Although it feels lonely and daunting, unemployment is not the end of your story. As one door closes, another one opens.
For unemployed youth, it can feel jarring and overwhelming applying to jobs. Whether it’s not having enough experience or having the wrong qualifications, it can make one’s future feel glib.
When looking at the job market, anyone could come to the conclusion that no one, in fact, is hiring. Or, at least it merely feels that way.
Many of us will apply while in a panic. We’ll apply to any and every job we see available. Job scarcity fear is real and valid. However, acting while in panic mode is probably not working in your favour, and applying to every job is likely wasting your time.
Some advice:
If you’re applying to jobs that are completely out of your range of skills, you may find yourself reading rejection emails one after the other and this can be discouraging. Discernment is your best friend when it comes to applying for jobs.
Firstly, make sure your CV or resume is up to date and easily accessible. Make sure to look at templates online or in your design app where you’re making your CV.
Look through the requirements for the job you’re applying to and be sure you fit at least 70 percent of the requirements. Another good idea would be to tailor your CV to match the style of the job you’re applying to. Or make sure that the most relevant information to the job is first up to read on your application.
Now that you’ve done this and properly applied to a job, take a deep breath and pat yourself on the back, the first part is done. The hardest part is the waiting game.
While it may seem smart to wait for the outcome of each job, you may be waiting weeks before you see your first reply. Hold steady, keep improving your CV and applying to jobs. You can send a follow up message to the employer about your application if you feel so inclined. It will show initiative and it really can’t hurt to try!
Keep your head up!
It may feel disheartening to be rejected. However, with every “I hope this email finds you well,” followed by “unfortunately…” you get one rejection closer to the job that really suits you. Allow what does not suit you to pass you by and keep journeying forward. The most important thing is not to give up.
Remember, every successful person you look up to has been rejected countless times. It is not about getting the first job you apply for!
Last thing: It is important to realise, as a youth the compensation for our work will never be enough. Do not restrict yourself to applying for only jobs that have a high pay rate as they often look for more senior people for those positions. Do not despair, it is possible to work your way up in a company and end up earning more by the year’s end!
However, If you’re set on making that income more than a few figures, then consider getting a side hustle. If you’re a creative – iKasi runs an initiative in collaboration with Trace studios in which content creators can earn 750 rand for a two minute video.
The Sallywood project.
The Sallywood project was created to showcase youth talent and stories. If you feel like you have something to share – whether it be a climate change mini-documentary, a fashion review, street interviews, music breakdowns or performances, then share it – anything goes!
The project is here to empower anyone, from business to individuals and uplift their stories. If you would like to get involved then email comms@ikasimedia.com with the subject line “Sallywood” and ask for more information!
There are so many avenues, jobs and experiences in the world waiting for you. Take a deep breath, and try again.