“Everyday Tips to Enhance your Employability and Prospects of Promotion” – an opinion piece by Dr Amy Long, Dean of iQ Academy and experienced HR Manager

In today’s competitive job market, landing a new job or securing a promotion requires more than just meeting the minimum requirements for the role. Whether you’re fresh out of university or a seasoned professional looking to climb the corporate ladder, there are strategic steps you can take to enhance your employability and stand out from the crowd. Here are some essential tips to help you boost your chances of employment or promotion.

In a rapidly evolving job market, staying relevant is crucial. Continuously updating your skills and knowledge through courses, certifications, and workshops can significantly enhance your employability. Employers value candidates who demonstrate a commitment to lifelong learning and the ability to adapt to new technologies and methodologies. Consider online platforms like iQ Academy who offer a range of short courses and qualification programmes geared to improve your range of skills, across a variety of disciplines. It is essential for prospective employers to know that you are open to learning, are keeping updated with changes in the discipline, and if employed, will contribute to innovations within business processes, based on your continuous learnings. Being a continuous learner also demonstrates to a prospective employer that you acknowledge that you have areas for development, and have a passion for information and upskilling yourself.

Networking remains one of the most effective ways to discover job opportunities and gain insights into industry trends. Attend industry conferences, join professional organisations, and actively participate in online forums and social media groups related to your field. Networking can open doors to job opportunities that may not be advertised publicly and provide valuable mentorship and advice from experienced professionals. Some examples of professional organisations in South Africa include:

• SAIOSH – South African Institute of Occupational Safety and Health – For Occupational Health and Safety Professionals
• OPSA – Association for Office Professionals of South Africa – For Office Professionals
• SABPP – South African Board for People Practices – For HR Professionals
• PMSA – Project Management Organisation of South Africa – For Project Management Professionals

The above list is not exhaustive, and you are encouraged to search for professional organisations which relate to your specific discipline.

In the digital age, having a strong online presence is essential. Ensure your LinkedIn profile is up-to-date and highlights your achievements, skills, and experience. Consider creating a personal website or portfolio to showcase your work. Engage in industry-related discussions on social media platforms to build your reputation as a knowledgeable and passionate professional. Remember that LinkedIn is one of many platforms where like-minded people can engage and learn together, as well as find employment. However, don’t limit yourself to this platform only. Ensure that you have an active profile across various recruitment websites, such as PNet, to ensure that recruiters see your profile and CV before applications are even opened for positions.

While technical skills are important, soft skills such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving are equally valuable. Employers seek candidates who can effectively collaborate with others and navigate complex interpersonal dynamics. Participate in activities that allow you to develop these skills, such as group projects, volunteer work, or leadership roles in community organisations.

The most important way to demonstrate that you have the required skills for a promotion, is to demonstrate those skills in your current role. Offer to assist your manager with various functions of their position, or the position you desire, to build trust and provide a practical example to your leaders, of exactly what it is that you can do, and what you will bring to the new position. Being aware of how you engage with others within your team, and acting as a role model, will also inspire trust amongst the team, that you have what is required to lead them.

Organisations are more inclined to promote someone when they can see the individual demonstrating and coping with the requirements of the position, before they have even been appointed.

Furthermore, one cannot expect a team to follow them only once they are promoted. If your team don’t view you as their ‘go-to’ you may not have won them over just yet. Build relationships with those around you, and these relationships will go a long way to enhance your chances of promotion and success.

A generic CV and cover letter won’t make the cut in today’s competitive job market. Tailor your application materials to each job you apply for, emphasising the experience and skills that are most relevant to the position. Use specific examples to demonstrate your accomplishments and how they align with the job requirements. Remember that not all experience is relevant to the position you are applying for, so do not include every job you have had, if this is the case. For example, your waitressing experience from when you were 15 will not really be relevant for a managerial role now that you are 29.

Rather your experience leading and organising a group of individuals will stand out, and it is important that you document exactly what that relevant experience involved, so that potential recruiters can contextualise who you are, and why you would be a good fit for the position.

Interviews are your chance to make a lasting impression. Research the company and the role extensively, and practice common interview questions with a friend or mentor. Prepare thoughtful questions to ask the interviewer, demonstrating your genuine interest in the position and the organisation.

Be ready to discuss how your background and skills make you the ideal candidate for the job. There is nothing more off-putting than interviewing a candidate for a position that does not even know what the business does. This also makes it difficult for a recruiter to see where your passion lies, or why you should even be considered for the role, as you have not really taken an interest in the role, or what it is that you would be required to do.

If you’re not getting the results you want, seek feedback from trusted colleagues, mentors, or even hiring managers who can provide constructive criticism. Use this feedback to identify areas for improvement and adjust your approach accordingly. Continuous self-assessment and improvement are key to achieving your career goals. Do not assume that you are unlucky or that the world is out to get you. The simple truth is that in most situations there are more candidates than there are positions, so you will likely be up against some serious competition.

If your CV does not capture why and how you would add value to the organisation, it is likely that other CVs will, or that other individuals simply have more or different experience to you. Do not take this personally, rather use this as an opportunity to evaluate your overall portfolio of skills, or the way you present this information, and work on enhancing this for your next application.

A positive attitude can go a long way in the workplace. Employers value employees who are enthusiastic, resilient, and adaptable. A positive demeanour can make you more approachable and easier to work with, which can be a deciding factor in promotions and job offers. Do not arrive to the interview flustered or angry, arrive with a positive attitude, and engage with smiles during your interview. Smiles are contagious, and the more excited and engaged you are during the interview, the more memorable you will be to the recruiters. Similarly, it is important for you to exude confidence and a positive attitude should you desire a promotion. Creating an environment you look forward to coming to work to, will also be contagious, and will result in others being drawn towards your positive energy.

Boosting your chances of employment or promotion requires a multifaceted approach that combines continuous learning, effective networking, and personal development. By taking proactive steps to enhance your skills, build a strong professional network, and demonstrate your value, you can significantly improve your career prospects and achieve your professional goals. Remember, the journey to success is ongoing, and staying committed to your growth and development is the key to long-term career satisfaction and advancement.