Participating in forum discussions can be a great way to share your knowledge, engage with others who have similar interests, and potentially drive traffic back to your site or blog. However, simply posting a link or a brief comment may not provide enough value to forum members. Writing comprehensive, insightful articles tailored specifically for forums demonstrates your expertise and gives back to the community.
But what goes into a great forum article? Below are tips for crafting content across all sectors that offers true value to readers while optimising for search engines.
Choose topics carefully.
The first step is choosing topics strategically. Consider these criteria when selecting subjects:
● Relevance: Make sure the topic directly relates to the forum’s focus and will realistically interest members. Check past discussions for clues about what draws engagement.
● Keywords: Research keyword demand using Google’s Keyword Planner and other tools. Target long-tail, low-competition terms that get decent search volume.
● Original Research: Offer a fresh perspective; don’t just regurgitate existing content. Include recent statistics, expert interviews, and up-to-date examples.
● Length: Posts with 1,500+ words tend to attract more organic search visibility and forum feedback. But aim for tight, scannable paragraphs versus long-winded text.
Craft Compelling Introductions
Your introductory paragraph needs to immediately capture readers’ interest while summarising the post’s scope. Consider these tips:
● Lead with an eye-catching statistic, rhetorical question, or bold statement on your central topic.
● Briefly touch on 3-5 key issues you’ll address so readers know what to expect.
● Conclude the introduction with a clear thesis statement or overarching opinion on the topic.
Structured Content in Scannable Sections
Online readers tend to skim rather than absorb huge blocks of text. Make your post more digestible by dividing it into short sections introduced by bold subheadings.
Aim to switch up subheading styles. For example, you might alternate between phrase headings (Tips for Choosing a CRM) and question-based headings (How Much Data Storage Do You Need?).
Subheadings act like a table of contents, guiding readers to their most interesting parts while improving SEO.
Blend facts and opinions.
Forum posts that solely state dry facts and statistics may fail to engage readers emotionally. On the flip side, content that just shares personal anecdotes lacks authority. Blend both factual evidence and professional opinions for maximum impact.
Facts:
● Recent statistics from reputable sources
● Specific numbers and figures
● Expert quotes and interviews
● Links to original research
Opinions:
● Personal experiences related to the topic
● Observation of trends in your industry
● Professional judgements on the facts
● Predictions and discussions of implications
Weave facts and opinions together in each section instead of isolating them.
Optimise for SEO.
Writing specifically for search engines can amplify your forum's reach. As you create articles, keep these SEO tips in mind:
● Keyword optimisation: match key phrases to related headings and generously incorporate the target keyword in paragraphs. But avoid over-stuffing.
● Links: Hyperlink relevant words to internal forum pages or external sites. This signals search engines that the page offers worthwhile content.
● Images: Insert images and graphics reinforcing key points, then use descriptive ALT text and file names containing keywords.
● Quality over quantity: Concentrate on producing comprehensive, in-depth posts versus churning out quantity content. Longer, robuster articles tend to perform better.
Provide value to readers.
Beyond SEO and driving search traffic, your ultimate goal is delivering value that forum members genuinely appreciate. Ensure content gives back to the community in these ways:
● Teach new skills. Provide concrete, step-by-step instructions and tips readers can apply.
● Solve problems. Offer solutions to common pain points and questions you’ve heard in the niche.
● Entertain: combine engaging personal stories and touches of humour with factual content.
● Inform buying decisions: For product forums, offer pros and cons analyses or buyer’s guides.
● Spark discussion: close articles with open-ended questions to encourage comments and debate. Monitor responses to foster an ongoing dialogue.
Format for Online Reading
Web content requires special formatting considerations for scannability and easy reading. Build scannable forum posts with these best practices:
● Use brief 4–8 sentence paragraphs written directly in active voice.
● Place the strongest argument first in each paragraph, backed by supporting points underneath.
● Employ generous white space through line breaks and spacing between sections.
● Ensure clear hierarchy by formatting post titles, subtitles, and subheadings in decreasing order of prominence.
● Use numbered and bulleted lists for complex information whenever possible.
● Bold and underline selectively to emphasise critical text without overdoing it.
● Include relevant high-quality images, data visualisations, charts, and graphics for visual relief.
Proofread Thoroughly
Nothing destroys great content faster than careless typos and grammar mistakes. Avoid alienating readers by:
● Running spell checkers and editing carefully for errors.
● Asking a peer or professional editor to proofread with a critical eye.
● Read your article aloud first to catch awkward phrasing.
Remember, forums are more casual than published articles. Conversational language makes articles more welcoming while still upholding strong writing standards.
Cite References
Back crucial statistics and facts with reputable citations. Hyperlink directly to referenced research where possible. This lends credibility while enabling curious readers to verify the data themselves.
Don’t over-reference and disrupt article flow. Group sources together at the end, versus cluttering paragraphs with endless parentheses and numbers.
Include the author's bio and links.
Put an author bio underneath articles, briefly highlighting your background and relevant expertise. This establishes credibility, so readers view you as an authority worth heeding. List any websites, social media profiles, or blogs you wish to link in your signature for brand consistency. But avoid overt self-promotion. Focus bios on how you can assist forum members versus sales pitches.
Monitor and respond
Keep participating in the forums you share articles in. Respond to the reader's comments and questions. This fosters community while positioning you as an expert invested in discussions.
Reach out privately if posters recommend resources you find helpful. Thank you to the contributors who shared thoughtful feedback, making the article even stronger. Monitoring forums provides invaluable insights into trending issues and consumer pain points that inspire future content ideas worth writing about more in depth.
Revise and repurpose material
Article writing is never “one and done.” Consider how forum posts might become fodder for expanded content on your own site:
● Blog posts: adapt popular forum content into long-form blog articles going more in-depth. Add new sections and more exhaustive research tailored to your niche.
● Videos: Extract key text and talking points into scripts for YouTube tutorials, webinar recordings, and other videos, expanding their reach.
● Graphics: Transform text-heavy statistics and lessons learned into appealing infographics.
Repurposing evergreen forum posts maximises their mileage while showcasing your expertise across multiple channels. This ultimately drives more visitors back to your website over time.
Conclusion
Writing compelling, comprehensive articles purposefully for forums might sound time-intensive upfront. But the lasting search visibility, community engagement, lead generation, and branding payoffs make contributions well worth the effort. Use these best practices across all niche forums you actively participate in to become a recognised thought leader that members seek out.
Consistent participation builds familiarity and trust with fellow forum enthusiasts over time. By generously sharing your hard-won knowledge rather than only commenting when you have something to promote, you position yourself as a reliable expert. This earns opportunities like speaking engagements, consulting projects, key media interviews, board positions, and more that raise visibility. But above all, maintaining an abundance mindset and giving back intrinsic rewards is better than constantly tallying metrics.
Aim to provide immense value by understanding that fruitful outcomes will organically follow in due time across all sectors. Savvy Forum article writing works best when motivated by genuine passion for the communities you serve.

