Are you tired of running out of airtime on your Airtel line? Do you want to know how to buy Airtel credit from MPESA? Look no further! In this blog post, I’ll show you how to buy Airtel credit from MPESA in a few easy steps.
Step 1: Go to your mobile phone Sim tool kit.
Step 2: Select the M-PESA option.
Step 3: From the options pick Lipa na M-Pesa.
Step 4: Select Paybill.
Step 5: Enter business number 220220.
Step 6: You will then be prompted to enter the account number, enter your Airtel Mobile phone number, and then click ok.
Step 7: Enter the amount of airtime you need to top up to your line. Step 8: Enter your M-Pesa PIN then send.
It’s that simple!
You can now enjoy uninterrupted calls and data on your Airtel line.
The best part is that you can buy airtime from MPESA at any time of the day, so you don’t have to worry about running out of airtime in the middle of the night.
I hope you found this blog post helpful. If you have any questions or comments, feel free to leave them below. Happy topping up!
Google AdSense is a popular advertising program that allows website owners to earn money by displaying ads on their site.
In Kenya, the earning potential varies depending on several factors such as traffic volume, niche, and ad placement.
Generally speaking, AdSense pays $0.5 to $5 per 1000 views in Kenya.
This means that with at least 10K page views per month, expect to earn upwards of $100.
But the question is, how do you get here?
To start earning with AdSense in Kenya, you need first to create an account and get your website or blog approved by Google.
Once approved, you can customize the types of ads that will appear on your site and then start earning revenue every time someone clicks on one of those ads.
It’s important to note that maximizing earnings from AdSense requires more than just displaying ads on your site.
You also need to focus on creating high-quality content that will attract visitors and keep them engaged for longer periods of time.
By doing so, you’ll be able to generate more traffic, increasing the likelihood of clicks on your ads – ultimately leading to higher earnings from AdSense in Kenya.
So, if you want to learn more about AdSense in Kenya, this is the article for you.
What is Google Adsense
Google AdSense is a program that allows website owners to earn money by displaying ads on their blogs.
These ads are provided by Google and are targeted to the website’s content.
When visitors click on these ads, the website owner earns a percentage of the revenue generated.
To participate in Google AdSense in Kenya, website owners must first apply and be approved by Google.
Once approved, they can choose from various ad formats such as display ads, text ads, or link units to place on their site.
The amount earned per click varies based on factors such as ad placement and competition for keywords.
Website owners in Kenya can also participate in Google AdSense and earn revenue through their websites.
However, it’s important to comply with Google’s policies and guidelines to avoid account suspension or termination.
How does Google AdSense work in Kenya?
Actually, Google AdSense is a free tool that website owners use to place Google Ads on their sites.
When you register for AdSense, Google uses an ad auction system to place ads on your site.
AdSense works by matching ads to your site based on your content and visitors.
Advertisers who want to promote their products create and pay for the ads.
Since these advertisers pay different ad prices, the amount you earn will vary.
You get paid once a visitor clicks on the ads!
How cool is that?
Benefits of Google Adsense in Kenya
Easy to use
Google AdSense is easy to use and can be set up quickly.
You don’t need any technical knowledge to use it.
You simply need to sign up for an account, add the ad code to your website, and start earning money.
Monetize your website
Google AdSense allows you to monetize your website in Kenya by displaying ads on it.
You can earn money when visitors click on the ads. Your amount depends on the number of clicks and the cost per click.
No minimum traffic requirement
There is no minimum traffic requirement to use Google AdSense.
You can start using it even if your website has low traffic. However, the more traffic your website has, the more money you can earn.
Multiple ad formats
Google AdSense offers multiple ad formats, including text, display, and link ads.
You can choose the format that works best for your website.
Text ads are usually less intrusive and blend in with your website’s content, while display ads are more eye-catching and attract more clicks.
High-quality ads
Google AdSense offers high-quality ads that are relevant to your website’s content.
This means that visitors are more likely to click on the ads, which can increase your earnings.
Google AdSense also uses advanced technology to prevent invalid clicks and protect your account from click fraud.
Open your web browser and go to the Google AdSense website.
On the homepage, click on the “Get Started” button.
Enter your email address.
You will need a Gmail account for this step.
Enter your site URL and your payment country/territory.
Read and agree to the terms and conditions of the AdSense program.
Click on the “Start using AdSense” button to complete the sign-up process.
Once you have created your account, you will need to add the AdSense code to your website to start displaying ads.
And that’s how to join Google AdSense in Kenya.
Steps to add Google AdSense to your website in Kenya
Before you can start earning, you first need to add the AdSense code to your website in Kenya.
