Job Search: Essential Steps for Recent Graduates

Once you're done in school or with NYSC, you're sent forth to the labor market. This is usually the first dream of any fresh graduate. We, at Techie BEC Konsult, have observed that over 85% of graduates, using our coaching session data, would want to try their luck in the labor market even if they have business ideas in mind. There is practically nothing wrong with this approach. However, most don't know the right strategies for joining the league of job seekers in Nigeria.

Where some get it, they may lack in one aspect or the other. Broadly, when we coach fresher graduates and job seekers, we focus on versatility, CV enhancement, and aptitude/interviews. Beyond these, there is more to know before you can land the next job. That's what this post will focus on.

Entering the workforce as a fresh graduate is like embarking on a journey through a dense jungle, filled with twists, turns, and unexpected challenges. However, armed with the first five crucial steps for fresh graduates to conquer the jungle of job hunting, drawing insights from timeless adages and contemporary analogies, data, and reports that shed light on current job market trends and employer expectations.

1. Job Searching Mindset

Coming from university to the professional world requires a shift in mindset. This is no time to focus on grades (though may matter to a few employers), it's crucial to adopt a proactive approach toward your career. According to a survey conducted by the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE), 61.7% of employers prioritize candidates’ skills and competencies over GPA during the hiring process.

When you go out there to get a job, it's not going to be as easy as your academic world has made you believe. According to a survey by the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), unemployment rates among Nigerian youths aged 15-34 reached 34.9% in Q4 2020. Just as a resilient tree withstands the harsh harmattan winds, you must cultivate a positive mindset to navigate the challenges of the job market. Embracing the Yoruba adage, "Ise loogun ise" (work is the antidote to poverty), you should adopt a proactive mindset, viewing setbacks (because there will be) as opportunities for growth.

Cultivate a growth mindset, embracing challenges and setbacks as opportunities for learning and growth. Understand that rejection is a part of the process, and each setback brings you one step closer to your desired job. Stay motivated, persistent, and open-minded throughout your job search journey.

2. Prepare Your CV and Credentials

Your resume serves as your first impression on potential employers, so it's essential to make it stand out. Tailor your CV to each job application (CV doesn't have to be static), highlighting relevant skills, experiences, and achievements (remember the versatility?). Keep it concise, organized, and free from errors. According to a study by TheLadders, recruiters spend an average of 7.4 seconds reviewing a resume before deciding whether to move forward with a candidate. This underscores the importance of creating a visually appealing and concise resume that highlights relevant skills and experiences. We've recommended designing and printing CVs in color and available on Conqueror papers. The more you can give to your CV, the better the impression. You should, however, maintain moderation and a professional layout. Additionally, a survey by CareerBuilder found that 58% of employers said they have caught a lie on a resume, emphasizing the importance of honesty and accuracy in presenting one's credentials.

Additionally, don't overlook the power of a well-crafted cover letter. Use this opportunity to showcase your personality, passion for the industry, and why you're the perfect fit for the role. Get your documents all scanned as images and PDF copies of your credentials are usually required for most online applications (one of our first recommendations to our students). You will never know where they will come in handy. You would save money with this approach since you won't need to rescan your documents each time you need them.

Also, ensure your online presence is professional and up-to-date, including LinkedIn profiles and other relevant platforms. Crafting a compelling CV is like weaving a traditional Nigerian fabric, with each thread representing a skill or accomplishment. Just as the adage "A stitch in time saves nine" emphasizes the importance of preparation, graduates must ensure their credentials are polished and tailored to Nigerian employers' expectations.

3. Create Job Searching Strategies

Job hunting can be a time-consuming process, but with a strategic approach, you can maximize your efforts. Start by identifying your career goals and target industries. Begin by defining your career aspirations and pinpointing the industries where you envision yourself thriving. For instance, if your goal is to work in renewable energy, tailor your skillset and networking efforts towards that field. Clear goals help steer your professional journey with purpose and direction.

Research companies that align with your values, interests, and skills. Utilize online job boards, company websites, and professional networking platforms to explore job opportunities. Leverage your network, including alumni, professors, and professionals in your desired field, for referrals and insights. Set specific goals and deadlines for your job search activities to stay organized and motivated.

Fortune favors the prepared mind. Developing job search strategies is mapping out a journey across Nigeria's diverse terrain. Like a skilled navigator using landmarks to guide their path, graduates should utilize online platforms such as Jobberman and LinkedIn, while also tapping into local networks and professional associations for opportunities. According to a report, LinkedIn has emerged as the leading professional networking and job search platform in Nigeria.

