Don’t give up: Finding a job you love
Strategies for job hunters
Although rejection can feel discouraging, there are several strategies that can help a young individual be better prepared to land the job of their dreams.
After or while completing tertiary education, youth often get into 'find a job' mode. This phase marks another step towards entering the adult world. For some, this process can seem like a formidable challenge that leads to demotivation.Unemployed graduate Tangi Antonia says unemployed youth are trying their best to find jobs.
"Unemployed youth in Namibia are not only sitting around doing nothing about the situation they are in.
"We browse the internet for some job opportunities and sometimes even walk into different establishments that send us away with a big notice on their doors saying 'NO JOBS AVAILABLE.'
"Other times, when we apply for jobs and receive the 'we regret to inform you...' email, motivation is not lost – we keep trying and apply for the next job.
Whether you are new to the job market or have taken a break and are now prepared to re-enter the workforce, the journey can be challenging.
Whether you are a recent graduate or an individual who has never pursued formal education – the same job hunting guidelines hold true for everyone.
Listed below are a set of strategies offered by the Bellview Institute of Distance Learning for achieving success when entering the job market.
1. Remodel your CV and cover letter: Give your CV and cover letter somewhat of a facelift. Highlight your skill set at the top of your CV and include it in your cover letter to let hiring managers know you get straight down to business.
2. Upgrade and upskill: Realistically, employers do not solely look at the candidate’s education level when making their decision, but it definitely helps!
3. Try an internship: Internships are a great way to start your career. Bear in mind that you might get paid next to nothing, but the experience and skills you’ll pick up are invaluable to any future employer.
4. Be specific and pick your lane: There really is no use in applying for jobs that will end up making you miserable down the road. Take time to sit down and think about what it is that really excites you and where your true passion lies. A large percentage of the world’s workforce are unhappy in their jobs, and this is for no other reason than they are not doing what they love (easier said than done).
5. Prepare for interviews: This is a crucial step for anyone entering or re-entering the job market. Prepare well for upcoming interviews by dressing well, being on time and being as professional as possible.
6. Remember not to quit: Job hunting can become quite discouraging at times, and new job seekers often bear the brunt of endless rejection. Job searches are never easy and can be a tiring process. Remember that your perfect match will happen. For some, this day comes sooner than for others.
Take the time, while searching for a job, to educate yourself and make yourself more employable.