By Adams Adeleke

Nigerians are a highly driven and motivated people, but with the country currently plagued with staggering unemployment, rapidly-spreading insecurity, sustained police brutality and the slow return of economic activities to pre-COVID lockdown days, living in the country is increasingly becoming a risky affair for the youth.  

The pent-up frustration of the population precipitated the japa movement that is fostering massive brain drain across all business sectors. Though the situation is a grim one for the nation if viewed through long-term lenses, it is pertinent to equip potential emigrants with the right skill set to thrive overseas since the situation on the home front is showing little to no promise.

Tech industry offers one of the most transferrable skills that anyone can have now, and with the tragic COVID-19 opening the vast world of remote working, tech is well and truly changing the world in unique ways. Non-coding tech skills are growing in popularity and this writer daresay that you will be hard-pressed to find a skill that will continue to grow in relevance as much as product management. 

Product management is a fast-growing field and is in high demand globally. It involves the planning, development, and management of products from concept to launch. Product managers work with cross-functional teams, including engineering, design, marketing, and sales, to bring innovative products to market. The role requires a combination of technical, business, and interpersonal skills, making it an ideal career choice for young Nigerians who are driven and want to make a difference.

So, how do you get started on the path to landing your first product management gig either remotely or overseas? The first step is to get the right training. There are several platforms online including Edx and Udemy to name but a few that offer both fundamentals and advanced training to get you started on your product management career. This will help you build a solid foundation and give you the knowledge and skills necessary to succeed in the field.

Once you have the right training, the next step is to gain experience. This can be achieved through apprenticeships or internships with companies that have product management teams. Working as an apprentice or intern will give you an inside look at the day-to-day operations of a product management team and help you develop your skills. It will also give you the opportunity to make connections and build a network of industry contacts.

With training and experience, you are now ready to start looking for your first product management job overseas. There are many websites that cater to job seekers in the product management field, such as LinkedIn, Glassdoor, and other job sites. These websites offer a wealth of information on job opportunities, including both remote and on-site jobs. You can also search for jobs on company websites that may be of interest to you.

However, finding a job overseas can be challenging, especially if you are not familiar with the visa sponsorship process. Visa sponsorship depends on the country and company, and it is important to understand the requirements before you apply. Some companies may sponsor visas for international employees, while others may not. You should research this information before you start your job search to enable you make your own “welcome to a new dispensation” social media post.

Another great way to get your foot in the door is by searching for remote jobs. There is a plethora of sites that can help with this, and it is also important that you optimize your LinkedIn profile and other digital touchpoints to create the needed visibility for your personal brand.

Finally, it is important to be prepared for the interview process. The interview is your opportunity to showcase your skills and demonstrate your knowledge of product management. You should be well-prepared and have a clear understanding of the company’s products and the market. Be confident, and let your passion for product management shine through.

In conclusion, landing a product management job overseas is a great way for young Nigerians to build a successful career and escape the challenges faced in the country. With the right training, experience, and preparation, you can turn your frustration into something positive and achieve your career goals. So, start your journey today, and you will be on your way to a bright and exciting future. Now more than ever, technology is helping youth find meaning in life and it is readily available to all who care to utilize it.

Adams Adeleke is a London-based API integration Expert and a Digital Product Manager.