Why Most Kenyan Freelancers Fail (And How to Succeed)
Introduction
Freelancing looks easy from the outside. Post your skill online. Get clients. Get paid. But that’s not the full story. The truth is, many freelancers in Kenya struggle. Some give up after a few months. Others work for years with little to show. So let’s talk honestly about why Kenyan freelancers fail—and what you can do differently to succeed.
Reason 1: They Try to Do Everything
Most beginners start by offering too many services. They say yes to everything. One day it’s design, the next it’s writing, the next it’s virtual assistance. This leads to burnout and poor quality.
How to Succeed
Pick one skill. Get good at it. Build a name around it. Once you grow, you can add more services—but not before you’ve mastered one.
Related: Freelancing Is a Skill, Not Just a Job — Here’s How to Master It
Course: Freelancing Workshop – June 2024
Reason 2: They Don’t Know How to Package Their Services
Saying “I do graphics” or “I write content” is not enough. Clients don’t want random skills. They want specific solutions. Vague freelancers get ignored. Clear offers attract attention.
How to Succeed
Turn your skill into a clear outcome. Say “I help businesses create social media posters using Canva” or “I build one-page websites for coaches.” Specific sells. Vague repels.
Related: How to Package Your Freelance Services for Quick Client Approvals
Reason 3: They Depend on One Source of Clients
Many freelancers rely only on Facebook groups or job boards. When that dries up, they panic. Some even quit. Real success comes from diversifying where your clients come from.
How to Succeed
Use multiple channels. Post on LinkedIn. Build a website. Use Upwork or Fiverr. Ask for referrals. Attend events. Diversify your visibility and you’ll never run dry.
Related: LinkedIn Makeover: Simple Fixes That Attract Clients and Jobs
Related: How to Build a Personal Website That Converts Visitors into Clients
Reason 4: They Undercharge to Get Clients
A common mistake is offering cheap prices to win clients. But undercharging attracts bad clients and kills your motivation. Over time, it becomes hard to raise your prices.
How to Succeed
Charge based on value, not desperation. If you solve a real business problem, don’t be afraid to price accordingly. Set your rates, then deliver excellent work to match.
Reason 5: They Expect Fast Results
Freelancing is not a get-rich-quick system. It takes time to build trust, skill, and visibility. Many freelancers quit after two months because they haven’t made money yet.
How to Succeed
Commit for the long term. Learn every week. Show up even when it’s quiet. The ones who win aren’t always the smartest—they’re just the most consistent.
Related: Freelancing Takes 6–9 Months to Pay Off — Are You Patient Enough?
Related: What to Do If You’ve Been Freelancing for 2 Years with No Progress
Final Thoughts
If you’re a Kenyan freelancer and you’re struggling—it’s not just you. Most people fail because they’re doing the right thing the wrong way. But you can choose a different path. Focus on one skill. Package it well. Show up consistently. Price fairly. Serve people well. That’s how you succeed.
Explore practical freelancing courses to help you grow faster at
courses.elvisw.online
