Dear Fresh Graduates,
First, congratulations on reaching this major milestone! I understand the mix of excitement and anxiety you’re feeling as you step into the job market. It can be overwhelming, especially in competitive cities like Lagos. But don’t worry — things will work out in time. It’s been over a decade since I graduated, and I’ve learned some valuable lessons. Here are practical tips to help you land your first job or upgrade to a better one.
1. Networking
Networking is one of the most powerful tools for securing a job anywhere in the world, including Nigeria. However, don’t solely rely on your immediate contacts. Think broader. Here’s who you should consider reaching out to for job leads or referrals:
- Family members: Parents, siblings, aunts, uncles.
- Old classmates and lecturers: University connections can be quite useful.
- Friends from other circles: People you know from the gym, your religious community, or volunteering groups.
- LinkedIn: Ensure your profile is updated and engage with professionals in your field. Network directly with insiders in the company you are interested in.
2. Self Improvement
Yes, your university degree matters. In Nigeria, most organizations will only accept applications from first-class and second-class degree holders. Regardless of that, you must focus on self-improvement. The competitive job market means you need to constantly refine your skills and broaden your knowledge. Take time to identify areas where you can grow — whether it’s improving your communication skills, learning new software, or mastering industry-relevant certifications. Commit to becoming a more well-rounded candidate by investing in online courses or attending workshops that align with your career goals
3. Resume Development
When formatting your CV, consider both readability and how well it passes through Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS). Many companies in Nigeria and globally use ATS to screen resumes, meaning if your CV isn’t optimized, it might not even reach human eyes. To ensure it passes through ATS smoothly, avoid using complex layouts or graphics that may confuse the system. Stick to clean, simple formatting with clear headings and bullet points. Keywords are crucial — they should match the specific skills, qualifications, and experiences mentioned in the job description. For instance, if the job posting highlights “project management” or “data analysis,” ensure these terms appear naturally in your CV, particularly in your skills and experience sections
4. Applying For Jobs
Lagos is such a competitive place, so you accept the fact that the process might be tough. Set a high target for yourself — aim to apply for at least 500 or more jobs. Yes, it’s a big number, but the more applications you send out, the higher your chances of getting responses. Don’t be disheartened by rejections. Everyone faces them. Keep pushing forward, and trust that the right opportunity will come.
5. Volunteering
Many fresh graduates chase high-paying roles right away, but gaining experience is even more valuable at this stage. Consider internships or volunteer positions, especially if they’re aligned with your career goals. These roles give you the exposure you need and can help you build connections within your industry. A well-known corporate name on your CV can make a huge difference when applying for full-time roles. Also, volunteering or interning at a company makes it easier to know about job openings that may not be advertised publicly.
6. Preparing for Interviews
Preparation is key to acing job interviews and assessments. Don’t assume you can “wing it.” Spend time researching common interview questions in your industry, and practice your answers. You can even record yourself to see how you come across and improve. Practice for those graduate assessment tests too. “I can speak English” is the reason some people have written IELTS six times.
Now is Your Time to Act!
The job market may be tough, but with the right strategy, perseverance, and self-improvement, you can stand out from the crowd. Start networking, fine-tune your CV, and apply for jobs. Every application is a step closer to your next big break. Your next job is out there.
