A recent TRIBEST LinkedIn poll asked a simple but thought-provoking question:
Which is harder in Nigeria today?
- Getting a job – 65%
- Growing a business – 29%
- Building a career – 6%
- Keeping a job – 0%
While the results may not be surprising, they reveal deeper realities about Nigeria’s workforce and economic landscape.
The Job Search Challenge
The majority of respondents believe that getting a job is the hardest challenge today. This reflects the experiences of many graduates and professionals navigating a highly competitive labour market.
Every year, thousands of qualified candidates enter the workforce, yet the number of available opportunities often falls short of demand. Beyond qualifications, employers increasingly seek candidates who possess practical skills, adaptability, digital competence, and relevant experience.
This means that securing employment now requires more than a degree – it requires continuous learning and strategic career positioning.
Why Growing a Business Is Also Difficult
Nearly one-third of respondents selected growing a business as the biggest challenge.
Businesses today face multiple pressures:
- Rising operational costs
- Economic uncertainty
- Talent retention challenges
- Regulatory compliance requirements
- Changing customer expectations
For many entrepreneurs, starting a business is only the first step. Sustaining growth and profitability is often the real test.
Building a Career Goes Beyond Getting a Job
Interestingly, only a small percentage chose building a career.
Yet career development deserves greater attention. Getting a job may solve an immediate need, but building a sustainable career requires intentional planning, skill development, networking, mentorship, and continuous improvement.
The professionals who thrive are often those who view employment as part of a larger journey rather than a destination.
The Real Question
Perhaps the challenge is not choosing which is harder.
Perhaps the real question is:
How do we better prepare individuals and organizations to succeed despite these challenges?
For job seekers, the answer may lie in developing in-demand skills and increasing employability.
For employers, it may involve investing in workforce development and creating environments where talent can thrive.
For businesses, it means building resilient systems and people-focused strategies that support sustainable growth.
Final Thought
Nigeria’s workforce is filled with talent, ambition, and potential. The challenge before us is not simply creating opportunities – but ensuring people are equipped to seize them when they arise.
At TRIBEST, we remain committed to connecting talent with opportunity, supporting workforce development, and helping organizations build stronger, more productive teams.
What do you think is the biggest challenge facing professionals and businesses in Nigeria today? Share your thoughts in the comments.
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