Scholarships_CareerTips
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.
5 Ways To Turn Off An Interviewer In The First 30 Seconds
Source: Muse.com
The sooner you realize that your appearance speaks paragraphs about yourself before a word comes out of your mouth at an interview, the better equipped you will be to make those paragraphs work to your advantage.
What, then, should you absolutely, positively never show up to an interview in or with? Here are five things to avoid.
5 Ways to Turn Off The Interviewer
1. Wearing Clothes With inappropriate Logos
This one seems obvious, but apparently it isn’t. You know how sometimes we buy mtumba clothes with logos that tend to ‘advertize’ one thing or the other, or how we like those promotional T-shirts we were given? In many companies, these displays are considered inappropriate.
Avoid any logos on your interview outfit. Keep it simple—and chic or trendy or buttoned-up or low-key or whatever other word best describes the company culture.
2. Wearing Clothes That Don’t Fit in With the Company Culture
Speaking of company culture, it’s important to dress like you understand it. If you step into a bank looking like you’re ready for a night out, you’re more than likely going to stick out .
Likewise, if a conservative corporation suggests “business casual,” they probably do not mean “come in jeans.”
Part of the reason you get a job offer is because your future colleagues feel like you’re going to fit in. It is advisable to study what their people wear, and go one notch up. When in doubt, simply ask the person coordinating the interview for guidance.
3. Wearing Something That Makes You Look Like You don’t care
This includes wrinkled shirts, stained pants, scuffed-up shoes, a belt that’s seen its better days, an unshaven face, or something that fit you five years ago, before you gained (or lost) those 20 pounds.
People hire people who care. Look like you care. It’s as easy as taking out the iron the night before. After all, your interviewer is taking time out of his or her day to speak with you; the least you can do is look presentable.
4. Wearing Too Much Perfume
You’re there to prove that you can do this job, that you’re likable, and that you’ll be a great addition to the team. You are not there to seduce your future boss. Make sure to keep your scent light and your deodorant game strong.
5. Carrying Around a Negative Attitude
Are you a very emotional person? Well, if your emotions include anger, annoyance, pessimism, anxiety, or panic, consider taking some deep breaths before you walk in the doors. No one owes you a job, nor will they likely select you over the competition if you walk in with a noticeable attitude.
3 Ways To Get A New Job Fast
By Sera Kazungu
Let’s face it, hustling is the hardest, most tasking thing anyone has to do. Sometimes it takes a toll and giving up will seem to be a valid choice. The good news is that there is an easier way to tarmac and successfully land that job.
Here are the simple ways in which you can get a job fast
1. Define what is a good job for you
To do this, you need to focus on writing down the details of what to you, is the ideal job. Then,write down the companies that you consider a dream job to work for.after this is done, you write down the qualifications and requirements for the new job.
This will give you a clear focus and will guide you on where and how to make changes and adjustments to fit into the new job.
2. Prepare yourself for the new job
Preparing for the job will require you to improve on the skills that you have, find a way to gain experience for the job that you are eying and then, update your CV.
It is also important to either update,or totally clean up all social profiles that you consider offensive. These may act as barriers keeping you from your new job.
3. Search and find a new job
After you have done the above, searching becomes easier. First, you search for jobs and apply for every job listing that fits in with your job profile.
Then, you ready yourself to be called for interviews. Ensure that you have the correct attire and documents that you might be asked to carry with you.
The other thing is to network as much as possible. Try and attend open events where you will get to meet people who might give you a push in the direction of a job. You can also network via LinkedIn.
Following these steps will not only ensure that you get a job, but will help you do it in the least possible time. Try it and make a step in the right direction.
Why Arriving Early To The Job Interview Is Important
By Selipha Kihagi
Your application has made its way to the shortlisted candidates and you have been invited for an interview to discuss your qualifications further. The one thing you want to do to perfection is prepare for the interview before the actual day.
Ready enough, the day for the interview is upon you. Should you get to the interview on the exact time given or should you get there before time?
Melody Mwendwa an Interview Coach at Corporate Staffing Services who offers interview preparation guidance to job seekers , says that candidates should always show up for the interview at least 10 or 15 minutes before the actual time.
