Ultimate Guide to Freelance Writing - Opportunities & Beyond

Have you ever heard someone say they work from home and make money just by writing for people? That’s what freelance writing is about. It means writing for people, businesses, or websites and getting paid for it, without being a full-time worker in an office. You work for yourself, choose who to work with, and decide how much to charge.

Freelance writing is now a popular way to make money, especially in Nigeria. Many young people are now using this skill to earn money online. If you know how to write simple, clear, and useful things, then you can become a freelance writer too. And the good part is, you don’t need to be perfect at English or have a degree. You just need to write in a way that others can understand and enjoy.

I’ll cover what you need to know about freelance writing in this guide. Whether you’re just hearing about it or you want to start soon, this guide will walk you through every step.

Table of Contents

What Is Freelance Writing ?

Freelance writing means offering your writing services to people or companies and getting paid for it. You are not their staff. You are merely someone who assists them when necessary. For example, someone may have a blog and need someone to write articles for them. Being that person and charging them for your services is something you can do.

Freelance writers write different things. It can be blog posts, website content, product descriptions, social media posts, emails, sales pages, eBooks, or even school materials. Some writers focus on a particular topic like health, education, technology, or business. Others can write on many topics depending on what the client wants.

The Benefits Of Freelance Writing As A Source Of Income

One of the greatest online careers available is freelance writing, particularly for those in Nigeria. There are many reasons why people like it. Below are some reasons why this job is good:

• You don’t need much money to get started.
• You don’t need a laptop. You can start with just your phone
• You can work from home or anywhere
• You have the freedom to select your clients and the kind of work you desire.
• You can decide how much to charge
• You don’t need a certificate or experience to start
• Over time, you can improve your abilities and increase your income.
• Writing for other people allows you to get fresh knowledge.

Some people in Nigeria are earning from $300 to $2000 every month as freelance writers. It depends on your skill, the kind of clients you work with, and how serious you are.

Skills You Need To Become A Good Freelance Writer

Even though you don’t need a certificate to start freelance writing, there are still some skills that will help you become better and earn more. Here are some skills you should try to develop:

Good Writing Skill
You should be able to write in simple, clear, and correct English. Your words should make sense. Avoid using big grammar. Make sure people can understand what you write.

Good Research Skill
You will write on subjects you may not have previously known about as a freelance writer. So, you must learn how to search for information online. Know how to use Google well.

Time Management
You must know how to use your time well. Many clients will give you deadlines. You must learn to deliver on time.

Ability To Follow Instructions
Customers will provide you with items they would want you to write about. Always read their instructions carefully.

Basic SEO Knowledge
Writing to help content appear in Google search is known as SEO. You don’t need to be an expert. Just learn how to use keywords, subheadings, and structure your article well.

Communication Skill
You will talk to clients through email, WhatsApp, or other platforms. Learn how to speak clearly and professionally.

Types Of Freelance Writing Jobs

There are many types of writing jobs out there. You can choose the one you enjoy most. Some common types of writing include:

• Blog posts
• Website content
• Social media content
• Product descriptions
• Email copy
• Scriptwriting
• Ghostwriting

You can decide to focus on just one or try a few and see which one you enjoy most.

How To Get Started As A Freelance Writer In Nigeria

Starting may look hard at first, but it becomes easier once you know the steps. Below are some steps to help you get started:

Step 1. Learn The Basics Of Writing
Take time to learn how to write properly. You can watch YouTube videos, read blog posts, or take free online courses. Learn how to write headlines, how to arrange your points, and how to make your writing flow.

Step 2. Choose What Type Of Writing You Want To Do
You don’t have to do everything. Pick one or two areas and focus on them. For instance, you may decide to begin with ghostwriting and blog writing.

Step 3. Create Writing Samples
Clients want to see examples of your work. So, write 2 or 3 samples. You can write on any topic of your choice. Make sure the writing is clear, helpful, and well-structured.

Step 4. Create A Simple Portfolio
A portfolio is a place where you show your samples. You can use Google Docs or create a free site using sites like WordPress or Contently. Just make it easy to access.

Step 5. Register On Freelance Platforms
You can join sites like Upwork, Fiverr, or Freelancer. You can apply for jobs that clients publish on these sites.. You can also use LinkedIn, Facebook, and WhatsApp groups.

