4 Most Effective Times To Job Search
By Sera Kazungu
Job searching has never been an easy thing to do (for most people). For some job seekers, it has become some kind of nightmare and it fills their days with a lot of frustration and self doubt.
“I have been job searching for 3 straight years now and to be honest, I have lost all hope of ever getting one,”says Jedidah Chebet via email.
Did you know that there is a job seeking season? A time when getting jobs is easier and less frustrating? Well, there are seasons for job seeking; both high and low.
4 Easiest Times To Job search
1. When companies are doing massive layoffs
Normally,when companies have had massive layoffs, there is a possibility that they will advertise for vacant positions. In order to remain in the know, you need to keep track of the companies through their websites and social media platforms in order to know the most effective times to apply for the jobs.
Do not be like the regular job seeker who waits for jobs to be advertised so as to apply. Be proactive and send in your applications days or even months in advance. However, you need to remember to keep making follow ups, do not just send applications and then forget about it.
2. After the national budget has been read
What most job seekers do not know is that, after the national budget has been read, there are job vacancies shortly after. This is mostly in government institutions and parastatals. They sometimes recruit at this time because they now know what funds are available to them.
In order to land these jobs, you have to keep a very close watch on local news and government websites. This will enable you to apply early for any job and increase your chances of being shortlisted.
3. When companies are re-branding or opening new branches
You will stand a better chance of landing a job in a company when it is launching a new branch. This is because new personnel will be needed to run operations.
The knowledge of this will also not come to you by magic;you have to keep track of the companies you are interested in working for either on their websites or social media platforms.
4. The beginning of a financial year
Every company has a different start to their financial year. While company A may be starting their year in May, company B may be starting in September. This is because companies are usually looking to expand and you will stand a better chance of getting a job when you apply at the very beginning or towards the end of a financial year.
Be a proactive job seeker who understands the job market. Remember to keep yourself as up to date as possible in order to have an edge over other job seekers out there.
Wishing you all the best in your ‘smart’ job search.
4 Justifiable Reasons To Turn Down A Job Offer
By Selipha Kihagi
Getting a job is good news for every Kenyan job seeker, but no one wants to start at a new job only to hate it a few months later. People want jobs they can stay in and make enough money to sustain themselves, their family, live well and make investments or start their own companies.
It is for this reason that job seekers are advised to be cautious of the jobs they accept. With the stressful job market in Kenya, it would be easy to accept any job that comes a long. However, smart job seekers will know what jobs to say yes to and which ones to turn down.
A job seeker who turns down a job offer can be mistaken as being choosy or selective, but if your reasons are justifiable, then you need not worry if you made the right decision.
4 Justifiable Reasons To Turn Down A Job Offer
1. The salary you are being offered is half what was advertised
You could run into a situation where what you are being offered as salary in your letter of appointment is much less than what was advertised. The fact that your employer is already lying to you as you come into the office should raise eyebrows on what is to come.
The letter could promise an increase after a certain period of time, but this should not be your reason for staying. For all you know, it could be just a way to suck you into the position.
2. Your position became vacant after the previous person was unfairly dismissed
It is always important to research on what happened to the previous person who was holding the position you are being offered. Sometimes it will be that a worker was wrongfully fired and this could bring up a lot of complications for you; there could be a law suit pending or fraudulent activities that you will be left dealing with.
3. Your job description is still not clear after the interview
Some job advertisements may have scanty details on what it is you will be required to do in your new role, and this could also extend to after the interview. Maybe you asked what your role will be and still do not have a clear understanding. In such a case, it is justifiable if you decided to turn down the offer and avoid future disappointments.
4. You are not comfortable in the work environment
Working environment is a contributing factor to emotional stress that could lead to you underperforming in your new job or even hating it before it begins. To avoid this, ensure the job you are accepting is in an environment you can easily adapt to but don’t be too choosy either.
Jobs are not easy to find, and landing good jobs is even harder but with a strategy and focus you won’t be sorry.