Some of the great articles across various sectors are listed below:
How to Start and Run a Successful Medical Laboratory in Nigeria - https://smeguide.net/how-to-start-and-run-a-successful-medical-laboratory-in-nigeria/
100 Profitable Business Ideas to Start in Nigeria - https://smeguide.net/100-profitable-business-ideas-to-start-in-nigeria/
The Ultimate Guide to Starting a Business in Nigeria - https://smeguide.net/the-ultimate-guide-to-starting-a-business-in-nigeria/
Strategies to Grow a Profitable Building Materials Trading Business in Nigeria - https://smeguide.net/strategies-to-grow-a-profitable-building-materials-trading-business-in-nigeria/
Starting a Successful Fashion Boutique Business in Nigeria: A Step-by-Step Guide - https://smeguide.net/starting-a-successful-fashion-boutique-business-in-nigeria-a-step-by-step-guide/
Optimising Nigerian Businesses for the Remote Work Era - https://smeguide.net/optimising-nigerian-businesses-for-the-remote-work-era/
Unlocking the Potential of Fonios Farming in Nigeria - https://smeguide.net/unlocking-the-potential-of-fonios-farming-in-nigeria/
Investment Opportunities in Imo State: Unlocking Growth and Prosperity - https://smeguide.net/investment-opportunities-in-imo-state-unlocking-growth-and-prosperity/
Unlock Explosive Growth: Top Business Strategies for Every Entrepreneur - https://smeguide.net/unlock-explosive-growth-top-business-strategies-for-every-entrepreneur/
Work from Anywhere, Earn from Anywhere: High-income Side Hustles for Remote Professionals - https://smeguide.net/work-from-anywhere-earn-from-anywhere-high-income-side-hustles-for-remote-professionals/
Nasarawa State Poised for Economic Renaissance, Governor Unveils Investment Summit 2024 - https://smeguide.net/nasarawa-state-poised-for-economic-renaissance-governor-unveils-investment-summit-2024/
“Made to Stick” Book Review: Unforgettable Ideas for Business Success - https://smeguide.net/made-to-stick-book-review-unforgettable-ideas-for-business-success/
Boosting Operational Excellence with AI-Based Business Process Automation in Nigeria - https://smeguide.net/boosting-operational-excellence-with-ai-based-business-process-automation-in-nigeria/
The One-Minute Manager: A Must-Read for Entrepreneurs and Business Owners - https://smeguide.net/the-one-minute-manager-a-must-read-for-entrepreneurs-and-business-owners/
Empowering Farmers, Feeding the Nation: Supporting Sustainable Agriculture in Enugu State - https://smeguide.net/empowering-farmers-feeding-the-nation-supporting-sustainable-agriculture-in-enugu-state/
Maximise Your Lettuce Yield: A Comprehensive Guide to Lettuce Farming in Nigeria - https://smeguide.net/maximise-your-lettuce-yield-a-comprehensive-guide-to-lettuce-farming-in-nigeria/
Building High-Performance Teams: Insights from ‘Tribal Leadership’ by Dave Logan - https://smeguide.net/building-high-performance-teams-insights-from-tribal-leadership-by-dave-logan/
Metaverse in Nigeria: Revolutionizing Business Collaboration - https://smeguide.net/metaverse-in-nigeria-revolutionizing-business-collaboration/
The Ultimate Guide to Opening a Thriving Cosmetic Shop in Nigeria - https://smeguide.net/the-ultimate-guide-to-opening-a-thriving-cosmetic-shop-in-nigeria/
“What You Do is Who You Are” Book Review: Shaping Winning Corporate Cultures - https://smeguide.net/what-you-do-is-who-you-are-book-review-shaping-winning-corporate-cultures/
Investing in Kaduna State: A Guide to Lucrative Opportunities - https://smeguide.net/investing-in-kaduna-state-a-guide-to-lucrative-opportunities/
How to Start a Thriving Cowpea Farming Business in Nigeria - https://smeguide.net/how-to-start-a-thriving-cowpea-farming-business-in-nigeria/
How to Build and Lead High-Performing Remote Teams in Nigeria - https://smeguide.net/how-to-build-and-lead-high-performing-remote-teams-in-nigeria/
Investment Opportunities in Kano State: Capitalising on Potential - https://smeguide.net/investment-opportunities-in-kano-state-capitalising-on-potential/
How to Build and Lead High-Performing Remote Teams in Nigeria - https://smeguide.net/how-to-build-and-lead-high-performing-remote-teams-in-nigeria/