Here are the steps to add Google AdSense to your blog in Kenya.
Once you’ve been approved, sign in to your AdSense account and click on the “Sites” tab.
Click on the “Add site” button and enter the site URL you want to show ads on.
Copy and paste the AdSense code into your website’s HTML.
If you are no developer, use a plugin called WP Code to add this code to your <head> file.
Click Request Review.
Configure your ads by selecting the types of advertisements you want to be displayed on your website.
Optimizing Ads for Maximum Earnings
Now, once your website is accepted into the AdSense program, you can start earning immediately.
But wait a minute.
You need to take care of some things to maximize your AdSense earnings in Kenya.
a. Choosing the Right Ad Formats
Choosing the right ad formats for your website to maximize your Google AdSense earnings in Kenya is important.
One of the most common formats is display ads, which come in various sizes and can be placed anywhere on your website.
These ads are ideal if you have a large amount of traffic or content on your site, as they can attract more clicks and generate higher revenue.
Another popular format is text ads, typically found between paragraphs of articles or blog posts.
These ads are less intrusive than display ads and blend seamlessly into the surrounding content.
They work best if you have high-quality written content that attracts readers who are likely to click on related ads.
Lastly, there are link units which consist of a list of themed keywords relevant to the content on your site.
When clicked by users, they take them to a page with relevant advertisements.
This type of ad format works well for sites with limited space for traditional display or text-based advertising but still want to generate substantial earnings through AdSense.
Here’s a quick run-down on all formats you can use:
Display ads are images or multimedia ads placed anywhere on your website.
Text ads: These are simple text ads that can be placed anywhere on your website.
Link unit ads: These are a group of text links displayed together.
In-feed ads: These ads are placed within your website’s content.
Feed ads: These ads are placed within your website’s RSS feed.
In-article ads: These are ads that are placed within your website’s articles.
Matched content ads: These are related to your website’s content.
Video ads: These are ads that are displayed as videos.
Ultimately, choosing the right ad format comes down to understanding your audience and how they interact with your website’s content.
When it comes to earning from Google AdSense in Kenya, understanding ad placement strategies is critical.
Ad placement refers to the location on your website where you choose to display ads.
Different ad placements yield different results in terms of clicks and revenue generated.
One strategy that many successful publishers use is placing ads above the fold, which means that they are visible without having to scroll down the page.
Research has shown that ads placed above the fold tend to receive more clicks than those placed below or within content.
However, it’s important not to overcrowd your website with too many ads or place them in a way that disrupts user experience.
Another effective ad placement strategy is using responsive ad units that can automatically adjust their size and format based on the device being used by visitors to your website.
This ensures a better user experience and increases the chances of users clicking on your ads. Additionally, placing relevant ads next to high-quality content can help increase engagement and drive more traffic to your site.
At the end of the day, experimenting with different ad placement strategies and analyzing their impact will help you optimize revenue from Google AdSense in Kenya.
c. A/B Testing to Optimize Your Ads
A/B testing is a valuable tool for optimizing your ads and maximizing revenue from Google AdSense in Kenya.
With this strategy, you can compare two versions of an ad to see which one performs better in terms of click-through rate, conversion rate, and overall revenue.
This allows you to make data-driven decisions about your ad strategy and continually improve your results.
To conduct an A/B test, start by creating two variations of the same ad with different elements such as headlines, images, or calls-to-action.
Then run both ads simultaneously to see which one generates more clicks or conversions.
Be sure to track the results carefully using tools like Google Analytics to measure each variation’s impact accurately.
Once you have identified the winning ad variation through A/B testing, use this information to optimize future ads and increase your earnings from Google AdSense in Kenya.
By regularly conducting A/B tests on your ads, you can stay ahead of the competition and continue to achieve success with AdSense.
d. Increase Traffic to Your Website
This might seem obvious, but it is a numbers game.
The more visitors you have to your site, the greater your chances are of making money through AdSense.
Let me give you an example.
If you have a website that gets 1000 views per day and you earn KES 500 per 1000 views, you would earn KES 500 per day.
Increasing your traffic to 2000 views per day would earn KES 1K per day. If you increase your traffic to 3000 views per day, you would earn KES 1500 per day, and so on.
So, as you can see, increasing your traffic can lead to making more money with AdSense.
Now, there are many ways to increase traffic to your website.
One of the most effective strategies is to focus on search engine optimization (SEO).
So, by optimizing your content for keywords and phrases that people are searching for, you can improve your website’s ranking in search results pages.
Another strategy is to leverage social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn.
These platforms allow you to share links to your content with a wider audience and engage with potential readers.
