Career

A Tale of 3 Women Who Broke Barriers

by
Birds Who Flew Without Wings A Tale of Three Women Who Broke Barriers

A Tale of 3 women who against all odds broke barriers, Dr. Yvonne, Miss Ara, and Mrs. Ayanfe, didn’t let their past and background define them; read this article to see their stories, how they flew even when it seemed as though their wings had been cut.

Top 10 Highest Paying Tech Jobs in 2025

by
Top 10 Highest Paying Tech Jobs in 2025

The technology industry is definitely one of the largest and fastest growing industries out there. Careers in technology spread across the landscape of the global economy from software engineers building both small and large applications that enable us interact and do business better to designers who ensure users enjoy not just a sleek and responsive interface but also have a great experience using each product, to product managers who are saddled with the responsibility of ensuring that every product meet the need of the customer and make a great ROI. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics in the United States of America, employment in the IT field is projected to grow 11% from 2023 to 2033, much faster than the average for all occupations. There are several benefits that abound in having a career in the tech industry and a high salary is one of them. As mentioned earlier, you can choose from several exciting options in the technology field, such as Software engineering, Project management, DevOp, Data Science, AI & ML, etc. You can have a career in technology in many different places, such as fast-paced startups, innovative tech companies, and small IT departments. In this article, I cover the top 10 high-paying careers in the technology industry. If you are giving your career some consideration to make sure you are future-proofing your skillset or perhaps moving into a new field altogether, I urge you to read on. So What Jobs Are These? Principal Software Engineer In an administrative job reporting to upper management, the role of a software engineering manager is to supervise and guide the work of other software engineers on projects, including the design and development of software, programs, and applications. A software engineering manager generally needs at least a bachelor’s degree in computer science or programming, as well as several years of experience in a role or industry closely related. In addition, they must be skilled in programming languages and programs to contribute individually.  A principal software engineer earns an average of $4500 annually in Nigeria. In the US, the average annual salary is about $244,500. The average annual salary in other countries are: Australia: over $161,000 Canada: over $165,000 Denmark: over $141,000 France: over €89,000 Germany: over €107,000 United Kingdom: over £116,000 Machine Learning Engineer A Machine Learning Engineer is saddled with the responsibilities of developing and deploying machine learning models to solve specific business or technical problems. They work with data scientists to build algorithms and integrate models into production systems. The average annual salary of a machine learning engineer is $206,000 Engineering Manager An Engineering Manager leads and mentors a team of engineers, ensuring the successful and timely delivery of projects. They coordinate resources, set technical direction, and align engineering efforts with company goals. On average, they earn an annual salary of $203,500 Software Engineer Software Engineers are responsible for designing, developing, and maintaining software systems and applications, ensuring that they are scalable, efficient, and aligned with user requirements. They work collaboratively with a cross-functional team to implement innovative solutions and solve technical queries. The software engineer earns an average of $186,500 annually. Data Scientist With an average annual salary of $183,000, a Data Scientist is responsible for analyzing complex data sets to uncover trends, generate insights, and build predictive models that drive business decisions. They use statistical analysis, machine learning, and data visualization techniques to solve real-world problems across various fields. Technical Program Manager Technical Program Managers (TPM) are responsible for planning, coordinating, and executing complex technical projects. They work across teams to manage timelines, mitigate risks, and ensure successful delivery of technical initiatives. On average, they earn an annual salary of $174,000 IT Manager The IT Manager wears on his back the responsibilities of overseeing an organization’s technology infrastructure, including hardware, software, and networks, and ensuring that the technology aligns with the organization’s goals and objectives. He earns an annual average of $169,510 Product Manager Product Managers are responsible for overseeing the development and lifecycle of a product, from concept to launch. They work with cross-functional teams to define product goals, prioritize features, and ensure the product meets customer needs and business objectives. On average, they earn $169,000 Product Designer A Product Designer is responsible for creating user-friendly and visually appealing designs for products and interfaces. They conduct user research, develop prototypes, and work closely with engineering and product teams to ensure a seamless user experience. A product designers earns an average of $155,500 Senior Data Analyst A Senior Data Analyst is responsible for interpreting data, generating actionable insights, and creating reports that support strategic decision-making. They lead data analysis projects, mentor junior analysts, and ensure the accuracy and integrity of data. The take annual average take home is $149,500 Where to Look for Best-Paying Jobs in Technology? There are a number of  places to look for the best-paying jobs in technology.  Online job boards – Companies often post job openings on these boards to find qualified candidates. Tech conventions – At these conventions, companies will often have booths set up where they will be recruiting for open positions. Personal connections-  people already in the tech industry will know of open positions and can put in a good word for qualified candidates.

