Table of Contents
Many Nigerian professionals find themselves trapped in jobs with low salaries, challenging work environments, and a tough economic climate, making the thought of quitting seem impossible.
However, career specialists worldwide emphasize that being unable to leave your current position doesn’t mean your professional growth has to stall. Instead, it calls for a more deliberate and strategic approach to advancing within your existing role.
Enhance Your Expertise Discreetly
Dedicate your free time-whether evenings or weekends-to acquiring new skills through online platforms. Focus on areas like data analytics, digital marketing, product management, coding, or design. Even if your employer doesn’t fund your learning, these competencies will remain valuable assets throughout your career.
Transform Your Current Position
Take initiative by engaging in projects that span different departments. Offer to assist with technology, strategy, or product-related tasks, or identify and resolve inefficiencies such as improving reporting systems or enhancing customer feedback processes. This approach, often called “job crafting,” allows you to tailor your existing role to better align with your career aspirations.
Cultivate Meaningful Connections Within Your Organization
Move beyond casual conversations with peers and intentionally network with senior leaders who recognize your contributions. Building these relationships can open doors to challenging assignments and increase your chances of promotion.
Strategically Plan Your Next Move While Staying Put
Keep your resume and LinkedIn profile current, develop a portfolio showcasing your achievements, and discreetly explore job opportunities. By staying prepared, you’ll be ready to seize the right local or remote position when it becomes available.
According to recent data from the Nigerian Bureau of Statistics, over 60% of professionals express dissatisfaction with their current roles but hesitate to leave due to economic uncertainty. Adopting these strategies can empower you to progress despite these challenges.
For example, a marketing specialist in Lagos recently leveraged online courses in digital analytics and volunteered to lead cross-departmental campaigns, which led to a promotion within a year-demonstrating the power of proactive career management even without changing jobs.
