5 Reasons Graduates are Unemployed

Graduate Unemployment has become today’s menace! Everyone is talking about it, and YES, we are as well; but this time we are directing it to the reasons why YOU are unemployed as a graduate. You will need to thank me later.

Here are 5 major reasons you are unemployed as a graduate.

1.     You have not developed your soft skills: This is also called employability skills. If you have ever heard when they say it is not all in the grades, this is the reason. Hard skills would get you to the interview, but your soft skills would get you the job. Studies have shown that employers are looking beyond what is on your CV, they need to see how well you can prove it and would rather higher someone who has a balance in both hard skills and soft skills. Soft skills made the guy who is always playful in school get the job and you didn’t. Being able to balance your academic grades with skills such as communication skills, emotional intelligence, and interpersonal skills is a sure-fire way of getting a job.

2.      You went to the interview with the wrong mindset: Believe it or not, your disposition will determine the atmosphere of the interview. Having a wrong mindset about will find its expression in the way you communicate with the employer who would be quick to notice the wrong vibes you are sending. Your employer knows you need the raise in financial status that comes with the new job, but don’t come across as desperate, this is a turn off, instead convince the employer you are there to add value and you should be hired for that. Do not start narrating how you have been searching for job since the last two years you graduated from the University. Have a positive attitude from start to finish at the interview no matter what.

3.      Your CV is not well constructed for the job position: If your CV could say it all, there wouldn’t be a need for interviews and tests. A well constructed CV will determine the tone of the interview. A CV should not be more than one or two pages because you only have to include information that are necessary for the job position and what the organisation can relate with. Researching about the organisation and their needs will better enable you construct your CV accordingly.

4.      You have not developed yourself to suit the job: It is okay to know what you want, but you have to build your capacity in order to land your dream job. Take those low paying jobs for the experiences and develop yourself while at it. Apply for internships, take professional courses and go for trainings. The more you develop yourself, the more valuable you become.

5.      Ignorance of available job opportunities: There are tones of job opportunities out there you probably don’t know about. Do more researches and follow organisations of your interest, this would enable you get updates on available vacancies. Network with people and let them know what you can offer.