“Arriving early to an interview is not only professional, but of great importance to the candidate during the interview,” Melody says.
Advantages of Arriving Early For Your Job Interview
1. It gives you time to identify with the location
You might think you got the directions right, only to get there and realize you can’t pick out the lane or building you are supposed to show up. Or maybe you alighted at the wrong stage and can’t figure out what direction the Google maps is giving you. If you were early, the time you take trying to identify the place will not eat up into your interview.
2. You are able to prepare yourself better
If you have 10 minutes to the interview but are already at the offices, then you will have time to go through the few details you could not master in the matatu.
“It gives you time to identify with company details that you did not know, just from observing your surroundings,” says Melody.
3. Being early gives you relaxation
When going for an interview, it is only normal that you feel anxious and that can work against you in the interview room. Having extra minutes for yourself will let you calm your nerves and take in the environment that you are in now.
Try visualize yourself walking into a strange office and you’re late, not only will you be confused but you are prone to making mistakes you could have avoided.
4. The interviewer will not have a reason to quickly dismiss you
Being early will show the interviewer that you really value the opportunity you have been given and will be willing to listen to what you have to say, unlike when you arrive late. If you’re late it is very probable that you are thinking of an excuse to give; this might confuse you and make your interview turn out badly.
Interviewers are keen on first impressions, so you must remember that being early or late has its implications.
3 Advices To Ignore For Effective Job Searching
By Selipha Kihagi
If you are looking for a job, you probably have sought advice from the experts or superiors; those who are already accomplished and have a thing or two to say about what to do and what not to do when job hunting.
All this could be a good thing for you the job-seeker, but when you decide to take in all the advice given without being careful which one will work best and which one will work against you then you might be job searching for a long time.
Not all advices will work for you as they did someone else. Remember professions are different and in the same way, companies are not the same; there are large corporations that will require years of experience and small companies that will not demand much.
So, what advices should you ignore?
1. “Apply to a job that you know will make you happy”
While it is a good thing to want to be happy at what you do and to love your job, this advice may not work to your advantage. Especially if you are a fresh graduate looking for a position that will give you the experience you want to advance in your career.
You will be at a better advantage if you choose to ignore this advice and instead apply to one that you are well qualified for.
2. “Tell your interviewer the exact salary you were earning in your previous job”
When you hear this advice, you are better off not acting on it. Being honest about your salary is as terrible as it gets. You might give a larger fee than what the employer is willing to give and kill your chances, or you might mention a smaller fee than the one budgeted for your position and end up suffering for it.
Entry level candidates, the latter is common. Do your research on how to answer the salary question to avoid being sorry.
3. “Keep your CV to 2 pages maximum”
If this is not a requirement in the job you are applying for, don’t let it become your application headache. If you have done a lot of volunteering or have several achievements, don’t shy away from listing it all down.
Employers are different and what is not liked by one may be impressive to another. But also, do not include unnecessary information and bore the recruiting firms or employers.
4. “Apply to every job related to your field, even those with more experience. You never know”
This advice is more likely to lead you into depression than give you a job. Requirements are set for a particular reason and if you keep making applications for jobs you are not qualified for, you’ll keep getting nothing for a reply.
The job searching process can be very frustrating, but it does not have to be. Have a strategy that will work.
4 Social Media Mistakes That Will Cost You That Job
By Selipha Kihagi
You must love the thrill of being on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and any other Social Media platform you have managed to sign up for. Connecting with friends is even more appealing and to make this better, you have accepted all friend requests – after all, the more the merrier.
The Kenyan job scene isn’t pretty, employers receive large amounts of applications and will turn to Social media for decisions on who to hire and even who to fire.
Have you taken this into consideration or do you still choose to be ignorant and remain jobless?
Social Media Mistakes Bound To Cost You The Job
1. Accepting friend requests blindly
If you are the type of social media user that will accept all friend requests because you don’t want to be rude or they are too many to go through, then your boss, your future boss or that co-worker that really hates you is in your contact list. They see all your posts, comments and what people share with you. This will not work in your favour.