Top 5 Artificial Intelligence Courses And Certifications That Will Boost Your Career And Business in 2025

by
Top 5 Artificial Intelligence Courses And Certifications That Will Boost Your Career And Business in 2025 (1)

With the rise in Artificial Intelligence across the landscape of the world and the disruption it brings to almost every aspect of human life, no one wants to miss out on the trend. But a trend? I don’t think so Artificial Intelligence is now beyond just another trend, as trends fade away after a certain- short or extended period of time. But AI, just like the internet was introduced and blew up in the early 1900s and has been a part of human existence till tomorrow, so also artificial intelligence is gradually becoming a significant part of our existence as humans in this civilization which is here to stay. Its significance is extremely powerful as it is on track to be the key technology that enables business transformation and gives companies a competitive edge. AI can help businesses be more productive by automating their processes, which includes using robotics and autonomous vehicles. It can also help by supporting their existing workforces with AI technologies such as assisted and augmented intelligence. Most organizations are working to implement AI in their business processes and products. Organizations are using AI in various business applications, including finance, marketing, healthcare, smart home devices, retail, fraud detection and security surveillance. With this bird’s eye view of the significance of Artificial Intelligence, it is very expedient that as a career professional and or a business individual or an entrepreneur who wants to continually stay on the crux of their journey, you should have a definite, whether basic or in depth knowledge of this whole new world. But why’s a certification in AI important? It is important for various reasons including: Taking a course and getting certified in AI can set an individual on a trajectory of a successful and adventurous career. There are constant changes in the field of AI, and it can be a challenge to keep up with that pace of change. A certification would inform anyone you are familiar with the latest developments in the field A certification in AI can set you apart from the competition and reveal to employers that you have the skills they want and need AI demands advanced education. A National University examination of 15,000 job postings on Indeed.com found that nearly 80% of AI job openings require candidates to have a master’s degree, while 60% demanded at least a bachelor’s degree. Another 18% required a PhD, while only 8% would consider a high school diploma.   So here are the Top 5 AI Courses and Certifications IBM Applied AI Professional Certificate by Coursera This is a beginner-level AI certification course that will help students know how to do the following including: Understand the basics of artificial intelligence; its applications and use cases; and key AI technologies, such as machine learning, deep learning and neural networks. Build AI-powered tools using IBM Watson AI services, APIs and Python with minimal coding. Create virtual assistants and AI chatbots without programming and deploy them on websites. Apply computer vision techniques using Python, OpenCV and Watson. Develop custom image classification models and deploy them in the cloud. Requirements: While the series is open to everyone with both technical and nontechnical backgrounds, the final two courses require some knowledge of Python to build and deploy AI applications. For students with no programming background, an introductory Python course is included. You can check it out here Deep Learning Specialization by Andrew Ng via Coursera This detailed series of five intermediate to advanced courses, covers neural networks and deep learning as well as their applications. Learners will be able to: Build and train deep neural networks. Identify key architecture parameters. Implement vectorized neural networks and deep learning to various applications. Build a convolutional neural network. Apply it to detection and recognition tasks. Use neural style transfer to generate art. Apply algorithms to image and video data. Students will also build and train recurrent neural networks, work with natural language processing (NLP) and word embeddings, and use HuggingFace tokenizers and transformer models to perform named entity recognition and question answering. Requirements: Intermediate Python skills; basic programming; understanding of loops, data structures; and a basic understanding of linear algebra and machine learning (ML). To get started, click here Google Cloud’s Introduction to Generative AI Learning Path This certificate inclusive course by Google covers what generative AI and large language models are for beginners. It is oriented around specific Google applications, which is only good if you are a Google shop. Tools used include Google Tools and Vertex AI. It includes a section on responsible AI, encouraging the learner to keep ethical practices around the generative AI in mind. To start, check here Master the Fundamentals of AI and Machine Learning via LinkedIn Learning This bundle, open to everyone regardless of experience, includes 10 short courses presented by industry experts. They aim to help anyone master the fundamentals and future of AI and ML (machine learning) and make more educated decisions and contributions in their organizations. Students will learn how leading companies are using AI and machine learning to alter how they do business as well as gain insight into addressing future ideas regarding issues of accountability, security and clarity in AI. They will also earn a certificate of completion from LinkedIn Learning after completing the following 10 courses: AI Accountability Essential Training. Artificial Intelligence Foundations: Machine Learning. Artificial Intelligence Foundations: Thinking Machines. Artificial Intelligence Foundations: Neural Networks. Cognitive Technologies: The Real Opportunities for Business. AI Algorithms for Gaming. AI The LinkedIn Way: A Conversation with Deepak Agarwal. Artificial Intelligence for Project Managers. Learning XAI: Explainable Artificial Intelligence. Artificial Intelligence for Cybersecurity. Register here Artificial Intelligence A-Z 2024: Build 7 AI + LLM & ChatGPT via Udemy This course via Udemy is a comprehensive online course designed to teach both the fundamentals as well as advanced concepts of AI, machine learning and deep learning. The key topics covered include State-of-the-art AI models Q-learning and deep Q-learning Proximal policy optimization (PPO) Large language models, transformers, NLP techniques for chatbots … Read more