Accessing capital is a major hurdle for many small businesses in Nigeria. However, there are more funding options available today than ever before.

This definitive guide explores over 25 financing schemes, including government small business grants and loans, private funding programmes, crowdfunding platforms, business competitions, investors, and alternative financing solutions.


Whether you need ₦100,000 or ₦100 million to turn your business idea into reality, this guide will connect you to the right funding opportunities in Nigeria.

Government and NGO Grants for Nigerian Small Businesses

Securing a business grant allows you to fund your startup or business expansion with no repayment needed. The Nigerian government, international donors, NGOs, and more are offering small business grants up to ₦50 million.

Although highly competitive, small business grants can give your business the financial leg-up it needs to scale, especially if you meet eligibility criteria.

Read the full article - https://smeguide.net/a-guide-to-small-business-funding-in-nigeria-grants-loans-and-more/

With Nigeria currently facing economic challenges, including high inflation and unemployment, many people are looking for ways to earn extra income through side hustles. The right side gig can be a recession-proof source of cash to supplement your regular 9-to-5 job or tide you over between jobs.

This comprehensive guide will explore 10 lucrative and accessible side hustles you can start today in Nigeria to earn additional money during tough financial times.https://smeguide.net/10-profitable-side-hustles-for-extra-income-in-nigerias-tough-economy/

Nigeria is currently facing numerous challenges socially, economically, and politically. With high unemployment, inflation, insecurity, and other issues, many Nigerians are finding it difficult to thrive amidst the turbulence. This article provides expert advice on how to survive and even flourish during these tough times in Nigeria.
Read the full article ... https://smeguide.net/surviving-nigerias-current-challenges-advice-from-experts/

Improving the Ease of Doing Business in Nigeria: Reforms to Attract Investment and Support the Private Sector
Nigeria has long struggled with challenges around the ease of doing business, which has hindered economic growth and diversification. The country ranks 131 out of 190 countries in the World Bank’s 2020 Ease of Doing Business index. This poor performance hurts job creation, foreign direct investment (FDI) inflows, and the expansion of the private sector. However, the Nigerian government has recognized these problems and taken steps to implement reforms to improve the business environment.

Overview of Key Challenges for Businesses in Nigeria


Nigeria faces numerous difficulties in starting and operating businesses, which stem from factors like:

Complex regulatory framework: Overlapping laws and regulations across federal, state, and local levels create headaches for companies. Requirements are often ambiguous and costly to meet.
Access to credit: High lending rates and stringent collateral conditions impede SMEs from getting financing to grow their operations.
Multiple taxes: Businesses face a multiplicity of taxes, charges, and fees from different government agencies. Tax administration is opaque and complex.
Corruption: Routine demands for bribes and “facilitation payments” add to costs and delays.
Inadequate infrastructure: epileptic power supply, poor roads, and freight logistics drive up operational expenses.
Inefficient processes: bureaucracy and red tape cause delays in obtaining permits, licenses, and approvals to start and run businesses.
Weak dispute resolution: Slow and inefficient courts hamper the enforcement of contracts and the resolution of commercial disputes.
Why Improving the Ease of Doing Business Matters.
Read More https://smeguide.net/improving-the-ease-of-doing-business-in-nigeria-reforms-to-attract-investment-and-support-the-private-sector/

Nigeria is endowed with abundant natural resources, especially crude oil and natural gas. However, ineffective management and a lack of transparency around oil earnings have impeded Nigeria's development. With better governance strategies, Nigeria can manage its oil wealth more prudently than Saudi Arabia, for the benefit of all citizens.
Saudi Arabia's Robust Oil Revenue Management
Saudi Arabia is the world's largest oil exporter, with the hydrocarbon sector accounting for 50% of its GDP and 70% of export earnings. Despite volatility in oil prices, Saudi Arabia has achieved economic stability by:
Everyone needs to read this ... https://smeguide.net/following-saudi-arabias-example-how-nigeria-can-manage-its-oil-wealth-for-the-benefit-of-all-citizens/

Nigeria is a country full of business opportunities. With over 200 million people, there is huge demand for various products and services. However, identifying the right business to start can be challenging, especially when profitability is your goal.