5 Things To Never Do When Leaving A Job
By Jane Okoth
We have all been in a situation where we are done with our current employer and decide their times to leave.
It can be exciting if you are looking forward to new opportunities but it can be upsetting if you were fired or finally decided to quit. This may tempt you to do or say things you are not supposed to.
Below are 5 things to never do when you are leaving your job
1. Do Not Be Rude To Your Boss Or Co Workers
It is always polite to leave on a positive note even if the terms of your departure are bitter. Remember, never burn bridge because life is so full of twists and many a time, you will need to cross that bridge again, whether it’s that boss or that company
Just in case your employer want to know where you are going, give a brief hint on why you’re leaving; say for greener pastures or explore new challenges.
However, if the reason for leaving is negative, it is also advisable to stay brief and positive.
2. Do Not Forget To Ask For A Reference
At one point you are going to need a recommendation letter as confirmation from your previous employer that you actually worked for that company.
In any case if you are planning to pursue greener pastures, your recommendation letter will account for a significant percentage of your application so not having it may as well cost you the job.
Assuming that you are leaving on good terms, getting a recommendation letter from your previous boss would not be such a big task.
3. Do Not Badmouth Your Boss Or Co-Workers
Venting your frustrations may feel good at some point but it can be your worst regret. There’s nothing to gain from speaking badly about the people you have worked with.
Also, if you speak negatively about your former boss to a prospective employer, the only one who will look bad is you. After all, you will not be the first or last employee to have a working experience. In other words, just keep your emotions to the minimum.
If you avoid these pitfalls, you are likely to start your new job on the right foot.
4 Pointers To Get You In The Right Mood For Your Next Interview
By Selipha Kihagi
Job interviews can cause you anxiety, even when you least expect it and this can lead you to say things you didn’t plan on saying or can live you dumbfounded when you can’t seem to remember why it is you want the job.
To avoid this anxiety, it is important that you are in the right mood for your next interview. A calm and focused nature will help you increase your chances of landing the job.
So, how do you get yourself in the right mood for an interview?
1. Research, Research And Research
This had to go first in the list. How you do your research will determine whether you will pass the interview or not, it shows how prepared you are going into the interview and is sure to either disappoint or impress the interviewer.
Do your research well to avoid awkward silence when you don’t know what to say or looking like a joke. Not preparing well is bound to keep you on the edge throughout the interview and might cost you the job.
2. Rehearse Your Answers
There is no better preparation than anticipation the questions that will come up and having answers ready. Why? Because you will appear like you know exactly what you are talking about, even when you don’t know for sure what the answer you gave really means.
It will also guarantee more confidence and less panic because you already know the basics, which will also help you in answering what you did not prepare for.
3. Look The Part You Are Interviewing For
You may have been told that looks don’t really matter, and that what really counts is what you have to offer. Well, that is not entirely true.
You will be judged the minute you walk into the room, and seeing the interviewer stare at the shoes you decided not to dust off or the juice stain on your blouse that you concluded is not that visible will only make you more anxious. So, be sure not to give the interviewer a reason to judge you wrongly.
4. Ensure You Take A Light Meal
Whether your interview is at 8.00 am or in the afternoon, you must ensure the meal you have before is not heavy. Some foods are bound to keep you lazy and sluggish, while others will give you energy for a while only to disappoint you when it’s your turn. Most importantly, do not experiment with new foods or you’ll be sorry you decided to eat in the first place.
Going for an interview demands a lot of readiness and composure if you are to come out a victor, so ensure to take note of the little details that will influence your performance. Also try and listen to your good-mood music on your way to the interview, don’t allow any distractions whatsoever.
3 Reasons You Need To Change Your Attitude At Work
By Selipha Kihagi
You may be a smart individual and your boss trusts you enough to know you will get the work done at the required time, but if you have a bad attitude every now and then, even your employer is bound to burst that bubble you have put yourself in.
