On Monday, the 9th of September, I had the privilege to engage MBA Alumni and aspiring MBA candidates at the MBA Expo. One of the things that I spoke about was portfolio careers; another colleague in the industry also touched on this topic. However, our time was limited, and we could not elaborate on this topic. This is not only for MBA graduates but could also help someone considering a portfolio career. As you go through this article, please be mindful that the South African market has not yet fully embraced portfolio careers; it is a journey, but it will be helpful for you to be equipped when we get there.

In today’s dynamic job market, the traditional career path is evolving. An increasing number of professionals opt for portfolio careers—a workstyle consisting of multiple part-time jobs, freelance projects, or a combination of employment types. For MBA graduates in South Africa, understanding and leveraging the concept of a portfolio career can offer numerous advantages, including flexibility, diverse experiences, and enhanced skills.

What is a Portfolio Career?

A portfolio career involves managing multiple concurrent jobs or projects, often across different fields. It allows individuals to explore various interests, build a broad skill set, and guard against the uncertainty of relying on a single employer. This concept particularly appeals to MBA graduates with a wide range of skills and interests on which to capitalise.

The South African Market and Portfolio Careers

The South African job market, like the global one, is experiencing a shift. While the traditional nine-to-five job still dominates, portfolio careers are becoming more accepted. The rise of the gig economy, increased demand for flexible work arrangements, and the entrepreneurial spirit prevalent among South Africans contribute to this trend.

However, it’s important to note that while there is an emerging acceptance of portfolio careers, opportunities within this framework largely depend on industry and sector. Fields such as consulting, technology, and creative industries are more conducive to portfolio careers than traditional sectors like finance or law.

How to Showcase a Portfolio Career on Your CV

  1. Highlight Diverse Skills: Make sure to showcase the wide array of skills you’ve developed through your various roles. This demonstrates adaptability and a broad knowledge base, which employers highly value.
  2. Use a Functional CV Format: Consider using a functional CV, which emphasises skills and accomplishments rather than chronological work history. This format allows you to highlight your strengths and relevant experiences across different roles.
  3. Group Similar Roles Together: If you’ve worked in similar positions, group them under a common header, such as “Consulting Projects” or “Marketing Roles.” This helps to create a coherent narrative that aligns with your career goals.
  4. Include Quantifiable Achievements: Provide specific examples of your accomplishments in each role. Use quantifiable metrics where possible to demonstrate your impact, such as increased sales, improved efficiencies, or successful project completions.
  5. Tailor to the Job Description: Ensure your CV reflects the skills and experiences relevant to the job you’re applying for. Highlight the roles and achievements most aligned with the employer’s needs.

Conclusion

For MBA graduates in South Africa, building a portfolio career can be a strategic way to diversify experience and achieve career goals. By understanding how to present a portfolio career effectively on a CV, you can optimise your employability in a competitive job market.

If you’re ready to explore the potential of a portfolio career, start by identifying your core skills, interests, and industries that support flexible work arrangements. Tailor your CV to showcase your unique blend of experiences and prepare to enter the workforce with confidence and versatility.