This detailed article explores 100 profitable business ideas you can launch in Nigeria right now. The opportunities highlighted cut across diverse sectors like agriculture, food processing, retail, e-commerce, manufacturing, education, healthcare, technology, environmental management, services, and more. Most of these business ideas require moderate startup capital that aspiring entrepreneurs can raise.

Read the full article ... https://smeguide.net/100-profitable-business-ideas-to-start-in-nigeria/

SMEs face various challenges that can make it difficult for them to survive and grow. However, by adopting the right strategies, SMEs can overcome these challenges and thrive in the market. It is crucial for small business owners to remain agile and adaptable to changes in the market and leverage their strengths to stay competitive. Read the full article here ...https://smeguide.net/overcoming-challenges-faced-by-smes-insights-and-strategies/

SMEs must leverage technology to achieve business growth in today’s highly competitive and rapidly changing business environment. Cloud computing, social media marketing, e-commerce, CRM, data analytics, and mobile applications are some of the key technologies that SMEs can leverage to improve their overall business performance. By embracing technology, SMEs can stay ahead of the curve and continue to drive innovation and growth in their respective industries. Read the full information here ... https://smeguide.net/how-smes-can-leverage-technology-for-business-growth/

SMEs are essential in driving economic growth and development. They create employment opportunities, innovate, generate wealth, support regional development, and contribute to export markets. Governments and policymakers must recognize the importance of SMEs and create an enabling environment that supports their growth and development. By doing so, SMEs can continue to drive economic growth and development, creating benefits for society as a whole. Read the full report here ---https://smeguide.net/the-importance-of-small-and-medium-enterprises-smes-in-economic-development/

Vegetable farming in Nigeria has the potential to be a profitable venture with the right strategies in place. Farmers need to select the right vegetables, optimize soil and water management, implement Good Agricultural Practices (GAPs), practice efficient farm management, and have access to markets and financing. Diversification, value addition, community engagement, and sustainable farming practices are also key components of a successful vegetable farming operation. By adopting these strategies and continuously improving their knowledge and skills, vegetable farmers in Nigeria can grow towards profitability, contribute to food security, and promote economic development in the country.
Read more here...https://smeguide.net/growing-towards-profitability-strategies-for-successful-vegetable-farming-in-nigeria/

Everything about Nigeria for now is not encouraging at all. The kind of leaders we have in public offices, the kind of decisions they make and the way Nigerians accept both is not encouraging either.

But the truth is that in the midst of all these things that people do not like in Nigeria, are still those elements that are responsible in creating great opportunities for success in every area. And that’s why great businessmen and businesses still want to come to Nigeria. For instance, we have great population that are really living – eating, talking, loving, etc; we have 24 hours in a day and above all when you solve problems you still get rewards.
When I talk about failing here, I’m talking about failing to live a normal life; like not being able to take care of your family very well, or even take care of yourself. Personally, I do not think that anyone in Nigeria should still depend on the government because no government has really cared for the citizens before and thinking the government will change now, may just be a distraction.

My advice is for every Nigeria to think seriously what he or she can do to earn a decent living. Once he or she has found what to do, he or she should draw a plan whether formal or informal of what it will take to start and he or she should go ahead and start.
There shouldn’t be reason that capital stopped you from starting. No. If for example, you think you can be selling popcorn in a nearby joint every evening and you need N50, 000.00 to start small and you do not have even N1.00; that shouldn’t be a problem. All you have to do is to think about menial jobs you have to do to raise the money on a specific time. Let assume daily jobs where you stay is N3, 000.00 per day, let’s say you will use N1, 000.00 and save N2, 000.00 for the project; It will take you 25 days to raise the amount you need to start your project. It is as simple as that. This can be applied anyhow and I do advise that you have to crucify that pride or the certificate that has been preventing you from thinking well.

I want us to think about this as well as help others to think in this direction.
https://smeguide.net/there-is-no-good-excuse-for-anyone-to-fail-in-nigeria/

SMEG Hosting and Website Design has really made it easy for any person both corporate and individual to easily have a professional website without challenge. Their prices are affordable and they design the best and functional websites that are highly optimized and search engine friendly.
You do not need to pay anything before commencement of your project. Just get across to them at https://smeghosting.com/, let them know what you want; they will go ahead and design it and once you confirm you are ok with the project, you go ahead and pay.

For more information call or WhatsApp 08022401667 of send an email to support@smeghosting.com

Please, be informed that website is a must have tool for a business or an individual that wants to have an edge in this age. Apart from getting a world-wide presence by owing one and its capacity to increase your market share; website increases your brand reputation and makes more people want to deal more with you than when you don’t have a website… because they will always want to know more about you from the internet.

The simple savings strategy for you, even if your income is not enough for your upkeep
If your income is not always enough for you, the idea of saving money may seem like a joke to you. You may even be in debt at the ending of every month and you are thinking how on earth can come out of this quagmire. If someone mentions savings to you; you may even get angry and tell the person that he or she will not understand. But for you to really make progress in your finances, you have to start saving anyhow; whether you earn enough or not, if not you will not enjoy your life as you grow old.
Saving money is worth the effort as it will give you peace of mind in the long run as well as the opportunity to create wealth via investment and business. Consistent savings no matter the amount may just be what you need to break out of poverty that has been holding your progress. And for you to start thinking in terms of business and investment, you have to start saving money now. I will recommend a minimum of 5 per cent of your income for a start. And this should not affect your charitable donations and spiritual obligations.
Below is the simple savings strategy I recommend for you, even if your income is not enough for your upkeep:

https://smeguide.net/the-simple-savings-strategy-for-you-even-if-your-income-is-not-enough-for-your-upkeep/

The internet can destroy: But you can exploit the same internet and become more successful in life and in business.

