May 2006

Be proactive when trying to become gainfully employed after studying

With the spectre of unemployment after matriculating still in full force – even after graduating from university – it is still advisable to try and gain a degree to enhance your chances of employment. And when it comes to employment in the IT sector, the obtaining of a BSc Computer Science, a B Comm Informatics, or an engineering degree, remain your best bets.

This is according to Org Geldenhuys, co-founder and MD of Pretoria-based executive search and IT recruitment agency, Abacus Recruitment. “Of course,” he said, “not everyone can afford to study for a degree. But, if you can – or if you can get a loan – it is first choice.”

He said going on shorter, specialised computer courses can help, but the candidate is then competing with a “far larger pool” of hopefuls.

“Firstly, you have to get matric exemption. If you can’t obtain an IT-focused degree, then getting a certificate from a recognised training school is second best. It is certainly better than nothing and adds to the allure of having your matric exemption. But there are so many of these courses been offered that their importance and validity, in the eyes of employers, have been watered down somewhat.

“If you have the wherewithal to opt for a degree and you have more of a business bent – and you want to get into IT – then go for the more business focused B Comm degree. If you are more technical, study for Informatics or engineering. It does not necessarily guarantee gainful employment, but it certainly sets you apart from many of the others in the job queue. Also,” said Geldenhuys, “try and specialise in areas where there has been constant demand if you are going to opt for a course. Or even enhance your skills further after your degree. These days Java and .Net are in high demand. They have been for some time and I don’t see it changing in the medium term.”
In order to enhance one’s chance of employment after graduation, whether armed with a diploma from a course, from a technikon, or from university, Geldenhuys said employers always like candidates who prove they have “that little bit extra to offer”.

“So when you are studying, approach a company and offer to run a project, or assist with a project – but offer your services for free. Do the work in your spare time, after hours – whenever you can fit it in. Even if it is providing assistance with mundane admin tasks, this link to the company gives you a better chance of getting full-time employment with them when you graduate. Don’t just sit back and think a degree will open all doors and immediately provide you with a good job – or a job at all.

“At the end of the day,” he added, “parents should even consider sending their children overseas if they cannot find employment locally. It is important, therefore, to try and acquire skills that are transferable; skills that are, in other words, in demand in other countries. This will increase your chances of not having to stand in the unemployment queue. But if you do end up working overseas, it does not mean you have to stay there forever. You can build up experience and a nice work portfolio - and when opportunities arise, you may possibly be able to secure an even better position in SA based on your offshore experience, which is often viewed in a positive light.”