10 And More Powerful Artificial Intelligence (AI) Tools to Help You Fast Track Your Career

by
10 Powerful Artificial Intelligence (AI) Tools to Help You Fast Track Your Career

In my previous article on AI (Artificial Intelligence): the past, the now and the future- you can read it here. I did mention how the world of artificial intelligence (AI) is affecting and would affect the way things are done. Today, however, I would be pressing further on the topic as I share 10 and more powerful AI tools that can empower and help you improve your career or business. Whether you are a creative, an entrepreneur or one just trying to explore, these tools come very handy for you. So, let’s dive in. We forget that other artificial intelligences are busy ingeniously working in the background on an increasing number of diverse disciplines while ChatGPT spread across the media like wildfire. And in my bid to bring a number of them to your knowledge and bring you up to speed, I went in search of them. For some, you might have known and used them before now, while for some, you might just be knowing right now. It’s fine. However, here is a non-exhaustible list of powerful artificial intelligence or AI tools you can explore. 1. Patterned: Patterned generates royalty-free and unique patterns for your product! You can search & create thousands of such patterns for every surface with this AI tool! Please click here to check it out. 2. Cleanvoice: This tool removes spurious sounds, stuttering, and mouth sounds from your podcasts or recordings. You can follow this link to make more clean voice(I mean, clean podcasts). 3. Beatoven: Creates unique royalty-free music. It uses advanced AI music generation techniques to compose unique mood-based music to suit every part of your video or podcast. You can start creating for free here. 4. Podcast: An AI that allows you to record studio-quality podcasts, directly from a simple computer. Explore here. 5. Copy: Generates content and avoids blank page syndrome. Check here 6. Illustroke: Creates stunning vector illustrated images from text prompts. Do you want to try it out? Here 7. Krise: Removes background voices, noises and echoes during calls. Start making clean calls here. 8. Stockimg: This is another image generation AI tool. With this tool, you can generate book covers, stock images, posters and the like. Click here to sign in. 9. Flair: Generates photo shoots of your products. It is simply a box of magic. Check it out here. 10. CopyMonkey: Makes it easy to write product listings on Amazon. CopyMonkey generates and optimizes Amazon listings in seconds. It helps place all of the important keywords in your Amazon listing to get you ranking organically on the first page. Follow this link to try it out. 11. Ocoya: Facilitates the creation and programming of content on social networks. Try it out. 12. Unbounce: Generates landing pages and emails. Check it out. 13. Vidyo: Generates videos for social networks from longer videos. Start generating here. 14. Quickchat: Chatbots that talk like humans for customer relations. Get in here. 15. Puzzle: Creates a knowledge base or glossary from documents. Try it out here. 16. Soundraw: Generates royalty-free background music. Check it out here. 17. Cleanup.picture: Removes objects, defects, people or text from your images. Try it out now. 18. Looka: This AI generates brand names and logos. Start creating. 19. Synthesia: Makes it easy to create training videos by simply typing text. You can try it out today. 20. Otter: Record meetings and take notes in real-time. Link. It is an AI meeting assistant. 21. Thundercontent: Generates all types of content. Start creating here. These are simply just a few of the myriads of AI tools that are available out there that can supercharge your career and business. Are there other AI (Artificial Intelligence) tools you know or have you come across that you can add to this list? Please share. I would be really excited to know and check them out.

