From Job Seeker to Freelancer: A Nigerian Journey

Nicholas Idoko 15 min read

Last Updated on July 9, 2023

Introduction

In this blog post, we will explore the journey of becoming a freelancer in Nigeria. It is not an easy task to switch from being a job seeker to a freelancer. However, with determination, hard work, and the right mindset, anything is possible.

In Nigeria, there is a growing trend of individuals opting for freelancing.

With the constant rise in unemployment rates, freelancing has become a favorable option for many. It allows individuals to earn a living while pursuing their passions and interests.

The journey begins with deciding on a niche or area of expertise. It could be writing, graphic design, web development, or any other skill set.

Once this is decided, the next step is to build a portfolio that showcases one’s skills and capabilities.

Networking is also a key factor in becoming a successful freelancer. Building relationships with potential clients and other freelancers in the same field is crucial in gaining exposure and landing projects.

Another challenge faced by freelancers in Nigeria is the issue of payment. Clients may offer low rates or may not pay on time. It is important to set clear payment terms and communicate them effectively to avoid any misunderstandings.

In essence, the journey of becoming a freelancer in Nigeria is one that requires hard work, dedication, and persistence. However, with the right mindset and approach, it can be a viable and fulfilling career path.

Background on Job Seeking in Nigeria

As the most populous country in Africa, Nigeria has one of the highest youth populations in the world, making job seeking a challenge for most young people.

Traditional job seeking approaches such as submitting resumes and attending job fairs still often lead to disappointment for job seekers in the country.

Traditional Approach to Finding Employment

In Nigeria, the most common way to find employment is through personal networks, word of mouth, and referrals. Job seekers typically rely on family and friends to help them find opportunities.

They also make connections with acquaintances and use social media platforms such as LinkedIn to reach out to potential employers.

Challenges Faced by Job Seekers in Nigeria

The lack of job opportunities: The increasing number of graduates compared to the number of available jobs has created an imbalance in the Nigerian job market.

The scarcity of jobs has led to high levels of youth unemployment and a reduction in job quality.
The absence of transparency: The hiring process in Nigeria is often not transparent, leading to widespread feelings of frustration and mistrust.

Corruption is perceived to be rampant during the recruitment process, with many capable graduates going years without finding employment.
Insufficient skills: Many Nigerian job seekers lack the necessary skillsets to secure employment in their chosen fields.

The lack of quality education and training often creates a mismatch between the skills job seekers possess and the requirements of the job market.

Importance of Finding Alternative Sources of Income

Given the challenges facing job seekers in Nigeria, it has become increasingly essential to find alternative sources of income.

With the rise of entrepreneurship and the gig economy, freelancing has become a popular option for young Nigerians looking to build their careers.

Freedom and Flexibility: Freelancing provides individuals with the freedom and flexibility to work on their own terms, leading to increased job satisfaction.
Opportunity to hone skills: Freelancing allows individuals to work on different projects, thus expanding their knowledge and skills in different areas.
Networking: Freelancing provides individuals with the opportunity to create an extensive professional network, which could lead to future collaborations and job opportunities.
Financial Independence: Freelancing provides individuals with the chance to earn multiple streams of income, leading to financial stability and independence.

While traditional approaches to finding employment are still essential in Nigeria, the challenges posed by the job market require job seekers to consider alternative sources of income such as freelancing.

Embracing these opportunities not only contributes to personal and professional growth but also strengthens the Nigerian economy.

Read: Freelance Marketing Roles Available in Nigeria Today

Making the transition to freelancing

Making the transition from job seeking to freelancing can be a daunting task.

However, with the right mindset, mindset, skills, and dedication, it can be a very rewarding experience.

Here are some key steps to take when considering making the switch.

Deciding to Become a Freelancer

Assess your skills and interests to determine if freelancing is a good fit for you.
Research the market demand for the services you plan to offer.
Consider the flexibility and freedom of freelancing compared to traditional employment.
Weigh the risks and rewards of self-employment.

Identifying Marketable Skills and Services

Identify and capitalize on your strengths and expertise.
Determine what services you can realistically offer and specialize in.
Study the market to determine what skills and services are in high demand.
Consider expanding your skill set if necessary by taking courses or obtaining certifications.

Building a Portfolio and Establishing Credibility

Create a professional website that showcases your services and portfolio.
Develop a strong brand identity and consistent messaging across all communications.
Partner with established companies or individuals to build credibility.
Seek out testimonials and recommendations to add to your portfolio.
Create a social media presence to increase exposure and connect with potential clients.

Making the transition from job seeker to freelancer requires not only a shift in mindset but also a willingness to put in the work to establish oneself in the marketplace.

By following these steps, you can create a foundation for a successful freelancing career and gain the freedom and flexibility that come with being your own boss.

Read: Strategies for Finding Freelance Jobs in Nigeria

Network and marketing as a freelancer

As a freelancer, it’s important to develop a strong network of contacts to boost your chances of landing gigs.

Networking can involve reaching out to former colleagues, attending events, and even leveraging social media.
Marketing your services effectively to potential clients is also crucial. Having a clear, concise message and highlighting your unique value proposition can set you apart from the competition.
Establishing a strong online presence is key to expanding your reach. This can include having a professional website, active social media accounts, and a portfolio showcasing your work.
Utilizing job boards and online marketplaces can also help you connect with potential clients and grow your freelance business.
Don’t underestimate the power of word-of-mouth marketing – delivering quality work to clients can lead to referrals and repeat business.
Networking and marketing may take time and effort, but the results can be invaluable to your success as a freelancer.

