I wasn’t always in human resources; in fact, I had my first degree in Botany from the University of Lagos. At 19, I had my first HR experience in a logistics firm as a baby recruiter during one of the ASUU strikes in 2009.
Although I didn’t earn a salary, I gained valuable professional experience that contributed to me landing a job with an International Airline two years later (specifically during the week of my undergraduate project defense), where I functioned in Customer Service/Administrative roles.

Still, there was a void. I re-discovered myself, assessed my personal values, purpose, and passion, which led me to HR. A career that aligns with my passion of helping organisations  surmount the challenges of attracting and retaining talent, attaining revenue goals, satisfying customers/clients, controlling expenses while achieving business and profitability objectives.

Here’s how I had a successful career transition:

1 – Finding my purpose:- I found my purpose by consistently seeking the face of God. knowing my “why” ensured I took the right steps that will lead to my desired destination.
Some people decide to start a new career just because it’s the “in-thing” or what is in demand at a particular time.
Wrong move.

Finding purpose – What happens when they get in and discover they do not enjoy the role or it gets phased out?

2 – Up-skilling :- Although I had acquired transferable skills over the years, I needed to develop the core competencies to thrive at the next level. I got a degree in HR, took online courses, got certified, and kept improving myself.

3 – Association :- I cultivated and expanded my network. One of the people instrumental to my journey is Gbenga Alayande, my first HR Boss. We spent time discussing industry trends and innovating ideas to improve our efficiency. Connecting with seniors like Lara Yeku, Dupe Akinsiun, Taiwo ‘Dayo-Abatan, Emmanuel Michael, Dayo Olomu, Ifeadi Anigbogu, in my industry proved beneficial. Remember you can’t know it all.

4 – Volunteer :- There are organizations that will accept your offer of free labor. Leverage on that. You can also volunteer to shadow the desired department in your organization; lend a helping hand from time to time, so when there is a vacancy in that department, you will be the first option.

5 – Put yourself out there :- Update your CV and apply for positions that will get you closer to your career goals (not every job post you see), write an article about your journey, make your value proposition known. Let’s get to know about you – Glory Edozien gives useful tips on how to optimize your LinkedIn profile I have learnt a lot from her and Stella Da Silva. There’s always a problem to solve, identify it, and proffer a solution. That’s your value add. Build on it.

6 – Never give up :- It won’t be easy, but you must keep hope alive, keep the goal in sight. This quote keeps me going- “And when you become a diamond, you’ll see why life had to pressure you”. I hope these tips have been helpful.

Did you transition/ are you transitioning? How is it going? Please share.