Not all universities offers Mass Communication. Schools that do

by
Mass Communication Best Universities

Mass communication is the process of imparting and exchanging information through mass media to large population segments. It utilizes various forms of media as technology has made the dissemination of information more efficient. Primary examples of platforms utilized and examined include journalism and advertising. Considering the level of unemployment and low level of job opportunities, you need to take up a lucrative and versatile course that can find you an employment even with a  limited job opportunities. Mass communication offers a wide range of employment opportunities. It is a degree that not only provides you with a great level of knowledge and respect in society but also a career that can put food on your table. Job ranging from advertising, broadcasting, content creation, film production,  and writing, amongst others Here are list of universities that offer mass communication If you fall into this category as a student in Nigeria, and you want to study Mass Communication, it is advisable that you study in one of the best schools to study Mass Communication in Nigeria. Covenant University, Otta According to the World Universities Rankings, Covenant University is the top 3 best universities in Nigeria. This is a recognition well deserved. In recent times, Covenant university has taken the front seat in proving quality, student-centered learning for students from Nigeria and beyond, a semblance of what is obtainable in developed other climes. The school is also known for embracing cutting-edge technology and churning graduates who have become key players in various industries and very successful entrepreneurs. Going by this token, Covenant University is arguably one of the best universities for Mass Communication in Nigeria. InCovenant University, Mass Communication started as a program in the Department of Languages and Mass Communication at the inception of the University in October, 2002. An autonomous Department of Mass Communication was created in September 2004 and it has seen then made steady progress. It now has a complement of seventeen (17) full-time teaching staff and three (3) Senior Associate/Adjunct Lecturers. The Department also has more than 50% of her academic staff with a Ph.D and the remaining staff members have all reached advanced stages in their doctoral studies. Nnamdi Azikwe University Also called UNIZIK or NAU in short is a Federal university in Nigeria. It consists of four campuses in Anambra State. Its main campus is located in the capital of Anambra State, Awka while three other campuses are located in Nnewi , Agulu and Ifite-Ogwuari, Anambra State. The school is one of the federal universities which are overseen and accredited by the National Universities Commission. The university is named after Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe. The school has Mass Communication as one of its best courses they offer. University of Lagos It’s only proper that the University of first choice – Unilag – makes this list of the best schools to study Mass Communication in Nigeria. Another best university to study Mass Communication is obviously in Nigeria is the University of Lagos.. Apart from the part that Unilag is the most sought-after school in Nigeria one of the 3 best universities in Nigeria, Unilag is reputed has the university with the largest alumni who are the most successful entrepreneurs in Nigeria. The school is also the almater of some of the finest Journalists and broadcasters in Nigeria. Unilag being located in Lagos opens Mass Communication students up to opportunities at numerous televisions, radio and social media outlets in the country. Arguably, Unilag is your best bet when it comes to studying Mass Communication in Nigeria. University of Benin University of Benin (UNIBEN) is a research university located in Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria. The school is among the top most sought-after and reputable public universities in Nigeria. The university of Benin is owned by the Federal Government of Nigeria and was founded in 1970. The school is arguably one of the best schools for Mass Communications in Nigeria. Ahmadu Bello University (ABU) Ahmadu Bello University (ABU) is a federal government research university in Zaria, Kaduna State, Nigeria. ABU was founded on 4 October 1962, as the University of Northern Nigeria. The university operates two campuses: Samaru (main) and Kongo in Zaria. There is pre-degree school in Funtua a few kilometres from main campus owned by the university. The Kongo campus hosts the faculties of Law and Administration. The Faculty of Administration consists of Accounting, Business Administration, Local Government and Development Studies and Public Administration Departments. ABU Zaria is one of the best universities for Mass Communication in Nigeria. University of Ibadan Located in the city of firsts in Nigeria – Ibadan in 1948, the University of Ibadan is incidentally the very first university ever to be established in Nigeria. The University of Ibadan is the second-best university in Nigeria and one of the best schools for Mass Communication in Nigeria this year according to the World University Rankings. The school is known for retaining the highest number of Professors and emeritus professors and some of the most prominent Nigerians as their alumni. Little wonder the school has one of the best postgraduate schools in Nigeria. University of Ilorin The University of Ilorin also known as Unilorin, is a federal government-owned university in Ilorin, Kwara State, Nigeria. It was established by a Decree of the Federal Military Government in August 1975. Unilorin is not only known for the fastest academic calender, but also has a reputation as having had reputable alumni. The school is one that teaches Mass Communication well in Nigeria. Obafemi Awolowo University Obafemi Awolowo University is definitely one of the best schools for Engineering to make this list. The school is arguably one of the best universities in Nigeria. Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), formerly known as the University of Ife, is a federal government-owned and operated Nigerian university. The university is in the ancient city of Ile-Ife, Osun State, Nigeria. University of Nigeria Nsukka The University of Nigeria, commonly referred to as UNN, is a federal university located in Nsukka, Enugu State, Nigeria. Founded by Nnamdi … Read more