A bad attitude is not in any way attractive and could be the worst nightmare of your career if not put in check. If you are the kind of person who believes respecting a co-worker or saying hello as you pass by is too much work to do, here is a few reasons you need to change that attitude.
Why You Need To Change Your Bad Attitude At The Office
1. No one will want to work with you
Most jobs require that you work with a team in your daily activities and if you have a bad attitude, then no one will want to liaise with you in any task. This may challenge your effectiveness in the job and even when you believe you can do it by yourself, truth is you can’t do it all.
You will need to work with others, however difficult they may appear, if you are to impress your employers.
2. You will always have a bad day at the office
Having a bad attitude makes you an easy target where anger is concerned. You are always lashing out at your co-workers and believe everything should be done your way, so when it’s not, your anger checks in.
You end up making rush decisions that could set you up on the wrong track with everyone you work with and even worse, the boss. For you, there will always be a reason to be angry and that means you will always have a bad day at work.
3. You are set for unemployment
Most people with a bad attitude will at most times have their numbers up and are among the high performers, but this is not a reason to become comfortable at the job. It is one thing to bring in the money, and another to keep the company’s reputation.
Know that even the boss has a limit to your bad attitude, and you might be seeing the door sooner than you anticipated.
The attitude you have is the sole determinant of how successful you become in your life and career. So, instead of choosing to have a bad attitude and hate your job, choose to always be positive and keep an open mind.
4 Ways To Build A Career From Scratch
By Sera Kazungu
Starting from scratch is not a new concept, whether you are a fresh job seeker or you have been in a career that you do not really feel like you fit into. The most difficult part of this is usually how to find your footing.
“I am in a profession that I never really studied for. Going to work these days is more out of obligation than anything else,”says Eric Wamugunda via email
You should be in a career that you have a passion for. This is the only way to achieve success and happiness.
How To build Your Career
1. Change your mindset
To succeed at whatever you choose to do, you have to train your mind to focus only on the positives. Strive to build on the strengths that you have. This will go a long way in enabling you to network more and have a focus on where you want to be.
2. Make a list of your goals
Making a list of all your goals will help you keep a focus on what you want to achieve. It will ensure that you do not get lost along the way.
Your goals should be as specific and realistic as possible. This will make them easier to achieve and will put less pressure on you.
3. Rewrite your CV
The CV is always the first impression that a potential employer gets of you. Edit your CV to highlight those specific skills that go in line with the career path that you have chosen. Keep it as updated as possible in order to ensure that it does not fail you.
Ensure that you also pick references that will speak highly of your abilities. You might want to give them a phone call to inform them that they are your reference.
4. Clean Up Your Social Media Account
Yes, don’t look surprised. Clean up all your accounts (Facebook, twitter,google plus, LinkedIn). That’s right, clean up the college party pics and get it looking professional.
Being the ‘digital age’ ,a lot of companies and recruiters are now using these platforms to recruit and find top talent. So get your profile up and running. Start following companies you would like to work for. Be a part of the community.
Starting a new career is never easy. However,following these simple tips will increase your chances of starting a new career . Try them out.
Sample Cover Letter For An Entry Level Banking Job
By Selipha Kihagi
The Kenyan job market keeps changing every now and then, and that is why every smart job seeker should ensure their Cover Letters are tailored to suit the job they are applying for.
If you are applying a job for a position in the Banking profession, you need to first understand the job requirements before proceeding to writing the cover letter.
To help you come up with the ideal Cover Letter that recruiters are looking for, here is a sample cover letter for entry level job seekers in Banking.
Sample Cover Letter For Banking Jobs
‘Your Name Here’
P.o Box XYZ – 20300
Nyahururu.
2nd July, 2015
The Human Resource Manager
ABC Company
P.O Box ZZZ – 00100
Nairobi
Dear Sir/Madam
RE: APPLICATION FOR THE BANK TELLER POSITION
I am pleased to apply for the recent position of a Bank Teller at your company, following the advertisement posted on XYZ website. I believe my high attention to detail, good interpersonal skills and my experience handling cash withdrawals and deposits, loan applications and verifying loan payments makes me the best candidate.
