In recent years, Nigeria has faced significant economic challenges, with inflation rates soaring to unprecedented levels; as of September 2023, the inflation rate reached a staggering 26.72%, according to the Nigerian Bureau of Statistics (NBS). This economic climate underscores the growing desire among professionals to earn more to maintain financial stability. The drive to increase earnings is often tied to fulfillment theories, which suggest that individuals find satisfaction not only in their work but also in the financial rewards that accompany it. Higher earnings can signal professional achievement and skill growth, reinforcing the connection between income and personal development.
However, the notion that earning more is simply a matter of acquiring additional clients is a fallacy. Many in the design industry are grappling with the harsh reality of an oversaturated market. With over 90,000 graphic designers currently in Nigeria, distinguishing oneself in this crowded space has become increasingly difficult. This also reveals that the graphic design market is flooded, making it challenging for many professionals to secure enough clients to achieve the financial success they seek based on a single skill set.This situation contributes to the broader discussion about why many creatives earn low figures.
To counter this issue, a strategic approach called knowledge stacking can be employed. This concept involves acquiring skills that complement existing expertise, enabling professionals to broaden their service offerings without straying too far from their core competencies. For example, a graphic designer might benefit from learning video editing, UI/UX design, or logo animation—skills that enhance their versatility and appeal.
Value of Knowledge Stacking:
- Increased Client Base: By attracting clients from a variety of industries, designers can extend their reach beyond the saturated graphic design market.
- Enhanced Value Proposition: Providing a wider range of services positions designers as adaptable professionals capable of addressing diverse client needs, ultimately increasing their marketability.
Additionally, clients tend to prefer working with designers who can offer multiple services, as this approach saves time and effort. The convenience of engaging a single designer for various tasks can lead to long-term client relationships.
Again, employers are increasingly favoring candidates with diverse skill sets to minimize overhead costs. As Simon Sinek, a renowned motivational speaker, once said, “Success is when reality catches up to your imagination,” emphasizing the value of adaptability and growth in today’s job market.
Our interview today highlights the dangers faced by designers who limit themselves to a single skill. Max, the interviewee, shared his experience of being let go after five years in the industry due to his narrow focus on graphic design.
While he has begun learning additional skills like video editing, his journey illustrates the importance of diversifying one’s skill set in a competitive landscape.
Here’s 9 questions with Chisom Eferuwa on getting fired as a one-skilled designer!
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How many years have you been designing?
“I’ve been designing for five years now.
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Tell us your experience of getting fired because you had only a single skill.
“The company needed someone who could multi-task. Unfortunately, I had only one skill—graphic design—so they decided to fire me and hire someone with more diverse abilities, like Graphic Design, Video Editing, and other skills.”
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What set of skills do you have now, and do you make more?
“I only know how to design for now, and I make more from Graphic Design. Though, I’m currently learning Video Editing.”
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What do your colleagues think about having just one skill?
“Most of my colleagues who are Graphic Designers have ventured into other skills and businesses. With the current economic situation, it’s not advisable to stay with just one skill.”
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What type of work do you do now?
“I do Graphic Design.”
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What areas are closest to graphic design to learn a secondary skill, like video editing?
“Areas close to Graphic Design are UI/UX, Video Editing, Logo Design, and many more.”
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When thinking of other skills, should design be a secondary one?
“No, Graphic Design should be a primary one. It’s really essential.”
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Which would you choose: a one million naira banking job or a 400k design job?
“As a freelancer, I would go for the 400k design job.”
Take The Best Route for Increasing Value
Designers have shared their personal experiences navigating the economic landscape, revealing coping strategies for dealing with inflation.
By adopting knowledge stacking, professionals can not only increase their earnings but also ensure they remain relevant and in demand in an ever-evolving market.
The perspective shared in this interview resonates with many designers who are contemplating their future in the field but an application of this method prevents you from transitioning away from design altogether, providing depth to your personal growth and increasing your charges along the way.