As a recent graduate, I found myself standing at the crossroads of uncertainty after completing my National Youth Service, like many of my peers.
The familiar comforts of the academic world had given way to a stark reality: the job market was competitive, opportunities seemed scarce, and my field of study didn’t guarantee a direct path to success. I was stranded like countless Nigerian youth, wondering how to carve a meaningful career path.
But, amid the challenges and uncertainties, I discovered that it was possible to thrive by embracing “career flexibility.”
In this article, I’m going to share my journey and the ten strategies I employed in navigating these trying times. These strategies not only helped me break free from the corner where many graduates find themselves but also opened doors to unexpected opportunities and personal growth.
Whether you’re a recent graduate facing a similar situation or someone seeking to adapt their skills in a changing world, my story and these empowering strategies will guide you towards the path of success and fulfilment. So, let’s begin.
1. Freelancing: Turning Skills into Income Streams
One of the first steps I took to escape the post-service doldrums was venturing into freelancing. Freelancing is like being your boss, where you offer skills and services to clients on a project basis. Whether you’re good at writing, graphic design, programming, or even social media management, there’s a market for your talents.
Why It Can Be a Career Path
Freelancing allows you to explore various projects in your field of expertise or even learn new skills on the go. It’s a flexible career choice that adapts to your schedule and can lead to a steady stream of income.
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You set your rates, and as you build a portfolio and reputation, clients will be willing to pay more for your expertise. Earning a comfortable income or even turning it into a full-time career is possible.
2. Online Courses: Teach and Earn Simultaneously
While I was exploring freelancing, I also realised I had accumulated knowledge that others were willing to pay for. Online platforms like Udemy, Coursera, or Teachable allow you to create and sell courses. If you’re passionate about a subject, this can be a lucrative option.
Why It Can Be a Career Path
Sharing your expertise through online courses not only helps others but also establishes you as an authority in your field. This can lead to speaking engagements, consulting opportunities, and even book deals down the road.
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You earn revenue every time someone enrols in your course. Over time, with a library of quality courses, your income can become quite substantial.
3. Consulting: Be the Expert People Turn To
Consulting is about using your knowledge to solve specific problems for individuals or businesses. Whether you’re an engineer, a marketer, or a psychologist, there’s a demand for expert advice.
Why It Can Be a Career Path
As a consultant, you’re sought after for your expertise, and you can choose projects that align with your interests. Plus, you can set your rates, which often reflect the value you bring.
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Consultants typically charge by the hour or project. With a growing client base and a solid reputation, your income can skyrocket.
4. Side Projects: Passion Projects That Pay Off
Sometimes, your calling isn’t your degree but a passion project you’ve been nurturing. I started a blog about travel, and while it seemed unrelated to my field, it eventually led to opportunities in travel writing and photography.
Why It Can Be a Career Path
Side projects allow you to explore your interests and often lead to unexpected career paths. They showcase your dedication and skills, attracting potential clients or employers.
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Side projects can generate income through ads, affiliate marketing, or even selling products/services related to your niche.
5. Volunteering: Building Your Portfolio and Network
While volunteering may not pay immediately, it’s a fantastic way to gain experience, build a portfolio, and expand your professional network. This was especially valuable for me when I just started.
How It Can Be a Career Path
Volunteering can lead to paid opportunities as you gain experience and network with people who might recommend you for paying gigs.
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Although it doesn’t pay upfront, volunteering can indirectly lead to job offers, freelance projects, or consulting gigs that pay well.
6. Cross-Disciplinary Collaboration: Learn and Earn Together
Collaborating with professionals from different fields can open up new horizons. For instance, as a writer, I collaborated with a graphic designer to create visually appealing content.
Why It Can Be a Career Path
Cross-disciplinary collaborations allow you to combine your skills with others, creating unique and marketable products or services.
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You can earn by selling the collaborative work, whether it’s a joint eBook, app, or any other product that emerges from the partnership.
7. Join Clubs or Groups: Hobbies Turned Businesses
What you love doing in your free time could become a source of income. I joined a photography club and started taking photography gigs.
Why It Can Be a Career Path
Clubs and groups provide a supportive community to learn, grow, and potentially turn hobbies into money-making ventures.
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You can earn by offering services related to your hobby, such as teaching, selling your creations, or even monetising your expertise through workshops.
8. Start Your Own Business
Starting your own business involves identifying a problem and creating a solution. It might be daunting, but if you have a unique idea or a passion project, it’s worth exploring.
Why It Can Be a Career Path
Entrepreneurship gives you control over your career, and if your business succeeds, it can be highly profitable.
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Your income potential is unlimited as an entrepreneur, but keep in mind that it often involves more risk and initial investment.
9. Stay Curious, Stay Relevant
The world evolves rapidly, and learning doesn’t stop after graduation. I invested in continuous learning to stay updated in my field and even explore new areas.
Why It Can Be a Career Path
Continuous learning ensures you remain competitive in your industry and position you for better job opportunities or advancements in your career.
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By staying updated and learning new skills, you become more valuable to employers and can command higher salaries or more lucrative job offers.
10. Attend Workshops and Conferences: Networking Pays Off
I attended workshops and conferences, not just in my field but also in areas that intrigued me. This exposed me to new ideas and opportunities.
Why It Can Be a Career Path
Networking at these events can lead to collaborations, job offers, or partnerships that you might not have encountered otherwise.
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The connections you make can result in income-generating opportunities, making the investment in attending these events worthwhile.
Your Decision
Career flexibility is about thinking outside the box and finding innovative ways to turn your education into a rewarding and profitable journey.
Also, these paths aren’t mutually exclusive. You can combine several of them to create a diversified and fulfilling career that aligns with your skills, interests, and financial goals.
Conclusively, while these options sound juicy and are viable enough, it’s your decision to choose whichever you feel is best suited for you.