Read: Freelance Graphic Design Jobs in Nigeria: Overview

From Job Seeker to Freelancer: A Nigerian Journey

Challenges Faced by Freelancers in Nigeria

As a freelancer based in Nigeria, I have encountered my fair share of challenges. These challenges have made me appreciate the importance of resilience and adaptability.

Here are major challenges faced by freelancers in Nigeria:

Financial Insecurity:

One of the biggest challenges freelancers in Nigeria face is the constant struggle with financial stability. Unlike regular employees who receive a fixed salary monthly, entrepreneurs often experience fluctuations in income.

Clients may take longer to pay, or projects may not come in as frequently as desired, leaving the freelancer with little or no income. To combat this, freelancers need to work on securing long-term clients and creating multiple streams of revenue.

Lack of Structure and Routine:

Freelancers in Nigeria often find themselves struggling with lack of structure or routines. With no set working hours, freelancers may find it difficult to plan their day and may end up working longer hours.

It is important to set and stick to a routine, as well as creating a designated workspace that will help separate work life from personal life.

Balancing Work and Personal Life:

As a freelancer, it is difficult to separate personal life from work life. Clients may contact you during off hours or weekends, or you may feel the pressure to work constantly to increase your income.

It is important to establish boundaries and teach clients when it is appropriate to contact you. Freelancers also need to prioritize self-care to avoid burnout and maintain a healthy work-life balance.

Other challenges faced by freelancers in Nigeria include inadequate power supply, lack of access to resources, and competition from established freelancers.

Inadequate Power Supply:

Nigeria’s power supply is unreliable, with frequent blackouts that sometimes last for days. This is a significant challenge for freelancers as it hinders the ability to meet deadlines and stay productive.

Freelancers have to work on establishing alternative power sources like solar panels or generators, which may not be affordable to many.

Lack of Access to Resources:

Freelancers in Nigeria may face limited access to resources such as high-speed internet, professional software, and affordable coworking spaces.

This affects their ability to deliver quality work and compete with other freelancers. To overcome these challenges, it is important to make use of local resources and create support networks with other freelancers.

Competition from Established Freelancers:

There is stiff competition in the freelancing world in Nigeria. Established freelancers sometimes dictate market trends and may offer services at lower rates than those offered by new freelancers, especially those who are just starting.

This poses a significant challenge to new entrants who may find it difficult to attract clients. Networking and creating a unique brand are essential to stand out in such a competitive market.

In short, freelancing in Nigeria is a journey that comes with many challenges, including financial insecurity, lack of structure, and limited resources.

However, with hard work and persistence, freelancers in Nigeria can overcome these challenges and succeed in the dynamic world of freelancing.

Read: Online Freelance Job Platforms Popular in Nigeria

Tips for Succeeding as a Freelancer in Nigeria

Are you a Nigerian job seeker contemplating becoming a freelancer? If so, you’re not alone.

More and more Nigerians are turning to freelancing as a viable alternative to traditional employment.

But how can you succeed as a freelancer in Nigeria? Here are some tips:

Maintain Discipline and Focus

Set a schedule and stick to it.
Set achievable goals for each day.
Eliminate distractions, such as social media.
Track your progress and adjust your approach if necessary.

By maintaining discipline and focus, you can increase your productivity and meet your clients’ demands.

Find a Suitable Work-Life Balance

Establish clear boundaries between work and personal life.
Take breaks throughout the day to rest and recharge.
Don’t overwork yourself. Burnout is common among freelancers.

Finding a suitable work-life balance can help prevent burnout and increase your job satisfaction. Remember, you’re not a machine. You need to take care of yourself.

Stay Up-To-Date with Industry Trends and Developments

Read industry publications and blogs.
Attend conferences or webinars.
Join industry-specific groups or communities.

By staying up-to-date with trends and developments, you’ll be able to offer your clients the latest and greatest services. You’ll also be better equipped to make strategic business decisions.

Network, Network, Network

Utilize social media to connect with other freelancers and potential clients.
Attend networking events, both online and in-person.
Join freelancing platforms, such as Fiverr or Upwork, to showcase your skills.

Networking is key to finding new clients, expanding your knowledge base, and staying on top of industry news.

Be Professional

Respond to messages in a timely manner.
Deliver high-quality work that meets your clients’ needs.
Communicate clearly and professionally at all times.
Meet deadlines and honor your commitments.

Being professional is critical to building a successful freelance career in Nigeria. Clients need to trust that you’re reliable and capable of delivering the results they’re looking for.

Conclusion

Generally, the journey from job seeker to freelancer in Nigeria is challenging but rewarding.

Freelancing provides flexibility and allows individuals to work on projects they are passionate about. It also provides an opportunity to earn more income.

Nigerian freelancers should focus on building a strong portfolio, networking, and improving their skills. While there are hurdles to overcome, freelancing is a viable option in Nigeria.

Don’t be afraid to take the leap, but be prepared to work hard and stay committed. Overall, freelancing allows individuals to have control over their careers and lives. It is a path worth considering.