Almost everyone around the world knows what the internet is. But for knowledge sake, internet can simply be defined as a global network of computers around the world for sharing of information and communication.
It is one of the best things in vogue and almost the solution to every problem man can solve. Anything man can think of can be found on the internet.

The challenge
With all the good things internet has brought to mankind, it destroys because of abuse and lack of wisdom. It has already destroyed so many lives, destinies, careers, businesses, etc. The internet will continue to destroy. But after reading this article you should not allow it to destroy you, your destiny, business or career. Many have tragically committed suicide while live streaming themselves on the internet. Many are addicted to pornography and cannot help themselves just because they are connected to the internet. And this pornography has ruined their career, business or something they valued so much. Many have joined bad gang, engaged in one form of illegality or the other because of the internet. Many have been addicted to the internet itself and you know what happens to those that are negatively addicted to something. The list is endless.
The truth
You can take advantage of the internet and become more success in life, business, career or in anything that you are desiring to be successful in.
How can I take advantage the internet and become more successful in life and in business?
1. The first thing you need to understand is how to limit your internet usage. That your smart phones are connected to the internet doesn’t mean you should be on the internet all the time. If you’re already finding it difficult not to do without your smart phones, just know that you are already getting addicted. And you have to work on yourself to stop it. You should have times you are free from your devices. You can always respond to those mails, chats, messages, etc later.

2. You should avoid distractions on the internet. Apart from your normal communications on the internet, you should avoid looking for other things that may distract you as you browse the internet. Pornography – nude pictures or videos should be a no go area for you if you really want to succeed in life and business. Just remember it’s foolishness for someone to hide somewhere and be gazing at someone else nude pictures. It can put you in a terrible state you wouldn’t like.

3. You should be aware that everything you need to be successful in this life is on the internet. All you need is to take advantage of the internet if there is any information you require for any solution. Don’t start looking for information to pay for. No, just do a research on what you are looking for on the internet; you will be able to see something that can be of help. It may be domestic challenge of inability to cook a better food; this can be resolved on the internet with a little passion and determination for a positive change. It can also be a bigger challenge of not having a skill to start a business or get a job; this also can be resolved on the internet. I got most of the skills that I’m using to run my business on the internet free of charge.

4. You should understand that the internet is a global village. First of all this understanding should help you mind what you do on the internet, because everyone is seeing you. I got one of my best business deals after a client took an online audit of what do on daily bases on the internet and decided to give me the job based on his findings.

5. You should understand that the internet is a global market. This is very key for entrepreneurs that want to be successful in business. Always take advantage of the internet to promote what you sell. Use the internet to get partners, clients, employees, etc. Just apply wisdom and discover how this internet can accelerate your success.

https://smeguide.net/the-internet-can-destroy-but-you-can-exploit-the-same-internet-and-become-more-successful-in-life-and-in-business/

Artificial Intelligence (AI) and other skills of the future African entrepreneurs’ should explore as recommended by Strive Masiyiwa

Strive Masiyiwa is the founder and Executive Chairman of the Econet Group. He serves on several international boards including Unilever, and the Global Advisory boards of the Council on Foreign Relations and Stanford University. A board member of the Rockefeller Foundation for 15 years, he also serves as Chairman of the Alliance for a Green Revolution in Africa (AGRA). He is a co-founder of the Carbon War Room, Pathways for Prosperity, and the Global Business Coalition on Education. He and his wife, Tsitsi, co-founded the Higherlife Foundation and are signators of the Giving Pledge.
He is a mentor to many entrepreneurs around the world and I’m proud to be one of them. I recommend him to any one that wants to be successful in business. You can like his page on Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/strivemasiyiwa/
Below are some thoughts on the skills of the future he had been sharing with us on his Facebook page.
1. The seven most important skills you need to learn now for the future.
“A few years ago I wrote a Facebook Post on what I called the seven most important skills you need to learn now for the future. Do you remember? Here is my original list: 1) prepare a financial ledger; 2) HTML and basic coding; 3) backing up to the cloud; 4) writing a business plan; 5) setting up a website and domain; 6) selling online; and 7) learning a basic craft skill, such as in agriculture or plumbing.

As I said back then, these seven skills will either turn you into the next Jack Ma, or they will help you get a better job, or earn you more money at whatever you do. This is what you should be learning, and teaching, if you want to build Africa's prosperity.”

2. Start getting to understand everything you can about Artificial Intelligence (AI).
“I want you to start getting to understand everything you can about AI. It will create an opening for you, but it will not just happen because you have a nice face! You cannot win in a game you don’t even know exists, let alone its rules! ”

“Don’t listen to all this nonsense about AI taking people’s jobs! Hundreds of millions of new types of jobs will be created, just like with every other technology before. AI is the biggest technology we have ever had; it’s bigger than all those other technologies put together.”

