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99Designs Tips For Nigerians (2026)

3 min read
TL;DR

The article offers practical tips for Nigerian freelancers using 99designs to enhance their income through global opportunities. Key strategies include creating a strong profile and portfolio, thoroughly understanding client briefs, presenting unique design concepts, and submitting multiple options in contests to increase chances of success. Networking and building relationships are also emphasized as essential for long-term growth in the freelancing space.

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As a Nigerian freelancer, leveraging global platforms like 99designs can significantly boost your income, especially in foreign currencies. This article provides actionable tips and strategies tailored specifically for Nigerian designers looking to thrive on 99designs.

Understanding the 99designs Platform

99designs is a crowdsourcing platform that connects designers with clients seeking creative services, primarily in logo design, web design, and branding. Here’s how to get started:

  1. Create a Strong Profile: Your profile is your first impression. Include a professional profile picture, a compelling bio that highlights your skills, and link to your portfolio. This helps build trust with potential clients.
  2. Portfolio Development: Showcase your best work. Ensure your portfolio reflects a variety of styles and projects to attract diverse clients. Aim to include at least 5-10 strong pieces that highlight your design skills.

Participating in Contests Effectively

Contests are a significant aspect of 99designs. Here are tips on how to compete successfully:

  1. Read the Brief Thoroughly: Before you start designing, ensure you understand the client's needs. Pay attention to their preferences, target audience, and any specific requirements they mention.
  2. Present Unique Concepts: Stand out by offering unique design ideas rather than following trends. For instance, if the client requests a logo for a tech startup, consider incorporating innovative design elements that reflect technology.
  3. Provide Multiple Options: Submit at least three different concepts to give clients choices. This increases your chances of winning the contest as clients appreciate variety.

Networking and Building Relationships

Building connections is crucial in any freelancing career. Here’s how to network effectively on 99designs:

  1. Engage with Other Designers: Join community forums and participate in discussions. Sharing insights and experiences can lead to referrals and collaborations.
  2. Seek Feedback: After completing contests or projects, ask clients for feedback. Positive reviews boost your profile and attract more clients.
  3. Follow Up with Clients: After a successful project, consider reaching out to clients for future work. A simple message thanking them for their business can lead to repeat clients.

Utilizing Payment Platforms

Since PayPal is not an option for Nigerian freelancers, it's essential to know the best alternatives for receiving payments from 99designs:

  1. Set Up a Payoneer Account: Payoneer is widely accepted and allows you to receive payments in USD. Follow these steps:
    • Visit the Payoneer website and sign up for an account.
    • Complete the verification process, which requires your National Identification Number (NIN).
    • Link your Payoneer account to your bank account for easy fund transfers.
    • Once set up, you can withdraw your earnings directly from your Payoneer account.
  2. Explore Other Options: Consider using Grey.co, Wise, Chipper Cash, or Geegpay as alternatives for receiving payments, depending on your preference and convenience.

Improving Your Skills and Staying Relevant

The design industry is ever-evolving, so continuous improvement is key to staying competitive:

  1. Invest in Online Courses: Platforms like Udemy, Coursera, or LinkedIn Learning offer courses on the latest design trends and software. Consider courses on Adobe Creative Suite, UX/UI design, or typography.
  2. Follow Design Trends: Stay updated with the latest design trends by following design blogs and influencers. Websites like Behance and Dribbble can provide inspiration and insight into current design aesthetics.
  3. Practice Regularly: Dedicate time each week to practice new techniques or work on personal projects. This helps refine your skills and keeps your portfolio fresh.

In conclusion, succeeding as a Nigerian freelancer on 99designs requires a combination of strategic planning, skill enhancement, and effective networking. By following these tips, you can increase your chances of winning contests, build lasting client relationships, and ultimately earn a sustainable income in dollars. Start implementing these strategies today and watch your freelancing career flourish!

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Frequently Asked Questions

To create a standout portfolio on 99designs, focus on showcasing your best work that aligns with the platform's popular design categories. Include a variety of styles and projects to demonstrate your versatility. Use high-quality images and write clear descriptions for each project, explaining your design process and the challenges you overcame. Additionally, consider creating a personal brand that reflects your unique style and cultural influences, which can attract clients looking for diverse perspectives.
To effectively market your services on 99designs, start by optimizing your profile with a professional photo and a compelling bio that highlights your skills and experience. Participate actively in design contests to gain visibility and feedback. Engage with clients through comments and questions to showcase your communication skills. Utilize social media to share your designs and link back to your 99designs profile, and consider offering limited-time promotions or discounts for first-time clients to encourage them to choose you.
Winning design contests on 99designs requires understanding the client's brief thoroughly. Start by researching the client's brand and target audience. Create multiple concepts to provide options, and ensure your designs are unique and innovative. Pay attention to feedback and be willing to make revisions based on client suggestions. Additionally, use mockups to present your designs in real-world contexts, which can help clients visualize the final product. Lastly, be prompt in your submissions and maintain clear communication with the client throughout the contest.

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Chidi Okonkwo

Senior Freelancer & Remote Work Consultant

With 6+ years of freelancing experience and over $120,000 earned from Fiverr, Upwork, and direct clients, I share everything I've learned.

Top Rated Upwork Fiverr Pro Seller 500+ Projects
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