Overcoming Challenges as a Freelance Copywriter in Nigeria

Nicholas Idoko 21 min read

Last Updated on November 7, 2023

Introduction

Being a freelance copywriter in Nigeria can be a rewarding yet challenging venture.

In this post, we will explore the obstacles that freelance copywriters face in Nigeria, where the popularity of freelancing is on the rise.

Brief explanation of what a freelance copywriter is and the popularity of freelancing in Nigeria

A freelance copywriter is a professional writer who creates persuasive and engaging content for marketing purposes.

In Nigeria, freelancing has become increasingly popular due to its flexibility, ability to work remotely, and the opportunity to earn a higher income.

Mention the challenges faced by freelance copywriters in Nigeria

However, freelance copywriters in Nigeria encounter various challenges that can hinder their success.

Firstly, there is a high level of competition in the industry, with many talented individuals vying for the same projects.

Secondly, finding consistent and well-paying clients can be a struggle, especially for beginners.

Many companies tend to prefer in-house copywriters or outsource their work to foreign writers, making it difficult for Nigerian freelancers to secure profitable gigs.

Additionally, there is the issue of payment delays or non-payment.

Some clients may take advantage of freelancers by not compensating them for their hard work or paying them lesser than agreed.

Furthermore, unreliable internet connectivity and power outages can make it challenging for freelancers to meet deadlines and deliver their work on time.

Lastly, the lack of support and recognition from the government and society can be demotivating for freelance copywriters in Nigeria.

There is a general lack of understanding and appreciation for the profession, which can lead to undervaluing and underpayment of services.

While freelancing as a copywriter in Nigeria offers numerous advantages, it also presents its fair share of challenges.

Overcoming these obstacles requires resilience, continuous self-improvement, and a proactive approach to finding and retaining clients.

Lack of consistent work opportunities

Finding consistent work opportunities can be a significant challenge for freelance copywriters in Nigeria.
The highly competitive market and lack of awareness about the importance of professional copywriting contribute to this difficulty.
To overcome this challenge, it is essential to actively seek out clients and projects on a regular basis.
Networking is a powerful tool that can help freelance copywriters connect with potential clients and expand their professional network.
Attending industry events, joining relevant online communities, and leveraging social media platforms are effective ways to network and find new work

opportunities.
In addition to networking, freelance copywriters should engage in cold outreach to reach potential clients directly.
This can involve sending personalized emails, making phone calls, or leveraging social media to connect with decision-makers in target companies.
Creating a compelling portfolio that showcases the copywriter’s skills and expertise is crucial for capturing the attention of potential clients during cold outreach.
Another effective strategy is to join reputable freelance platforms that connect freelancers with clients seeking their services.
These platforms provide a steady stream of projects and eliminate the need for extensive client prospecting.
However, it is essential to carefully choose freelance platforms and research their reputation and payment practices to avoid scams or low-paying gigs.

Difficulty in finding clients and projects

As a freelance copywriter in Nigeria, finding clients and projects can be a daunting task.
Many businesses in Nigeria are not aware of the value that professional copywriting can bring to their marketing efforts.
One way to overcome this challenge is by educating potential clients about the benefits of hiring a freelance copywriter.
Freelancers can create informative blog posts, articles, or social media content that highlight the importance of compelling copy in driving business success.
Sharing success stories and case studies can also demonstrate how effective copywriting has helped other companies achieve their marketing goals.
Building a strong online presence through a personal website, blog, or social media profiles can attract potential clients organically.
Showing expertise in a specific industry or niche can differentiate freelance copywriters from their competitors and make them more appealing to clients.
Participating in online communities and actively contributing to relevant discussions can also help freelance copywriters establish credibility and attract clients.
Collaborating with other freelancers in complementary fields, such as graphic designers or web developers, can lead to mutual referrals and access to a broader client base.
Lastly, providing exceptional service and delivering high-quality work to existing clients can lead to repeat business and positive referrals, helping freelance copywriters secure more projects.

