How Online Writing is Done in Kenya: Tips & Insights

Online writing in Kenya has revolutionized the way we communicate and share information in today’s digital age.

Whether you’re an aspiring writer or a seasoned professional, understanding the principles and best practices of online writing is crucial to engage readers and create impactful content.

In this article, we’ll explore how online writing is done in Kenya, including tips for effective writing, differences between online and academic writing, and strategies for acquiring online writing clients.

Writing for the Web: Best Practices

When it comes to writing for the web, there are several key principles to keep in mind to ensure your content resonates with online readers in Kenya and beyond.

Write for the Web

Online readers have limited attention spans and tend to scan rather than read every word.

To grab their attention, make your writing clear, concise, and easy to scan.

Break down complex information into easily digestible chunks and use headings and subheadings to guide readers through your content.

Use Short Paragraphs and Sentences

Long blocks of text can be overwhelming for online readers.

Break up your content into short paragraphs and sentences to improve readability and make it easier for readers to find the information they’re looking for.

This approach helps maintain reader engagement throughout the piece.

Utilize Headings and Subheadings

Headings and subheadings serve as signposts, allowing readers to quickly navigate your content and locate the specific information they seek.

Use clear and descriptive headings to provide a glimpse into the content under each section, making it easier for readers to grasp the main ideas at a glance.

Incorporate Visuals

Incorporating images, infographics, and videos into your online writing can enhance the overall reading experience.

Visuals break up the text, making it more visually appealing and engaging. They can also help clarify complex concepts and convey information in a more accessible manner.

Active Voice and Clarity

Active voice brings your writing to life, making it more engaging and impactful.

Opt for active voice over passive voice to put the subject of your sentence in the spotlight and ensure clarity.

For example, instead of saying, “The ball was thrown by the boy,” say, “The boy threw the ball.”

This simple switch creates a more vibrant and concise sentence.

Proofread Your Work

Before publishing your online writing, take the time to proofread it meticulously.

Ensure there are no grammar, spelling, or punctuation errors that could detract from your message.

A polished and error-free piece not only leaves a positive impression on readers but also demonstrates your professionalism and attention to detail.

Types of Online Writing in Kenya

Online writing encompasses various forms and genres, each catering to different purposes and audiences.

Here are some common types of online writing in Kenya:

Blog Posts

Blog posts are short, informal articles published regularly on a blog.

They provide a platform to share personal thoughts, ideas, and experiences with a broad audience.

Blogging offers a creative outlet and allows you to engage with readers, build an audience, and promote your work or brand.

I’ll give you a snippet on how to write a blog post in a minute.

Web Articles

Web articles are more formal and longer pieces of writing published on websites.

They cover a wide range of topics, including news, current events, personal essays, and product reviews.

Web articles often require extensive research and adherence to specific guidelines provided by the website or publication.

Copywriting

Copywriting involves crafting persuasive and compelling text with the aim of selling products or services.

It plays a crucial role in advertising and marketing materials, such as website copy, product descriptions, and promotional emails.

Copywriting requires a keen understanding of consumer psychology and effective communication techniques.

Technical Writing

Technical writing focuses on creating clear and concise instructions to explain the use of products or services.

It is commonly used in user manuals, software documentation, and technical guides.

Technical writing requires a thorough understanding of the subject matter and the ability to communicate complex information in a user-friendly manner.

And often involves breaking down complex processes or concepts into step-by-step instructions.

Social Media Posts

Social media posts are short, informal messages shared on social media platforms like Twitter, Facebook, and LinkedIn.

They are an effective way to connect with your audience, share snippets of information, and promote your online content.

Social media writing requires concise and engaging writing to capture attention in a fast-paced, highly competitive environment.

Example: How to craft a perfect blog post for clients

As promised, here are the steps on how to write a blog post:

1. Brainstorm a topic. What do you want to write about? What are you passionate about? What do you know a lot about? Once you have a topic, start brainstorming some ideas.
2. Do your research. Once you have a topic, it’s important to do your research. This will help you to write a well-informed and informative blog post.
3. Create an outline. An outline will help you to organize your thoughts and ideas. It will also help you to make sure that your blog post is well-structured.
4. Write your first draft. Don’t worry about making it perfect at this stage. Just get your thoughts down on paper (or on the screen).
5. Edit and revise. Once you have a first draft, it’s time to edit and revise your work. This is where you’ll polish your writing and make sure that it’s error-free.
6. Promote your blog post. Once you’re happy with your blog post, it’s time to promote it. Share it on social media, email it to your subscribers, or submit it to relevant websites and directories.

And as you write, keep the following tips on mind:

• Write for your audience. Who are you writing for? What are their interests? What do they want to know? Keep your audience in mind as you write your blog post.
• Use clear and concise language. Your blog post should be easy to read and understand. Use simple language and avoid jargon.
• Use strong visuals. Images, videos, and infographics can help to break up your text and make your blog post more visually appealing.
• Proofread your work carefully. Before you hit publish, proofread your work carefully for any grammar, spelling, or punctuation errors.

Simple, right?

Online Writing vs. Academic Writing in Kenya

While online writing and academic writing share similarities in terms of language and structure, they differ significantly in purpose, audience, tone, and style.

Online Writing

Online writing aims to share information, ideas, or experiences with a wide audience in an accessible and engaging manner.

It is often informal and conversational, allowing writers to connect with readers on a personal level.

The tone can vary depending on the context, ranging from lighthearted and humorous to informative and professional.

Read also:

• How To Start Online Writing in Kenya

Academic Writing

Academic writing, on the other hand, is a more formal style of writing used in scholarly contexts.

It is intended to communicate ideas and findings to a specialized audience, such as scholars and academics.

