How Bad Do You Want That Job? Maanisha Basi.

You know, of late I have been reflecting on the saying many of us use when things seem bleak but we’re still hanging in there – ‘Ninaishi kwa matumaini’ - ‘I live in hope’. In the context of job hunting, I have been watching applicants send in mediocre documents, followed by even poorer interviews (should they, for some reason, actually be called in for one). How on Earth would a person, without so much as a thought about the nature of the position for which they have applied nor their targeted audience, namely, the recruitment personnel in that organisation, expect to receive a positive response?

If the objective is to secure a job and we agree that the first impression is the only one that counts, why do so few people make sure that they send winning applications followed by even more impressive interviews?

Knowing there are many others applying for a position, I feel that being ill prepared is like closing ones eyes, turning around seven times then shooting an arrow into the air and hoping to hit a target set 150 metres away. 

That is not ‘kuishi kwa matumaini’, that is plain old ‘kubahatisha’ – ‘to chance one’s luck’ and we all know the statistics on obtaining anything by sheer luck.

Now I do take cognisance of the fact that our educational system does little to prepare people for success in life outside academics. Some may also point to the fact that Ujamaa and Tanzania not really being an English speaking Country add yet more handicaps to our already disadvantaged position.

So what do you do? Throw up your arms and wait for deliverance?

I say stop the excuses and take your success into your own hands. WaTanzania we need to be transformed by the renewing of our minds. We need to understand that no one; not the Government, not our parents, not our teachers and bosses or even the international community owes us anything.

You have to make up your mind to start living a life of excellence now, despite a shackled background.

In all that you do, I cannot emphasise preparation enough. Be prepared for all eventualities.

Let me give you a few job hunting tips you could apply in your search.

Consider:

           Your Profile

What do I currently have in terms of my knowledge, skills, interests, preferences?

 Your Career Direction

Where do I want to be in 10 or 20 years’ time and what should I do to get there?

Starting Position

What position, what area, handling what responsibilities, would help me reach my career goal?

Organisation to Apply to

What type of organisation would offer me the opportunities to apply my profile and grow in my path?

Consider nature of business, culture, size, development opportunities etcetera.

Don’t apply everywhere, target organisations where you see yourself fitting into.

 Position to Apply For

What vacancies do they have (call in and ask) or would they have for someone with my profile?

Don’t send general applications for ‘any position’.

The Person to Apply to

What is the name of the person (or their title) who will receive and process my application?

Increase your chances of success by being specific on your documents. Don’t send letter to the Chief Executive Officer or Managing Director of an organisation because you and I know too well that they are not responsible for recruitment.

Should you be called in for an interview, clarify:

Position you are being called in for

Date and venue of interview

Who to see at organisation and their telephone number

      In preparation for the interview:

Research as much as you can about the organisation (nature of business, culture, work environment, reputation, position in market).

If there is no information on the internet, go there and enquire from someone or ask around.

There is no such thing on this planet is not being able to find the time or information that is publicly available. “To say I don’t have time, is to say I don’t want to.”

My people, no one is going to spoon feed you with information, no one is going to hold your hand. It is your future and if you want to succeed then you have to pursue your dreams like your life depends on it and for most of us, it does.

All the best with preparation prior to the interview, next week we will explore what you can do to prepare and excel at that interview.

Let it not be said that Tanzanians have failed for lack of knowledge. Following this series, you will now have a basis for which to ‘ishi kwa matumaini’ – your knowledge, skills and attitude towards your future and success.