While the lack of consistent work opportunities and the difficulty in finding clients and projects can be challenging for freelance copywriters in Nigeria, there are various strategies to overcome these obstacles.

By actively networking, engaging in cold outreach, and joining reputable freelance platforms, freelance copywriters can increase their chances of finding consistent work.

Educating potential clients about the value of professional copywriting, building a strong online presence, and collaborating with other freelancers are also effective strategies for attracting clients and projects.

Read: Success Stories: Nigerian Freelancers Making Waves in Copywriting

Competition from other freelance copywriters

Being a freelance copywriter in Nigeria comes with its fair share of challenges.

One of the main hurdles is the competition from other freelancers in the market.

The saturation of the market and the increased number of freelance copywriters make it difficult to stand out and secure clients.

However, there are strategies that can help you overcome these challenges and thrive in this competitive industry.

1. Develop a unique writing style

Establishing a unique writing style can help you differentiate yourself from other copywriters.
Experiment with different tones, voices, and approaches to find your distinctive style.
Having a signature writing style will make you memorable to clients and set you apart from the competition.

2. Highlight your specialized skills

Identify and showcase your specialized skills to attract clients looking for specific expertise.
Whether it’s SEO copywriting, technical writing, or creative storytelling, emphasize your strengths.
By positioning yourself as an expert in a particular niche, you can command higher rates and stand out from generalist copywriters.

3. Showcase a strong portfolio

Build a portfolio that demonstrates your range, creativity, and proficiency as a copywriter.
Showcase your best work and include a variety of projects to highlight your versatility.
The more impressive your portfolio, the more likely you are to grab the attention of potential clients and beat the competition.

4. Network with potential clients and fellow freelancers

Attend industry events, join online communities, and engage in networking activities to expand your professional network.
Connect with potential clients and fellow freelancers to exchange ideas, learn from each other, and collaborate.
Building relationships within the industry can lead to referrals and new opportunities.

5. Offer exceptional customer service

Provide excellent customer service to your clients to build a loyal customer base.
Respond promptly to inquiries, meet deadlines, and communicate effectively throughout the project.
A satisfied client is more likely to recommend you to others, helping you overcome the competition.

6. Stay updated with industry trends and best practices

Continuous learning is crucial in staying ahead of the competition as a freelance copywriter.
Keep up with industry trends, changes in consumer behavior, and emerging technologies.
Invest in professional development and sharpen your skills to ensure that you deliver exceptional results to clients.

7. Be proactive in marketing and self-promotion

Don’t wait for opportunities to come to you – actively market yourself as a freelance copywriter.
Utilize social media platforms, create a professional website, and participate in relevant online communities.
Position yourself as a thought leader by sharing valuable insights and building a strong personal brand.

While the competition among freelance copywriters in Nigeria may be fierce, there are strategies to overcome these challenges.

Developing a unique writing style, highlighting specialized skills, showcasing a strong portfolio, networking, providing exceptional customer service, staying updated with industry trends, and proactive marketing can all help you stand out in the market and succeed as a freelance copywriter in Nigeria.

Read: Top 5 Platforms for Nigerian Freelance Copywriters to Earn

Overcoming Challenges as a Freelance Copywriter in Nigeria

Payment Delay or Non-payment

Freelance copywriting in Nigeria can be both fulfilling and challenging.

One of the recurring challenges that freelancers face is payment delay or non-payment.

This issue is not unique to Nigeria, but it does require a proactive approach to overcome.

The Issue of Clients Delaying or Not Honoring Payment Agreements

It is not uncommon for clients to delay payment or even fail to honor their payment agreements.

This can be frustrating for freelance copywriters who rely on a steady income to support their livelihoods.

Some common reasons for payment issues include clients’ financial constraints, lack of organization, or a lack of understanding of the importance of timely payments.

To overcome this challenge, it is crucial to have open and honest communication with clients before starting any project.

Discuss and agree upon payment terms, including deadlines and preferred methods of payment.

It is also helpful to establish a professional relationship with clients from the beginning, where both parties understand and respect each other’s expectations.

