Creating Opportunity Instead of Waiting for It

Times are uncertain, and opportunities are not always guaranteed.

In such an environment, relying solely on formal employment can be limiting. While waiting for the right opportunity, it is worth considering how you might create your own momentum by monetising your skills, either those you already have or those you can deliberately develop.

A common question follows: How do you know which skills are worth monetising, and where do you begin?

The starting point is often closer than you think.

1. Start with what already exists

You do not need to reinvent anything. Within most professions, individual skills have already been separated and offered as standalone services. In accounting, for example, bookkeeping, preparing financial statements and tax submissions are commonly provided independently. In law, contract drafting, due diligence and compliance support are often offered on a standalone basis.

Look at your field and identify which parts can be offered on their own.

2. Focus on solving a real inconvenience

People pay for solutions to problems they find time-consuming or frustrating. Administrative tasks are a common example. Many individuals and small businesses struggle with organisation, documentation and coordination.

If your skill removes a burden, it becomes easier to find clients.

3. Specialisation influences pricing

More specialised skills tend to command higher fees, particularly where fewer people can provide them. If your aim is to earn more per engagement, developing a niche skill that addresses a clear need can place you in a stronger position.

On the other hand, generalised skills often attract more clients, even if priced lower. Over time, volume can compensate for pricing, especially where demand is consistent.

5. Visibility connects skill to opportunity

No matter how useful your skill is, it will not translate into income if people are unaware of it. Visibility matters.

This requires a basic understanding of how to present and market your service. That may involve using accessible platforms, learning simple marketing principles or observing how others in your field position similar services.

In uncertain times, waiting alone is rarely enough. Building something alongside your job search places you in a more active position, where you are not only waiting for opportunity, but also creating it.

– Johannes Shangadi is a Namibian legal professional and managing consultant at Strategic Corporate Advisory Namibia. He passionately writes on career growth, professional visibility and navigating competitive job markets.

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