During my 8 months work experience at XYZ bank/financial institution, I was tasked with receiving and counting working cash at the beginning and close of business, recording transactions accurately and according to the bank’s procedures as well as handling loan payments.
In addition to my Bachelor’s Degree in Commerce, Finance option, I hold a CPA II as per your job requirements. I have also received additional training in financial management that will come in handy in solving problems that may arise in the job.
Please find attached my CV for further details. I look forward to an interview to discuss the value I will be bringing the bank in this position.
Yours Sincerely
(Signature)
‘Your Name Here’
Why Every Job Seeker Should Invest In A Linkedin Account
By Selipha Kihagi
LinkedIn is a social media site just like any other; the only difference is that it demands a more professional approach. You have to be careful about the kind of material you put up on the site. For example, you cannot share multiple photos of yourself or how you spent the weekend, like you would on Facebook and Instagram.
For this reason, it is important for every job seeker to have a well updated LinkedIn account, and what this means is your profile should be like your CV. You may have been told to use the site for your job search and brushed it away, but it is time you took that advice into action and this is why.
LinkedIn Does Actually Work
Corporate Staffing Services, a recruitment firm that offers job placement services and CV writing services, has used LinkedIn at one time or the other to find qualified candidates for open positions.
Perminus Wainaina, a Recruiting Manager at the company with over 10 years experience in Human Resource Management, says in the last month alone he has selected at least 3 qualified candidates from LinkedIn, for different positions.
“A lady contacted me via email about a job placement after getting my contacts from my LinkedIn account. I was also able to engage two other gentlemen on job offers after being impressed by their LinkedIn profiles,” says Wainaina.
Justus and Terry are among the candidates who received job offers from Perminus Wainaina. They share their experience on using LinkedIn to find jobs, engaging with potential employers and have something to say on why every serious job seeker should be on LinkedIn.
Why LinkedIn Should Be Every Job Seeker’s Friend
1. You don’t need to search for jobs, the jobs come to you
Being on LinkedIn, you are assured to get job alerts depending on your field of study. The site will let you know which company is hiring in your field, without even having a connection with the companies.
“The HR industry is changing and long gone are the times when people used to hand-deliver their applications. It’s high time you embrace the change and go online. LinkedIn is real and through it your chances of getting a job stand at 80%,” says Justus.
He believes that with an up-to-date profile and the right connections, one cannot go wrong in finding jobs. One is able to receive solid job alerts from established connections, and with the age of hand delivered applications drifting away, Human Resource experts are now leaning towards online sites like LinkedIn.
2. Some employers will advertise open jobs on LinkedIn only
You may have heard that a company you dream to work for is hiring, but you can’t seem to come across the advert. This could be because the ad was only posted to LinkedIn and only those on the site have access.
“Anyone who is keen and willing to do what they must for a job should be on LinkedIn. It is where job opportunities are today, especially because some of the employers are now advertising job openings exclusively to LinkedIn. You will not find these positions on other sites,” says Terry.
Terry has been an active user of LinkedIn for 2 years now, and says the site has worked in her favour on several occasions. She has reached out to employers directly and had employers reach out to her for open positions.
“Any serious job seeker should invest in a LinkedIn account, it may take up your time in the updating process but at the end, you will be glad you did,” she adds.
3. It is the site where all employers are
Have you tried searching for a company on Facebook or Twitter to see if they have open jobs, only to find their last post was 5 months ago or more? Gone to their websites and their career page doesn’t have new postings either?
LinkedIn is where employers and Recruiting firms are now spending their time. They understand it is a professional site for job seekers who are serious about getting jobs.