“AI will evolve just like mobile phones technology! My mobile phone in 1998 was one of the coolest most advanced in the world, but if I use it today, you will laugh at me. AI systems [and their enablement to different businesses] are today like mobile phones of 21 years ago.

They will evolve very quickly, and become incredibly smart, and incredibly pervasive. Just like I could not tell 21 years ago that we would have “Smartphones” with more computing power than a computer of 21 years ago; I cannot tell you what AI will do [no one can]: We just know that it is here and it is going to be HUGE!”

3. We need to re-skill.
“Whoever we are, chances are we need to re-skill as I’ve written before, because technology is moving fast. The Fourth Industrial Revolution is underway, all over the world…”

“What skills do I need?” you might ask. Good question. We started the series talking about coding and some other critical thinking skills. Coding is rather like learning the alphabet and how to spell in different languages, or creating a recipe that tells a computer what to do. Now many of you are ready to go to the next level.

A few questions to get you started on this new skill of the future:

# What is “machine learning”?

# What is “deep learning”?

# What is the difference between “deep learning” and “machine learning”?

# Why is access to high quality data so important in machine learning and deep learning?

# Why is the field of “data science” so exciting?

“This AI is deep stuff. You have to know about it. Just get yourself started to learn more about it now, if you haven’t already, including taking online courses.

It’s one of those revolutionary changes in the world that require a mindset change, not just as an entrepreneur, but as a parent and policymaker, too. Let us not waste time debating “if or when,” let’s get to how and now! ”
https://smeguide.net/artificial-intelligence-ai-and-other-skills-of-the-future-african-entrepreneurs-should-explore-as-recommended-by-strive-masiyiwa/

There are great articles on guide towards starting a business in Nigeria and most of the writers missed what I think is the most important part of the guide. Thus, my coming with an excellent guide on starting a business in Nigeria – I mean business that will prosper!
If you want to start a business in Nigeria, or you know someone that wants to start a business in Nigeria; kindly go through these excellent step by step guide on starting a business in Nigeria. You can also advise someone to go through it.
1. Develop a burning desire to start and run a successful business in Nigeria. This is the point I consider the most important that most writers have not considered or given enough space that it deserves in their articles. In Nigeria, many challenges are working against entrepreneurs or would-be entrepreneurs on starting or running existing businesses; so without this burning desire to start and succeed in business in Nigeria, one may have many ideas or even start a promising business but fail in the long run if that that burning desire to start and run a business successfully and determination to make it happen is not there from the beginning.

2. Create a business idea with a solution. Any business idea you are creating at this stage, should be addressing one challenge or the other. It is not about creating a business idea that is fantastic, but about creating an idea that will solve problems or at least a problem; that is why it’s called a business idea, because its intention is to bring in money once consummated. And no idea will receive consistent financial reward except it’s solving a problem. Here you have to come up with an idea that will be solving one or more of the challenges facing Nigerians.

3. Draft a good but simple business plan. You have to create a simple business plan that will aid you in making your idea a reality. It has to be good in the sense that it will include every detail that will make it workable. And it has to be as simple as possible so that it will not become too complex for you to run with it. You can read the simple business plan format for your start up. Read more...https://smeguide.net/an-excellent-guide-on-starting-a-business-in-nigeria-a-business-that-will-prosper/

How Institutions of Higher Learning in Nigeria are contributing to the high rate of unemployment and how you can pass through the system and become employable or an employer

The reasons I said that the Institutions of Higher Learning in Nigeria are contributing to the high unemployment rate in Nigeria are:

A. The majority of graduates produced by Institutions of Higher Learning in Nigeria cannot match their counterparts from other countries in terms of quality and creativity. One of the reasons for this is because most of the Institutions’ curricula are obsolete. They are still studying what is not relevant in the ‘now’. I am not saying that Nigerian Higher Institutions do not produce some graduates that are sound and creative. Not at all. They have produced great graduates that are better than their contemporaries anywhere in the world, not because of the systems of those Higher Institutions; but because those outstanding graduates decided to be the best they could be no matter the system they found themselves in. They elected to update themselves with the latest information on their chosen area of study and ensured they excelled.

B. The majority of the personnel in Nigerian Higher Institutions not suitably qualified for the job. Most of the Lecturers in the Institutions of Higher Learning in Nigeria are not sound enough to be teaching in those institutions. Most of them managed to graduate during their time and without passion for teaching got a job as Lecturers because they have someone at the corridor of power that made it happen when they couldn’t get the type of job they wanted.

C. The Institutions of Higher Learning in Nigeria are not fully engaged in the services they should be involved in. Most Higher Institutions in Nigeria are not fully involved in major research and developments and consultancy that will bring about transformation in the economy.

D. The entrepreneurship programme introduced in Nigerian Higher Institutions is not really achieving its objectives. They are running it the way they are running other programmes. They are not practical enough to impart skills that will make the students entrepreneurs.
These are some of the reasons I said that the Institutions of Higher Learning in Nigeria are contributing to the high rate of unemployment in the country. If majority of them are doing what they’re supposed to be doing, in terms of addressing the challenges highlighted above; they will directly or indirectly be impact positively in creation of jobs in the country.

For the students that are in the system and those that will still join the system, it will be expedient for you to understand the challenges highlighted above, and ensure the system does not totally affect your development negatively. You should know that some students have passed through this system and became the real best in their chosen field of study by merit. And when they did go abroad for their Masters their sterling qualities were equally confirmed.

