Devan Moonsamy 

Unemployment is still on the rise as more and more people are facing job cuts with companies downsizing as Covid-19 continues to grow. With companies having to let people go, reduce the size of departments and instead of outsourcing suppliers start inhouse work – people have been left with uncertainty around their job situation.

A study done by Statistics South Africa showed that the unemployment rate has increased. But while companies are letting go of people and many individuals unemployed does this mean that they are still jobs available for people to apply for? 

If you have subscribed to any of the online job search portals you would be aware of vacancies the moment they drop as the advert would be emailed to you. The same can be said to individuals who are surfing the web and applying for jobs for long hours. 

The reality is that the wait to hear back from possible employers can be frustrating and demotivating. This will result in you feeling like you are wasting your time and resources. But it’s the only choice we have right now as the job market is not just competitive but inundated with people looking for work. 

So how can we change the way we apply for jobs? 

  • First step would be to review your resume. Update the information to include your latest work experience. This also means checking for any errors, spelling mistakes and reference mistakes. Take time to redo the template. A very busy resume does not do good to catch the eye of a potential employer. If you are able to consider a hiring service provider that would give you resume a good upgrade that will make it appealing to potential employers. 
  • When applying for a job don’t put all your eggs in one basket. This means not just applying for one job and waiting to get a response. Send your resume to as many vacancies as you can. Set a goal to send your resume out to at least one company a day or at least 10 or 15 by the end of the week. This way you expand the possibilities of getting a job offer soon. With that being said don’t just apply to companies who have a vacancy. Even apply to those who don’t by means of introducing yourself and the skills that you have. 
  • Brush up on your interview skills. Chances are working from home has had an impact on the way in which you interact with others. Watch a few YouTube videos for tips or have a mock interview with your spouse of friend. This will help you prepare for a possible interview. But don’t overexert yourself on this. Remember you don’t have to prepare to address a country just a room of possible employees and as much as it is intimidating, it is an opportunity to showcase exactly what you have to offer. 
  • When applying for a job be sure to add on your resume or email your digital handles. This will let potential employers know you are open to a skype. Zoom or team’s interview. This is the way forward as companies limit the day-to-day office traffic. By showcasing your tech savvy methods helps to show you readiness to adopt to flexible working environment and the new normal.  
  • Networking is key. This is a very important fact that is often not exercised enough. Networking is your best friend when looking for a job. Interacting with friends and colleagues, might be difficult but regular catch-up sessions on WhatsApp and zoom etc might be beneficial to get the word out there in terms of looking for a vacancy. 

Devan Moonsamy is the CEO of ICHAF Training Institute, a South African TVET College. He is the author of Racism, Classism, Sexism, And The Other ISMs That Divide Us, AND My Leadership Legacy Journal available from the ICHAF Training Institute. 

The ICHAF Training Institute offers SETA-approved training in business skills, computer use, and soft skills. Devan specialises in conflict and diversity management, and regularly conducts seminars on these issues for corporates. To book a seminar with Devan or for other training courses, please use the contact details below.

Tel: 011 262 2461 | 083 303 9159 |

Email: admin@ichaftraining.co.za devan@ichaftraining.co.za | 

Website: www.ichaftraining.co.za |  www.devan-moonsamy.com