4. Search

The job search process can be time-consuming and challenging, but with perseverance and strategic planning, you can increase your chances of success. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average duration of unemployment for recent graduates is 27.7 weeks. To expedite the job search process, you should cast a wide net and apply to a diverse range of positions that align with your skills and interests.

He who hesitates is lost. In the jungle of job hunting, time is of the essence, and procrastination is the quicksand that swallows opportunities whole. Like a skilled angler casting their line into the river, you must seize each opportunity with precision and determination. Remember, "The early bird catches the worm," underscoring the importance of proactive action in securing coveted positions before they slip away.

We've observed that job search duration in Nigeria varies widely by sector, with technology and finance offering faster placement compared to agriculture and manufacturing. However, we don't have data to give you precise duration. This trend underscores the importance of sector-specific strategies in navigating the job market effectively.

Additionally, according to Dean Kulaweera, a renowned Business Development Specialist, consistent follow-up doesn't only ensure they keep you on top of mind and you maintain communication flow post-interview or post-first-contact, it's one of the best ways to show continued interest in the position, the team, the organization, and the entire opportunity. Effective follow-up post-interview includes a timely thank-you email, LinkedIn connection, polite email inquiry on application status, brief phone call if necessary, attendance at networking events, and personalized messages.

5. Get and Retain

Securing a job offer is an exciting milestone, but the journey doesn't end there. Once you land the job, focus on making a positive impression from day one. For instance, introduce yourself warmly to colleagues, like Jake, who brought fresh ideas to team meetings, establishing himself as a valued contributor early on. This proactive approach sets the tone for success. According to a study by Gallup, only 12% of employees strongly agree that their organization does a great job of onboarding new employees. This failure gets in the way of the formation of an emotional bond between the new hire and the company. To ensure long-term success in their careers, fresh graduates should focus on not only securing employment but also onboarding effectively and excelling in their roles.

Take the time to understand your role, responsibilities, and company culture. Build strong relationships with your colleagues and supervisors, seeking feedback and guidance when needed. Demonstrate your value through your work ethic, professionalism, and willingness to learn and grow. Additionally, prioritize your professional development by seeking learning opportunities, certifications, and mentorship programs to advance your career. Employability skills in terms of problem-solving skills, adaptability skills, and leadership skills are key factors in enhancing the career adaptability of employees, according to a study.

In conclusion, armed with the right mindset, polished credentials, strategic job search strategies, and resilience, graduates can navigate the complexities of the job market jungle with confidence. Each setback is an opportunity for growth, and every step taken brings you closer to your desired career destination. While embracing continuous learning, networking, and onboarding effectively are important before and on getting jobs, graduates can not only secure employment but also thrive and excel in their chosen fields.

Sources:

1. Nigerian National Bureau of Statistics. (2020). Q2 2020 Unemployment Report. Retrieved from https://www.nigerianstat.gov.ng/pdfuploads/Q2_2020_Unemployment_Report.pdf
2. National Association of Colleges and Employers. (n.d.). The key attributes employers are looking for on graduates’ resumes. https://www.naceweb.org/about-us/press/84f11510-0e20-4817-a5a6-559677522628
3. TheLadders. (n.d.). Eye-Tracking Study. Retrieved from https://theladders.com/static/images/basicSite/pdfs/TheLadders-EyeTracking-StudyC2.pdf
4. CareerBuilder. (2014, August 7). Fifty-eight percent of employers have caught a lie on a resume, according to a new CareerBuilder survey. Retrieved from https://press.careerbuilder.com/2014-08-07-Fifty-eight-Percent-of-Employers-Have-Caught-a-Lie-on-a-Resume-According-to-a-New-CareerBuilder-Survey
5. Totalent. (n.d.). How digital platforms are transforming job searches in Nigeria. Retrieved from https://totalent.eu/digital-platforms-job-search-nigeria/
6. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (n.d.). Labor Force Statistics from the Current Population Survey. Retrieved from https://www.bls.gov/web/empsit/cpsee_e10.htm
7. Kulaweera, D. (n.d.). Why job seekers need to 'follow-up'​. Retrieved from https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/why-job-seekers-need-follow-up-dean-kulaweera/
8. Gallup. (n.d.). Why the onboarding experience is key for retention. Retrieved from https://www.gallup.com/workplace/235121/why-onboarding-experience-key-retention.aspx
9. International Journal of Advanced Academic Research. (2022). Employability skills and career adaptability among employees of deposit money banks in Rivers State, Nigeria. Retrieved from https://www.ijaar.org/articles/v8n1/ijaar-v8n1-Jan22-p8182.pdf