Dear Job Seekers

Being an active one myself there a few things that I have noted about the job seeking space and culture we are in. I am sure this can help some of you out there :

???The Pressure Is Real - With high unemployment/underemployment rate in Africa and Globally, a lot of job seekers are facing the pressure of over working and over pushing themselves through numerous applications. From familiar industries to industries that are not of their interests all for the search for job security and financial independence. Just know that you are not alone and don't despair, you shall find your break through.

???Don't be Discouraged - And I really mean it... going through numerous job descriptions and requirements will really have you discouraged. This is because a lot of the job seekers don't really have all 100% of them and honestly that is really okay. A hack that I have found is that, either focus on the requirements you have an apply anyway or just apply I mean what's the worst that can happen.

???Experience comes with Age - What I mean is a lot of those who have big profiles and have bagged top executive jobs have had 20, 30 or even 40 years of experience in the different industries. So comparing yourself to them can sometimes be a dream and a joy killer. Just remember to seek inspiration from them but don't compare or contrast your journey to theirs ( this especially applies to Millennials/GenZ).

???Short Term Contracts aren't so Bad - Now I do know everyone is so adamant on bagging the 2 year, 5 year or 10 year contract at a very good firm with attractive benefits, but I have also come to love and appreciate short term contacts. In fact what I learnt is you learn more from short term contracts and sometimes even earn more from them. In addition to that, short terms contract can sometimes give you leverage to take one or two other jobs from different industries and boost your experience.

???Have a Sponsor - Unfortunately that the reality of todays job search culture. A very small % of individuals are lucky enough to get jobs without having someone vouch for them. However, the greater % of the job searchers require some sort of sponsor it can be direct or indirect. These people tend to increase your chances of you prequalifying for certain job positions after you apply for them. Now sponsors are usually mentors, colleagues you might have worked with, friends who are familiar with certain institutions or even individuals you have in your social network.

???Brain Drain is Normal - I cannot even start telling you the number of 'With an exquisite profile and experience, unfortunately we have decided to go another way' emails have come into my inbox and I am pretty sure most of you all as well. Now the whole process of applying in our modern day has been made easier with the internet and social pages such as LinkedIn ??however, this doesn't stop the brain clog and drain because you have to keep at it until you manage to not only find one but also prequalify or qualify for a position. My advice, 'Take some time off from time to time and smell the coffee around you, your mental health is soo important to show up fully once you secure that job.'

???Seek Professional Help for Your Profiles - This is so important, the great thing about my experience is that I am on both ends. I am job searching but also working on recruiting and I can tell you for free most of you all are missing out on jobs because of how your resumes/profiles are looking. There are so many professionals out there offering services that could help you secure that dream job ( both free and paid services) invest in one today.

???Identify a Hobby - We all have hobbies, now during the period at which you are looking for a job, try identifying a hobby that would not only keep you busy but also help you earn a few coins. The best thing about todays world is that the internet is the perfect place to earn some cash without having to move from one place to another. This particular mentality will help keep your mind busy and also your pockets smiling as you buy time.

???Have Faith - What is meant for you shall not pass you no matter how many days, weeks, months or years it will take. Sometimes all we got is, ' Faith in Ourselves, in God ( a higher power ) and in the Situation at hand.'