How to Make $6,000/month as a Freelance Writer in Africa

John Iwuozor is an incredibly talented and inspiring Nigerian freelance writer.

At just 22 years old, he regularly earns over $6,000 a month, and is on the path to $100,000 in freelance income in 2023.

John is a self-taught writer working in complex industries like cybersecurity and B2B SAAS.

So, we interviewed him to find out how he’s established himself as an expert in these fields in less than 3 years as a writer.

Here’s what you’ll learn from the interview:

• How to skip low-paying freelance gigs when starting out

• How to position yourself as an authority and a trustworthy writer to high-paying clients

• How to leverage AI in your writing and navigate its impact on content writing

• The importance of learning new skills like content strategy and SEO to stay competitive as a writer in 2023 and beyond

John’s insights are invaluable for aspiring writers in Africa.

So, read the interview and bookmark it on your browser so you can come back every time you need some inspiration!

Please introduce yourself, and tell us how you started freelance writing.

My name is John Iwuozor. I’m 22 and hold a BSc in Mathematics from Nnamdi Azikiwe University in Nigeria.

I began my writing journey in 2020, during the pandemic. Initially, I aimed to become a data scientist and took a six-month internship in the field after graduating. Writing was just a hobby.

However, I didn’t gain much from the internship. I couldn’t secure a paid data science role or any entry-level position in my area of study.

To sustain myself financially during the pandemic, I decided to offer writing services, using the portfolio I had built writing for myself to attract clients.

I built a free WordPress website to showcase my content and sought out clients in the chess niche, as I’m very passionate about the sport. I also knew that chess writers are not easy to come by, and not everyone who plays chess can write about it – so I felt I had an advantage.

Although my initial intention was to find a means of survival, I discovered a genuine interest in writing and decided to further explore freelance opportunities.

How did you connect with your first client?

I’m grateful I wasn't aware of the Nigerian freelance writing space when I started, where rates can be as low as $5 per 1,000-word article.

Instead, I relied on Google to gain insights about freelancing, setting my rates, and to find my first clients.

I searched for "chess writers needed" and found a post on a forum where someone was looking for chess writers and shared their requirements a few months prior.

I applied for the opportunity with a compelling sample piece related to chess, impressing them enough to secure my first gig.

Where did you find your subsequent clients over the next few years?

My initial success on Google motivated me to further explore client acquisition strategies.

I turned to LinkedIn next.

I used the platform to network, connect with professionals, and showcase my skills and experience. LinkedIn provided a valuable space to expand my freelance writing connections and establish credibility within the industry.

I found my second client on Linkedin soon after joining.

I also used platforms like Upwork and Indeed.

Although I earned around $4,000 on Upwork, I eventually decided to leave due to the platform's low pay. The offers I received on Upwork didn't match the higher rates I was offered elsewhere.

How do you currently connect with new clients?

Since 2022, the majority of my clients have come through LinkedIn.

I’ve also had the opportunity to work with prestigious publications like Forbes Advisor, which I landed through LinkedIn.

Additionally, the exposure generated by my writing helped attract new clients. Some have discovered me through my articles that rank on Google.

I recently signed a new client through Superpath, an online community that connects writers and content marketing professionals.

I have explored Twitter as a potential client acquisition tool, but found LinkedIn to be the most fruitful platform for establishing valuable connections.

What was the journey to earning $6,000+ per month like?

In 2021, I experienced a slowdown in client acquisition. I realized the importance of enhancing my skills and gaining a deeper understanding of content marketing and strategy if I wanted to attract more clients and offer higher-quality services.

Since then, I have experienced substantial revenue growth by implementing several key strategies.

1. Accountability and Sharing

Firstly, I was highly motivated and driven, pushing myself to take on more work and excel in my field. I held myself accountable by openly sharing my income goals with others, which created a sense of responsibility and inspired me to work harder.

2. Delivering Excellent Work

Going above and beyond became a regular practice – such as providing detailed pitches and personalized video presentations to clients, demonstrating my dedication and passion.

I was deliberate in my actions, aiming to establish myself as an authority in my niche and deliver exceptional results. While income was important, I also focused on building a strong professional reputation.

3. Setting Goals and Revenue Targets

In 2021, I focused on better understanding the freelance industry, building my skills, and getting to know clients.

By 2022, I achieved significant milestones – earning $2,000 and $3,000 per month and even reaching $6,500 in a single month.

Whenever I shared my achievements and income updates on LinkedIn, the positive feedback and encouragement I received kept me inspired and driven to pursue further success.

Surprisingly, my income exceeded expectations by December 2022, as I consistently strived for success and aimed for monthly targets.

In December 2022, I resolved to pursue a goal of earning $100,000 by the end of 2023. I am actively working towards it, understanding that it will require significant effort and dedication to achieve such a milestone.

4. Continuous Learning

Continuous self-improvement has played a significant role. I actively pursued professional development opportunities, taking courses, and expanding my skill set.

Initially, when I began freelancing, I didn't take any courses because I wasn't aware of the various content marketing and strategy courses available.

I focused on gaining practical experience by writing for clients and continuously improving my skills. Whenever I encountered unfamiliar concepts, like meta titles, I would turn to Google for research and self-learning.