“As a recruiter, apart from Sundays, I normally spend a minimum of one hour on LinkedIn. I spend 15 minutes replying to messages and posting job vacancies. The remainder is spent either headhunting or engaging candidates with job offers,” says Wainaina
4. LinkedIn tops all other local job sites
“LinkedIn is a professional site for people who are looking to grow their careers. It bests other Social networks as it stands on its own in a professional way. As long as you are on LinkedIn and anyone was to do a search on you via Google, your LinkedIn account would be first on the list,” says Justus.
According to a recent study, LinkedIn is the 17th most popular site ahead of Brighter Monday, Career Point Kenya and other job sites you know. What does this mean to a job seeker?
It means that it is the one platform you should be on. You may like the thrill of being on Facebook all the time and sharing your photos with strangers on Instagram, but it will be wise to spend this time engaging potential employers on LinkedIn.
How To Make LinkedIn Work For You
You may already have an account with LinkedIn, but if it’s not up to date then it is of no use to you. LinkedIn will require that you update your educational background, work experience, skills and even your interests, among others. It is more or less like your own CV, but better because it can be viewed by multiple people, increasing your chances to land a job.
“I have been on LinkedIn for 5 years now, but only decided to update my LinkedIn profile about 2 years ago when I was looking for a job. I was not getting opportunities on mainstream sources and when someone referred me to LinkedIn, I decided to give it a try,” says Terry. “I can say I was glad I did.”
To get the best from LinkedIn, here are a few things to consider;
1. Establish connections with the right people
Just because you are desperate to get a job does not mean you establish connections with every Tom, Dick and Harry, you must identify with people in your profession. The employers you want to work for and HR firms that are on the site.
“You can engage a HR manager or employee who works for an institution you are interested in, instead of following Bill Gates and Richard Branson. Get in touch with individuals who can add value to your career,” says Perminus Wainaina.
2. Participate in various professional groups
While on LinkedIn you’ll find an array of groups, each with a different topic of discussion or professionals. Identify those you can relate to and join.Whenever Justus has extra time, he reads postings from various LinkedIn professional groups, of which he is a member.
The groups are a great opportunity to find out what is happening in your relevant field or profession. If there are any jobs open, be sure to find them in these groups.
3. Engage with employers and recruiting firms
“Having an up-to-date profile gives you an edge. People are more likely to contact you or start conversations with you. It increases your visibility to recruiting officials and lets you talk to them about your job search or any other career advice you may need,” concludes Terry.
Job searching can be frustrating, but it doesn’t have to be. Do your research on best strategies to land a job and implement them. Don’t be the kind of job seekers who insist on sending CVs to employers or recruiting firms when there is no opening, more often than not they will go unnoticed.
It is important that to know exactly what you want, identify the right people or companies to talk to and brand yourself on every social media platform. Let employers see you for the professional that you are or want to be.
4 Ways To Successfully Build Your Career From Scratch
By Sera Kazungu
Starting from scratch is not a new concept, whether you are a fresh job seeker or you have been in a career that you do not really feel like you fit into. The most difficult part of this is usually how to find your footing.
“I am in a profession that I never really studied for. Going to work these days is more out of obligation than anything else,”says Eric Wamugunda via email
You should be in a career that you have a passion for. This is the only way to achieve success and happiness.
How To build Your Career
1. Change your mindset
To succeed at whatever you choose to do, you have to train your mind to focus only on the positives. Strive to build on the strengths that you have. This will go a long way in enabling you to network more and have a focus on where you want to be.
2. Make a list of your goals
Making a list of all your goals will help you keep a focus on what you want to achieve. It will ensure that you do not get lost along the way.
Your goals should be as specific and realistic as possible. This will make them easier to achieve and will put less pressure on you.
3. Rewrite your CV
The CV is always the first impression that a potential employer gets of you. Edit your CV to highlight those specific skills that go in line with the career path that you have chosen. Keep it as updated as possible in order to ensure that it does not fail you.
Ensure that you also pick references that will speak highly of your abilities. You might want to give them a phone call to inform them that they are your reference.
