and serving. I was chatting with an undergraduate one day when she told me she
can’t take any job that doesn’t pay at least N500,000. I was shocked to my
bones.
that they have to work hard to make a successful career after school. Here are 5
timeless lessons for every Nigerian graduate;
1.
Don’t Wait for Employment
Every graduate irrespective of their final
grade in the university, polytechnic or colleges expects to serve and get a job
straight off. This feeling is even automatic among those finishing with first
class, 2nd class upper or Higher credit.
Prepare yourself for anything,
start thinking of at least a source of income, if possible more right from your
final year in school or during your youth service. That dream job might not come
automatically.
2. Don’t rely on your course of study – Be ready to
diversify
More than 50% of bank workers didn’t study banking and finance
or related courses. Sane can be said of so many professions too.
If
you’re in a course where employment opportunity is limited, eg Zoology, you
would agree you might not end up in a zoo or around animals.
The solution
is to begin to diversify in your knowledge and skill acquisition or trade. Get
certifications to fit in other fields or learn something, e.g. tailoring and
become a fashion designer.
3. Don’t expect a bank business
loan
For those who have 1 & 2 sorted out, and looking to be young
entrepreneurs, don’t wait for a bank loan, you might not meet their
requirements, so don’t wait.
The solution could talking to family and
friends, colleagues for partnership or part sponsoring.
4. Don’t lose
your school, NYSC contacts
Keep your contacts, they are your first
client. It’s easier to convince family and friends to patronize you, that could
then build your CV, portfolio or profile which would be used to get more
clients. Value your links, don’t lose them.
5. Don’t give
up
Need we emphasize this further? If you give up, your dream dies –
keep going, keep doing the right things and you’ll sure to stand out with
time.
