How to find a job

Faced with a tough economy, harsh global trends and a huge pool to recruit from - prospective employers have tightened their belts when recruiting graduates. Graduates are now subjected to multiple interview processes including psychometric and numerical assessments and many are falling out even before they get an actual interview. In most cases, graduates are not thoroughly prepared for the job market and lack the soft skills needed to secure a job. So with this in mind what practical steps can graduates take to find employment?

Here is what industry experts have to say about how you can improve your chances of finding employment after graduation.

Lillian Bususu, Graduate Development Manager at Rosebank College, an educational brand of the Independent Institute of Educations, says the job hunting process must be taken seriously and must be approached skilfully.

* Ensure that you have a well-written CV and cover letter that sells you, this is where many graduates are failing because they do not give this process the seriousness that it deserves. * Apply for relevant jobs and set a target daily, many jobs have a short life shelf so you need to act quickly. Employers who advertise expect to receive all serious applications within a day or two. * Don't depend on newspapers only, visit companies personally, use the Internet, journals, Web sites advertising learnerships/internships. * Do not deviate from instructions on how to submit your application (employers want to test if you can follow simple instructions). * Recognise that some advertised vacancies may not be real, especially those that ask for money up-front. * When invited for the actual interview, ensure that you dress professionally, research the company and go and ace the interview.

Hema Vallabh, Founder of The Passionate Professional, agrees. She adds: "Youth unemployment is one of the biggest challenges facing South Africa today. With the tough economic climate, many companies are being forced to retrench staff at an unprecedented rate. However, in order get a job in this extremely difficult and competitive market, graduates need to ensure they are adequately equipped - beyond their traditional grades and paper qualifications."

The IIE's Rosebank College is dedicated to providing students with a solid foundation, creating future thinkers to build successful careers. The IIE's quality, accredited courses have a strong technological focus enabling you to thrive in today's working world.

Study at its Braamfontein, Pretoria CBD, Pretoria Sunnyside Durban or Polokwane campuses and enrol for an IIE degree, diploma or higher certificate. It is a worthy higher education partner for all students who entrust us with their career development. For more information please visit www.rosebankcollege.co.za and www.iie.ac.za.

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