SA’s youth unemployment rate is frightening. Data from Stats SA, released in late August, shows it climbed to 64.4% in the second quarter of 2021.
“Something that is never really emphasised for these young people [looking for work] is the importance of networking. There are thousands of skilled SA youths, but one of the main issues they face is not knowing where to look for the types of jobs that would suit them best or who can help them get these jobs,” says Adelaide Tshabalala, head of digital marketing at Hill+Knowlton Strategies SA. She advises:
• When it comes to online platforms, some are better suited to job-seeking than others. For example, professional social media site LinkedIn can play a crucial role in helping young South Africans find work;
• Many recruiters use LinkedIn as a way to find possible employees, so with a professional profile on the platform your chance of being spotted is good;
• It takes time to build a credible online profile, so each interaction you have with potential employers via LinkedIn will add to the picture you create; and
• Connecting with pioneers and leaders in your chosen industry can put you in a good position for when posts open up.
