There is a frustrating issue that skilled African writers are currently battling with—rejection on online work platforms. There are so many online work opportunities for freelancers globally. However, securing these writing projects is a nightmare if you are based in Africa. But is it entirely the fault of the online writer, one may wonder? This article explores the reasons behind this unfortunate reality that skilled African online writers face.
4 Reasons Why African Online Writers face rejection on online work platforms
A writer goes ahead and signs up on these online work platforms. Excited at the prospects of earning, the bidding cycle begins – applying for 10 + jobs daily. Yet, not even one response, let alone a call for an interview. And the outcome is the same the day after, a week later, and a month further down the line. Finally, convinced they are not good enough- they throw in the "digital" towel. Here are some of the reasons for the rejections:
Stereotyping and Bias by clients
There are existing stereotypes about Africa. Because of these biases, there are doubts about African writers' work. For instance, some clients need more confidence in African writers' language proficiency or cultural relevance. And because of this, they are afraid to hire them.
Limited access to online work
A strong portfolio and positive reviews go a long way in attracting potential clients. The majority of African writers need help to build an impressive portfolio. This is because they need more exposure to high-profile projects. On top of this, the absence of a supportive ecosystem and mentorship limit their access to work opportunities.
Language and Cultural Barriers
English is the common language in use in the digital space. However, its proficiency varies across regions. While most African writers are fluent in English - they face discrimination due to their non-native speaker status or accent. Because of this bias, clients looking for content with a specific cultural context often overlook African writers.
Lack of Representation and Visibility
Representation and Visibility are key factors in securing online writing jobs. The poor representation of African writers on online platforms limits their chances for hire. It is rare for African writers to feature on promotional materials or top-rated lists. While this is true, it creates an impression that few experienced writers exist. As such, writers in the region face a cycle of rejection that further hinders their progress.
Final Thoughts
Skilled African Online writers face rejection on online platforms because of biases. Addressing these issues requires collaborative efforts involving online platforms, clients, and the freelance community. Recognizing and appreciating African writers will help break down barriers to create a more inclusive and equitable work environment. As such, they can share their skills on a global scale