Three million people lost their jobs in South Africa between February and April as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic and recent forecasting predicts that by December, 35%2 of South African’s will be unemployed and more than 70% of our youth will be unable to find jobs. Entering this highly competitive job market is daunting. So, what can South African’s do – especially our youth – to make themselves more attractive to perspective employers? According to Rajan Naidoo, Director of EduPower Skills Academy, job seekers need to ensure they have all the skills companies are looking for to stand out: “Employers want the total package; education, experience and skills – including soft skills,” he says. “Soft skills are practical, interpersonal skills such as time management and communication. Unfortunately, these are not part of the school curriculum, but it is possible for job seekers to develop these skills and enhance their employability.” He offers his top five tips for improving your work readiness and employability: 1. Manage your time Time management is a basic and valued skill that you can work on by simply establishing a routine and sticking to it. When you don’t have school or work, make sure you are up by 7am. Before you start your day, sit, think and plan a list of activities. Challenge yourself by setting deadlines and track your progress in a diary. Though it may be difficult at first, you are establishing a pattern and it will help you to use your time…
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