If you’re reading this post, I’m guessing you want to learn how to start a freelance writing business in Nigeria. And I’ve got you covered! This guide will be useful to you as you start your freelance writing journey.
Well, it is not that difficult to start a freelance writing business. It is easy to get a good-paying, freelance writing job in Nigeria, where many people seek remote work opportunities.
All you need to start is just a laptop, an internet connection, and a good writing skill. Your willingness to learn along the way is also very important. Self development will help you to build a successful freelance writing business that allows you to work from anywhere, set your own hours, and earn a good income.
So, if you’re looking to supplement your full-time job, or turn your passion for writing into a full-time business, I will show you everything you need to know to build a successful freelance writing career in Nigeria, even if you are a beginner with no previous writing experience.
Why Freelance Writing?
Freelance writing is a promising job choice in Nigeria for some reasons:
- High Demand for Content
Businesses, both locally and internationally, need content to grow their online presence. From blog posts and website copy to social media content and email newsletters, the demand for capable writers is huge.
- Low Startup Costs
Unlike many businesses, freelance writing doesn’t require huge capital. All you need is a laptop, internet access, and writing skills.
- Flexibility
You can work from anywhere, set your own schedule, and choose the projects that interest you.
- Global Opportunities
As a freelance writer, you’re not limited to clients in Nigeria. You can work with clients from all over the world, earning in dollars or other foreign currencies.
So, now that you know why freelance writing is a great choice, let’s see the steps to starting your freelance writing business.
Choose Your Niche
What is a Niche?
One of the first steps to starting a freelance writing career is choosing a niche. A niche is a specific area or industry you’ll focus on. Choosing a niche helps you stand out as an expert and attract better-paying clients. Some profitable freelance writing niches include:
- Technology
- Health & Wellness
- Finance & Cryptocurrency
- Digital Marketing
What Writing Services Can You Offer?
Different clients require different types of writing. You can offer services such as:
- Blog posts and articles
- Website copywriting
- Social media content
- Ghostwriting (books, speeches, and articles)
- Technical writing
How to Choose Your Niche
- Consider Your Interests
What topics do you enjoy writing about? Choose something you’re passionate about.
- Leverage Your Experience
Do you have professional experience in a particular field? For example, if you’ve worked in banking, finance writing could be a great niche.
- Research Demand
Look for industries with a high demand for content. For example, technology, health, and digital marketing are booming sectors.
Once you’ve chosen your niche, you’re ready to move on to the next step.
Build Your Freelance Writing Portfolio
Your portfolio is your most important tool as a freelance writer. It’s a collection of writing samples that showcase your skills to potential clients. Even if you don’t have any professional experience, you can create a portfolio from scratch.
If you’re a beginner, create samples. Make sure your samples are well-written and properly formatted, and demonstrate your ability to write attractive and helpful content.
For example, if you’re focusing on health, write a blog post about fitness tips or a product review for a health supplement. Use free platforms like Medium, LinkedIn, or your own blog to publish them.
You can also create a PDF portfolio by compiling your samples into a PDF or Google Drive folder. This becomes handy and easy to share with potential clients. Include a variety of samples to show your versatility. It is important that you focus on quality over quantity. Adapt your samples to the type of work you want to get (e.g., blog posts, website copy, etc.).
Set Up Your Online Presence
As a freelance writer, having an online presence is crucial for attracting clients. Here’s how to get started:
- Create a Professional LinkedIn Profile
LinkedIn is a powerful platform for connecting with potential clients. Make sure your profile highlights your writing skills, niche, and portfolio.
- Start a Blog or Website
A blog or website is a great way to showcase your writing skills and attract clients. You can use platforms like WordPress or Wix to create a simple website.
- Leverage Social Media
Use platforms like Twitter (X), Instagram, and Facebook to promote your services and share your work. Join writing groups and engage with potential clients.
Find Freelance Writing Clients
Now that you’ve set up your portfolio and online presence, it’s time to start finding clients. There are several ways to find freelance writing clients in Nigeria. Here are some effective strategies:
1. Cold Pitching
Cold pitching involves reaching out to potential clients directly via email or social media. Your pitch should be short, and professional, and highlight how your writing can benefit their brand.
Here’s how you can do it:
- Research companies or blogs in your niche.
- Send a personalized email introducing yourself and pitching your services.
- Include links to your portfolio and a clear call-to-action (e.g., “I’d love to discuss how I can help with your content needs”).
2. Use Freelance Job Boards
While cold pitching is more effective, job boards can be a good starting point. Some popular platforms include:
- Upwork: A global platform with a wide range of writing jobs.
- Fiverr: Great for beginners looking to build experience.
- ProBlogger Job Board: Focuses on blogging and content writing jobs.
3. Network
Connect with other writers and professionals in your industry. Many freelance writing opportunities come through word-of-mouth referrals.
Set Your Rates and Manage Your Business
As a freelance writer, you’re not just a writer – you’re also a business owner. Here’s how to set your rates and manage your freelance writing business effectively:
How Much Should You Charge?
- Research Market Rates: Look at what other freelance writers in your niche are charging.
- Consider Your Experience: Beginners may start with lower rates, but don’t undervalue your work.
- Charge Per Project or Word: For example, you could charge ₦500 per word or ₦50,000 per blog post.
To successfully manage your freelance writing business, always use a written contract to protect yourself and clearly define project scope, deliverables, timelines, payment terms, and client expectations. Maintain careful records of all income and expenses and implement a system for tracking deadlines, client communication, and project progress. Tools like project management software or simple spreadsheets can be effective.
Keep Improving Your Skills
Freelance writing is a competitive field, so you must keep improving your skills. Take online courses: Stay updated on trends in your niche and write regularly. The more you write, the better you’ll get.
Final Thoughts
Starting a freelance writing business in Nigeria is doable and profitable if you’re willing to put in the necessary work.
If you can follow the steps I outlined in this article i.e. choosing your niche, building your portfolio, setting up your online presence, and marketing yourself effectively– you can turn your passion for writing into a profitable venture.
But bear in mind, you are not going to become successful overnight. You will need persistence, and continuous self-improvement to hone your skills.
If you are willing to put in the time and effort, you can build a freelance writing business that allows you to live life on your own terms.
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