And by building a strong presence on social media, you can drive traffic back to your website and improve your AdSense earnings over time.
Withdrawing Your Earnings
Now that your site has started earning, how do you get the money?
a. How to Withdraw Money from Google Adsense in Kenya
Before withdrawing your AdSense earnings, you must hit the $100 (€70) threshold.
After that, you can withdraw money from Google AdSense in Kenya through Western Union in Kenya.
Here are the steps to withdraw money from Google AdSense in Kenya:
Open your Google AdSense account and go to the “Payments” section.
Manage your payment method through the “How You Get Paid” option.
Update your “Primary” payment method as Western Union.
Your all Google AdSense earnings will be sent on the 21st of every month.
Get a photocopy of your CNIC and write the MTCN number of your payment on your NIC copy.
Visit your nearest Post Office to withdraw Google AdSense payment
b. Best Payment Methods for Kenyan Adsense Earners
For Kenyan AdSense earners, choosing the best payment method is crucial to ensure a smooth and hassle-free payment process.
Currently, three main payment methods are available for Kenyan publishers: wire transfer, EFT transfer (Electronic Funds Transfer), and Western Union.
Wire transfer is a popular option among Kenyan AdSense users.
Google sends your earnings in US Dollars or Euros, depending on your account currency, via international bank transfer to the bank of your choice, and you get the money in the local currency of your bank account.
There is no fee for this service, but your bank may charge a fee for receiving the transfer.
EFT transfer provides an alternative to wire transfers, allowing you to receive your payments directly into your local bank account without any transaction fees.
Many Kenyan AdSense earners prefer this method due to its convenience and cost-effectiveness.
Lastly, Western Union can be used by those who do not have access to a bank account or prefer not to use one.
This method enables you to receive your payments in cash from any nearby Western Union branch.
However, it involves higher transaction fees compared to other methods and may not be suitable for large payouts.
Measuring Performance
If you want to earn more from Google AdSense in Kenya, you ought to know how your ads are performing!
a. Reviewing Your Ad Performance
This means taking a closer look at how well your ads are doing and making adjustments accordingly.
Regularly reviewing your ad performance can identify areas where you need to improve and make changes to optimize your earnings.
To review your ad performance on Google AdSense, start by analyzing your click-through rate (CTR), which is the number of clicks you receive divided by the number of impressions.
A low CTR could indicate that your ads aren’t attracting enough attention or aren’t relevant to your audience.
You should also take a look at the cost per click (CPC) and revenue per thousand impressions (RPM) to see how much money you’re earning from each ad.
Additionally, consider monitoring the placement and format of your ads.
Are they placed in prominent locations where users are likely to notice them?
Are they formatted in a way that’s visually appealing and easy to read?
Making these small tweaks can greatly improve your ad performance and ultimately increase your earnings from Google AdSense in Kenya.
b. Utilizing Google Analytics
Another one of the most important tools you can use to optimize your website for Google AdSense is Google Analytics.
Utilizing this powerful platform lets you track important metrics such as pageviews, bounce rates, and demographics.
This information will help you understand your audience better and tailor your content and ads to their interests.
Google Analytics also allows you to set up goals and monitor conversions.
You can track how many visitors complete a certain action on your website, such as signing up for a newsletter or purchasing.
This data is invaluable in analyzing your website’s design and content effectiveness.
In addition to tracking user behavior, Google Analytics can also help with SEO optimization.
You can monitor which keywords are driving traffic to your site and adjust your content accordingly.
With detailed reports on user behavior, demographics, conversion rates, and more, Google Analytics is an essential tool for anyone looking to earn from Google AdSense in Kenya or anywhere else in the world.
AdSense’s minimum payout is $100. However, the minimum payment threshold varies depending on the reporting currency in your account. For example, in the UK., the minimum payment is €70.
How long does it take to receive AdSense payments?
The AdSense payment cycle is monthly.
You accrue estimated earnings over the course of a month, and then at the beginning of the following month your earnings are finalized and posted to your account.
You’ll receive your payment up to seven business days after it was issued.
If you haven’t received it by the end of the month, follow up with your banking institution.
How do I link my bank account to AdSense in Kenya?
To link your bank account to Google AdSense in Kenya, sign in to your AdSense account and click on the “Payments” tab.
Then, click on “Add payment method” and enter your bank account information.
You will need your bank account number and their SWIFT code.
If you want this to be your primary payment method, select the “Set as primary” checkbox.
You can also add multiple payment methods to your account.
If you’ve been scouring the web for a lucrative online job in Kenya that pays by the hour, you’ve stumbled upon the perfect solution.
But, be warned, this is not your average tutorial.
