Focus on skills, not salary in your 20s – McDan advises youth

The Chief Executive Officer of the McDan Group, Daniel McKorley alias McDan, has urged young people to prioritise skills development over the pursuit of high salaries in their early career years, warning that a fixation on money too soon could leave them "stuck early."

In a Facebook post, the Ghanaian businessman addressed youth, particularly those in their twenties, encouraging them to embrace challenges and focus on long-term growth rather than short-term financial gain.

“If you’re in your 20s, I’m going to tell you an uncomfortable truth: chasing salary instead of skills is how people get stuck early,” McKorley wrote.

Acknowledging the financial pressures many young people face, he noted, “Yes, I understand that when there's no money, it feels like you have no choice but to chase after whatever amount you can get at the expense of learning because you have bills to pay. I truly understand that. But don’t let that put you in a box.”

McKorley, who has built a multi-sector empire in logistics, aviation, and agribusiness, advised young professionals to use their twenties as a time to “stretch yourself,” urging them to take on roles that challenge their thinking and push them out of their comfort zones.

“Say yes to roles that challenge you. Work with people who make you think harder. Get uncomfortable. Learn how to solve real problems, lead people, and think strategically,” he said.

He assured that financial rewards would follow once solid skills have been acquired. “The money will come, and when it does, it’ll come bigger if your skills are solid,” he added.

Emphasising the long-term benefits of continuous learning and experience, McDan described skills as a form of equity. “Skills compound. They open doors, build confidence, and increase your long-term value. Build skill equity now. It pays dividends for the rest of your life.”