Main vs. Side Hustle, Work Ethic and Leveling Up | Vanessa Sanyauke | Beyond Coding Podcast #99

Strategic Moves

Strategic career moves require careful planning and foresight, as emphasized by Vanessa Sanyauke. She advises against leaving a job without having another lined up or sufficient savings, highlighting the importance of financial stability before making a transition 1. Vanessa's own journey from a diversity and inclusion role to running her own organization exemplifies this strategic approach. She notes, "Girls Talk was always on the side," illustrating how a side hustle can evolve into a main business when nurtured properly 1.

   

Progression Challenges

Navigating career progression can be challenging, especially in large organizations with rigid structures. Patrick Akil and Vanessa discuss how employees often feel stuck despite being in their dream companies due to limited promotion opportunities 2. Vanessa shares her experience of hitting a glass ceiling, which prompted her to focus on her own business. She emphasizes the importance of recognizing when it's time to move on: "If you feel like that's it, it's time to move on" 2.

   

Growth Investment

Investing in personal growth is crucial for career advancement, as Vanessa illustrates through her commitment to continuous learning. She has invested time and resources into attending events, reading, and upskilling to enhance her leadership capabilities 3. Vanessa's dedication to her side hustle, Girls Talk, involved significant personal sacrifices, including financial investments. She reflects, "You have to be your first investor," underscoring the necessity of self-belief and resource allocation in achieving long-term success 3.