4. Clean Up Your Social Media Account
Yes, don’t look surprised. Clean up all your accounts (Facebook, twitter,google plus, LinkedIn). That’s right, clean up the college party pics and get it looking professional.
Being the ‘digital age’ ,a lot of companies and recruiters are now using these platforms to recruit and find top talent. So get your profile up and running. Start following companies you would like to work for. Be a part of the community.
Starting a new career is never easy. However,following these simple tips will increase your chances of starting a new career . Try them out.
Top 4 Things You MUST Consider Before Applying For Any Job
By Sera Kazungu
“I have been applying for so many jobs, but I have never got any positive response. I am still job searching. It is so frustrating,”shares Karume Mugo via email.
His sentiments are shared by many job seekers out there. The most interesting thing is that what they do not know, is that the fault could very well be theirs. Did you know that the way you respond to a job advert matters a great deal?
What To Consider Before Applying
1. Only apply if you match at least 75% of the job qualifications.
The truth is that applying for a job that you do not qualify for is like winking in the dark;it will have no effect whatsoever. You have to remain realistic in your job search.
Being ambitious is a good thing, but don’t overdo it. Keep your search limited to the experience and qualifications that you know you possess.
2. The location of the job
Most job seekers neglect to pay close attention to the location where the job is being offered. It has to be around where you live. You cannot ,for example apply for a job in Busia when you reside in Mombasa unless, you have no problem with moving.
Carefully consider the cost, implications and requirements for moving before taking such a big step. Remember that you are only starting out and savings go a long way in ensuring your comfort.
3. Is the advert still valid
Have you ever stumbled upon a job advert and immediately applied for it, then later realized the application date has passed? Be keen to check all the details in a job advert before rushing to respond to it.
Can you imagine how long you will have to wait for a response? To avoid frustration and waiting in vain, ensure that you scrutinize every detail in an advert before applying for it.
4. Is there any payment that you are required to make
Sometimes the need to get a job may stand in the Way of clear judgement. If you see a job advert directing you to part with some cash, chances are that it is not a genuine job. You will part with your cash and all you will be left with is bitterness and joblessness.
Do not apply for jobs that require you to deposit any amount of money for whatever purposes. Real employers will offer you competitive salaries,not ask you to line their pockets.
Be a smart job seeker. Keep your head up and eventually you will land that job.wishing you the best in your job search.
4 Things That Turn Off Employers In A CV
By Sera Kazungu
Have you sent multiple CVs to employers , but have never heard back? It is the most frustrating thing sending an application for a job that you feel overqualified for and yet receive no response.
Most times, the contents of your CV are what will convince the employer to either consider your CV or bin without a second thought.
“The key to a presentable CV is consistency in terms of formatting and fonts. Organization is key to an attractive CV,”says Melody Mwendwa, a career advisor and professional CV writer at corporate staffing services.
Things That Put The Employer Off With Your CV
1. Your experience and the job do not relate.
Are you an entry level job seeker applying for a managerial job? Be realistic in your applications. Avoid making thousands of applications for the jobs that you know you do not have the qualifications for. Employers find this habit annoying.
Be careful not to do this very often as with time, you will develop a bad reputation a branded a joker in the job market.
2. Poor Formatting
Is the font in your CV all over the place? Do you have a mix of calibri, aerial and times new roman for creativity? It is time to introduce your CV to consistency. Choose just one format and stick to it. Do not add color or calligraphy to your document.
3. Inappropriate Email addresses
You know that email address that you created when you were young and without a care in the world? Employer do not like them, especially in a case where you are applying for senior management positions. The likes of [email protected], [email protected] etc.
If you are still using these email addresses it is time to grow up, trash them and create new professional email addresses that will depict you as being professional and mature.
4. Head Shots/pictures
Has someone told you that the current CV trend is attaching your photo on the CV? This is not advisable unless the company you are applying for has specifically asked you to attach a photo.
Photos put employers in difficult positions as they put themselves up for questions about discrimination in all forms.
