Unemployed? How to increase your chances of securing a job

According to statistics released by StatsSA on Tuesday, 29 September, the unemployment rate in South Africa stands at 42%.

At least 2.2-million jobs were shed during the second quarter of 2020.

Although the figures are less than what South Africa experienced in the first quarter of the year, the number is still high. 

There are 10.3-million South Africans who are currently unemployed.

If you are one of those who have lost employment due to the Coronavirus and are looking at securing a job, then here is what you need to know to ensure you stand out from the rest.

Have a positive mindset

One of the biggest things that can set you back in life is having a mindset of defeat. Being unemployed does not make you a failure. 

Being positive is the first step in attracting the job of your dreams.

Make your CV stand out

When it comes to making your curriculum vitae stand out, you need to highlight the most important information on the first page.

The potential employer is interested in hiring someone who has the qualification and skills to perform the job. 

On the first page, make your CV stand out by highlighting the skills and biggest achievements you have made in your career. Tailor this according to the job spec provided by the recruiter. 

READ: Beware! Lying on your CV could land you in jail

- Don’t state the obvious

It is important to make sure you stand out from the rest. Everyone states that they are a hard-worker. Instead of writing that, emphasise results and achievements such as how you climbed the corporate ladder within a short space of time. This will be an indication that you were an asset in the company you were working for. 

- Make your CV customised to the job you are applying for.

Although you might have done a lot in your career, not everything might be suitable for the job you are applying for. Rather concentrate on skills and work experience that is in line with the job you are applying for. 

- Keep your CV short and precise

Having a long CV might put your recruiter off. Remember, the recruiter might be dealing with hundreds of applicants. Rather be short and to the point. 

Add a portfolio of your work if you are able to. This will show your potential employer what you are capable of. 

Prepare for your interviews

Know the do’s and don’ts of interviews even before you are called in for one. Start practising at home and be better prepared.

READ: Three crucial things to do before a job interview 

Brenda Smith, the founder of Ad Talent recruitment agency gives the following guide for nailing your interview.

Dos

 - Do smile

- Do introduce yourself clearly

- Do be punctual

- Do dress professionally

- Do listen to the question carefully before answering

- Do be prepared to answer basic questions

- Do have good posture, body language and good eye contact

- Do have a positive attitude

- Do show confidence, maintain poise

- Do be assertive

- Do remember the goal is to market yourself,

- Do show your worth, show how your experience would benefit the company

- Do bring a digital copy of your portfolio with on a laptop, iPad or tablet (if applicable)

Dont's

- Don’t bad-mouth previous employers

- Don’t, however comfortable the interviewer makes you feel, divulge minute details of your emotional and personal life

- Don’t arrive unprepared for the interview

-  Don’t make excuses for failings

-  Don’t give vague responses to questions

- Don’t express strong prejudices or any personal intolerance towards the company

- Don’t show any reservation about the company or position

- Don’t bring up money, unless they do

- Don’t leave your cell phone on during the interview

- Don’t chew gum

READ: Expert advice: What not to put in your CV

Image courtesy of iStock/ @fizkes