Young adults planning their future studies and careers face an increasingly unpredictable job market, one where they may enter their studies with a specific goal in sight, only to find that the jobs marketplace has changed once they graduate. This reality requires a serious consideration of adopting a strategy of preparing for a portfolio career, which broadens one’s range and depth once you enter the world of work, an education expert says.

“This approach offers flexibility, diversity, and resilience in an era defined by rapid technological change and economic uncertainty,” says Dr Linda Meyer, MD at The Independent Institute of Education’s Rosebank College and Rosebank International University College Ghana.

“A portfolio career involves holding multiple roles simultaneously rather than committing to only a single, full-time job at one organisation. These roles can range from freelance projects and part-time jobs to advisory positions or entrepreneurial ventures,” she explains.

The term was popularised by Charles Handy in his 1994 book The Empty Raincoat, where he envisioned a future where professionals would need portable skillsets to thrive in a fast-changing workplace.

Unlike traditional career paths focused on climbing a hierarchical ladder within one company or in one speciality, portfolio careers emphasise variety. They were traditionally common in creative industries, but are now expanding into fields like consulting, education, and technology.

Examples of what a portfolio career could look like include:

• Software Engineer/Blogger: A person who works as a full-time software engineer and also runs a blog, potentially earning income from both sources.
• Photographer/Designer: An individual who offers photography services and also works as a graphic designer, creating multiple income streams.
• Consultant/University Lecturer: Someone who consults part-time and teaches at a university, leveraging their expertise in different settings.
• Freelance Writer/Podcast Host: A person who writes freelance articles and hosts a podcast, diversifying their income through different media platforms.

The benefits of embarking on a portfolio career include:

Resilience in an uncertain job market
A portfolio career allows individuals to develop diverse skills and income streams, providing financial stability even if one role is disrupted. It makes you less vulnerable than if you have  a single, traditional role.

Flexibility and work-life balance
Portfolio careers offer unparalleled control over how, when, and where you work. This flexibility is invaluable for achieving a sustainable work-life balance.

Skill development across fields
By engaging in varied roles, professionals can acquire transferable skills that make them more competitive in multiple industries. This diversification also fosters creativity and innovation.

Multiple income streams
Unlike traditional jobs that rely on a single pay cheque, portfolio careers generate income from several sources, reducing financial risk while creating opportunities to increase earning potential.

Passion pursuit
A portfolio career allows individuals to explore multiple interests simultaneously—whether it’s teaching, consulting, or starting a side business—without being confined to one field.

Career experimentation
For those uncertain about their long-term goals, this approach provides the opportunity to test drive different roles before committing fully.

“The rise of the gig economy and advancements in technology have made portfolio careers more accessible than ever,” says Dr Meyer.

“For young people considering what they want to study, for those entering the workforce, or for individuals considering further studies, this approach offers the chance to build a future-proof career that aligns with their passions while diversifying their risks.”

How to build a portfolio career

When building a portfolio career, you can start small with a side hustle or freelance projects alongside your primary job. If you are still studying, or preparing to enter higher education, consider taking a course outside of your core programme. It is also important to identify transferable skills that can be applied across industries.

“When expanding your skills into new fields, the importance of strategic networking can’t be overstated,” says Dr Meyer.

“Reach out to others in the new field, find online resources, and potentially even enrol for a programme that will help you upskill. And work hard to build connections in diverse fields to access opportunities.”