It is common knowledge that unemployment, particularly among the youth, is becoming an intractable and worrying feature of our economy. The pool of available candidates for most jobs advertised is enormous, and it is very much a ‘buyers’ market’ for employers.
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So how can job seekers get the ‘edge’ in their efforts to secure employment? They need to actively look for ways to stand out from the pack, to be noticed right from the start of their process. Firstly, they must ensure that their CVs are different. Not in terms of their appearance (fancy fonts or paper), but in their content. Candidates must ensure that the most important information on their skills – training and qualifications – is accurate, accessible and well presented.
Brush up on your ‘soft’ skills
Previous work experience, whether paid or unpaid must be captured in as much detail as possible. Remember most companies are now looking at the social interactions and links to their communities that candidates possess. While the technical or academic training can be regarded as ‘qualifiers’ for consideration for a post, the softer skills such as teamwork and empathy are often the deciding factors on whether one will receive that sought-after offer.
One of the best ways of enhancing and nurturing these soft skills is through volunteering and social involvement in the community, at crèches, old age homes and hospices for example. It is also imperative that the document is error free and well laid out.
The importance of the interview
Secondly, should they be fortunate to be called for an interview, they need to reinforce the image of being apart from the pack. These are some points to consider.
- Punctuality and presentation: Ensure you are on time (or preferably early) for the interview.
- Be appropriately attired and groomed. Make certain you have any and all requested documents, and that they are accessible and neatly filed.
- Research: Find out as much as you can about the company or division – their scope of operations, staffing, corporate social activities etc.
- Highlight your attributes: Try and emphasise those factors you can bring to the job outside of the core competency required. Remember that most companies are now employing based on the potential that candidates exhibit, so an attitude that you are willing to learn and take on new ideas must be shown.
- Graciousness and appreciation: Express your thanks for the opportunity afforded you and the time the company has taken to consider you as a potential employee.
Finally, take the time between interviews and applications to continue to work on your soft skills, and obtaining as much experience, both paid and unpaid, as possible.
After matriculating, I studied Economics in the UK. Upon my return, I joined the family construction business as MD for 10 years.
I subsequently joined my sister in our furniture manufacturing business as director for quality assurance and operations. I was responsible for all quality aspects of our product, and led the project to us achieving an ISO 9000 quality accreditation. As an export focused business, this was important for our international competitiveness.
I have an abiding interest in quality management and productivity improvement, particularly in manufacturing. More recently, I have focused a lot of my time on giving back to community by way of mentorship of small businesses and sitting on the executive of the South Coast Chamber of Commerce. I also sit on the Board of the Ugu South Coast Development Agency.
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