People Behind the Certs – Olalekan Oshodi – saasguru

SG: Let’s get started. Why don’t we start from the beginning? Please tell us about your education/ career before entering the Salesforce ecosystem.

Olalekan Oshodi: I have worked in the tertiary education sector since 2013. I have delivered modules at universities in Nigeria, South Africa, Hong Kong, and the United Kingdom. I teach Construction Management and Project Management courses. Previously, I completed my Ph.D. in Construction Management at the City University of Hong Kong and my undergraduate studies at the University of Lagos.

SG: That’s awesome. Now we would love to know what was the tipping point when you said, “I want to make this change,” and what was the trigger for that?

Olalekan Oshodi: I have always loved to leave my comfort zone to learn new things. During my Ph.D., I learned how to code for the first time in my life. I heard about Salesforce from a friend, and I have read about the end opportunities within the ecosystem. My decision to upskill in Salesforce stems from my desire to learn and create additional income for myself. 

SG: You achieved many certs along the way. Can you share three things with us?

1. Why do you value certificates?

2. What are the challenges associated with the process?

3. What are your top tips for being successful in cert exams?

Olalekan Oshodi: Why Not

1. Certifications provide evidence of an individual’s knowledge. 
2. The amount of information available via free courses is enormous. Hence, newbies within the Salesforce Ecosystem may struggle to identify the information required to prepare for the certification examinations. 
3. My top three tips for exam preparations: 

(i) I purchase learning materials from providers (no particular order of importance): Oxfordable Careers, We learn Salesforce, Focus on Force, saasguru, and Mike Wheeler (I purchase from the four, but I think any two should be fine)

(ii) Allow adequate time for preparations (2-3 hours per day at least) and (iii) Find a study buddy for accountability.

SG: What do you enjoy most about your work as a certified Salesforce professional?

Olalekan Oshodi: At the moment, I am yet to secure any role within the Salesforce ecosystem. However, I am working on an implementation project with a non-profit organization. This project has allowed me to apply my knowledge of business analysis, project management, and Salesforce.

SG: Time for gratitude!! Finally, is there anyone (individual or company) that you would like to take this opportunity to thank for their role in helping you along your journey? If Yes, what was their role in your success?

Olalekan Oshodi: I am particularly grateful to my friend and Senior Colleague, Niyi Olokode, for talking about Salesforce with me. Oxfordable careers for providing me with foundation knowledge of Salesforce. Gemma Blezard and Apexhours for their free resources. Clicked for giving me the opportunity to gain hands-on experience, and all the other resources helped me equip myself for the certification preparation.

Honestly, I have received tremendous support from many people within the Salesforce Ecosystem. I wholeheartedly thank everyone for their support.