Leapforce was a pioneering name in the world of online crowdworking and search engine evaluation, offering flexible, remote work opportunities to individuals around the globe. Acquired by Appen in 2017, Leapforce has since been absorbed into Appen’s broader operations, but its legacy remains a major point of interest for people searching for legitimate remote jobs. In this article, we will explore what Leapforce was, how it worked, the types of jobs it offered, and how it shaped the future of the gig economy.
What Was Leapforce?
Leapforce was a U.S.-based company that specialized in providing search engine evaluation services. The company worked with major tech giants like Google, helping them improve the accuracy and relevancy of search engine results through human input. Unlike traditional jobs, Leapforce allowed people to work from home, set their own hours, and earn based on the time they spent completing tasks.
How Leapforce Worked
Leapforce operated on a crowdsourcing model, employing independent contractors known as Search Engine Evaluators. These evaluators would be given tasks such as:
- Rating the quality and relevance of search engine results
- Assessing ads that appeared in search results
- Comparing search result relevance across different platforms
Workers had to pass a qualification exam before they could start receiving tasks. This test was known to be challenging and required a deep understanding of the guidelines provided by Leapforce.
Once accepted, evaluators would log into a dashboard and complete tasks at their convenience. Payment was typically hourly and varied by location, with rates ranging between $10 to $15 per hour in the U.S.
Leapforce Job Categories
Leapforce mainly offered the following job roles:
1. Search Engine Evaluator
This was the most common role and involved rating search results to improve their quality.
2. Social Media Evaluator
This role focused on assessing the relevance of ads and content on platforms like Facebook and Instagram.
3. Maps Quality Analyst
This job involved verifying the accuracy of local business listings, addresses, and other location-based data.
These roles did not require a formal degree, but applicants needed strong analytical skills, fluency in English (or the relevant language), and access to a computer with a reliable internet connection.
Leapforce vs. Appen
In 2017, Leapforce was acquired by Appen, an Australian-based company that also specializes in data collection, transcription, and AI training. After the acquisition:
- Leapforce users were migrated to the Appen platform.
- Job opportunities expanded under the Appen brand.
- The Leapforce website was eventually redirected to Appen’s site.
While many former Leapforce workers continued their roles under Appen, some felt that the pay structure and task availability changed significantly after the merger.
Pros and Cons of Working with Leapforce
Pros:
- Flexible Work Schedule: Work as much or as little as you want.
- Remote Opportunities: Fully online, with no commute.
- No Degree Required: Accessible to people from various educational backgrounds.
- Experience with AI Training: Valuable experience in a growing tech sector.
Cons:
- Challenging Qualification Exam: Not everyone passes on the first try.
- Unsteady Workload: Task availability can be inconsistent.
- Strict Guidelines: Evaluators must adhere closely to detailed guidelines.
- No Employment Benefits: As independent contractors, workers receive no benefits or job security.
Is Leapforce Still Hiring?
While Leapforce as a brand no longer exists, its roles live on through Appen. You can find similar jobs by visiting https://appen.com and signing up for their project-based or long-term job listings. The hiring process and test structure remain very similar to Leapforce’s original format.
Tips for Success as a Leapforce Evaluator (Now Appen)
- Study the Guidelines Carefully: The quality of your evaluations depends on your understanding of the instructions.
- Practice Before the Exam: There are online communities and practice tests that can help.
- Track Your Hours: As you’re paid hourly, keeping accurate logs is crucial.
- Stay Updated: Evaluation rules may change as technology evolves.
- Be Proactive: Join forums like Reddit’s r/WorkOnline or specialized Facebook groups for updates and tips.
Final Thoughts
Though Leapforce no longer operates under its original name, its influence on remote work culture and crowd-based AI training remains significant. For many, Leapforce was a gateway to flexible and legitimate online work. Now under Appen, similar opportunities are still available, making it a valuable path for freelancers, stay-at-home parents, and digital nomads alike.
Whether you’re looking to supplement your income or transition to a fully remote lifestyle, Leapforce’s legacy — now through Appen — continues to offer a stepping stone into the world of digital crowdworking.