For instance, when I had my first case study project on Upwork, I conducted extensive research on how to write a case study, ultimately delivering satisfactory results to the client.

It wasn't until 2022 that I realized the value of content marketing courses and decided to enroll in them. I invested in a course (Topic Cluster For Content Marketers) that cost me $150 and another (Inbound Marketing) for around $49.

5. Networking

Throughout this journey, my LinkedIn connections have played a crucial role by providing invaluable support and motivation.

I also get most of my work through LinkedIn now.

6. Personal Branding

In 2022, I enhanced my personal brand by rebuilding my website, updating my LinkedIn profile with professional photos, and gathering testimonials from satisfied clients.

What courses do you recommend to aspiring freelance writers in Africa?

As writers in this era of AI, we need to go beyond simply writing and understand the strategic aspects of our work. Knowing how to ensure your content performs is essential - it's not just about putting words on a page. Clients want to see results.

This includes SEO (on-page, off-page, technical, semantic), content distribution, and repurposing.

Courses on content marketing, content strategy, and inbound marketing will provide a well-rounded understanding of these topics.

I recommend:

• Chima Mmeje's course. It's an investment of $150, but the knowledge you'll gain is invaluable. Chima is a brilliant teacher, and her course is insightful.

• Noelina Rissman's e-book. It's a comprehensive guide to freelance writing, covering everything from the basics to finding and using statistics, and even Google Analytics.

• Any course from HubSpot or SEMRush. Their content strategy and content marketing courses are truly outstanding.

You should also check out Lily Ugbaja's LinkedIn profile. She's an excellent resource for anyone looking to become a freelance writer.

You’re a Freelance Coalition for Developing Countries (FCDC) member. How did you discover the FCDC?

I discovered the FCDC through Chima Mmeje, a Nigerian LinkedIn influencer whom I follow.

In late 2021, I was inspired by her achievements as a Nigerian freelancer earning $100,000 in content marketing. Chima Mmeje recognized the limited opportunities available to individuals from developing countries and established the FCDC to address this disparity.

The FCDC’s primary goal is to promote diversity and equal opportunities in industries that white individuals have traditionally dominated.

The FCDC has created a supportive community encouraging and uplifting freelancers from developing countries.

Members can access free courses and webinars, contributing to their professional growth and development. The FCDC also hosts a supportive online community where freelancers can connect and collaborate with like-minded individuals, fostering a sense of belonging and mutual support.

They also offer valuable “expert series” videos where I can learn practical tips about marketing and building a career from industry insiders.

What opportunities have you gained being part of the FCDC?

The FCDC has had a profound impact on my career as a freelancer.

It has been instrumental in shifting my perception of what is achievable as a freelancer from a developing country and opened my eyes to the untapped potential for earning a higher income.

Through the success stories shared within the coalition, I have gained valuable insights and inspiration to aim higher in my own freelance career.

The FCDC has shown me that with dedication and the right opportunities, freelancers from developing countries can achieve remarkable success.

What other online communities have been beneficial to your career?

I'm currently active in three other content marketing communities on Slack:

• Superpath

• Peak Freelance

• Top of the Funnel

I frequently engage with Superpath and Peak Freelance, where I get solid advice from other community members.

Additionally, my LinkedIn community provides a wealth of knowledge from various content managers.

Should freelance writers build a professional website or use another platform to publish content?

Yes.

Proving to potential clients that you possess the necessary knowledge and skills to handle their projects is crucial.

But, having a website with elaborate branding and aesthetics is not necessary.

Also, while a professional website can certainly enhance your online presence, it is not the sole determining factor for success in freelancing.

What truly matters is building a strong portfolio that showcases your work and demonstrates your expertise. When I started, I secured my first gig using a simple free website and later landed a $300 gig via Medium.

Additionally, consistent outreach to clients is key in establishing your credibility and demonstrating your ability to deliver quality work. By actively reaching out to clients and showcasing your portfolio, you can build trust and attract new opportunities.

How should new freelance writers respond to the rise of AI content?

Industries that demand higher-quality content are an excellent avenue for freelance writers in the face of AI.

Let's consider an example.

You're a writer delving into a niche centered around explaining concepts like “what is accounting?”.

AI has evolved to the point where it can generate a detailed and comprehensive article on such a topic. Not only can it do this effectively, but it will also do it in a fraction of the time and at a significantly lower cost than a human writer.

In light of this, I advise writers to steer clear of such generic niches.

Instead, seek out highly specific niches that present a level of complexity AI will find challenging to replicate convincingly.

What industries or niches do you recommend for writers considering the impact of AI?

I advise any writer to venture into industries where their creativity and unique human perspective will be appreciated and highly valued. The focus should not be on producing content merely for the sake of it but on generating content that offers genuine value and insights.

In the realm of B2B, cybersecurity emerges as a viable focus.

Cybersecurity is a highly technical field that requires an in-depth understanding of distinctive concepts and the ability to convey these in a manner that resonates with the reader. This is a task that AI, for all its advances, may still struggle to accomplish effectively.