Stick to these simple tips and maybe your CV will receive more attention and consideration the next time you apply for a job.
Good luck in your next application.
5 Ways To Job Search When You Have Been Out Of The Job Market For Long
By Sera Kazungu
“I have been out of the job market for quite some time mpaka it feels like such a joke to start looking for a job,”shares Ann Maitha via email.
Do you feel the same way? How long have you been out of the job scene? It is always difficult to start looking for a job when you have been ‘away’ for a long time. This could be because you have lost what it takes or maybe because the dynamics in the market have changed.
“Getting a job after being away for a long time isn’t impossible. Your skills and qualifications, though disused, are not eroded. You just have to change your tactic for job seeking,”says Muthoni Ndegwa, a Client Service Manager at Corporate Staffing Services.
Whatever the reason, getting back to work is not an impossibility. How to successfullygo about it, is the problem.
How to job search
1. Contact A former Employer
There has to be that employer who you got along with. Contact them and make enquiries about job opportunities. You have to make it clear that you are not pushing for a job. Make a request that should they hear of any job opening that you qualify for, they should recommend you.
2. Be flexible
You might be a professional who has over five years experience under your belt, now, you are just an unemployed professional with a gap in your CV.
Whether you get an entry level job, or a job you do not think suits you, it is not the time to be picky. Take what you get and work your way up. You have to start from somewhere.
3. Be honest about your reasons for being ‘out’
Potential employers find it suspect when you have a gap in your CV. It could sometimes be interpreted as being lazy or unemployable.
Clearly and truthfully explain why you left the job market and this ill go a long way to ensuring that you gain the confidence of potential employers.
4. Stay Current
Being out of work for a long time will mean that you are not up to par with the latest technologies. Strive to research and keep yourself as updated as possible in order to remain relevant and competent in the job market.
5. Get back into working mode
Chances are that you have forgotten what it is like to work at someone else’s pace and meeting deadlines. You need to find a way to re-teach yourself the work ethic.
Volunteering is always a good place to start. This is because it will jumpstart your need to achieve more and reach targets.
Determination and positivity are what you will need most when you are job searching. It might take some time, but you will eventually get that job.
All the best in your search.
Why You Should Never Discuss Relationship Issues & Politics At Work
By Jane Okoth
The workplace is somewhere you should feel at ease with your colleagues but that does not mean you can talk about whatever and however you like.
Certain conversations are a no no in the workplace and can negatively influence the perceptions others have about you and eventually kill your career.
In that regard, avoid these conversations if you want to be taken seriously in your work
Types Of Conversations To Avoid In The Workplace
1. Religion
You should not discuss your religious beliefs or your thoughts about other religions at work. The reason is that it is a very personal issue and people are sensitive about it. The workplace is not a place to convert people into your religion and most importantly, no one wants to hear that your religion is better than others.
If you insist on the conversation, it can turn into a debate, which turns into an argument, which eventually turns into animosity.
2. Tribal Matters
The tribal issue in Kenya has always been a thorn in the flesh. The era of discussing topics like this tribe is always better than the other is getting old.
You must be aware of the fact that making any kind of tribal jokes or slurs may lead to serious consequences at the workplace.
You are more likely to end up offending a certain group of people which can affect your work.
3. Politics
Politics is the root core of animosity in Kenya today. People are also very sensitive about their political beliefs and therefore you should avoid getting into lengthy conversations about politics.
You may have strong or negative views about the government or the opposition but never make it seem like a tug of war.
In case you haven’t noticed the country is more divided than ever when it comes to politics. To be safe, just keep your politics to yourself during working hours.
4. Your Relationship Issues
Never talk about your personal relationships simply because it’s no one’s business. Other than that, it makes people uncomfortable.
When you discuss problems you are having at home with your colleagues, it is likely to reveal your weaknesses which can undermine your juniors to undermine you.
If you do find yourself in a situation where conversations move to politics, relationships or religion, avoid it at all costs.