In this article, I’ll reveal the innovative strategy I’ve personally implemented and achieved in under a month of launching my own business.
The secret to my success? Graphic design.
Don’t be intimidated; all you need to get started is a reliable laptop and a steady internet connection.
Let’s start off with a good understanding of graphics and design;
What is graphic design?
Graphics design is the art and practice of converting ideas into visually appealing content. With graphics design, you can move people through emotion, drive sales, and promote awareness of whatever you or your client wants.
Since AI is still struggling to beat human graphics designers, there is still a large market gap for you to fill especially if you are in Kenya.
With the right marketing technique, you will be working for numerous clients in your own time.
Of course, just like affiliate marketing, you will have exceptional graphics and design skills for you to convert first-time clients into recurrent clients.
How do I start graphics and design in Kenya?
Starting this business is very simple.
You will need a laptop or a desktop PC, a good internet connection, relevant software needed for graphics design, and a bunch of YouTube videos that will introduce you to the concept of creating visually stunning images, logos, posters, GUIs, etc.
Importance of having a niche in graphics design
In today’s competitive world of graphic design, having a niche can set you apart from the rest of the crowd.
A niche is a specific area of focus within the broad field of graphic design, and it can be anything from branding and identity design to motion graphics or web design.
The importance of having a niche in graphic design cannot be overstated, and in this article, we will explore why.
a). Establish yourself as an expert
First and foremost, having a niche helps you to establish yourself as an expert in that area.
When you focus on a specific area of graphic design, you can delve deeper into it, learn everything there is to know, and become an authority on the subject.
This enhances your credibility and reputation and makes you more attractive to potential clients looking for a specialist in that field.
b). Tailor your portfolio
Secondly, having a niche enables you to tailor your portfolio and marketing efforts to a specific audience.
For example, if your niche is branding and identity design, you can create a portfolio that showcases your expertise in that area, highlighting your ability to create unique and effective brand identities for businesses.
This allows you to attract clients who are specifically looking for those skills, rather than being a jack-of-all-trades who appeals to no one in particular.
c). Charge more
Thirdly, having a niche allows you to charge higher rates for your services.
When you specialize in a particular area, you are providing a higher level of expertise than a generalist designer.
This means that you can command a higher fee for your services, as clients are willing to pay more for someone who is a specialist in their field.
d). Stay motivated
Finally, having a niche helps you to stay motivated and engaged in your work.
Focusing on a specific area of graphic design that you are passionate about can fuel your creativity and keep you excited about your work.
You are more likely to enjoy what you do, which can positively impact the quality of your work and your overall satisfaction in your career.
Examples of profitable niches in graphic design
Several niches in graphic design can be quite profitable for designers. Here are some examples:
Logo Design: Logo design is a popular niche that can be quite lucrative. Companies of all sizes require logos to establish their brand identity. If you have a talent for creating unique, memorable logos, you can charge a premium for your services.
Web Design: Web design is another niche that can be very profitable. As more and more businesses move online, the demand for skilled web designers continues to grow. Designers specializing in creating user-friendly, visually appealing websites can charge top dollar for their services.
Packaging Design: Packaging design is a niche that can be quite lucrative for designers. Companies need eye-catching packaging to help their products stand out on store shelves. Designers who can create attractive and functional packaging can make a significant income.
Branding: Branding is an essential aspect of business that encompasses everything from logos and packaging to advertising campaigns and social media presence. Graphic designers specializing in branding can help businesses create a cohesive image across all channels, making them a valuable asset to their clients.
Illustration: Illustration is a niche that can be quite profitable for designers who have a talent for creating unique, eye-catching visuals. Illustrators can create artwork for books, magazines, advertisements, and more, making it a versatile niche with a lot of opportunities.
Infographics: Infographics are a popular way to convey complex information visually appealingly. Graphic designers who specialize in creating infographics can help businesses and organizations communicate complex data in a way that is easy to understand, making it a niche with a lot of potential for growth.
Motion Graphics: Motion graphics are becoming increasingly popular in video marketing, social media, and other digital channels. Designers specializing in creating dynamic, visually appealing animations and videos can charge high fees for their services.
Computer requirements for graphics design in Kenya
To ensure that your computer or laptop performs optimally with graphics design software, here are the minimum requirement specifications;
Processor: Intel or AMD processor with 64-bit support; 2 GHz or faster processor
Operating system: Microsoft Windows 7/10/11 (64-bit) version 1809 or later; macOS version 10.14 (Mojave) or later
RAM: 8 GB or more recommended. 4GB can also work but nothing less
Hard disk space: 4 GB of available hard-disk space; additional space is required for installation
Graphics card: GPU with DirectX 12 support, 2 GB of GPU memory
Internet connection: Internet connection is necessary for required access to online services e.g., freepik.com
Software requirements for graphics design in Kenya;
Graphics & Design has many avenues. Below is a list of all avenues of graphics design and relevant software needed.
