Africa is a land flowing with milk, honey, and opportunities. With the advent of technology and AI, it has opened doors hitherto thought impossible. However, these opportunities remain hidden for many due to the continued favor of traditional job systems.
This article aims to open your eyes to cultivating in-demand skills, enabling you to successfully navigate the African market and thrive.
RESEARCH, RESEARCH, RESEARCH:
The ability to research is a skill often underestimated or overlooked. Research appears cumbersome, requiring hours of reading, studying, and compartmentalizing, which involves significant mental exercise. However, the ability to research is a valuable skill that helps you discover hidden gems in the African workforce, find a niche that works for you, and devise a plan for success. This includes recognizing key industries, following market trends, analyzing job listings, and determining which market is most suitable for you.
FIND YOUR STRENGTH AND IMPROVE ON IT:
According to psychology, there are different types of intelligence, namely spatial, musical, linguistic, logical/mathematical, interpersonal, and intrapersonal intelligence, amongst others. Some people have more than one type of intelligence, but everyone is intelligent in at least one aspect. Knowing your type of intelligence and building on it is your strength. Unfortunately, people often believe that only logical/mathematical intelligence is important, disregarding other aspects. Recognize your intelligence and build on it.
FIND A NICHE THAT WORKS FOR YOU:
After recognizing your intelligence and talent, the next step is to find a niche that works for you. If you’re logically/mathematically intelligent, fields like technology, forex, and cryptocurrency might suit you. If you’re linguistically intelligent, being a translator or interpreter might be more suitable. Musical intelligence opens doors to music, and artistic intelligence opens doors to art and culture. Build on your strength and strive to be the best in that field. Do not follow the crowd and end up unproductive, frustrated, and disillusioned.
DEVELOP SOFT SKILLS:
Soft skills are innate attributes and attitudes essential for productivity and efficiency, regardless of profession. These include problem-solving, communication, and leadership qualities. Enhance these skills by reading, practicing, volunteering, and associating with the right people.
DEVELOP DIGITAL SKILLS:
Africa, like the rest of the world, is fast becoming a global village. You either adapt to the system or get left behind by the cyclone of change. Regardless of your profession, you must be computer literate. Learn and never stop learning.
NETWORKING:
Networking involves building a ladder of social connections. Connect with people of like minds and interact with them. Connect with professionals in your field and stay updated. This ensures that you never lose touch with your profession.
CERTIFICATIONS:Certificates are an important tool in today’s world. They provide proof of expertise in your profession and tell your intended audience that you’re a professional. Formal education is not the only way to gain certifications. Attend workshops, seminars, and skill acquisition centers related to your profession.Having an online presence is as important as having certifications. Take advantage of social media like LinkedIn, Facebook, X, Instagram, and TikTok to showcase your expertise and get noticed. These are some ways to develop in-demand skills that will help you succeed in your profession and make you an integral part of the African market.
