To build a successful career in your 20’s is not just about landing a high-paying job; it is about laying a strong foundation for long-term growth and fulfillment. For young professionals in Nigeria and Africa, where unique opportunities and challenges shape the job market, a strategic approach is essential. Here, I’ll provide insights into critical aspects of career building, from education and networking to leveraging technology and continuous learning, so you can make informed decisions in your early career years.
1. Prioritize Education and Skill Development
Education is the cornerstone of any successful career. In today’s competitive job market, a degree alone is rarely enough. Here’s how you can maximize your educational journey:
- Choose Relevant Courses and Certifications: Beyond your university degree, consider acquiring certifications in high-demand skills. Fields like data science, digital marketing, project management, and coding are particularly valuable in today’s job market.
- Develop Soft Skills: Employers highly value interpersonal skills—communication, teamwork, adaptability—as much as technical abilities. Take advantage of online resources and courses to hone these skills, as they will make you stand out.
Practical Tip:
Platforms like Coursera, Udemy, and LinkedIn Learning offer affordable courses in trending skills. Allocate time each month to learn something new or enhance existing knowledge.
2. Master the Art of Networking
Networking opens doors to opportunities you might not find on job boards. In Nigeria and across Africa, where referrals and connections often play a big role in hiring decisions, a strong professional network is invaluable to build a successful career.
- Leverage Social Media: LinkedIn is a fantastic platform to connect with industry professionals. Follow companies and leaders in your field, comment on their posts, and join relevant groups. Twitter and Instagram can also help you network, particularly in media and tech industries.
- Attend Industry Events and Webinars: Many industry-specific conferences and events are now online, making them more accessible. Local meetups, university career fairs, or workshops are excellent places to meet like-minded individuals and potential mentors.
Practical Tip:
Introduce yourself to professionals and express genuine interest in their work. Don’t just ask for opportunities; build real relationships. One meaningful connection can lead to numerous career opportunities.
3. Ace Job Searching, Résumé Writing, and Interview Preparation
The job market is highly competitive, so when applying for a job, your application must make an impact. Here’s how to improve each step of the application process:
- Optimize Your Résumé: Tailor it to each job application. Use strong, action-oriented language to describe your experiences. Keep it concise—one page is often enough for early-career professionals.
- Prepare for Interviews: Research the company thoroughly, understand the job requirements, and prepare answers for common interview questions. Practice responses to behavioral questions (like the STAR method: Situation, Task, Action, Result) to effectively showcase your skills.
- Use Job Boards and Referrals: In Nigeria, platforms like Jobberman and LinkedIn are popular, but don’t overlook company websites or the power of a referral from a professional contact.
Practical Tip:
Before applying, reach out to people working at the company through LinkedIn to learn about the company culture and expectations. This can provide insights that give you an edge in the interview process.
4. Find a Mentor and Embrace Continuous Learning
Mentorship is transformative. A good mentor provides guidance, shares valuable insights, and can offer new perspectives. Seek mentors within your organization, at networking events, or through online communities.
- Why Mentorship Matters: A mentor can help you set realistic goals, provide feedback on your work, and support your career transitions. They’re also valuable for their networks, which can help you access unadvertised job opportunities.
- Commit to Lifelong Learning: Even after securing a job, continue to learn. Upskilling is essential as industries change rapidly. Attend workshops, read industry-related books, or enroll in courses.
Practical Tip:
Set aside 15-30 minutes daily for professional reading or online learning. Podcasts, industry news, and relevant YouTube channels are accessible ways to keep up with trends.
5. Leverage Technology and Social Media
Technology and social media have transformed career development, making it easier to find opportunities and build a personal brand.
- Build Your Personal Brand: Use platforms like LinkedIn and Twitter to share insights, post updates about your achievements, and demonstrate your expertise. In today’s digital world, many employers check candidates’ online presence before hiring.
- Stay Updated on Tech Trends: Tech skills are highly sought after, even in non-tech roles. Understanding how to use project management tools (like Trello or Asana), communication tools (like Slack), or even basic data analysis can make you more efficient and valuable to employers.
Practical Tip:
Google yourself and assess your online presence. Ensure your social media profiles reflect professionalism, as potential employers often review candidates’ online profiles.
6. Draw Inspiration from African Success Stories
Many young professionals across Nigeria and Africa have achieved incredible success by starting small, taking calculated risks, and building their networks. Here are two inspiring stories:
- Iyinoluwa Aboyeji (Nigeria): Co-founder of Andela and Flutterwave, two companies that revolutionized Africa’s tech landscape, Iyinoluwa focused on solving problems specific to Africa and leveraged global partnerships. His story reminds young professionals of the value of thinking globally but acting locally.
- Betelhem Dessie (Ethiopia): Known as Ethiopia’s “youngest tech innovator,” Betelhem began coding and building tech solutions in her teens. Today, she’s a role model for young women across Africa and advocates for technology skills in underserved communities.
Practical Tip:
Read about these and other African leaders to understand the journeys, sacrifices, and decisions that contributed to their success. You can also find mentorship and inspiration by following their talks or publications.
Final Thoughts
Your 20’s are a time to experiment, learn, and grow. You don’t need to have everything figured out; instead, focus on building a foundation that you can build on in your 30’s and beyond. Stay adaptable, be patient, and remember that each skill, experience, and connection you make now will play a role in shaping your future success.
With the right mix of education, networking, mentorship, and strategic risk-taking, you can navigate the Nigerian and African job markets successfully and build a rewarding career.