Print design: This includes designing graphics and layouts for printed materials such as books, magazines, brochures, and business cards. Adobe InDesign is the best software for this.
Web design includes designing graphics and layouts for websites and web applications. Relevant software includes Adobe Dreamweaver, Adobe XD, Figma, and Sketch.
UI/UX design involves designing digital products’ interface and user experience such as websites, apps, and software. Relevant software includes Adobe XD, Sketch, and Figma.
Motion graphics: This involves creating moving graphics and animations for videos and other digital media. Relevant software includes Adobe After Effects, Apple Motion, and Blender.
3D design involves creating 3D models and visualizations for games, movies, and other digital media. Relevant software includes Autodesk 3ds Max, Blender, and Cinema 4D.
Branding and identity design involves creating visual elements such as logos, colour palettes, and typography representing a brand or business. Relevant software includes Adobe Illustrator, Adobe InDesign, Adobe Photoshop (PSD) and sketch.
As you can see, there are many avenues for aspiring graphics design. We will focus on the last one mentioned here; Branding and identity design.
Why?
This is because it’s the easiest to learn and has the highest market as compared to the other avenues.
Note, however, that other avenues, despite having a limited Kenyan market, may have a higher earning ratio than our choice in this article.
For branding and identity design, you will need Adobe Illustrator and Adobe Photoshop.
Get the free versions from the getintopc website.
Download and install the software.
How do you learn graphics design in less than a week?
As I said earlier, you will need to watch several YouTube videos from well-established designers and practice what they teach.
To start you off here is a good introduction tutorial:
After watching and implementing what you learn for an entire week, you will notice that your skills are improving gradually.
At this level, you can replicate what other designers have made.
To improve your creativity, you will need to keep a constant schedule for designing, even if you don’t have a client. Just do it for the sake of learning.
You will have a client with ridiculous demands but high pay in a few days.
If you stick to improving your creativity, you’ll be grateful you took the time on learning.
Now that you have learnt how to do graphics designing, you will need to build your client base. Keep reading.
How to get your first graphics design client in Kenya
Since no one knows you or your brand, you will need to set up a portfolio, prop up professional social media and have people promoting your gig online.
Follow the guidelines below to the latter:
#1. Offer free services to your first 5-10 clients
As you start, people have to know that you offer exceptional services.
Contact friends or family that may be having organizations that require posters, logos, brochures or business cards.
Offer them free design services for one product in exchange for their endorsement on their platforms, i.e., social media and their websites.
In no time, their audience will be intrigued by your beautiful designs and they will most definitely reach out. At this level, you can now charge them.
It is crucial to start charging affordable fees so that you don’t push away potential clients.
KES 3,000/$30 may be a bit higher for a starting brand. Consider charging between KES 500/$5 and KES 1,000/$10.
As your clientele grows, you will then be able to increase your service fees.
#2. Set up your own portfolio
To build trust, you will need to set up a professional portfolio. The most important social media sites for this include:
Facebook
Instagram
Twitter
LinkedIn
Further, if you have money to invest into a good portfolio website, consider using WordPress Content Management System (CMS).
Tips for building a strong portfolio
Creating a strong portfolio is essential for any graphic designer in Kenya looking to attract new clients and showcase their skills.
A portfolio is a collection of a designer’s best works that demonstrates their range, style, and capabilities.
Here are some tips to help you:
Start with a clear focus: Determine the purpose of your portfolio and what you want to achieve with it. Whether it is to showcase your skills to potential clients, apply for a job, or demonstrate your range of work, your portfolio should have a clear focus.
Show your range: Including a diverse range of projects in your portfolio can demonstrate your versatility and showcase your skills. Don’t be afraid to show off a range of styles, techniques, and mediums.
Choose your best work: Including only your best work in your portfolio is essential. Choose projects that demonstrate your unique style and showcase your skills. Quality over quantity is key.
Tell a story: Your portfolio should tell a story of your skills, achievements, and progress. Organize your work in a way that flows well and showcases your best work first.
Provide context: Provide context for each project, such as the client’s brief, your role, and the design process. This can help potential clients and employers understand your skills and thought process.
Keep it up-to-date: Keep your portfolio up-to-date with your latest work. Regularly updating your portfolio can demonstrate your commitment to your craft and keep it relevant.
Include your contact information: Make it easy for potential clients to get in touch with you by including your contact information. This can include your email address, phone number, and social media handles.
