For many Nigerians, the struggles of getting to a physical work location – traffic, rising cost of diesel and feeding at work – have made them begin to consider other means of income.
In recent times, the digital space has provided opportunities for multiple streams of income that have the ability to change the way people work and keep them in control of their time and income.
Whether you are a writer, designer or web developer, there is a wide range of opportunities for you on freelance/remote platforms.
In this article, we’ll look at the top 7 freelance/remote platforms Nigerians can leverage to build a thriving career from the comfort of their homes and how to succeed on these platforms.
1. Upwork
When people think of freelance/remote platforms, Upwork is often the first name that comes to mind.
Upwork is a structured marketplace where freelancers like writers, graphic designers or web developers connect with clients interested in the skills they provide.
It’s a corporate and professional workplace with millions of job opportunities available to both professionals and beginners in any field.
However, to build a serious career and succeed here, you need a detailed profile – one that has a professional photo and a compelling bio that addresses your client needs and showcases your skills and your previous job experiences. This makes you more qualified for high-paying jobs.
The key lies in starting small: bid on smaller jobs and deliver quality work; this will earn you 5-star reviews.
Additionally, when submitting proposals, ensure you properly read and understand the job description and the client. This keeps you from sending in generic proposals.
Upwork is suitable for Nigerians because they are reliable with payments and integrate well with direct local bank transfers.
2. Fiverr
Fiverr is another freelance/remote platform Nigerians can leverage. It is a powerhouse for creative and digital services and is quite popular among Nigerians because it has a low entry barrier and is quite simple in its operations.
Unlike Upwork, where you bid for jobs, on Fiverr you create “gigs”—which are pre-packaged services you offer at a fixed price.
Fiverr is most suitable for video editors, voice-over artists and people selling micro-services because you decide the price, which gives you immediate control over your earnings. Also for beginners who want to build a portfolio quickly, Fiverr should be their go-to.
However, in creating gigs or building a portfolio, be sure to use images and videos with high resolution and the right keywords; this will help your gig stand out in Fiverr’s search results. Also, be specific with your offers, as being generic might cost you your clients.
When it comes to payment, just like Upwork, Fiverr also supports Payoneer and direct bank transfer. These are reliable options for Nigerian freelancers to access their earnings.
3. Toptal
Toptal is a freelance/remote platform that has been designed majorly for skilled professionals in tech, software development and product management.
It has a screening process that hires only the top 3% of freelance talent globally.
The process involves skill reviews, live coding challenges, and language tests.
Though the process of application is more complex and harder as compared to other platforms, the reward is totally worth it. This is because, when you get in, you connect with high-quality clients and established companies like Motorola and Airbnb. These projects give higher rates because the platform promotes only exceptional skill.
Note that, before you apply on this platform, ensure you have a very solid portfolio and are a master of your craft.
4. Freelancer.com
This is one of the oldest and largest freelance/remote platforms. It is also a competitive bidding platform that has diverse opportunities for multiple project categories.
Just like Upwork, it runs a bidding system – where you can submit proposals for projects that are posted on this platform.
Besides projects, this platform hosts contests where you can submit your entry and win a prize if you qualify. The competition has the tendency to be tough, so to succeed you must strategise by offering extra value to justify your price rate.
One advantage of Freelancer.com is that it gives you access to various jobs and competitions; this boosts your visibility and earnings.
However, you must avoid generic proposals; keep your bids professional and specific for each job. This makes your client feel that their needs are understood.
As Nigerians, leveraging this platform provides an opportunity to practise your pitching skills and build your portfolio as you land your first few gigs.
5. Remote OK
Unlike other freelance/remote platforms that are marketplaces for short-term gigs, Remote OK offers long-term remote jobs from companies globally.
It is most suitable for content writers, software engineers and professionals seeking a full-time remote salary and benefits.
Nigerians can benefit from this platform because employers here are open to hiring people anywhere in the world, so with the right skills they can easily apply to companies in the US or Europe and work with them.
And while seeking opportunities on this platform, make sure you update your LinkedIn and résumé before applying and treat that application like a regular job interview. Keep your applications specific for each company.
6. PeoplePerHour
PeoplePerHour is a freelance/remote platform that functions with a mix of the bidding model, like Upwork, and the gig model, like Fiverr. They do this through what they call “offers”, which provide flexibility in how you work.
It is best for digital marketers, web developers, SEO specialists, and technical writers looking for mid-sized, quality projects. It is strong in the UK and European markets and is of advantage to Nigerians because it offers highly specialised skills with less competition, and they offer their services at affordable rates.
On this platform, you focus on setting up hourly offers or applying for projects posted by clients.
7. LinkedIn
LinkedIn is growing to be one of the most powerful freelance/remote platforms Nigerians are using to get direct contact with clients and find remote contracts.
In this era, businesses are no longer shared on job boards but are shared within networks. Hence, it is essential to build your network. LinkedIn provides an opportunity to do this. Your LinkedIn profile should be optimised to showcase your skills and show expertise in the field. This helps you attract clients without using other remote platforms.
Another means of leveraging this platform is by networking intentionally; follow companies and people in your field of expertise and engage with their content. With time, you can send a well-structured, personalised connection request to them. Update your bio or ‘About’ section using keywords that are related to your skills.
Finally, never create a post on LinkedIn without using hashtags; they help to improve visibility.
Conclusion
Despite the diverse opportunities freelance/remote platforms have provided, it takes dedication, continuous learning and resilience to succeed as a freelancer.
Whether as a beginner or a professional, there is a platform suitable for your goals and growth. Upwork, Fiverr and Toptal are some of the freelance platforms Nigerians can leverage that drive growth and build global and digital connections.
So, if you are interested in working online as a freelancer in Nigeria, you can explore any of these platforms to pick the one that fits your skills, create your profile, build your portfolio and start building a great future for yourself.
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