Are You Truly Good to Go?

"Are you good to go?"

"...Good to Go! Good to Go!! GOOD TO GO SAAAAHHHHHH!!!"

This is usually the question-and-response scenario at the passing out parades (POP) of members of the National Youth Service Corp in Nigeria, three (3) times a year, and it would definitely be the same thing within the next 6hrs as members of the NYSC Batch A observe their passing out ceremony.

Sometimes, I wonder how many of you corp members are aware of where/what you are going into. Obviously, the destination is the labour market. But, how prepared are you to get into an already over-populated labour market?

In today’s ever so competitive labour market, getting a job has become a very challenging task. Acquiring a university degree demonstrates your ability in the academic and theoretical elements of your discipline, however, it does not exhibit your competence in one key attribute – EMPLOYABILITY.

Practical work experience provides crucial content to your CV, even if it’s not the career you wish to pursue. And this is the most important role the NYSC scheme plays.

It demonstrates that you are up for the challenge and provides the opportunity for you to learn and develop a wealth of skills that are sought by employers such as communication and interpersonal skills, teamwork and a strong work ethic.

If you show the right enthusiasm and determination, your NYSC placements could turn into a permanent position, with a salary.

One thing that you as a graduate must understand is that employers need a proof of faith that you are capable of adjusting to a work environment.

In the eyes of an employer, any practical industry related experience such as NYSC scheme, internships or even the right part time job shows that you are able to make the transition from study to work.

Successfully completing the NYSC scheme demonstrates that you have skills and attributes that are vital in the working world and substantiates that you have the ability to succeed in the position you are applying for.

Be that as it may, completing the NYSC scheme will not get you a paid employment on it's own strength, without you being equipped with the appropriate tools.

The appropriate tools simply refer to your CV/Resume; Cover/Application Letter; and your network.

Armed with these vital tools, you can say that you are in deed good to go to kick-start your career today and get the edge over your peers.

Congratulations to all Batch A corp members who have today successfully completed the compulsory 1 year National Youth Service Scheme.

NB: Next week, I will be writing on "CV/Resume: Your Forerunner."
 
Looking forward to your comments, as you do not forget that there's always love in sharing. Kindly feel free to make good use of the share buttons below. Thank you.