Seek feedback: Seeking feedback from other designers or mentors can help you identify areas for improvement and make your portfolio stronger.
#3. Understand your client’s needs and know how to charge them
Different clients will respond differently to the prices you set.
I have previously run ads on Facebook but lost all clients due to unreasonably high service fees.
Typically, forex traders looking to start training novices are usually willing to part with up to KES 5,000/$45 for a logo design and up to KES 3,000/$26 for posters. (These figures may vary)
Other clients e.g., MSMEs will be comfortable with price ranges of around KES 1,000 – KES 2,000 for both posters and logos.
#4. Learn how to manage and run a business successfully
Since all startups are fragile, it is crucial to understand the tips for a successful business in Kenya.
These include
Practising Financial Discipline
Maintaining consistency in your designs and social media updates
Avoid hiking prices just because you think an organization is big. Do background research first
Meet the right people – Connect with other designers and find out what they are doing that you are not.
Understand your target market, as explained earlier
Marketing Strategies for Finding Graphic Design Clients Online in Kenya
Without clients, you won’t be making any money.
To help you out, here are some effective marketing strategies for finding graphic design clients online in Kenya.
Create a professional website
Having a professional website is an excellent way to showcase your work and attract potential clients.
Your website should be easy to navigate and visually appealing, with a portfolio of your work and a clear description of the services you offer.
Be sure to include your contact information so that potential clients can reach you easily.
Use social media
Social media platforms like Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook can be powerful tools for finding new clients.
Use these platforms to showcase your work, share industry-related news and tips, and engage with potential clients.
You can also use paid advertising on these platforms to target potential clients in Kenya who are interested in graphic design.
Participate in online forums
There are many online forums and communities where graphic designers and clients discuss their work and share ideas.
Participating in these forums can help you build your reputation as an expert in your field and attract new clients.
Be sure to share your work and offer helpful advice to other members of the community.
Network with other professionals
Networking with other professionals in your industry can help you find new clients and grow your business.
Attend industry events, join professional organizations, and connect with other graphic designers, marketers, and business owners in Kenya.
These connections can lead to new opportunities and collaborations.
Offer excellent customer service
Offering excellent customer service is crucial to building long-term relationships with your clients.
Be responsive to their needs, provide regular updates on their projects, and deliver high-quality work on time.
Happy clients are more likely to refer you to their network and give you repeat business.
How to set your rates as a graphics designer in Kenya
As a graphic designer in Kenya, you want to be competitive and attract clients while also valuing your time and skills.
Here are some steps you can take to set your rates and be paid what you deserve.
Research the market
Do some research to see what other graphic designers in Kenya are charging for their services.
Look at their portfolios and experience levels to see how they compare to your own.
This will give you a better idea of what clients are willing to pay and what you should charge for your services.
Determine how many hours you can work in a week and how much you want to make per hour.
This will help you set a baseline for your rates.
Consider your experience and expertise
Your experience and expertise will also play a role in setting your rates.
You can charge more for your services if you have a lot of experience and a portfolio of successful projects.
If you are just starting, you may need to charge lower rates to attract clients and build your portfolio.
Determine your value proposition
What sets you apart from other graphic designers in Kenya?
What unique skills or experience do you bring to the table?
Determine your value proposition and use it to justify your rates.
Clients are often willing to pay more for high-quality work and unique expertise.
Be transparent with your clients
Be transparent with your clients about your rates and what they include.
Let them know what they can expect from your services and what additional costs they may incur.
This will help build trust and ensure that both parties are on the same page.
Common mistakes to avoid when starting a graphics design business in Kenya
Starting a graphics design business in Kenya can be an exciting and challenging venture.
As with any new business, there are some common mistakes that you should avoid to ensure success.
Here are some of the most common mistakes to avoid
Not having a business plan
One of the most common mistakes new graphic design business owners make is not having a business plan.
A business plan outlines your goals, target market, marketing strategies, financial projections, and more.
Without a business plan, it’s challenging to stay focused and make informed decisions.
Not having a niche
Another mistake is not having a niche.
A niche is a specific area of expertise within the graphics design industry.
Focusing on a particular niche, such as branding or web design, can help you stand out from competitors and attract clients who need your specialized skills.
Undercharging or overcharging for services
Setting your rates too low can make it challenging to cover your expenses, while setting them too high can make it difficult to attract clients.
Research the average rates for graphic design services in Kenya and adjust your rates accordingly based on your skills and experience.
Not having a professional portfolio
A professional portfolio is critical for attracting clients and showcasing your skills.
Make sure your portfolio is well-organized, up-to-date, and showcases your best work.