Another potential area to consider is B2B Software as a Service (SaaS).

Let's say a writer is tasked with writing a comparative review of Zoom and Google Meet.

An AI could certainly generate a piece that outlines the basic features of each service. However, a writer brings depth to the task that AI currently cannot.

A writer will delve into thorough research, trawl through various websites for user feedback, examine case studies, and bring together a wealth of information that provides a more comprehensive and in-depth comparison.

How do you incorporate AI into your writing process?

AI is a valuable ally in my freelance writing journey, alleviating the burden of certain tasks while allowing me to focus on creating compelling, high-quality content.

For instance, when writing an article, I leverage AI to generate ideas and craft initial drafts. 

If I was writing an “ultimate guide to e-commerce,” AI can efficiently explain the concepts and concisely provide essential facts. However, the narrative and depth of the article are driven by my expertise and creativity.

Also, while AI assists with basic tasks, it can't handle aspects like incorporating statistics, quotes from subject-matter experts, or creating graphics. These responsibilities remain in the realm of human writers, and rightfully so.

So, AI's strengths for content writers and marketers lie in:

• Offering suggestions

• Aiding with keyword research

• Content outlines

• Crafting meta descriptions

Nonetheless, it's essential to verify AI-generated outputs. They can be unnecessarily complex and factually inaccurate.

Unlike a calculator, which yields definitive results, AI requires human oversight.

How do you balance using AI for productivity while maintaining your unique voice and creativity?

Striking a balance between AI and creativity in writing is like working with a challenging yet rewarding teammate. It serves as a benchmark for quality content, pushing me to excel in my work.

When I write a blog post, I create a version with AI-generated content and compare the two. If the AI performs better, it's a sign for me to step up my efforts.

This process not only pushes me to excel. It also uncovers gaps AI can't fill—those unique areas that captivate readers. That's where creativity comes into play.

AI can't mimic the human touch. It can’t infuse content with creativity, gather expert opinions, use compelling graphics, or derive unique insights from research and case studies.

Why did you choose cybersecurity as a writing niche, and how did you find clients?

I entered the cybersecurity niche because I saw it as a profitable opportunity rather than due to a passion for it.

As a data science writer, I noticed a high demand for cybersecurity gigs on platforms like Upwork. Recognizing the industry's continuous growth and the need for security solutions, I decided to switch my focus.

My approach as a research writer in the field also helped me establish credibility.

By leveraging my existing data science portfolios, I secured my first cybersecurity gig and used those samples to apply for more opportunities.

Over time, I educated myself on cybersecurity through self-study and staying updated on industry trends. 

Do you have any advice for freelance writers interested in the cybersecurity industry?

I recommend the following steps:

• Change your LinkedIn tagline to reflect your interest in cybersecurity

• Educate yourself on cybersecurity basics

• Write sample articles

• Join relevant cybersecurity communities online

• Pursue gigs that offer bylines for building trust and credibility.

Have you faced any challenges in your career due to living in Nigeria?

To be honest, as a Nigerian, I haven't faced many challenges in my freelance writing career.

Sure, some job applications specify applicants must be from the US or UK, and I've been turned down because of my nationality.

Also, there have been payment issues due to the international nature of my work, as finding a payment system that works well with every client can be tricky.

Have you experienced any prejudice or similar issues?

I don't recall directly experiencing prejudice or racism.

While racism can indeed present obstacles, it's important to acknowledge that there are often legitimate challenges that come with working across countries. Factors such as taxes, laws, and the complexities of international payments can significantly impact the ease of conducting business globally.

As a Nigerian, when collaborating with someone from India, I need to convert my payment to rupees and ensure a secure method for sending it. And this is from Nigeria, where we don't have certain tax laws. In countries with more regulations, there are even more hoops to jump through.

So, often, it's simpler to work with someone local, and I can't entirely blame businesses for that.

However, there are instances where bias comes into play, like when clients from developed countries hire writers from developing countries, assuming they'll work for less. I've had such experiences, like when a client offered me $30 for 1,000 words. She justified it by saying that's the usual rate for people in my location, which was quite frustrating.

As for outright racism or bias against hiring based on location, if I've encountered it, I've chosen to forget. I don't dwell on such negativity.

What tools do you use in your freelance business the most?

I rely on a few essential tools that greatly boost my efficiency and quality:

• Google Docs to write my content because it's easy to use and collaborate on.

• Grammarly to make sure my writing is clear and error-free.

• SEMRush and SERanking for content strategy and keyword research. They give me insights into popular keywords so I can create content that's relevant to my target audience and search engines.

• The Keywords Everywhere Chrome extension makes keyword research even easier by providing me with keyword data right in my browser. This helps me make informed decisions about my content and optimize it effectively.

• Frase to create content briefs for my clients. It helps me organize my thoughts and ideas so I can produce content that meets their goals and expectations.

• ChatGPT when I need quick ideas or information. This helps me brainstorm ideas and clarify concepts quickly and efficiently.

Lastly, where can readers find you online?

You can connect with me on LinkedIn, where I am most active. Feel free to reach out to me via email as well. Here are my contact details:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-iwuozor/

• Email: [email protected]