In Nigeria, we know a thing or two about building from the ground up. The hustle is in our DNA. So when it comes to your professional journey, why not approach it with the same spirit as a successful Lagos tech founder? They don't just have a job; they are building a legacy. Thinking like a founder means seeing your career as your most important startup.
Your skills are your product, your network is your investor base, and your reputation is the brand you are building. Here is how you can adopt that mindset and create a career brand that stands out.
1. Define Your "Why" (Your Mission)
Every great founder has a mission. Think of the problem they are trying to solve; like building a payment system that works seamlessly, or creating an e-commerce platform that connects local vendors to the world. What problem are you solving for your employer or your industry?
PRACTICAL TIP: Write a one-sentence mission statement for your professional life. It could be something like: "I simplify complex tech challenges to help businesses in Nigeria scale," or "I use compelling storytelling to build powerful brand connections for local businesses." This statement becomes the guiding force for all your decisions.
2. Sharpen Your "Product" (Your Skills)
A founder's product is never truly finished. They are constantly iterating and improving. Your professional "product" is your expertise. In a market as competitive as ours, staying relevant is not a suggestion; it is a requirement.
PRACTICAL TIP: Block out time for continuous learning. This is not just about getting a new certificate. It could be learning to use a new software, taking an online course, or simply following industry leaders on LinkedIn to stay ahead of the curve. Don't wait for your company to train you; invest in yourself.
3. Market Your "Brand" (Tell Your Story)
In Lagos, if you have a great idea, you tell everyone about it! The same applies to your career. Your professional brand is more than just a CV. It's your digital footprint, the value you add to conversations, and the professional story you tell on platforms like LinkedIn.
PRACTICAL TIP: Stop treating your LinkedIn profile like a dusty CV. It is your shop front. Share insightful articles, comment on posts from industry leaders, and don't be afraid to share your own thoughts on a trend. Show people that you are a valuable voice, not just another resume in the pile.
4. Build Your "Investor" Network
No founder succeeds alone. They build a network of mentors and advisors who believe in their vision. Your network is your safety net and your launching pad. These are the people who will vouch for you and connect you to opportunities you would not find on your own.
PRACTICAL TIP: Focus on building genuine relationships. It's not about how many contacts you have, but about the quality of those connections. Be a giver, not just a taker. Offer to help others in your network, share job opportunities, or connect two people you think would benefit from knowing each other.
Building your professional brand with a founder's mentality is about more than just ambition. It is about taking ownership of your career and proactively shaping your future. It is the kind of hustle that gets things done, not just in Nigeria, but anywhere in the world.
Ready to stop waiting and start building your legacy?
At Urehgab, we connect ambitious professionals with opportunities where their unique "founder" mindset can thrive. Whether you are a tech visionary or a creative strategist, your next big move is waiting.
Click here to explore our top job openings or Click here to partner with us, let us turn your career into your greatest venture yet.
Thank you for reading.