Relevant Skills You Need for Career Success

by
photo 1546410531 bb4caa6b424d

In today’s competitive world, it is important to learn and master some essential skills that will land you in your dream job. Every person has his or her special set of skills. Mastering some important skills is essential to cope with this fastest-growing technology. In this article, we will explore the skills you need to work on for a successful career. Types of Skills There are two types of skills which are Soft and Hard skills. You need a combination of relevant hard and soft skills to be successful in any role. A. Soft Skills: These are skills that occur to an individual naturally. It involves personal habits and traits that shape you as an individual. Some others include Leadership, Dependability, Effective teamwork, and active listening. B. Hard Skills: Hard skills have to do with the technical capabilities of an individual. They are usually gained through training, schooling, and certifications. Some of the hard skills include Computer skills, Microsoft Office skills, Analytical skills, and Marketing skills. Essential Skills for Your Career Growth Learning, Media and Information Literacy, and Life skills are the three main abilities for your career success and job satisfaction. 1. Learning: When you learn a new skill and practice it, it makes you a better person day by day. Willingness to learn new things is important and this is what a recruiter is interested in and looking for. These skills include Problem-solving, Creative thinking, Communicating ideas, Learning from mistakes, Decision-making, Analytical thinking, etc. 2. Media and Information Literacy: Assessing and analyzing information is the skill of not only gathering information on a certain topic but also analyzing the quality of that information. Media and Information literacy is a combination of abilities that includes Knowledge, Critical thinking, and the use of digital tools. These include Skills like Accessing information, Evaluating information, Interpreting media messages, and using digital technologies. 3. Life Skills: Life skills are the skills that help you deal effectively with daily obstacles in your everyday life. Self-confidence is the most important life skill that allows an individual to recall random facts at the right time. This includes skills like Self-awareness, Empathy, Assertiveness, Decision-making, Resilience, Ability to cope with Problems, and Negotiation skills. Read Also: Strategies To Build A Successful Career (Part 2) Action Plan How can we develop these skills to succeed? 1. Start with core skills: Know the skill you are learning. As you become more comfortable practicing one of the Skills, start working on another and continue to grow your skill set. 2. Select one Skill at a time: You can’t work on everything at the same time. Identify what you need to learn. This can help you work on areas that need improvement. Select one skill at a time that you can master. 3. Training: Look out for courses and technical platforms that can help you with your technical abilities. Some platforms help you excel, learn, and provide certifications. Some of the online platforms that provide free and paid courses include Udemy, Coursera, Edx, and YouTube. 4. Opportunities: Apart from helping you with training and education, actively networking and participating in discussions and workshops can show your commitment to the organization, desire to stay on top of the latest trends, and interest in improving related skills. It also helps broaden your perspective. 5. Practice: Skills can be refined with practice, put into practice in your everyday life, and see yourself become a better person. 6. Feedback: Feedback is the most important aspect that can help you identify your errors. Never be afraid of criticism. Always take it positively and work on your weaknesses. Take the time every day to reflect on the progress you are making. We have discussed the soft and hard skills that a person should keep on inculcating in life. Human beings have the capability to learn something new every day. Keep yourself open to learning something new, this is the best gift we can give to ourselves to overcome our insecurities.

Crafting A Compelling Personal Brand: A Sure Way for Career Success

by
photo 1584921466621 d3a283cd3744

Personal branding is the most powerful self-marketing strategy for achieving career success. It differentiates you so you can get noticed and hired. One powerful tool to stand out and make a lasting impression in today’s competitive world is crafting a personal brand. It is essential for career success. Your personal brand is how you present yourself to the professional world, it is your unique identity, reputation and the value you bring. In this article, we will walk you through the steps to building a strong personal brand that will help you leave a lasting mark and propel your career to new height. 1. Define Your Value Proposition To create or craft a personal brand, you need to know your value proposition, that is, what makes you different from others and why should people be interested or connected with you. You must identify what sets you apart from others. Do self-reflection and assessment, consider your skills, experiences, and strengths. What unique value do you bring to the table? What values and skills do you possess that others do not have? Is it your expertise, innovative thinking, exceptional problem-solving skills, or critical and strategic thinking? Define your unique value proposition to create a solid foundation for your brand. Focusing on a special skill set when creating your brand will help you stand out from the crowd. 2. Establish Your Professional Identity Crafting a personal brand starts with establishing your professional identity. This involves creating a compelling online presence. You can a develop professional blog, or website to showcase your expertise and achievements. You can use your professional photos as a profile on your social media platforms. A captivating summary and detailed account of your accomplishments can also be included in your profile. Share your insights and opinions through regular content creation on relevant platforms. 3. Cultivate Your Online Reputation In this digital age, your online presence plays a crucial role in shaping your brand. Maintain a consistent and positive online reputation. Participate in industry discussions to engage with your professional network, and share valuable insights and your thoughts as regards matters under discussion. Showcase your professionalism, and respond to comments and messages promptly. Be mindful of the content you share on social media platforms, ensuring it aligns with your brand image.   Read Also: Strategies to Build A Successful Career. Part 1 4. Consistent Marketing Strategy Everything you do, or choose not to do, can communicate the value of your brand. The resumes and cover letters that you format; the emails you send; the words you speak; the clothes you wear, the way you conduct yourself in meetings, everything matters. The way you talk in public, what you say, or the words you speak tell or suggest to people your brand. 5. Rewrite Your Resume As Your Bio and Update It Constantly Consider your resume to be your bio for your brand. Boil the contents of your resume down into a short and powerful narrative that you can attach as your bio to your web profiles, blog posts, and other internet-based writing. Your bio should include your education and work experiences, published works, awards, community activities, and some personal interest information. Keep your bio up to date by including important events as you accomplish them. 6. Network and Collaborate or Build Relationships Building a personal brand is not a one-man business. Actively engage in networking and seek opportunities for collaboration. Attend industry conferences, join professional associations, and participate in relevant online communities. Build meaningful relationships with influencers, peers, and mentors who can support and amplify your brand. Collaboration can open doors to new opportunities and expand your reach. Ensure that there is constant communication between you and your networks, and make them aware of your recent success. Search out new professional associations or online communities to add to your network. Find opportunities to weave your mission into conversation with your network. 7. Continuously Develop and Evolve A personal brand is not static, it evolves with your growth and accomplishment. Continuously invest in your professional development by staying updated on industry trends, attending workshops and seminars, and pursuing relevant certifications. Embrace lifelong learning. Crafting your brand is a powerful investment in your professional success. It is a constant thing and should continue to evolve throughout your career. Remember, a successful brand is all about demonstrating your unique value to prospective employees and getting recognized, chosen, and rewarded for it. Create a compelling online presence and optimize it. Change the rules of the game, and be attractive to your audience, instead of pursuing them. By following the above steps, you can build a strong personal brand that sets you apart in your industry. Embrace the process and let your brand become the guiding force that propels your career to new heights. There is only one unique you in the whole world. It is time to let the world know about your uniqueness.