Tips on How to Minimize the Risk of Payment Issues

While payment delays and non-payment can never be fully avoided, freelancers can take several proactive steps to minimize the risks and protect themselves.

Sign Contracts: Before starting any project, it is essential to have a written contract that clearly outlines the scope of work, agreed-upon payment terms, and consequences for non-payment or late payments.

A signed contract can serve as a legal document in case of any disputes.
Request Partial Payment Upfront: To reduce the risk of non-payment, consider requesting a partial payment upfront.

This upfront payment demonstrates the client’s seriousness and commitment to the project, making them more likely to follow through with the remaining payment.

It also helps cover any immediate expenses related to the project.
Use Escrow Services: Another way to safeguard against payment issues is to use escrow services.

Platforms like Escrow.com offer secure payment options, where the client deposits the payment into an escrow account.

The funds are released to the freelancer once the project is completed successfully, ensuring payment security for both parties.
Set Clear Payment Deadlines: When discussing payment terms with clients, be sure to clarify specific payment deadlines.

This clarity helps avoid confusion and gives the clients a clear understanding of when their payment is due.

Sending reminders a few days before the deadline can also help prompt timely payments.
Follow Up Promptly: If a client shows signs of delaying payment, don’t hesitate to follow up promptly.

Politely remind them of the agreed-upon payment terms and inquire about the status of their payment.

This proactive communication can often nudge clients to prioritize and make the payment.

By implementing these tips, freelance copywriters in Nigeria can significantly reduce the risk of payment delay or non-payment.

However, it is essential to remember that challenges may still arise, and it is necessary to handle them professionally and assertively.

Overcoming payment challenges as a freelance copywriter in Nigeria requires a combination of proactive communication, clear agreements, and protective measures.

With proper planning and assertiveness, copywriters can significantly minimize the risk of payment issues and build a sustainable freelance career.

Read: Starting a Copywriting Career in Nigeria: Step-by-Step Guide

Limited access to training and professional development opportunities

Being a freelance copywriter in Nigeria comes with its fair share of challenges.

One of the biggest hurdles is the limited access to training and professional development opportunities.

Unlike in other countries, there are very few formal training programs and workshops dedicated to freelance copywriters in Nigeria.

This lack of structured training makes it difficult for aspiring copywriters to acquire the necessary skills and knowledge to succeed in the industry.

Freelancers are often left to figure things out on their own, resulting in a slower learning curve and missed opportunities.

The lack of formal training programs and workshops

Freelance copywriters in Nigeria have limited access to formal training programs and workshops.
This makes it challenging to acquire the necessary skills and stay up-to-date with industry trends.
The absence of mentorship opportunities further exacerbates this problem.
Aspiring copywriters struggle to find guidance and support in their journey.

However, despite these challenges, there are alternative ways for freelance copywriters in Nigeria to improve their skills and knowledge.

Alternative ways to improve skills and knowledge

Online courses: There are numerous online platforms that offer courses on copywriting.
These courses cover various aspects of copywriting, from basic principles to advanced techniques.
Webinars: Many industry experts and successful copywriters conduct webinars to share their knowledge.
This allows freelancers to learn from the best in the field and gain insights into effective copywriting strategies.
Self-study: Freelance copywriters can also enhance their skills through self-study.
They can read books, articles, and blogs about copywriting to stay updated and expand their knowledge.

While these alternative methods may not provide the same level of structured training as formal programs, they can still be valuable resources for freelance copywriters in Nigeria.

Additionally, networking within the industry can also help overcome the lack of professional development opportunities.

By connecting with fellow copywriters, freelancers can exchange knowledge, share experiences, and find support in their freelance journey.

Furthermore, joining professional associations and forums specific to copywriting can provide access to valuable resources, mentorship programs, and networking events.

The limited access to training and professional development opportunities is a major challenge faced by freelance copywriters in Nigeria.

However, through alternative methods such as online courses, webinars, self-study, and networking, freelancers can still improve their skills and knowledge.

By proactively seeking out these resources and connecting with others in the industry, freelance copywriters can overcome the challenges and thrive in their careers.

