In the eighth in our series of WriteWorldwide reader interviews we’re showcasing Sopuru Egbodo, a content writer from Nigeria. Here’s what he had to say about the game of freelance writing …
1) Please introduce yourself to the WriteWorldwide readers.
My name is Sopuru Egbodo. I’m an online content writer and social media marketing expert.
2) Why did you choose to be a writer, and have you experienced much success yet?
I would say writing chose me. Because when I started out, I wasn’t making any money. I wasn’t thinking about money. I was simply spurred on by my passion for writing. It remained that way until I discovered I could make money from writing. Now I have two sources of motivation – passion and money
Success? Yes, to an extent. I’m not consistently earning 6 figures as I’d like, but I’m gradually getting there.
3) As an ESL writer, have you faced any challenges?
Yes, serious challenges, especially when it comes to working with clients from Europe and America. They think ESL writers are not good at writing in English. But that’s not true.
I have been snubbed plenty of times because of this. Prospective clients prefer writers from Europe and America and only consider us when they can’t pay their high fees. That’s bad, you know?
4) What’s one thing about you most people don’t know?
*Smiles* I love rap music with clean lyrics. It gives me tons of inspiration.
5) What would you like to see more of on the WriteWorldwide blog?
I will like to see more personally proven techniques on landing freelance writing opportunities being shared on the blog. That’s the kind of information that will help writers grow their incomes.
6) Are you connected with other ESL writers, and is that helping to boost your confidence?
Yes. I connect with lots of my fellow ESL writers, especially here in Nigeria. Emmanuel Emenike is one of them. Also Ijeoma Hephzibah-TDaniels and Adedoyin Jaiyesimi of The Sparkle writers.
They’ve been my sources of encouragement and have helped me to keep pushing.
7) What’s your favourite aspect of being an ESL writer?
In my home country of Nigeria, lots of companies now know the value of writers. They headhunt writers using LinkedIn or referrals – and they pay well, too.
8) What’s your daily writing routine?
I wake up by 4am, 3am most times. Pray. Read a portion of the Bible (yeah, I am a practical Christian). I then set up my schedule for the day and get down to work until 11pm.
9) What methods do you use to keep your writing skills sharp?
I read a lot, attend paid trainings, and write, write, write!
10) What are your plans for growing your writing business and client base in the future?
I am in the process of building systems. These include a new blog, marketing materials, and my online channels. I’m adopting some marketing techniques too, especially online. With these I aim to attract more businesses and brands to join my list of clients.
Follow Sopuru on Twitter, and show him your support by leaving a comment below.
