Understanding Career paths and success
The African continent is home to a diverse and rapidly growing population, and there are many exciting career opportunities for those who are willing to work hard and seize them. From technology and entrepreneurship to healthcare and education, there are many industries that are ripe for growth and innovation. As an African talent, you have the skills and abilities to make a real difference and contribute to the continent’s development. Whether you choose to work in a traditional career path or blaze your own trail as an independent freelancer, there are endless opportunities for you to make a positive impact and achieve success.
But how do you turn that potential into tangible success and make 2023 your career’s best year yet? If you’re looking to make 2023 your breakout year, it’s important to understand that success doesn’t always follow a linear path. While many people envision a career as a straightforward climb up the corporate ladder, we imagine starting as an entry-level employee after graduating and steadily working our way up the ladder, from associate to manager to director. That used to be the case; however, the world of work is changing, and this isn’t always the case anymore. My career journey and how I became a Global Talent Acquisition Specialist recruiting Nigerian Talents for international organizations, is a typical example of this, but that is a story for another day.
The truth is that the best careers often experience bursts of growth through different paths, routes, experiences, key decisions, and unexpected opportunities. For some, that might mean taking reduced benefits to be able to join a fast-growing startup or start your own business. For others, that might mean changing careers entirely and starting from scratch because you’re passionate about a new field or were offered to work with someone particularly influential. So, how can you position yourself for success and make this your best year yet?
The 9Ps of Career Success (Breakout)
Here are a few strategies to consider, and I call them the 9 Ps of CAREER BREAKOUT :
1.
Passion: Your passions are what drive you and give your work meaning and purpose. By identifying your strengths and passions, you can align your career goals with what truly matters to you. This will help you stay motivated and focused on what you love, and it will give you the energy and drive to pursue your dreams.
2. Proactivity: Don’t wait for opportunities to come to you; create your own. Take charge of your career and seek out new opportunities for growth and development. This can include seeking out new projects, learning new skills, and networking with others in your industry. By being proactive, you’ll be more likely to succeed and achieve your career goals.
3.
Planning: Setting clear, specific goals and planning out the steps you need to take to achieve them is crucial to success. This will help you stay organized and on track, and it will give you a roadmap to follow as you work towards your goals. Don’t be afraid to think big; set ambitious goals for yourself and go after them with determination and focus. This is the year to get audacious with your career goals.
4.
Persistence: The road to success is rarely a straight line, and you’ll inevitably encounter setbacks and challenges along the way. Don’t give up when things don’t go as planned; stay positive and focused, and keep working towards your goals. Remember, it’s often the most difficult challenges that lead to the greatest growth and success. A lot might happen this year; the recession has been predicted but remain persistent.
5.
Partnership: Building relationships with others in your industry is key to career success. Surround yourself with a strong network of mentors, role models, and colleagues who can offer guidance and support. These relationships can open up new opportunities and provide valuable resources to help you achieve your goals. Don’t be afraid to reach out and ask for help; it takes a village to succeed.
6.
Performance: Hope is not a strategy, and in order to stand out from the competition and advance in your career, it’s important to deliver top-notch work and exceed expectations in your current role. This can include going above and beyond in your responsibilities, taking on additional projects, and continuously improving your skills and knowledge. By focusing on performance, you’ll be more likely to be recognized and rewarded for your hard work, which will open up new opportunities for advancement.
7.
Personal Brand: This is how you are perceived by others. And it’s important to develop and promote a positive image. This is not the year to wink in the dark. Consider what makes you unique and valuable, and communicate that through your online presence and professional interactions. This can include your professional website and social media profiles, as well as your appearance, demeanor, and communication style. By developing and promoting your personal brand, you’ll differentiate yourself from others in your industry and increase your visibility and credibility.
8.
Persuasion: The ability to persuade and influence others is a valuable skill in any career. This can be useful in negotiations, presentations, and other professional situations where you need to get others on board with your ideas. To develop your persuasion skills, consider learning about different persuasion techniques and practicing them in real-life situations. This can include using compelling language, building rapport, and using logical and emotional appeals to convince others.
9.
Professional Development: In order to stay competitive and in-demand in today’s rapidly changing job market, it’s important to continually learn and grow. This is the year to seek out training and development opportunities and consider earning additional certifications or degrees to increase your value in the job market. This can include attending industry conferences, taking online courses, or enrolling in a professional development program. By investing in your professional development, you’ll stay up-to-date on the latest trends and technologies and increase your chances of success in your career.
By following these strategies and being proactive in your career development, you can make 2023 your best year yet. Don’t be afraid to take risks and step outside your comfort zone; it’s the best way to accelerate your growth and reach your full potential.
Temitope Olukunle-Okeseeyin
Founder, University of Freelancing.
https://universityoffreelancing.org/building-your-career-in-a-vuca-world/
https://universityoffreelancing.org/you-are-a-ceo/
https://www.topresume.com/career-advice/10-tips-to-excel-in-your-career
