Mogamad Parker #SuccessStory
What impact has Career Services had in your life?
Career Services has been a valuable resource throughout my academic and professional journey. It provided essential guidance on how to structure a compelling CV and craft strong cover letters, which were critical when applying for roles such as sales temp at Eduvos and my current position as a sales and development consultant at Lenova Construction. The support helped me to present myself effectively to potential employers, contributing to the success I had in securing these positions. Additionally, the career advice and resources it provided helped me stay focused and informed about opportunities relevant to my field.
Will you recommend Career Services to other students? Why?
Absolutely, I would recommend Career Services to other students. Its expertise in helping students build professional resumes and cover letters is unmatched, and its interview preparation resources can make a significant difference in job search success. Career Services also plays a crucial role in connecting students with job opportunities, something that has personally benefited me. Its support is instrumental for any student looking to transition successfully from university to the professional world.
What is your current occupation or job?
I am currently working as a sales and development consultant at Lenova Construction and a marketing specialist at Africa Flowers.
What do you wish you had done at university that would have assisted you more in your job today?
Looking back, I wish I had taken more initiative to gain hands-on experience in areas such as digital marketing and advanced sales strategies earlier in my university career. While my academic background in marketing provided a solid foundation, engaging more with practical, real-world projects or internships in these specific areas could have better prepared me for the challenges I face in my current roles. Additionally, seeking out more networking opportunities would have been beneficial in building relationships that could assist in my career growth today.
Remember, job seeking can be challenging, but it is important to take it one day at a time and stay proactive. Make sure to send out at least five CVs every day and remain determined in your pursuit.
All the best, Kovsies.
What top three tips do you have for students and graduates entering job hunting season now?
1. Tailor Your Applications: Customise your CV and cover letter for each position you apply for, focusing on how your skills and experience align with the job requirements. A well-tailored application can significantly increase your chances of getting noticed by employers.
2. Leverage University Resources: Make the most of your university's resources, such as Career Services, to refine your job search strategy. Attend workshops, seek feedback on your application materials, and use their job boards to stay informed about new opportunities.
3. Network Actively: Start building your professional network early. Attend industry-related events, join relevant student organisations, and connect with professionals in your field. Networking can open doors to opportunities that might not be advertised publicly.
Lebohang Tlali #SuccessStory
What impact has Career Services had in your life?
Career Services has assisted me to land the job of my dreams. It has done so by setting up a mock interview session, which assisted my tremendously.
Will you recommend Career Services to other students? Why?
Yes, I would definitely recommend Career Services to all University of the Free State students. Career Services assists with enhancing your CV and cover letter so that it looks presentable to potential employers.
1.Career Services provides mock interview sessions that sharpen your interview skills.
2.Career Services also provides virtual graduate expos.
All these services assisted me in making my job hunting more effective.
What is your current occupation or job?
I am currently working for one of the Big 4 companies as an assurance and delivery network associate.
What do you wish you had done at university that would have assisted you more in your job today?
Invest more in technical skills such as Excel.
What top three tips do you have for students and graduates entering job hunting season now?
- Prioritise your mental health. Job hunting can be depressing, especially when receiving rejection letters; thus, find productive ways to deal with stress.
- Create a presentable LinkedIn profile.
- Research the organisation that is inviting you for an interview.
