Freelancing in Nigeria has become trendy these days, and people from all over the globe are now taking advantage of Freelancing platforms to earn extra cash. However, not everyone understands how freelancing works or the kind of jobs to get.

Freelancing allows individuals to offer their services to clients who pay them directly. They don't have to go through intermediaries (like agencies) to receive payment. You can choose the job that suits you best as a freelance worker. Some examples include graphic design, writing, programming, web development, data entry, customer service, translation, etc.

However, if you want to start freelancing, it's essential to know where to look for opportunities. Several websites allow freelancers to connect with potential customers. These sites also provide information on rates and other details about each project. 

Let us discuss the reasons to become a freelancer and the steps to take to become one. Read on!

Who is a Freelancer?

A freelancer is an independent contractor who provides their services to different companies. When a freelancer does a job, the client usually pays the freelancer after receiving the work done.

Meanwhile, the main reason some people decide to be freelancers is that they want more flexibility in their lives. They may need to travel frequently or move to another city. In such cases, being a freelancer becomes the perfect solution.

Another reason why people become freelancers is to make money online, and this option is becoming popular among those who dislike working at regular offices. 

Why Should You Become a Freelancer?

Flexibility

Freelancing in Nigeria or anywhere will enable you to work at your own pace. This is an important factor considering that most freelancers have full-time jobs. So they need to balance both their professional and personal lives. If you love what you do, then why should you stop doing it?

Freedom

There are no boundaries when it comes to being a freelancer. You decide when and where you work, and it doesn't matter whether you work on weekdays or weekends. In fact, you can work while travelling.

Money

Freelancing provides flexibility and freedom. But there is another reason why you should consider becoming a freelancer. You can make more money as a freelancer than working for someone else. Freelance workers can charge anywhere between $10-$100 per hour. And this amount varies depending on the type of work you do.

Workload Control

As a freelancer, you set your hours. You determine how much time you spend on a particular task. This gives you complete control over your workload.

Opportunity

If you think you are good at something, why shouldn't you use your skills to earn extra income? For instance, you can sell products like ebooks, courses, apps, etc. Or you can create content such as blogs, articles, social media posts, videos, podcasts, infographics, etc.

Exposure

Being a freelancer means having exposure to new things. You get to learn from other's experiences and mistakes. Also, you get to meet new people and expand your network.

How to Start Freelancing in Nigeria

As interesting as freelancing is, you can't start all of a sudden; you need the skill to expand your market first. Below are the various steps to take:

Choose a Skill

Choosing a skill to start freelancing is essential. However, you can't choose just any skill; select a skill that interests you and that you feel confident in. There are many ways to find out which skills you are good at. One way is by asking friends, family members, colleagues, and acquaintances. Another way is by browsing online forums and communities.

Create Your Portfolio

Once you have chosen a skill, you should create a portfolio. A portfolio showcases your past projects. The portfolio can be anything from a simple webpage to a complex website. The most important thing is that it should contain samples of your previous works.

Network

Once you have created your portfolio, you should network. Networking involves contacting people who could potentially hire you. You can get these people via email, phone calls, and face-to-face meetings.

Apply for Jobs Online

You should apply for jobs online. Many companies advertise their job openings online. They usually post the job opening on different platforms, including LinkedIn, Indeed, Monster, Simply Hired, Career Builder, Glassdoor, etc.

Get Paid

After finishing a project, the next thing is to get paid. Most clients pay through PayPal or Payoneer, while some clients may ask you to invoice them directly.

Expand Your Market

Once you earn money, you should continue building your freelance business. It would help if you focused on building relationships with potential clients to grow your business. You can also offer discounts to existing customers.

Freelancing Job Sites in Nigeria

Indeed

Indeed is one of Nigeria's best sites to search for freelance jobs. With Indeed, you can browse the latest job listings and apply for jobs online.

Upwork

Upwork is similar to Indeed but has an additional feature called "portfolios." This job website lets you showcase your portfolio and connect with potential employers.

Freelancer.com

Freelancer.com is another great site for freelance jobs in Nigeria and beyond. It's free to sign up and lists thousands of available jobs.

SimplyHired

SimplyHired is yet another popular site to look for freelance work in Nigeria. It offers various jobs, including writing, editing, graphic design, web development, customer service, and more.

Jooble

Jooble is a platform where you can list your services and get hired. It connects freelancers with businesses looking for specific types of services.

Behance

Behance is a social networking site for creative professionals. If you're interested in starting a career in art, design, photography, illustration, or architecture, Behance will give you access to a community of like-minded individuals.

Gumroad

Gumroad is a marketplace for selling digital products. You can sell eBooks, courses, software, apps, and videos.

Freelancers Union

Freelancers Union is a site where you can meet other freelancers and learn about the industry. It also offers tips and advice on how to manage your finances.

Fiverr

Fiverr is another platform where you can list your services and charge $5-1000 per service. Fiverr is great because it's easy to make money fast.

Guru

Guru is a site where you connect with experts and businesses looking for freelancers.

FreelanceSwitch

FreelanceSwitch is a site where you post your services and bid for projects. It's a bit more expensive than other sites like oDesk.

PeoplePerHour

PeoplePerHour is a site where you list your services and bid on work. It's not as well known as the others listed here.

Toptal

Toptal is a site where you list your professional services and bid on projects, but they don't have a marketplace.

Dribble

Dribbble is a site where designers share their work and a good place to find inspiration.

99Designs

99Designs is a site that allows you to quickly create logos, websites, mobile apps, and more. 

Conclusion

Freelancing in Nigeria is one of the best ways to make money online. However, it takes time before you see results. Don't give up if you fail immediately. Keep trying until you succeed. Good luck!