Read: Freelancing in Nigeria: Success Stories and Lessons

Inadequate infrastructure and unreliable internet connection

Working as a freelance copywriter in Nigeria can be a challenging endeavor, primarily due to the inadequate infrastructure and unreliable internet connection.

These factors can significantly hamper productivity and impede the smooth execution of projects.

However, there are several solutions that can be implemented to mitigate these issues and ensure a more seamless workflow.

Challenges of working as a freelance copywriter in Nigeria

Power outages: Nigeria is plagued by frequent power outages, which can disrupt work and cause delays in meeting deadlines.

These outages can range from a few minutes to several hours, making it extremely difficult to work consistently and efficiently.
Poor internet connection: The internet infrastructure in Nigeria is often unreliable, resulting in slow internet speeds, frequent disconnections, and difficulties in accessing online resources.

This can make it challenging to communicate with clients, conduct research, and submit work on time.

Solutions to mitigate these issues

Despite these challenges, freelance copywriters in Nigeria can adopt various solutions to overcome the obstacles posed by inadequate infrastructure and unreliable internet connection.

Here are some effective strategies that can be implemented:

Investing in alternative power sources: To combat frequent power outages, freelance copywriters can invest in alternative power sources such as generators, inverters, or solar panels.

These backup power options can provide a reliable and uninterrupted power supply, ensuring work can continue uninterrupted during outages.
Using backup internet options: In situations where the internet connection becomes unreliable, it is advisable to have a backup option in place.

This can involve using mobile data as a backup or having a second internet service provider to switch to when the primary connection fails.

This redundancy can help maintain an active internet connection and minimize downtime.
Working during more stable hours: Understanding the pattern of power outages and internet disruptions can help freelance copywriters plan their work accordingly.

By identifying the relatively more stable hours, they can schedule important tasks during these periods, maximizing productivity and reducing the impact of infrastructure challenges.
Utilizing offline tools and resources: In situations where accessing the internet is particularly challenging, freelance copywriters can rely on offline tools and resources.

This includes utilizing writing and editing software that does not require an internet connection, downloading reference materials in advance, and saving important documents locally.

These offline alternatives can ensure that work can progress even during periods of poor internet connectivity.
Collaborating with co-working spaces: Co-working spaces equipped with reliable power supply and internet connection can be an excellent solution for freelance copywriters dealing with infrastructure challenges.

By renting a workspace in such establishments, copywriters can benefit from uninterrupted power and internet access, enabling them to work efficiently and comfortably.

Working as a freelance copywriter in Nigeria can undoubtedly present challenges due to inadequate infrastructure and unreliable internet connection.

However, by implementing solutions such as investing in alternative power sources, using backup internet options, working during more stable hours, utilizing offline tools and resources, and collaborating with co-working spaces, these challenges can be mitigated.

With the right strategies in place, freelance copywriters can overcome these obstacles and continue to thrive in their profession.

Conclusion

Freelance copywriters in Nigeria face several challenges, including finding clients, competition, inadequate compensation, and lack of recognition.

However, in the face of these difficulties, perseverance and resilience are crucial for success.

It is essential to understand that challenges are part of the freelance copywriting journey.

By persevering and remaining determined, freelance copywriters can overcome these obstacles and build thriving careers.

Despite the common challenges faced, freelance copywriters should not be discouraged.

Instead, they should stay motivated and focused on their goals. Each hurdle should be seen as an opportunity for growth and improvement.

Remember, success does not come overnight. It takes time and effort to establish oneself as a respected and sought-after copywriter.

Freelancers should continue honing their skills, staying updated with industry trends, and actively seeking new opportunities.

While it may be tough at times, freelance copywriters in Nigeria should not lose hope.

They possess valuable skills and talents that can make a real impact.

By persevering through challenges, they can carve out successful careers and achieve their professional goals.

So, to all freelance copywriters in Nigeria, keep pushing forward, keep improving, and keep believing in yourselves.

The obstacles you face today will only make your success tomorrow even more rewarding.