The world of work is changing—fast. Automation, AI, and evolving digital technologies are transforming industries, disrupting traditional roles, and redefining what it means to have a "secure job." In this fast-paced environment, staying relevant … Read on blog or Reader SMALL BUSINESS INSIGHTS Read on blog or Reader How to stay relevant in a rapidly changing Job market By Olamide Adedara on April 17, 2025 The world of work is changing—fast. Automation, AI, and evolving digital technologies are transforming industries, disrupting traditional roles, and redefining what it means to have a "secure job." In this fast-paced environment, staying relevant isn't just about working hard—it's about working smart and adapting constantly. Why Future-Proofing Matters Gone are the days when one degree or certification could carry you through an entire career. Today's most in-demand skills didn't even exist 10 years ago, and the jobs of the next decade will demand a whole new set of competencies. According to the World Economic Forum, nearly 50% of all employees will need reskilling by 2025. Future-proofing is no longer optional—it's essential. 5 Key Strategies to Future-Proof Your Career Become a Lifelong Learner Continuous learning is your superpower. Make a habit of regularly updating your skills through online courses, certifications, and microlearning platforms. Platforms like Coursera, LinkedIn Learning, and Udemy can help you stay ahead of the curve. Master Soft Skills While hard skills open the door, soft skills keep you in the room. Skills like communication, adaptability, emotional intelligence, and leadership will always be in demand—regardless of industry shifts. Build a Personal Brand Your online presence is your digital résumé. Use platforms like LinkedIn to showcase your work, share your learning journey, and connect with industry experts. Your personal brand helps you stand out and signals your value to potential employers and collaborators. Embrace Technology (Even If You're Not in Tech) You don't have to be a developer, but you should understand how emerging technologies like AI, data analytics, or automation affect your industry. Upskill in digital literacy, data fluency, or tech tools relevant to your role. Diversify Your Skill Set Don't stay stuck in one lane. Explore complementary skills that can expand your value. For instance, a marketer learning basic data analytics or a designer learning product strategy can easily pivot across roles. Conclusion: Your Career Is an Evolving Product Think of yourself as a brand—and your career as a product in development. To stay relevant, you must iterate, adapt, and upgrade regularly. The world is changing, but with the right mindset and proactive steps, you can thrive—no matter what the future brings

SMALL BUSINESS INSIGHTS © 2025. Manage your email settings or unsubscribe. Get the Jetpack app Subscribe, bookmark, and get real‑time notifications - all from one app! Automattic, Inc. 60 29th St. #343, San Francisco, CA 94110

A 47-year-old man from Glasgow has been sentenced to four years in prison after fraudulently claiming more than £710,000 in COVID-19 relief funds intended to support small businesses in Leeds during the height of the pandemic. Aftab Baig posed as a … Read on blog or Reader SMALL BUSINESS INSIGHTS Read on blog or Reader Man jailed for £710K COVID grant fraud meant for small businesses By Oluwayankunmi Olaleye-Kehinde on April 17, 2025 A 47-year-old man from Glasgow has been sentenced to four years in prison after fraudulently claiming more than £710,000 in COVID-19 relief funds intended to support small businesses in Leeds during the height of the pandemic. Aftab Baig posed as a senior employee at Greggs and made fake grant applications for 32 properties—none of which he had any legal connection to. The funds, meant to help businesses survive lockdown, were paid into a bank account linked to his catering business. In May 2020, while small businesses were fighting to stay afloat, Baig contacted Leeds City Council claiming he was a property manager from Greggs' head office and needed business rates details he couldn't access due to lockdown. Read also, Man jailed for £710K COVID grant fraud meant for small businesses Senate empowers farmers with seedlings, chemicals to boost sustainable agriculture Osun secures UK partnership on trade, culture, governance engagement Bago unveils N2.3trn agro plan, empowers pensioners with farm scheme FCCPC seals 5 shops in Utako Market over sale of fake foreign rice brands The council, believing the request was legitimate, shared the information, which Baig then used to submit false claims under the Small Business Grant Fund. The fraud was soon uncovered, and the council froze the account before most of the funds were spent. However, over £90,000 remained missing. Police Scotland arrested Baig in July 2020. During a search of his home, they discovered £16,000 in cash and forged remittance slips he allegedly planned to use in an attempt to recover the frozen money. Baig was convicted of three counts of fraud at Leeds Crown Court in February. Kelly Ward of the Crown Prosecution Service condemned his actions, saying: "Baig exploited the chaos of the pandemic to steal taxpayer money meant to keep real businesses alive. Fraud like this robs our communities and won't go unpunished." Authorities say efforts are now underway to recover any remaining assets linked to the crime.

SMALL BUSINESS INSIGHTS © 2025. Manage your email settings or unsubscribe. Get the Jetpack app Subscribe, bookmark, and get real‑time notifications - all from one app! Automattic, Inc. 60 29th St. #343, San Francisco, CA 94110

Senator Adams Oshiomhole has urged farmers to embrace productivity, resilience, and sustainable practices as he flagged off the distribution of seedlings and agro-chemicals."These aren't just supplies, they're investments in your future," he said, e… Read on blog or Reader SMALL BUSINESS INSIGHTS Read on blog or Reader Senate empowers farmers with seedlings, chemicals to boost sustainable agriculture By Busola Bamidele on April 17, 2025 Senator Adams Oshiomhole has urged farmers to embrace productivity, resilience, and sustainable practices as he flagged off the distribution of seedlings and agro-chemicals. "These aren't just supplies, they're investments in your future," he said, encouraging beneficiaries to apply the training received and expect positive transformation on their farms. Read also: Senate empowers farmers with seedlings, chemicals to boost sustainable agriculture Osun secures UK partnership on trade, culture, governance engagement Bago unveils N2.3trn agro plan, empowers pensioners with farm scheme FCCPC seals 5 shops in Utako Market over sale of fake foreign rice brands Inflation climbs to 3.90% in March 2025 as food, energy, and service costs surge He described the initiative as the foundation for a more robust and enduring agricultural sector, stressing that farmers are key drivers of national growth and prosperity. Grateful beneficiaries hailed the intervention from the Federal Government and Oshiomhole as timely and impactful.

SMALL BUSINESS INSIGHTS © 2025. Manage your email settings or unsubscribe. Get the Jetpack app Subscribe, bookmark, and get real‑time notifications - all from one app! Automattic, Inc. 60 29th St. #343, San Francisco, CA 94110