2. Sharing posts because the photo/video made you laugh
Being on social media means you have access to all kinds of material and while you may think you are being careful, the internet works against you. You might share a post containing vile content but because you are too quick to invite your followers to laugh with you, you won’t notice. Just laugh and move on, you don’t have to share!
3. Filling your timeline with your own photos
Your friends & followers do not need to see the same photo in 10 different poses or keep tabs with your ‘forever & for always’ relationship, try learn the art of sharing only what is safe. Instead of 10 photos, pick one or two that communicate. Don’t let your future boss think you are indecisive or are too idle, and even worse, obsessed with yourself.
4. Posting exactly what is on your mind
Just because Facebook wants you to share ‘What’s on your mind’ and Twitter wants to know ‘What’s happening’ does not mean you share your hatred for your boss or tell everyone how bad your day was. It also does not mean you post in wrong grammar because 140 characters on Twitter are too few to express your emotions. You must be selective when posting, if you want a job or need to keep one.
Don’t rely on privacy settings, search yourself on Google or Bing to see what information can be found about you. Remember, the internet does not forget.
Avoid Saying These 5 Things If You Want To Keep Your Job
By Selipha Kihagi
Many a times we say stuff we don’t mean to or mean to say one thing but end up saying another. While this can go unnoticed in a casual environment, the workplace is more judgmental and can easily ruin one’s career.
So, if there was a promotion you were well suited for but your junior got it, stop blaming your employer. You may have said either of these 5 things at the office.
What Not To Say in The Workplace
1. That is not my job
Your co-worker has probably asked you to help out on a task or you’ve been requested to handle an issue that is not in your job description. While it is okay to say no, it will be unprofessional of you to reply in this manner. Be polite, for example, you can say you’d like to help but you’re working on a particular task – be specific.
2. I can’t do anything about that
This is an attitude that is not acceptable in any workplace. Employers want to work with optimistic minds, people who will go extra lengths to complete difficult tasks and saying this portrays you as being negative. You can say good bye to that promotion.
3. I’m not sure…but I think
This statement may be true, but your team members and boss need to work with someone who knows what they are talking about. If you are not sure about something, table it like a matter of discussion. Say it like you know for sure – even when you don’t. That way, no one will be quick to mistrust an idea.
4. I don’t have time for that
Well, if you never have time to perform an extra task that is important to the organisation and you are arrogant enough so say it, chances are you’re already in the next lay-off list. Also, none of your
co-worker will have good things to say about you.
5. In this company, it is done like this Anyone who says this has clearly shut their mind to creativity and innovation. You want to follow the old ways of doing things even when there is a new and more effective way of doing the same thing. Employers want people who challenge conventional ways – even if they don’t say it
Do not miss out on a promotion because you were too quick to speak, always think about what you intend to say.
Going For An Interview? Why You Will Need A Professional Interview Coach
By Selipha Kihagi
If you haven’t been to a job interview, you might underestimate what is expected of you. You also might prepare in all the wrong ways and end up making a fool of yourself in the interview room.
To avoid this, it is always important to seek the advice of a professional coach who will take you through the necessary steps depending on the position applied for as well as company.
“Interview coaching is very important for jobseekers, especially at entry-level because candidates have not been to an interview setting before. It prepares you for what is to come and gives you the confidence you need,” says Melody Mwendwa, an Interview Coach at Corporate Staffing Services.
Why Is Interview Coaching Important?
1. You become more confident
Whether you are new in the job market or you have been to various job interviews before, anxiety is a key determinant to all and it can bring down your confidence.
For this reason, seeking the help of an interview coach will be your solution. They take you through the interview questions to expect and guide you towards providing the best answers.
2. You are able to understand job requirements better
Sometimes even after applying to a job and being called to the interview, you are not clear about the roles required for the job. Some employers are more specific while others scanty, and this might be a challenge when preparing for the interview. You end up rehearsing for the wrong questions. To avoid this, consult a professional and be certain of what is to come.
3. Future Interviews become a walk in the park
Your first interview may be your worst nightmare, especially if you really want the job and are not sure if you’re well prepared. Instead of going for an interview with doubt, it is advisable to engage a professional coach to be sure. It will only take 1 hour of your time, but will be of use to future interviews.