You can showcase your portfolio online platforms such as Behance or Dribbble.
Not marketing effectively
Marketing is crucial for growing your graphics design business.
Many new business owners make the mistake of not investing enough time and effort into marketing their business.
Develop a marketing plan that includes online and offline strategies to reach potential clients and build your brand.
Not having a professional network
Networking is an essential part of building a successful graphics design business.
Join professional organizations and attend industry events to meet other professionals in your field.
These connections can lead to collaborations, referrals, and new business opportunities.
Conclusion
A single graphics design service takes around 1-2 hours to complete.
If you have 10 clients per month and charge them KES 3,000 per design, you will make around KES 30,000 monthly.
Freelance writing in Kenya can be a great way to earn extra income.
It is also a flexible job that allows you to work from home.
But it’s not for everyone. Here are 9 signs that freelance writing is not for you:
1). You Don’t Like Writing
This one seems pretty obvious, but freelance writing in Kenya is probably not the right career choice if you don’t like writing.
While some aspects of freelance writing don’t involve actual writing (such as marketing and networking), most of your time will be spent creating content. If you’re not passionate about writing, likely, you won’t enjoy this line of work.
This includes being able to write clearly and concisely, as well as having good grammar and punctuation skills. If you don’t feel confident in producing high-quality written content, then freelancing might not be the right path for you.
3). You Don’t Like Working Alone
Freelance writing can be a lonely profession. If you prefer working in an office environment or enjoy collaborative projects, then freelance writing might not be the best fit for you.
This job requires spending long hours alone at your computer, so it’s important to make sure that you’re comfortable with this type of work setup before getting started.
4). You Struggle With Self-Discipline
Working from home can be great, but it also requires a high level of self-discipline.
If you have trouble staying focused and motivated when working independently, then freelancing might not be your best option.
Without someone else to hold you accountable, it’s easy to fall behind or get sidetracked when working from home.
If you lack motivation, succeeding as a freelance writer will be difficult.
It takes a lot of self-discipline to work from home and meet deadlines. If you don’t think you can motivate yourself, then consider another line of work.
9). You Don’t Like Criticism
As a freelance writer, you will receive feedback from clients and editors.
If you can’t handle criticism, finding another line of work is best.
Over the last two weeks, I’ve been doing an intense amount of research on freelance writing in Kenya.
If you haven’t heard about it yet (or are just in denial), we live in a world where technology has drastically changed our lives and work habits — especially for people who do online-based business or don’t have one at all!
And because more and more businesses want to engage with their audiences through content marketing, there’s now a demand for good writers that can create quality articles consistently.
If you’re thinking about becoming a freelance writer in Kenya, I want to give you a heads up on some of the challenges that come with it. Keep in mind this is not an exhaustive list but more like things to keep in mind as you pursue writing for clients!
1). Time Management/Burnout
When first starting out as a freelance writer, one of my biggest concerns was how much work would be required and if I could actually handle it all while maintaining some sort of social life or “me time”.
The truth is that being your own boss has its pros and cons — one major downside is that there’s no set schedule telling you when to start working or take breaks.
This can quickly lead to burnout if you’re not careful because let’s face it, we only have so many hours in a day!
While there are ways to combat this (like setting realistic goals), ultimately it will require self-discipline on your part since no one else is going to enforce any type of structure for you.
2). Unpredictable Income
Another big challenge with freelancing is having an unpredictable income which can make budgeting quite difficult at times…especially when bills need to be paid!
In general, most writers charge by either the word count or project basis but sometimes these rates may vary depending on who the client is and what kind of content they need to be created.
There will also likely be months where work dries up completely due mainly due to seasonal changes or current events happening in the world which makes financial stability somewhat challenging to achieve.
If saving money isn’t something that comes naturally to you, then freelancing might now be the ideal career choice right off bat just yet…
3). Marketing/Sales
As a freelance writer, you are essentially running your own business which means that in addition to writing quality content, you also need to be good at marketing and sales.
This includes everything from networking with potential clients, setting up an online portfolio or website, and creating social media accounts to help promote your work.
If the thought of self-promotion makes you cringe, then being successful as a freelancer may prove to be more difficult than anticipated.
4). Isolation/Loneliness
Work can quickly become very isolating when working from home all day long with little human interaction…which is why it is important to find ways to create some sort of structure for yourself whether that’s joining a co-working space or making sure to take breaks throughout the day go outside.
It’s also beneficial to try to connect with other writers so that way can share resources and advice with one another.
Luckily, there are plenty of online communities (and even local meetups) dedicated specifically to freelance professionals!
