Silkerin

Probably because for one, most can only afford Genin, at most Chuunin. Not to mention that most hires would exert as much effort as they are paid or need. If they aren't paid well or the enemies aren't really forcing them to trully pull in effort, that would make others think they are just a bit strong, especially if the ones who are targeting you are mostly just thugs and bandits.

nice