Step 6. Start Pitching Clients
Pitching means reaching out to people who may need your writing service. You can message business owners, bloggers, or content creators and offer to help them write content.

How To Create A Writing Sample

Your writing sample is very important. It shows your skills and helps clients know if they want to hire you. Here are steps to create a good one:

Pick A Topic: Choose a topic that is easy and interesting. For example, if you want to write for business blogs, choose a topic like how to promote your small business online.

Write A Catchy Title: Your title should make people want to read. Use simple and direct words.

Write An Introduction: The first paragraph should talk about the problem. Make it simple and engaging.

Break The Content Into Sections: Use subheadings to divide the content. This makes it easy to read.

End With A Conclusion: Your last part should summarise the whole article and give a final point or advice.

Edit Your Work: Check for spelling or grammar errors. You can use tools like Grammarly or just read it out loud to hear if it sounds right.

How Much Can You Charge As A Beginner

At the beginning, you may not earn much, and that’s okay. In Nigeria, many new writers charge between N1,000 to N5000 for one article. But if you get foreign clients, you can earn between $20 to $100 per article depending on the length and quality.

As you improve, you can charge more. Some experienced Nigerian writers charge over N10,000 for a single blog post. The amount you earn will grow with your experience, writing skill, and the kind of clients you work with.

Where To Learn Freelance Writing For Free

You don’t need to pay thousands of naira to learn freelance writing at first. There are many free ways to start learning. Here are some options:

1. YouTube: Just search “how to become a freelance writer” and watch videos.
2. Blogs: Read blogs that teach freelance writing tips and tricks.
3. Facebook groups: Join writing groups in Nigeria and ask questions.
4. Free courses: Some websites offer free beginner courses.

As you grow, you can pay for advanced training. But for now, start with the free options and practice what you learn.

How To Find Freelance Writing Jobs In Nigeria

There are different ways to find writing jobs, even as a beginner. Below are some good places to look:

Facebook Groups: There are many Facebook groups for bloggers, business owners, and freelancers. Join them and always check for job posts. You can also post your writing samples and tell people what you offer.

Upwork And Fiverr: These are websites where people post jobs. You can create a profile, upload your samples, and apply for jobs.

Whatsapp Groups: Join freelance or writing groups on WhatsApp. People post job offers there too.

Linkedin: Use LinkedIn to talk about writing, post samples, and connect with people. Business owners and agencies use LinkedIn to find writers.

Cold Pitching: This means you send messages to people or companies who need writers. For example, you can message a blog owner and ask if they need help with content. Just be polite and clear.

Email Outreach: If you see a website with poor writing or no blog, you can email them and offer to help.

How To Get Paid

If your client is in Nigeria, they can send money to your bank account. If they are outside Nigeria, they can pay you through:

1. Payoneer
2. Skrill
3. Cryptocurrency
4. Barter by Flutterwave
5. Dorm Account

Always confirm payment methods before you start the job.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Become A Freelance Writer Without A Degree
Yes, you don’t need a degree. Many successful writers didn’t study writing in school. You just need to learn how to write well.

Can I Do Freelance Writing With My Phone
Yes, many Nigerian writers started with their phones. Use Google Docs or the Notes app to write and edit.

How Long Does It Take To Start Earning Money
Some people get jobs in their first month. For others, it may take 2 or 3 months. It depends on how serious you are.

How Do I Receive My Money
You will be compensated by transfer if you work with Nigerians. You can use a Dollar card or Payoneer if you deal with foreigners.

What If I Get Rejected
Rejection is normal. Don’t stop. Keep improving and applying for jobs.

How Do I Build Trust With Clients
Deliver good work, meet deadlines, and communicate well. That’s how clients will trust and keep hiring you.

Can I Become Rich With Freelance Writing
Yes, but it takes time. Many writers now earn full-time income. Some even build agencies. But you must work hard and be patient.

Conclusion

Freelance writing is one of the easiest ways to make money online in Nigeria today. You don’t need big capital, office, or long experience. You just need the right knowledge, a phone or laptop, and the boldness to start. If you follow everything in this guide, write well, and keep learning, you will soon start making money from your writing.

The key is to start now. Don’t wait until everything is perfect. Create samples, share your work, talk to people, and offer your service. As you grow, things will become easier. So if you’ve been looking for how to make money online as a Nigerian, freelance writing is one of the best ways to begin.