Four Years don Waka
It is the season of reflection and even though I don’t have a year-in-review, I have been thinking a lot about my career. I decided to refocus on design in November 2017 and there are a few things I have learnt I want to share. These are things no one told me and so I hope someone would find this useful.
- Do not disregard humble beginnings: I started designing while I was at university and I liked the work I did then. I don’t know why but I had this idea then that work was a thing that only adults did. I didn’t regard or consider any of my designs then as work, so I didn’t document them properly. I thought all I had were memories but while I was writing this I found my first portfolio. I lost all the work and even the memory of them because I didn’t document as I should. When I designed my portfolio in 2017, I had completely forgotten about the things I did before. Be intentional about documenting no matter how little and do not look down on your work.
- All work is work: Even if you don’t consider your work as work, please charge accordingly. You should charge something for your time. The only free work you should be doing is for NGO’s and similar related causes.
- Be an active community member: I discovered Usable late and I think that things would have been different if I joined them earlier. Communities are important; you get exposed to a wealth of resources and people willing to assist when you get lost or need help. Take part in discussions and share your work. It is also a way to increase the network that can view your work and recommend you for jobs.
- Be intentional about where you want to work: This might be a little hard because of the nature of the Nigerian economy but you should still try to make sure it is satisfying for you and your future. Don’t just accept offers; read about the CEO, ask people about the place and the people you would be working with and ask yourself how it fits into your career goals in the long run.
Finally, brethren, your career is in your hands, don’t leave this to vibes. Yes, life happens but have some kind of goal for yourself. I wish I knew early about goal setting and how my actions would affect my future and things like that. Anyway, it is a new year and another opportunity to take charge. I wish everyone a productive 2021, Happy new year!