In a job market like Kenya’s, it is important that you are one step ahead of other jobseekers. Give the employer a reason to hire you by knowing what you want and working towards it.
Make friends with recruiting firms and you will not be sorry. All the best in your next interview.
7 Ways To Deal With Professional Rejection
Source: The Huffing post
You have probably encountered rejection either in your career journey or life. If you haven’t, don’t think yourself lucky, it will soon catch up with you. It could be a project proposal that you really spent time on but it is still lacking, or the constant rejection of your ideas in the boardroom.
So, will you allow rejection to bring you down in your workplace or will you make the effort to get past it and have a happy career?
If you choose to fight rejection for future acceptance, here are ways to handle rejection in the workplace.
7 Ways To Handle Professional Rejection
1. Allow yourself time to let go
Rejection hurts and the more we have emotionally invested, the more painful it is to accept. Process through your letdown, and then dust yourself off and figure out what’s next on your to-do list.
2. Understand that rejection is inevitable
There is nothing you can do to insulate yourself from the possibility of rejection. Don’t accept a single “no” as a commentary on your worth.
While someone else’s dismissal may have temporarily shut down your plans, make a mental list of all the good things you have going on professionally. Two of the most important attributes you can possess are desire and tenacity.
3. Ask for clarification
There will be times you will be turned down due to factors beyond your control. Layoffs or downsizing may have contributed to your project being tabled.
Or, there could be something you need to take a look at that has influenced another person’s evaluation of you. Ask them to give you their candid feedback as to what specific detail impacted their decision.
4. Identify the issue
If you didn’t get the promotion you were anticipating, in the spirit of education, ask your supervisor why you were passed over.
Inquire as to what you can do next time around to improve your chances for consideration. You now have a goal and a guideline to future success.
5. Share information sparingly
If you post your excitement about a recognition on social media, be prepared to share a disappointment in the same forum. Entrust your aspirations only to people with whom you feel comfortable sharing both the good and the bad news. Make a public announcement only after the decision is final.
6. Keep your emotions in check
You may be discouraged, even heartbroken, about a lost opportunity, but staying focused and at your best is critical.
Sulking and hiding at your desk is not going to change a thing, except your colleagues’ perception of you. Keep your chin up, shoulders back and stay actively engaged with your boss and coworkers.
7. A rejection is often a blessing in disguise
Look at a “no” as an opening to revisit an idea or that project. Sometimes it’s as simple as making your objective clearer, working on your presentation skills or seeking out a different audience.
There is value in being turned down when you keep your ego in check and use the redirection as a learning tool.
How happy you are at your job solely depends on you as an individual, blaming your sulkiness on the constant rejection or bad boss will not change your situation.
Why Lying In Your CV Can Be Your Worst Nightmare
By Selipha Kihagi
You have been invited to a job interview after making it to the list of the shortlisted candidates. Any jobseeker in the Kenyan market should be excited about this opportunity, but for some reason, you’re not. Why? You told lies in your CV.
“I was invited to a job interview but I’m worried I might not get the job. I ‘kinda’ exaggerated my experience in my CV, I don’t know if they’ll find out,” a friend shares in a conversation.
If you told a lie in your CV so you can get the job, or you are thinking of lying when sending that application, here are ways your interview is going to be the worst nightmare in your career.
How Lying in Your CV will be your worst Interview nightmare
1. You will not be adequately prepared for the interview
Once a lie is told, it has to be backed up with a believable explanation. You already know that and now all your focus is wasted on trying to find an explanation that the recruiting officers or employers will believe. You forget about doing a background research for the company or going through some sample questions you might be asked.
2. You will be asked more questions than usual
In an interview, one question leads to the next and this depends on the answers you give. So, if you prepared and rehearsed how you will back up the exaggerated responsibilities in your CV, you will be in the interview room much longer.
Not every answer you think reasonable will be believable, there is a difference and the recruiting officer will be able to tell a lie when they see one.