Why Networking is Essential to Your Career Success

by
photo 1577962917302 cd874c4e31d2

Networking is good for your career growth, serves as an avenue to create long-term relationships with mutual benefits, and is not only about trading information. The importance of the saying “no man is an island” has been proved to be the reason why many of us need to make a collective effort in the bid to achieve professional success. There is no denying the power a strong professional network can have over your career success. When it is done well, networking will not only help you land a job faster, but it will give you a competitive edge throughout every stage of your career. Many individuals who succeeded in their careers, the causes have largely been attributed to the strong networking channels they have created over time.But, the question of who you network with and their relevance to your career matters more. This article will tell us some reasons why networking should be an essential aspect if you truly want to build your career, and what you can do to improve your networking skills throughout your career development. What is Networking? Networking is not merely the exchange of information with others, and it is certainly not about begging for favours. favouring is about establishing, building and nurturing long-term mutually beneficial relationships with the people you meet. Why Networking is Important to Your Success Experts agree that the most connected people are often the most successful. When you invest in your relationships, professional and personal, it can pay you back in dividends throughout your career. Networking is essential since it will help you develop and improve your skill set, stay on top of the latest trends in your industry, keep a pulse on the job market, meet prospective mentors, partners and clients, and gain access to the necessary resources that will foster your career development. 1. An Avenue to Exchange Ideas You never can tell how much you know without listening to other people. Success in a career is largely attributed to the pool of information or ideas you have garnered over the past. When networks have been created, they foster ideas to sustain long-term relationships and mutual trust. When you are receiving ideas, it helps both in your place of work and out, in addition to instilling best practices that soothe your career. 2. It Makes You Noticeable Individuals who want publicity either for business, politics, or even fame leverage more on networking. People quickly notice others that have stronger capabilities to make them relevant. When you stand out both your expertise and the services you offer, it creates room for partnership which in turn builds a career. Many professionals have been able to understand how to nurture their networking strength and create more visibility for different associates and clients in their career paths. 3. Avenue for New Opportunities When people start noticing you, it opens the door for new opportunities. Business and career individuals who have networked over the time have been able to expand with minimal effort because of the avenue of new opportunities opened to them through networking. Opportunities like meeting the right clients or even meeting people who are superior to your career path could be a stepping stone that could change your life for the better. 4. Support from High Profiles Individuals Everybody has one way or the other passed through some hurdles in their career development. This can be a result of lack of financial aid or other cogent reasons. However, good networking with high profiles from the same career path can serve as support whenever there is any eventuality at any time. These high-profile individuals can help you manage your challenges effectively by either giving you advice or linking you to the right financial support. 5. Growth in Status Developing your career status is a long-term process depending on how you focus on your networking path. Top career individuals who are where they are today are a result of the status they have grown in networking. The contacts you keep are largely attributed to your growth. They largely influence growth in your status and pave the way for better opportunities in your career. Your connections are powerful. 6. Develop Long-lasting Relationships If networking is a mutual relationship, then having the right networking channel can help build your career. Though networking might not be an easy and fast approach to building a long-lasting relationship. But making it a two-way process of giving and taking, can open the door for a firmer relationship. People who have made networking their priority have been able to build careers relevant to their set goals. Read Also: Strategies to Build A Successful Career. Part 1   How to Become An Effective Networker The importance of networking cannot be overstated. But how can you improve your networking skills to ensure you are networking efficiently and effectively? These networking tips will help: 1. Figure out what networking style works best for you There is no “one size fits all” when it comes to networking. People use different networking tactics. The important thing is to try different networking strategies to discover what best suits you. E.g. if you are networking and you are an introvert, you may prefer to network one-on-one or to attend more intimate events with fewer attendees. Once you have discovered your ideal networking style, consider where you can go to meet the right people who can help you achieve your current career development goals. 2. Network outside the box Look for opportunities to network strategically in every facet of your life. Deena Baikowitz, Chief Networking Officer and Co-founder of Fireball Network, suggests choosing networking events and organizations that matter to you. “Start where you are motivated to meet new people with common professional or personal interests,” Baikowitz advises. Think about what you are passionate about and the types of people with whom you are most comfortable. This could be networking with your alma mater’s local chapter, a community organization etc. , Baikowitz also suggests volunteering to find … Read more