You should study everything in your scheme of work and update yourself with the latest information on those courses. Here you have to use the internet positively on those areas you need expansion of knowledge. Do not use the internet to reduce your wit and value by going into pornography or other areas that will not help your education.

Get more knowledge about entrepreneurship, get as many skills as possible and ensure you start at least a business before you graduate. Just know there is always a business you can start if you are determined.

And when you graduate and decide to look for a job, it will be easier for to get one if you have taken cognizance of the advice given above than when you just passed through the system only taken what were dished out to you by those institutions.

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How an employee can succeed running his or her business while on another person’s employment

An employee that will succeed in his or her business venture must first of all be a great asset to the organization he or she works for. He or she must be very good in what he or she does for that organization. With this kind of attitude he or she has the highest tendency to succeed in whatever business he or she ventures into.

For an employee to start up a business and run it successfully, the underlisted should be understood and applied by him or her as the case may be.

The employee should know how an employee can start up a business that thrives.

The employee should not unduly use his or her employer’s resources for his or her business. Resources here include time, assets, stationeries, etc. And, if your position in your current employment allows you to use the resources of the company as you like, you should be guided by your conscience to understand the level of abuse in your usage of any of the company’s resources.

The employee should understand the best marketing channels that will make the business succeed.

The employee should keep accurate records of all his or her business transactions.

The employee should ensure he or she is working based on his or her business plan and making appropriate changes when and where necessary.

https://smeguide.net/how-an-employee-can-succeed-running-his-or-her-business-while-on-another-persons-employment/

Starting up a business is a choice. Your level in life should not determine whether you will own a business or not. Your determination to own a business is what matters here. You may have what people may think it takes to start a business but if you do not make the move, you are not going to start the business. If you an employee of another company and you desire to own a business, if you think through the process, understand the nature of your work and make the right move; you will surely start up business that will thrive, once the business is managed well.

The employee who has made a choice to start up a business with the right mindset will probably start a business that will succeed if he or she takes these fundamentals into consideration:

1. The employee has to understand the nature of his or her job. This will guide him or her to know the type of business to start.

2. The employee should consider time available to him or her. This is very key so that his or her business will not affect his or her present job negatively when it starts.

3. The employee should consider the people in his or her ‘circle’. The people that are directly or indirectly connected to someone can determine the type of business that person should start first as those around him or her can be the business trusted clients all things being equal.

4. The employee should consider the capital available to him or her. He or she shouldn’t be considering only money here. Other assets and opportunities available to him or her should be considered.

5. The employee should develop a simple business plan for the business.

When all these are put into consideration, he or she should go ahead and start up a business that he or she can manage even as someone else employee. And he or she should be ready to go and manage the business full-time as the business progresses.

https://smeguide.net/how-an-employee-can-start-up-a-business-that-thrives/

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Anything you failed to plan for has already been planned to fail. Starting up a business is not an exception. Many people have succeeded in business without a plan on paper. The fact is that those that actually succeeded in various businesses without written plans had those plans on their mind. And they would have been more successful if they had put those plans down.

I have come to know that most entrepreneurs do not have business plans because they do not know how to go about drafting business plans that will be acceptable to lenders or most investors because of the business plan formats available are complex and someone that is not highly educated may not be able to produce a good business plan using any of those format. And, those that require business plans may not be able to pay Consultants to produce for them.

Whether you are planning to get a loan for your business or not, you require a business plan for you to make more progress in your business venture. The plan can be fine-tuned as you progress. Below is a simple business plan format to get you started:

1. Paint the picture of your business. Here, you describe everything about the business you are about to start up. The name, the products and services, your vision and mission, your goals, location, how well you understand the business and the industry as well as any other relevant information that will make your business look great.
For example
Introducing ABC Laundry and Leather Services
ABC Laundry and Leather Services is a firm that professionally care for your fabrics and leather materials…
Our services include:
Laundry and Dry cleaning
Clothe Repairs
Shoe Repairs and Polishing
Our vision is to be the best in what we do. Our mission is to ensure that all our customers’ needs are met on time.
We are located in XYZ Street.
We go the extra mile in our service delivery to ensure that we retain all our customers as well as attract new ones.
Just think, look through your industry so as to discover what you will do better and add to your description. Ensure the content is well arranged.

2. Your target market and how you will get your market share. Here you state those that will be your prospects/customers and how you will ensure they patronize you.
For Example,
Our Target Market
We are targeting people on our street and the whole neighbourhood. We have discovered that there is no laundry and dry cleaning service being rendered in XYZ Street where we are located and those rendering such services in the neighbourhood do not offer leather services.

3. State your growth strategy. Here you put down on paper how you are going to sustain your business as well all the strategies that you will put in place to ensure your business continue to thrive.
For Example,
Our Growth Strategy
We started with one office, one washing machine, one electric iron, one sewing machine and a table with four employees. We plan to add at least one collection centre in a good location every six months and employee additional two staff to support the expansion.
We also plan to get a generator and other assets that will assist in our growth strategy as the case maybe within the first six months.