Academic writing tends to be objective, precise, and structured, focusing on supporting arguments or theories with evidence. It follows specific citation and referencing styles, such as APA, MLA, or Chicago style.

Read also:

• Cost of Academic Writing Accounts in Kenya
• 10 Best Paying Academic Writing Accounts in Kenya
• Online Academic Writing in Kenya: What To Know

Here’s a summary of the key differences between online writing and academic writing in Kenya:

Feature	Online Writing	Academic Writing
Purpose	Share information, ideas, or experiences with a wide audience	Communicate ideas and findings in a scholarly context
Audience	General public	Scholars and academics
Tone	Informal and conversational	Formal and objective
Structure	Less structured, more free-flowing	More structured, with a clear introduction, body, and conclusion
Style	Varies depending on the purpose of the writing	Typically uses APA, MLA, or Chicago style

How to Get Online Writing Clients in Kenya

Acquiring online writing clients in Kenya requires a proactive approach and strategic networking. Here are some effective strategies to connect with potential clients in Kenya:

Build a Strong Portfolio

Creating a compelling portfolio is essential to showcase your writing skills and expertise.

Develop a professional website or blog where you can display your best writing samples.

Alternatively, you can submit your work to online writing portfolios or platforms that allow you to showcase your talent and attract potential clients.

Network with Other Writers

Connecting with fellow writers in your field can provide valuable insights and opportunities.

Join online writing communities, participate in forums, and engage in social media groups related to writing.

Building relationships with other writers can lead to referrals and collaborations, opening doors to new clients and projects.

Seek Job Postings

Various websites list online writing jobs specific to Kenya. Regularly check job boards and freelance platforms to find opportunities that align with your expertise and interests.

Social media platforms and online classifieds may also feature job postings relevant to online writing.

Read also: 6 Best Platforms to Create Writing Accounts in Kenya

Pitch Your Ideas

If you come across a website or blog that resonates with your writing style and interests, don’t hesitate to pitch your ideas to the editors or website owners.

Craft a compelling pitch highlighting your unique perspective and how your content can benefit their audience.

Personalize your pitches and demonstrate a clear understanding of the website’s content and target readership.

Start Your Own Blog

If you’re having difficulty finding online writing work, consider starting your own blog. This not only allows you to showcase your writing skills but also provides a platform to share your expertise and interests.

Consistently publishing high-quality content on your blog can attract readers and potential clients who appreciate your writing style and expertise.

Utilize Social Media

Social media platforms offer an excellent opportunity to promote your writing and connect with potential clients.

Share your writing samples, engage with industry-related discussions, and establish your online presence. Join relevant groups and follow organizations or individuals in your niche to expand your network and visibility.

Be Patient and Persistent

Building a successful online writing career takes time and perseverance. Don’t get discouraged if you don’t land clients immediately.

Keep refining your skills, networking, and promoting your work. Consistency and dedication are key to attracting clients and establishing a reputable online writing business.

Remember, maintaining professionalism, delivering high-quality work, and meeting deadlines are crucial aspects of building long-term relationships with clients.

Read also:

• #10 EASY Ways to Find Online Writing Jobs That Pay Well in Kenya
• Online Writing Jobs in Kenya That Pay via MPESA Instantly

How Much to Charge for Writing Services in Kenya

Determining your rates as an online writer in Kenya can be challenging.

It’s important to strike a balance between your worth as a writer and the prevailing rates in the industry.

To give you an idea, here are some average rates for freelance writers in Kenya:

• Entry-level: KSh 200-500 per hour
• Intermediate: KSh 500-1,000 per hour
• Experienced: KSh 1,000-2,000 per hour
• Expert: KSh 2,000-3,000 per hour

Of course, these are just averages. You may be able to charge more or less depending on your specific circumstances.

Either way, consider the following factors when deciding your pricing:

Research Industry Rates

Start by researching the prevailing rates in the online writing industry in Kenya. This will give you a general idea of what clients are willing to pay for various types of writing projects.

Be aware of the market rates, but also consider your experience, expertise, and the value you bring to clients.

Calculate Your Time and Effort

Consider the time and effort required to complete a writing project. Factors such as research, topic complexity, word count, and revisions should be taken into account.

Assess the project’s scope and allocate a reasonable amount of time to complete it successfully.

Set an Hourly or Project-Based Rate

You can choose to charge clients either an hourly rate or a project-based fee.

Hourly rates can be beneficial when working on projects with variable workloads or ongoing assignments.

Project-based fees are suitable for well-defined projects with clear deliverables.

Consider Additional Factors

Take into account any additional factors that may influence your pricing. For instance, rush projects, specialized knowledge, or the need for extensive research may justify higher rates.

It’s essential to communicate these factors to clients to ensure mutual understanding and agreement on pricing.

Negotiate and Adjust

Be open to negotiation, especially when starting out. Clients may have different budget constraints, so be flexible and willing to adjust your rates accordingly.

However, ensure that your rates reflect the value of your work and expertise.

Remember, periodically evaluating your rates and adjusting them based on your experience, demand, and market changes is necessary to sustain your online writing business.

In Conclusion

Online writing in Kenya offers exciting opportunities for writers to connect with a vast audience, share valuable information, and build a successful career.

And by adhering to best practices, understanding the nuances of different writing forms, and adopting effective strategies to acquire clients, you can thrive as an online writer in Kenya.

Keep refining your skills, stay proactive, and continuously explore new avenues to expand your reach and impact.

With dedication and persistence, you can establish yourself as a reputable and sought-after online writer in the dynamic digital landscape.

Read also:

• How Much Does Online Writing Pay in Kenya?
• How to Create an Online Writing Account in Kenya