Job hunting is a rite of passage that we all must go through at some point in our lives. Whether you’re a fresh graduate or a seasoned professional, the process can be both exciting and nerve-wracking.
As a Nigerian, I know firsthand how challenging it can be to find a job in this country. But fear not! I’ve compiled some job search tips that are sure to make you laugh, and hopefully, help you land that dream job.
Start by networking
Networking is key when it comes to finding a job in Nigeria. You never know who might know someone who knows someone who is hiring. So, start by reaching out to your friends, family, and acquaintances. But be warned, some people can be very creative with their job suggestions. I once had a distant relative suggest I become a professional crier at funerals because I was “always so good at crying”.
Customize your resume and cover letter
When applying for jobs, it’s important to tailor your resume and cover letter to the specific job you’re applying for.
Your resume and cover letter should contain skills that are related to the job you are applying for.
However, some people take this advice to the extreme. I once knew a guy who applied for a job at a tech company and decided to use binary code as his resume. Your guess is as good as what happened.
Dress to impress
When going for an interview, it’s important to dress professionally no matter the position you are applying for but don’t dress to kill like my friend who took this advice a little too literally and showed up in a full-on suit of armor. Needless to say, he didn’t get the job.
Research the company
Before going for an interview, it’s important to do your research on the company. During the interview when you chipped in things you already know about the company, it shows you are interested in the company even as an outsider.
But be careful not to take it too far like Danny Boy, who did so much research on the company that he started talking about the CEO’s favorite color during the interview. He came off as a stalker, not like someone interested in the company.
Follow up
After an interview, it’s important to follow up with the company. Not many people do this. Many a time we would rather choose to wait and accept that the company calls us first. But be careful not to come across as too eager. I once knew a girl who called the company every day for a week after her interview. Needless to say, the secretary has to ban her line from reaching through the office.
Be confident
Confidence is key when it comes to job hunting. Interviewers are looking to employ outspoken, firm yet polite team members. Therefore, during an interview, you should show confidence in the way you interact, maintain eye contact and show confidence even in how you sit and shake hands.
However, don’t be like my friend who took this advice to the extreme and started doing push-ups during his interview to show off his strength.
Practice your elevator pitch
When networking or at career fairs, it’s important to have a concise elevator pitch to introduce yourself and your skills. Knowing how to introduce yourself and your set of skills can make all the difference to whoever is listening, who knows that might just be your unique selling point.
But be careful not to ramble on like my friend who practiced her pitch in an actual elevator, but didn’t realize she was stuck in there with the same person for 10 floors.
Be mindful of your social media presence
Employers nowadays often check the social media profiles of job applicants. So, be sure to clean up any questionable posts or photos. Don’t be like someone I once read about who in the past had an/posted an ‘opinion’ which is against what the company stands for or a guy who forgot to take down his high school prom photos, complete with a questionable hairstyle and tuxedo.
Be prepared for unexpected interview questions
Interviewers often ask unexpected questions to assess a candidate’s critical thinking and problem-solving skills. But be careful not to answer too honestly like my friend who was asked, “If you were a vegetable, what would you be?” and replied, “A potato, because I’m versatile and can be mashed or fried.”
Practice good communication skills
Good communication skills are important in any job, especially during the interview phase. It will be considered a lucrative investment if you invest in your communication skills, especially in formal and corporate settings.
But be careful not to overshare personal details like my friend who went on a long tangent about his digestive issues and how he has a knack for farting in unusual places.
Stay positive
Job hunting can be a long and frustrating process, but it’s important to stay positive calm, and self-controlled.
Don’t be like a guy in a story told to be my friend who went to an interview in a bad mood and accidentally insulated the interviewers.
Take rejection with grace
Job hunting can be tough, and rejection is a part of the process. Know that the fact that you got called for an interview does not automatically mean employment. The expectation is not always at par with reality. And it doesn’t always mean you are the best candidate.
Take rejection well and remain positive.
But don’t be like the guy who stormed out of the interview when he found out the salary was lower than he expected.
In conclusion, job hunting in Nigeria can be serious and stressful but with the right attitude and a good sense of humor, you can make it through. Just remember to network, customize your resume and cover letter, dress professionally, research the company, follow up, be confident, practice your elevator pitch, be mindful of your social media presence, be prepared for unexpected interview questions, practice good communication skills, stay positive and take rejection with grace.
Who knows, maybe one day you’ll be able to look back and laugh at all the absurdities of your job search journey.
And if all else fails, just remember that there’s always a career in professional mourning.
The article was originally written by
Omidhe Blessing
Writer, Speaker, Career Coach & Branding Expert