Think of it this way- you are fresh out of school or maybe starting your career journey after a period of unemployment, and every job offer you come across keeps highlighting “years of experience” as a criteria for applying, do you think you would ever get integrated into the workforce? No, you won’t because every job does not even allow you to try.
The underlying key to knowing what to do at this point is a soft skill termed “Proactiveness,” which involves knowing what to do, how to do it, and implementing it. As a recent graduate, you do not want to just keep sitting around and waiting for jobs to find you during your hunting phase; instead, build up your skills. Many unemployed youths and recent graduates lack soft skills, which contribute largely to today’s employment rate.
The transition from university/college to the workforce can feel daunting, but building your skill set is a must-have initiative that is crucial for entering today’s global workforce.
Click here to read our article on the role of soft skills in today’s job market.
I need to tell you this though-whoever gave you the school of thought that you cannot gather experience/gain valuable skill with getting a traditional job sold you a lie. You may not yet have a job, but that doesn’t mean your development has to halt. There are many ways to hone your skills, expand your horizons, and prepare for the opportunities that beckon, all without needing a traditional job..
Here are three reasons employers value employees with years of experience-
- It shows that you can successfully carry out your tasks with little to no supervision.
- It indicates that you have had enough time to develop the necessary skills and knowledge for the role, which is why many employers value it.
- It is also a way to demonstrate that you are familiar with the best practices and tools required in your industry.
Now, the question is—as a recent graduate who is fresh out of school, how do you garner these valuable skills without actually working?
- Learning through online courses and resources-
Online courses are one of the best ways to gain skills without stepping into a formal job. They are readily accessible, give you various options, and help you tailor your learning experience to fit your personal gains and interests. One such is the workplace foundational skills course by I-Train Africa, where you gain clarity, learn soft skills such as communication skills, use AI tools and 50+ Google tools, build up your leadership skills, etc. They can also come in tutorials, podcasts, etc, where you get insights and learn from industry experts.
2. Volunteering and Interning
These are the acts of rendering selfless service to an organization, which means freely giving your time and knowledge to a cause. As a recent graduate, this option helps you build a portfolio of work that demonstrates your commitment, develop practical abilities/gain hands-on experience. One thing to note, though, is to ensure that the organization you are volunteering/interning with is in alignment with your professional goal and career. To make the best of this option, note the following steps-
- Identify the cause you want to share/gain knowledge from
- Know the skills you want to develop/hone
- Plan your volunteering schedule
- Be committed and dedicated, and learn all that you can.
3. Networking
This is the act of building connections and meaningful relationships with people who have been where you are or are also where you currently are.
When you network with people who have been where you are, you will gain experience and insights into your industry.
When you network with people who are currently where you are, you will find people with whom to share the journey and be exposed to many opportunities as they arise.
It is intentionally surrounding yourself with people who can offer guidance, support, and even job leads down the road.
How?
- Attend events that gather the category of people you want to meet, virtually or physically.
- Volunteer
- Leverage LinkedIn
Learning doesn’t have to happen in a traditional office setting—it can happen anywhere, at any time. Building skills without formal work experience is not only possible but also an intelligent way to stay proactive and increase your employability. As a recent graduate or someone looking for a job, your next opportunity could come from the skills you develop while waiting and searching.
Are you unsure where to start? Start with I-Train Africa Workplace Foundational Skills, a three-year tested curriculum and learning process that will equip you with employability skills regardless of your field of interest.
Use the link 👇👇👇to get started.