4. State your marketing plan. It is a known fact that without sales one will be out of business sooner or later. Here you have to detail how you will be getting people to continuously be patronizing your products or services.
For Example,
Our Marketing Plan
Based on our analysis, we identified that over one 500 household that are busy business owners and civil servants resides in the neighbourhood. We are targeting two hundred of them. We will be posting posters and banners in strategic places within the neighbourhood to be able to realize of target. We will be employing two Marketing Officers to drive this as well execute other functions that will positively impact the organization.

5. Operations and Management Plan. Here you, you state your operations’ guidelines and Management goals that will be strictly followed by all. In some organizations the operations guideline is called SOP (Standard Operating Procedure).
For Example,
Our Standard Operating Procedure (SOP)
i. Once any client brings clothes for dry-cleaning, the Receiving Officer receives them and records them for the clients to sign.
ii. The clothes will then be tagged against the client.
iii. The Dry-Cleaners dry-clean the clothes without mixing them with other clients’ clothes.
iv. Once the clothes are ready, the tags will be removed and the clients name and balance if any paste on the nylon used to pack the clothes.
v. The nylon packs used in packing the client’ clothes are arranged accordingly on the shelf.
vi. When the client comes for the clothes, the Delivery Officer confirms if he or she has a balance to pay, and hands over the nylon pack containing the clothes to the client once confirms the client is good to go.
vii. The customer signs of that he or she has collected the clothes. If we a delivering to them they will sign the Dispatch Book.
viii. The Supervisor goes through the records every close of business to ensure compliance of the SOP.

Our Goals
To become so relevant to our clients so that they will always need our services.

The Financials. This is where you forecast monetary value of the assets you will need to start up, your income and expenditure. You can make it simple by taken into accounts what you will need to start and preparing simple profit and loss account for one year. Some people will want all financial statements to be included here as well as up to five years comparative financial statements. I believe that if you can get it right in the first year of your operations, you will be able to navigate through the years once you acting on your plans and making necessary changes.
For Example,
Cost Estimate to Start up ABC Laundry and Leather Services ...https://smeguide.net/the-simple-business-plan-format-for-your-start-up/

Nigerian Youths should make early plans now as governments in Africa have not started making adequate plans for their citizens.

The basis of planning for anything is just to succeed at the end of the day. If you happen to find yourself in Africa, especially in Nigeria; start very early to make adequate plans for your dear life as well as that of those that will be depending on you, as African governments have not started making adequate plans for the welfare of their citizens.

Countries where their governments are responsible provide their citizens with at least the basic needs like quality education, basic health care, affordable housing, jobs, electricity, good roads, potable water, etc. But in Africa, those in governments take the citizens for granted. They appropriate the common wealth of their nations into their pockets, knowing too well that nothing will happen. Citizens die in abject poverty and governments do nothing that will actually ameliorate the situation. Graduates flood out of our institutions of higher learning without hope of getting jobs and government do not care enough. What I think the governments care about are their allowances, emoluments and everything that has to do with their personal pockets.

The actual owners of the wealth in every nation are the citizens, and these citizens suffer in Africa while those entrusted with the management of the collective wealth of the people, squander the wealth in the altar of their selfishness... https://smeguide.net/nigerian-youths-should-make-early-plans-now-as-governments-in-africa-have-not-started-making-adequate-plans-for-their-citizens/

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We have to make Nigeria a better country. Our comments, suggestions should be positive enough to impact our nation positively.
You can post quality articles about good governance, make suggestion for good governance, post your opinion on how to make Nigeria better, here https://www.goodgovernance.com.ng/ to start contributing to making Nigeria a better place all will be proud of.

We have to make Nigeria a better country. Our comments, suggestions should be positive enough to impact our nation positively.
You can post quality articles about good governance, make suggestion for good governance, post your opinion on how to make Nigeria better, here https://www.goodgovernance.com.ng/ to start contributing to making Nigeria a better place all will be proud of.

We have to make Nigeria a better country. Our comments, suggestions should be positive enough to impact our nation positively.
You can post quality articles about good governance, make suggestion for good governance, post your opinion on how to make Nigeria better, here https://www.goodgovernance.com.ng/ to start contributing to making Nigeria a better place all will be proud of.

We have to make Nigeria a better country. Our comments, suggestions should be positive enough to impact our nation positively.
You can post quality articles about good governance, make suggestion for good governance, post your opinion on how to make Nigeria better, here https://www.goodgovernance.com.ng/ to start contributing to making Nigeria a better place all will be proud of.

We have to make Nigeria a better country. Our comments, suggestions should be positive enough to impact our nation positively.
You can post quality articles about good governance, make suggestion for good governance, post your opinion on how to make Nigeria better, here https://www.goodgovernance.com.ng/ to start contributing to making Nigeria a better place all will be proud of.

We have to make Nigeria a better country. Our comments, suggestions should be positive enough to impact our nation positively.
You can post quality articles about good governance, make suggestion for good governance, post your opinion on how to make Nigeria better, here https://www.goodgovernance.com.ng/ to start contributing to making Nigeria a better place all will be proud of.

We have to make Nigeria a better country. Our comments, suggestions should be positive enough to impact our nation positively.
You can post quality articles about good governance, make suggestion for good governance, post your opinion on how to make Nigeria better, here https://www.goodgovernance.com.ng/ to start contributing to making Nigeria a better place all will be proud of.