3. The recruiting officer suspects you lied, they want a confirmation
You didn’t anticipate this did you? Or if you did, you are beyond anxious and are having a hard time describing yourself as the interview starts. It could be that your experience is too telling and the interviewer called your referees. Whichever it is, if the interviewer smells something fishy, you are bound to have a long day.
It is advisable to always tell the truth. Don’t think adding on your skills will give you the job, you might appear overqualified and miss your chance.
Love Travelling? 6 Professions That Will Guarantee That
By Selipha Kihagi
Are you a travel junkie wondering which career to pursue that will allow you to visit different places every now and then? Or Do you constantly dream about traveling to various parts of the country or world but don’t have time because of your crazy working schedule?
Well, some professions will make that dream a reality. You will be paid to stay in very nice hotels, meet new people and enjoy different cuisines.
1. Flight Attendant
The job requires that you are in a different place every single day, that you are meeting different people on a daily basis and constantly interacting with them. You don’t have to worry about the boredom that comes with seeing the same people at all times, like you would in an office. Every single day has its own adventure.
2. Driver
Have you put this in your never-to-do list? If you have, its time you cross it off the list because being a driver can be the gateway to you travelling around. All you have to do is chose the right organisation or right people to work for, and your job will a daily adventure.
3. Photography
This is one of the professions that pays very well today. Photographers are no longer the ‘guy with a camera’ at weddings, they are professionals getting a handsome pay to take your pictures in some of the best sceneries across the country and are even contracted for out of the country projects.
4. Personal Assistant
If you do not have a problem handling your bosses diary and running petty errands for him/her for a chance to travel, then this is another good choice. However, you must be choosy with this profession. Your travel depends on the person you are assisting, he/she has to be travelling regularly.
5. Audit
Anyone working in an audit firm will tell you stories on their adventures in different parts of the country and if the company is big, then even other countries. For internal auditors though, not so lucky on this one because travel opportunities are not as many.
6. Journalism
Being a journalist is not just an 8 to 5 job, it involves a lot of travel as you have to meet different people so you can tell their stories. You are also sent to different counties and countries on assignments, and your stay is always catered for. All you need is to find an area you love and be best at it.
These are just but a few, know of others? You can always add.
4 Successful Ways To Follow Up After A Job Interview
By Sera Kazungu
“It is really frustrating that it is now three weeks after my interview and I have received no feedback from my interviewers. They should have even called me and told me I had been unsuccessful. The uncertainty is killing me,”says Yvonne Magwi in an email.
This situation is not exclusive to her. Many job seekers face the same frustrations. What is the right way to follow up on such issues without being perceived as pushy or annoying?
According to Sheila Cheptoo,a recruitment officer at corporate staffing services, aggressive follow ups that are done more than once or twice, tend to annoy the interviewers and depict you as being too desperate.
The following are three follow up techniques that you need to master in order to get feedback from an interview.
How To Follow Up After A Job Interview
1. How To Follow Up Through Emails
Send out an email first to thank your interviewer a few minutes after you leave their office. Apart from making you feel better, it will earn you points with the interviewer. This way, you will have created a rapport with them on a non-official way.
An email a week later, it will look responsible and professional when you send a sincere and subtle emailing requesting to be told what the outcome of your interview was, whether good or bad. Do not send multiple emails, send one and patiently wait for a reply.
2. How To Follow Up Through A Phone Call
Most job seekers prefer to call after the interview. This is not advisable. Wait a while before you decide to make that phone call. Do not attempt to call when you have not tried emailing first. When the emails go unanswered, you can resort to making that phone call.
One phone call recommended as subsequent calls will make you be perceived as being pushy or annoying. Try to be as polite as possible on the call and get as much information as you require so as to avoid having to call back again.
3. Following Up In Person
As much as you will be desperate to hear back, try as much as possible not to harass the interviewer by always showing up at their office. This should be as a last resort when emails and phone calls do not yield any responses or results.
Potential employers might sometimes change their minds about hiring you. Let’s face it, no one wants to work with an impatient and desperate person.
Keep yourself composed. No matter how badly you want the job, do not in any way seem like you are forcing the employer to hire you.
These are simple tips that will get you the feedback that you yearn for in an interview.