5). Technology Issues/Dependency
Nowadays we rely on technology quite heavily in both our personal lives and professional ones too… but what happens when something goes wrong?
As frustrating as it may be to deal with technical difficulties while trying to get work done, this is, unfortunately, a part package deal when working digitally.
Whether the computer crashes in the middle of typing up an article or the internet connection cuts out right before submitting a finished draft client, these types of mishaps are bound to happen at some point in time no matter how prepared think you might be…
In situations like these, just roll a deep breath and try to remember what life was like in the pre-internet age (gasp!).
6). Isolation/Loneliness
One of the great things about working from home is that you can set your own hours and work in a comfortable environment… but this also means that you can feel isolated working alone all day.
It is important to find ways to connect with other people, whether it be through social media, networking events, or even just scheduling regular coffee dates with friends.
When work is coming in consistently, it can be tempting to try to squeeze too much into each day and take on more projects than you should…
This often leads to overworking and burning out which affects not only productivity but the quality of the work as well!
Learning how to manage time efficiently is key for any freelancer wanting to maintain a healthy lifestyle balance while still being able to deliver great results to clients.
8). Self-Doubt/Impostor Syndrome
It’s not uncommon for people who are self-employed to feel like impostors even if they’ve been in the game for years… After all, when the work environment is constantly changing and you don’t have anyone looking over your shoulder, it can be easy to fall into the trap of thinking you aren’t good enough or that everyone out there knows more than do.
Remembering why you decided to become a freelance writer in the first place is key to combating these negative thoughts.
When you start questioning yourself too much, just take a break and sit down to think about all progress made so far—it’ll soon become clear how far really come!
9). Handling Rejection
In any field, but especially ones where work is public-facing like writing, hearing “no” part of the gig…
And while it never feels good to be rejected, getting used to the idea that not everyone will love everything you write is important in learning how to handle criticism gracefully.
If you start taking rejections too personally then you might want to reconsider whether freelance writing is the right fit—after all, this business model isn’t for everyone!
Final Thoughts
Becoming a freelance writer in Kenya can be a great way to make money while working from home—but it’s not without its challenges! Be sure to keep these 9 things in mind as you pursue writing clients.
This is where you listen to an audio file and type out what is being said. This can be anything from an interview to a speech.
b). Data Entry
A data entry job involves entering information into a database or spreadsheet. This could be anything from customer details to product prices.
d). Copywriting
Copywriting is where you write marketing materials such as sales letters and website content. This can be for a specific product or service or just general copywriting.
e). E-book Creation
This involves typing out an e-book that will be sold online. This could be on any topic, from cooking to self-help.
f). Editing and Proofreading
Editing and proofreading involve checking documents for errors and making corrections. This could be anything from a school essay to a business report.
g). Web Content Creation
This is where you create content for websites, such as blog posts or product descriptions.
Now, many different companies offer online typing jobs, so there’s sure to be something that fits your skills and interests. To get started, follow these steps.
Step 1: Identify a typing skill you will enjoy or have experience in
One of the best things about online typing jobs is that there are so many different types to choose from. This means that you can find something that suits your skills and interests.
If you are not sure what type of job would be right for you, think about the skills and experiences you already have.
For example, an audio transcription job might be a good fit if you’re a fast typist. Or, if you have experience with sales and marketing, then a copywriting job might be perfect.
Step 2: Find a reputable typing job site.
Once you know what type of job you want to do, it’s time to start looking for companies that offer them. The best way to do this is by searching online.
A good place to start is by searching for “online typing jobs in Kenya” or “data entry jobs in Kenya”. This will give you a list of companies that offer these types of positions.
Another great way to find companies is through online job boards such as Upwork, Freelancer, and Fiverr.
These websites allow you to search for specific types of jobs and have ratings and reviews from other freelancers. This can help you weed out any unreliable or low-paying clients.
Once you’ve found some promising companies, it’s time to start applying for the positions.
When doing this, be sure to create a strong application.
Your application should include a resume, cover letter, and work samples (if available).
This will give the employer a good idea of your skills and experience. It’s also important to be clear about what type of job you’re looking for, as this will help them match you with the right position.
Remember, if you use freelancing sites like Upwork, you must create a complete profile.
This should include your work history, education, and skills. The more convincing your profile is, the more likely you are to get hired.
Step 4: Start working and earning money
Once you’ve accepted a position, it is time to start working and earn some money!
Be sure to read the job description carefully and only accept assignments you’re confident you can do.
Be sure to complete your work accurately and on time.
This will help you build a good reputation with your clients and help you get more work in the future.
While doing the work, strive to give more than you are paid to increase your chances of being retained and/or getting more assignments from the client.
