Freelancing in Nigeria

Freelancing is no longer a "newcomer" in Nigeria. Although the older generation of Nigerians might not be familiar with the concept, it's now popular.  It's more interesting because it allows you to get work done from the comfort of your home. Freelancing means that you can take up a job without a long-term commitment to it. So, if you need more time for yourself while making money, you should consider freelancing. While this is not enough for you to make a decision, you might want to know what freelancing is.

What is Freelancing?

Freelancing is employment that allows you to offer your services to different companies because it's only sometimes a short-term thing. The job is primarily projects or based on contracts. As a freelancer, you use your skills and expertise to execute project tasksthe employer's supervision. Most freelancers are creatives; they design, develop, write, build apps and do all other jobs that can be done online. The good thing is that a freelancer can work from anywhere and still make money as long as the job is done. 

What you stand to gain as a freelancer in Nigeria

If you know your onions, freelancing comes with many job offers. Considering the unemployment rate in Nigeria, if you learn a digital skill and do well at it, you will get a job online. You can get more than one job if you have multiple skills; that's how good it is. Flexibility comes along with being a freelancer. You can choose who to work with, where to work and when to work based on what interests you the most. Also, compared to full-time jobs, freelancing opens you to many opportunities, and you have access to clients in and out of Nigeria. You get the chance to practice the skills you have learnt and get even better at them. 

How to get started in Freelancing

To get started with freelancing, you need to own at least one skill. It's okay to have more than one, it increases your chance to get jobs. You can learn skills that allow you to write, design, teach, be a web developer, an HR manager etc. All you have to do is promote yourself online. How do you do that? Read on

Build a portfolio

Clients will only trust you with their projects if you convince them you have the skills to work with them. This is why you need a portfolio. A portfolio contains your skills and samples of the jobs you've done excellently. Emphasis on "jobs you've done excellently" because you're trying to convince the client to hire you for a project.  As a freelancer, on request, you can also send your portfolio to potential clients. If you have built an incredible portfolio and are wondering where to get freelance jobs, that's not a hassle!

Common freelancing websites 

There is no need to worry whether your skills will be needed anywhere. Freelancing platforms such as Upwork, Fiver, Freelancer.com, and People per hour help brands and businesses find freelancers who can do the job. Recently, an Upwork report stated that 80% of large companies are planning to increase their use of freelancers. Freelancing platforms do the communication and collaboration between the client and the candidate. They also track work time, shortlist and rate candidates. With these platforms, freelancers can enjoy several advantages ranging from unlimited earning potential to an improved work-life balance. 

Consider mentorship

As a freelancer in Nigeria, you might need to meet with someone who has long been in the "Game of freelancing" to share their insights and put you through.  You need someone who can guide you on how to set your rates and sell yourself. There are times when you don't get satisfied with a client's response to work. You can always reach out to your mentor and ask how he/she thinks you can respond to the situation.

 The small hitches associated with freelancing in Nigeria

There is a huge competition for freelancers in Nigeria, and interested freelancers have to go all out to ensure they get the client they want. Many people with great skills also want the job, so it's like running a race not to get defeated. Also, the payment method can be complicated for freelancers; most international clients do not pay in Naira. This means you need to get the appropriate and verified account to access your earnings. 

If you're not careful enough, you'd meet clients that would talk you into underpricing yourself just because "you're from Nigeria". You shouldn't let these things get to you, maintain your stance, and let them know that you offer only quality work and should be paid accordingly. It's common to come across unsolicited opinions from Nigerians about being a freelancer, but you shouldn't let that deter you. Stick to your goals.

To sum it up

There is so much talent in Nigeria, and there are opportunities to match it up. If you're still wondering if people really make enough from freelancing, this is your cue to believe. Freelancing has liberated a lot of Nigerians financially and career-wise. Gradually, most Nigerians are getting solutions to their state of unemployment as they are taking new skills that can land them a freelance job. As time goes on, there will be an increasing demand for freelancers and Nigerians who have upskilled will be ready to take on the jobs.