Help! I Need to Declutter My Mind – 15 Steps to Declutter Mind

by
Help! I Need to Declutter My Mind

Help! I need to declutter my mind

Where the mind goes…the man follows – Joyce Meyer

Take care of your mind so it can tread the right path and remain.

Hear what Nancy said, ‘I’m finding it difficult to connect to my mind. Most times it seems stuff get mixed up in my mind and getting it out gives me a lot of mental stress.’

‘For me, I encountered great difficulty because of tangled thoughts. Being productive with my mind is such a hard task,’ chipped in Richard

‘Finishing tasks is my struggle, lots of non-essentials get in the way and hinder good outcomes, added Sandra.

Professor Don looked at his students and tried to put their complaints together. ‘What you need is a mind declutter and then you’re good.’

‘Prof, my challenge is information overload. I bite more than I can chew and I get stuck.’ Gina said with a raised eyebrow and lifted her shoulder with outstretched arms.

‘ I want you all to listen to the following Tell-tale signs. A cluttered mind can manifest itself in various ways, which can affect your mental well-being and overall cognitive function.

Causes of Declutter Mind

  1. Difficulty Concentrating: A common sign of mind or mental clutter is when you struggle to focus on tasks and easily get distracted.
  2. Forgetfulness: Forgetting important details, appointments, or tasks may indicate that your mind is overwhelmed with information and you need fresh space or declutter.
  3. Feeling Overwhelmed: Constantly feeling overwhelmed or anxious, even in seemingly simple situations, suggests that your mind may be cluttered with stressors.
  4. Procrastination: Delaying tasks or avoiding responsibilities can be a sign that your mind is cluttered with conflicting thoughts and priorities.
  5. Mind Racing: Experiencing a racing mind with a constant stream of thoughts, ideas, and worries can be a clear indication of mental clutter.
  6. Lack of Clarity: Feeling confused or uncertain about your goals, priorities, or decision-making may suggest mental clutter.
  7. Physical Tension: Physical symptoms like tension headaches, muscle tightness, or other stress-related issues can be linked to mental clutter.
  8. Difficulty Sleeping: Insomnia or disrupted sleep patterns may be a sign that your mind is not able to relax and unwind.
  9. Increased Irritability: If you find yourself becoming more irritable, frustrated, or easily agitated, it could be a result of mental clutter.
  10. Decreased Creativity: A cluttered mind may hinder your ability to think creatively or come up with innovative solutions.
  11. Inability to Make Decisions: Difficulty making decisions, even simple ones, may suggest an overload of choices or conflicting thoughts in your mind.
  12. Constant Worrying: Excessive worrying about the future or things beyond your control can contribute to mental clutter.
  13. Lack of Motivation: A cluttered mind may lead to a lack of motivation and enthusiasm for activities you once enjoyed.
  14. Feeling Disconnected: Feeling disconnected from yourself or others may indicate that your mind is preoccupied with too many thoughts or concerns.

Steps to Declutter Your Mind

If you recognize these signs in yourself, follow these proactive steps to declutter your mind. Creating a mental space that is clear and focused can contribute to improved well-being and a greater sense of control over your life and create a more focused and peaceful mindset:

  1. Prioritize and Set Goals: Identify your priorities and set clear goals. This helps you direct your mental energy toward what truly matters and reduces the mental noise from conflicting tasks.
  2. To-Do Lists: Create daily or weekly to-do lists to organize your tasks. Break down larger tasks into smaller, manageable steps to make them less overwhelming.
  3. Mind Dump: Take a few minutes to write down all the thoughts, tasks, and ideas swirling in your mind. This “mind dump” helps externalize your thoughts and makes them easier to manage.
  4. Organize Information: Use tools like notebooks, digital apps, or calendars to organize information and deadlines. Having a systematic approach to information management can reduce mental clutter.
  5. Time Blocking: Allocate specific blocks of time to different tasks or activities. This helps you focus on one thing at a time and reduces mental multitasking.
  6. Learn to Say No: It’s essential to set boundaries and learn to say no when necessary. Overcommitting can lead to mental overwhelm.
  7. Practice Mindfulness: Engage in mindfulness or meditation practices to bring your attention to the present moment. This can help calm your mind and reduce unnecessary thoughts.
  8. Limit Information Intake: Reduce the amount of information overload by being selective about the media you consume. Limit your exposure to negative news and social media if it contributes to mental clutter.
  9. Establish Routines: Develop daily routines that provide structure and predictability. Routines can help automate certain aspects of your day, freeing up mental space for more important decisions.
  10. Delegate Tasks: If possible, delegate tasks that others can handle. You don’t have to do everything yourself, and sharing responsibilities can lighten your mental load.
  11. Take Breaks: Schedule breaks throughout your day to rest and recharge. Stepping away from work or stressful situations can help clear your mind and improve focus when you return.
  12. Reflect and Evaluate: Regularly reflect on your goals, values, and priorities. Evaluate whether your current commitments align with these and make adjustments as needed.
  13. Practice Gratitude: Cultivate a positive mindset by practicing gratitude. Focus on the things you are thankful for, which can shift your perspective and reduce mental clutter.
  14. Seek Support: Share your thoughts and concerns with a trusted friend, family member, or therapist. Talking about your feelings can be therapeutic and provide a fresh perspective.
  15. Limit Multitasking: Multitasking can lead to mental fatigue and decreased efficiency. Focus on one task at a time to improve concentration and reduce mental clutter.

Remember that decluttering your mind is an ongoing process, and finding what works best for you may require some experimentation. By incorporating these strategies into your routine, you can create a more organized and focused mental space.

Do yourself this big favour as we surf into the new year so you can increase your output and productivity.

 

10 Healthy Steps to Defeat Negativity

by
Healthy Steps to Defeats Negativity

Healthy Steps to Defeat Negativity

Would you like to be able to deal with the ups and downs of life with strength and grace?

Becoming mentally and emotionally strong isn’t something that happens overnight. If you can start seeing every curveball life throws as a chance to practice being stronger, you’ll begin accruing wisdom and clarity that you can put to the test when things get hard.

Negativity can come at you in different ways: it can be from within, in the form of negative thoughts and harmful self-talk, or from the outside, as negative feedback, business reports, economic downturn, or abuse from other people. While it is beyond a person’s control to ever fully remove negativity from her life, there are ways to manage it.

Healthy Cues to Build Your Inner Strength

  1. Self-awareness: Calm down and take time to notice or capture the streams of thoughts that run in your mind and the myriads of emotions they give birth. As soon as you understand your thoughts and emotions, it will help you recognize negative patterns and what triggers them.
  2. Positive mindset: Intentionally cultivate optimism which brings hopefulness and confidence about the future and have an attitude of gratitude, which would influence good thoughts. Focus on what you can control and find the silver lining in challenging situations.
  3. Healthy boundaries: Negativity can be contagious, so keeping as much distance as possible from negative coworkers and acquaintances can influence your own mood.
  4. Set clear boundaries to protect yourself from negativity coming from outside like negative feedback, and abuse from people. Learn to say no when necessary. Surround yourself with positivity: Build a supportive network of friends and family. Spend time with people who uplift and inspire you.
  5. Mindfulness and meditation: Practice being present in the moment is a gainful self-resource but it involves self-discipline. It distracts your wandering mind and liberates you from the prison of the mind. Mindfulness can help you manage stress and detach from negative thought patterns. Do yourself a favor by prospering your mind with spiritual and healthy thoughts like things that are true, pure, lovely, or of good report and praiseworthy. Don’t allow negativity to steal your positive vibes.
  6. Self-care: Self-care is certainly not selfish. Be kind to yourself and prioritize your well-being. Take time for activities you enjoy, get enough sleep, and maintain a healthy lifestyle. This will help you to rebound and regain lost ground.
  7. Learn from challenges: View setbacks as opportunities for growth. Focus on solutions rather than dwelling on problems. Each difficulty encountered do come with valuable lessons that make you a better person.
  8. Gratitude practice: Regularly acknowledge and appreciate the positive aspects of your life. This can shift your focus away from negativity. Thank God for things that work in your life and place your praise on things you trust God to do for you. Gratitude is the best attitude.
  9. Positive affirmations: Replace negative self-talk with affirming statements. Repeat affirmations that promote confidence and resilience. Use your mouth to say good and great things concerning your destinies. Never let go of hope.
  10. Seek professional help if needed: If negativity becomes overwhelming, consider consulting with a mental health professional for guidance and support. Call for assistance. It is never a sign of weakness to ask for help. Share with a significant individual and you’ll be glad you did.

Remember, building mental strength is a gradual process, and consistency in these practices is key.