address: https://peopleperhour.com
17. Hubstaff Talent
Hubstaff Talent is a free resource for businesses seeking remote workers, including virtual assistants. It offers access to a global talent pool specializing in virtual assistants, developers, designers, and other remote professionals. Hubstaff Talent allows businesses to post job listings and find qualified candidates who can help with various tasks, from administrative duties to customer service. The platform also provides tools for managing remote teams and tracking work hours. It’s an excellent choice for businesses looking for a cost-effective way to hire remote virtual assistants.
Web Address: https://hubstaff.com
18. Belay Solutions
Belay Solutions offers virtual assistant services focusing on providing high-quality administrative, bookkeeping, and social media support. They match businesses with highly trained professionals who can perform a wide range of tasks. Belay Solutions emphasizes the importance of a strong relationship between clients and assistants, ensuring a personalized and efficient experience. The platform offers flexible packages to meet the needs of small businesses and entrepreneurs. Belay is ideal for companies that need a hands-on, high-quality virtual assistant experience.
Web Address: https://belaysolutions.com
19. Boldly
Boldly specializes in providing virtual assistants to businesses seeking experienced professionals for administrative support. The platform focuses on offering highly skilled assistants who work as part of a client’s team to provide long-term, consistent support. Boldly’s assistants are trained to manage various tasks, including customer service, email management, and project coordination. The company guarantees top-tier service and ensures that assistants are experienced and reliable. Boldly is suitable for businesses that need ongoing, professional virtual assistance.
Web Address: https://boldly.com
20. Zirtual
Zirtual provides virtual assistant services tailored to meet the needs of busy entrepreneurs and businesses. They offer various administrative support, including managing emails, scheduling, and travel coordination. Zirtual focuses on delivering high-quality, personalized virtual assistance with experienced and reliable assistants. Their virtual assistants are trained to handle personal and professional tasks, helping clients streamline operations. Zirtual is ideal for businesses seeking long-term administrative support from dedicated, full-time assistants.
Web Address: https://zirtual.com
21. Outsourcely
Outsourcely connects businesses with virtual assistants and freelancers for long-term remote positions. The platform offers various services, including administrative support, customer service, and project management. Outsourcely focuses on providing businesses with highly skilled professionals who can handle tasks across different industries. The platform’s pricing is competitive, with hourly and full-time work options. Outsourcely is ideal for businesses looking for dedicated virtual assistants who can grow with the company over time.
Web Address: https://outsourcely.com
22. FreeUp
FreeUp connects businesses with freelance virtual assistants specializing in customer service, project management, and marketing. The platform focuses on vetting freelancers to ensure only highly qualified candidates are available for clients. FreeUp offers flexible pricing and allows businesses to find the right assistant for specific tasks or long-term engagements. The platform is known for its quick response time and the ability to match businesses with top talent. FreeUp is ideal for companies looking for cost-effective virtual assistance without compromising quality.
Web Address: https://freeup.net
23. CloudPeeps
CloudPeeps is a marketplace for businesses to hire remote workers, including virtual assistants. The platform specializes in marketing, design, and administrative services, offering businesses the ability to find skilled assistants for various tasks. CloudPeeps focuses on connecting businesses with experienced professionals who can deliver high-quality work. The platform offers a streamlined process for hiring assistants, ensuring a quick turnaround. CloudPeeps is ideal for companies needing a flexible and efficient virtual assistance solution.
Web Address: https://cloudpeeps.com
24. Guru
Guru is an online platform that allows businesses to find and hire freelance virtual assistants for various tasks. The platform provides a vast pool of professionals specializing in customer service, project management, and administrative support. Guru’s flexible pricing model allows businesses to find assistants for short-term projects or ongoing support. The platform’s review system helps clients choose the best candidates for their needs. Guru is suitable for businesses that require reliable, skilled virtual assistants on demand.
Web Address: https://guru.com
25. We Work Remotely
We Work Remotely is a job board for remote positions, including virtual assistant roles. The platform connects businesses with remote workers who can provide administrative support, customer service, and more. We Work Remotely specializes in finding highly skilled remote workers worldwide, allowing businesses to hire assistants with diverse backgrounds. The platform offers various remote job listings, including full-time and part-time positions. We Work Remotely is ideal for businesses looking for remote virtual assistants who can handle various tasks.
Web Address: https://weworkremotely.com
26. TaskUs
TaskUs is a business process outsourcing company that provides virtual assistants and other customer support services. They offer specialized solutions in sales support, customer service, and back-office operations. TaskUs focuses on providing scalable support to businesses needing virtual assistance and is known for its high-performance standards. Their team of virtual assistants is trained to meet clients’ needs across various industries. TaskUs is an excellent choice for businesses that require both high-level expertise and affordable virtual assistance.
Web Address: https://taskus.com
27. Remote.co
Remote.co offers virtual assistant services for businesses hiring remote workers. The platform provides administrative support, customer service, and marketing assistance. Remote.co connects businesses with remote professionals with the necessary skills to complete various tasks. With a focus on flexibility and remote work, Remote.co offers businesses the ability to scale their operations by hiring virtual assistants. The platform is ideal for companies looking for cost-effective, remote administrative support.
Web Address: https://remote.co
28. Skillionaire
Skillionaire is a platform that connects businesses with remote workers, including virtual assistants. The service provides skilled professionals for administrative tasks, customer service, and project management. Skillionaire focuses on offering businesses access to qualified professionals who can assist with various day-to-day operations. The platform provides flexible pricing and an easy-to-use interface for both businesses and freelancers. Skillionaire is ideal for companies looking for skilled, remote virtual assistants for short-term and long-term engagements.
Web Address: https://skillionaire.com
29. Outsource School
Outsource School is a platform that helps businesses find virtual assistants and remote workers specializing in administrative tasks. They provide resources and training for employers and virtual assistants, ensuring a smooth hiring process. Outsource School offers businesses access to reliable, trained virtual assistants who can manage tasks like email organization, scheduling, and more. The platform emphasizes productivity and efficiency, helping businesses streamline their operations. Outsource School is an excellent choice for companies looking to scale with virtual assistants.
Web Address: https://outsourceschool.com
30. Delegate Solutions
Delegate Solutions offers virtual assistant services focusing on providing high-level administrative support. Their assistants help businesses manage scheduling, communication, and project coordination tasks. Delegate Solutions is known for offering a tailored approach and matching businesses with virtual assistants who fit their specific needs. The platform provides ongoing training for their assistants, ensuring top-quality service. Delegate Solutions is ideal for companies that need consistent, professional administrative support.
Web Address: https://delegatesolutions.com
Takeaways
Finding the best alternatives to Aquent can open up a world of tailored talent solutions that meet your unique needs. Whether you’re seeking specialized freelancers, creative agencies, or dependable virtual assistants, there’s no shortage of options to explore.
Platforms like Upwork or Toptal can connect you with freelancers worldwide, while boutique agencies deliver more personalized support.
Still, virtual assistants stand out as a powerful choice if your aim is efficiency, flexibility, and cost-effectiveness. Virtual assistants offer a scalable way to manage demanding tasks without compromising quality or creativity.
Unlike larger firms, they provide focused attention and adaptable services athat are ligned with your goals. Among these alternatives to Aquent, services like Stealth Agents combine expertise with the personal touch businesses often miss.
Their ability to streamline operations while reducing costs makes them a practical and innovative choice for any industry.
Take a step forward today by letting the Stealth Agents’ virtual assistants transform how you manage your workload.