Navigating the job market in Kenya as a new graduate can be challenging. Securing employment often requires both qualifications and robust networking skills.
Understanding the environment. Using connections. Applying different approaches – that is what it takes to get your foot in the door.
Today’s guide will go a long way in helping you secure a job in Kenya, as this article will take you through some very effective networking strategies.
Understanding the Job Market in Kenya
Kenya provides jobs in banking, technology, agriculture, among others. The NCPD reported a 19.2% youth unemployment rate in 2023. Recent Graduates need to learn which industries are growing and ensure that they match their skill set.
1. Building an Effective Resume
Make your resume strong before you begin to network. Stress on your education, volunteer work, internships, and any other experience or relevant skills.
A structured resume is very important because networking can also prove more effective when an individual is able to make a good first impression.
2. Using Social Media Platforms
One important tool for networking is social media. It allows professionals to network with other professionals in the field through such platforms as LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook, among others.
Here are ways to use these platforms effectively:
- LinkedIn: Join relevant groups, connect with industry leaders, and engage with content that pertains to your field.
- Twitter: Follow companies and thought leaders in your industry. Participate in discussions and share valuable content.
- Facebook: Join professional groups where job postings and opportunities are shared regularly.
Creating a Professional LinkedIn Profile
Ensure that your LinkedIn profile comprises a summary that is well written, a succinct headline, and a professional photo. Put your skills, background, and education front and center.
3. Attending Networking Events
You can grow your professional network big time by attending networking events IRL and URL. Job fairs, industry conferences, and seminars: you may also find mentors or potential employers.
Finding Networking Events
To find industry-related events, attend Meetup and Eventbrite. This is to inform that career fairs are held by universities on a regular basis and are open to fresh graduates. No more, no less.
4. Leveraging Alumni Networks
The alumni network at your school can really be a useful asset. Often, the relatives of graduates have a stake in the success of their peers. Get in touch with your alumni office to learn more about networking opportunities— connections with people who studied or worked in the field where you are making your career.
How to Connect with Alumni
Step 1: Find Alumni
Use platforms like LinkedIn’s alumni tool to search for graduates from your university working in your desired field.
Step 2: Initiate Contact
Send a polite message expressing your interest in connecting and asking for advice.
5. Using Informational Interviews
Informational interviews allow you to gather more insight into a given sector or job. Get in touch with the bigwigs in the industry where you seek to work and ask for a snappy interview.
This not only provides valuable information but also expands your network.
How to Request Informational Interviews
- Identify Contacts: Use LinkedIn or professional groups to find potential contacts.
- Reach Out: Send a concise email or message requesting a brief interview.
- Prepare Questions: Ask about their career path, advice for new graduates, and industry trends.
6. Engaging in Professional Organizations
Many professional organizations in your field may have many networking opportunities. This can include events, webinars, and members-only job boards that are regularly run.
Finding Professional Organizations
Research and join organizations related to your industry.
For example, engineers may be admitted as members of the Kenyan Institution of Engineers (IEK), while marketers may be admitted as members of the Kenyan Marketing Society (MSK).
7. Volunteer for Experience
You can expand your network, gain experience, and enhance your resume through volunteering. New graduates have a good chance because many organizations in Kenya need volunteers for different positions.
How to Find Volunteering Opportunities
Search for volunteering opportunities on platforms like Idealist, Volunteer Match, or local community organizations.
8. Internships and Short-Term Contracts
Short-term contracts and internships may be a pathway to full-time jobs. It allows one to create a network with professionals in the field and show one’s capability.
Finding Internships
For internship opportunities, employer websites and LinkedIn as well as job boards like MyJobMag and BrighterMonday can be referred to. Prepare a strong cover letter and CV, and send them directly to the companies of interest.
9. Utilizing Job Search Websites
Job search websites are essential tools in the Kenyan job market. They aggregate job listings from various industries, making it easier to apply for numerous positions.
Popular Job Search Websites in Kenya
- BrighterMonday: This is one of the largest job search websites in Kenya.
- MyJobMag: Another useful platform for finding job opportunities.
- Fuzu: Offers personalized job recommendations and career advice.
10. Connecting with Recruitment Agencies
Recruitment agencies match employers with candidates. Besides, guidance on how to improve your CV and interview expertly and vigorously is served by working with a respectable agency to help increase your odds of getting hired.
Top Recruitment Agencies in Kenya
- Summit Recruitment & Search: Specializes in various industries and executive search.
- Corporate Staffing Services: Provides comprehensive staffing solutions across sectors.
- Recours Four Kenya Consultants: Focuses on talent acquisition and HR solutions.
11. Attending Industry Workshops and Webinars
Webinars and workshops for industry professionals are great for networking and ongoing education. Meet professionals in the industry and gain knowledge of current trends and optimal techniques through their platform.
How to Find Relevant Workshops and Webinars
Upcoming events can be found on professional organizations, social media sites and websites dedicated to your industry.
12. Developing Soft Skills
Any job demands soft skills in problem-solving, cooperation, and communication. You might be more attractive to employers if you can set yourself apart from the competition.
Improving Your Soft Skills
- Work on Communication: Practice public speaking and engage in active listening.
- Teamwork: Participate in group projects or team sports.
- Problem-Solving: Tackle complex problems and work on finding solutions.
13. Crafting a Strong Elevator Pitch
An elevator pitch is a brief, engaging way to summarize who you are and what you do. It is crucial for networking, as it allows you to introduce yourself clearly and concisely..
How to Create an Elevator Pitch
- Introduce Yourself: Start with your name and your current situation (new graduate in a specific field).
- Highlight Your Skills: Briefly mention your key skills and experiences.
- State Your Goals: Explain what you are looking for, such as a job or an opportunity to learn more about a specific field.
14. Following Up
Send a thank-you follow-up note to a person met at an informational interview or networking event. By the way, it keeps the relationship on record and keeps you fresh in their memory as far as potential business is concerned.
How to Write a Follow-Up Message
- Thank Them: Express gratitude for their time and the insights they provided.
- Recap Key Points: Mention something specific you discussed to jog their memory.
- Stay in Touch: Express your interest in keeping in touch and potentially meeting again.
Networking Do’s and Don’ts
Do’s
- Be Genuine: Authentic connections are more valuable than a large number of superficial ones.
- Stay Updated: Keep up with industry trends and news to have engaging conversations.
- Be Persistent: Networking takes time, so be patient and persistent.
Don’ts
- Avoid Being Pushy: Don’t ask for a job outright; build a relationship first.
- Don’t Overcommunicate: Give your contacts space and time to respond.
- Avoid Focusing Solely on Yourself: Show interest in others and their work.
Conclusion
In Kenya, for a fresh graduate to get employed, making of networks is important. You can build your network and open doors for several opportunities through social media, attending events, former classmates as well as professional associations. Bear in mind that consistent effort and genuine relationship-building is the cornerstone of effective networking. With these strategies, you will have no problem getting a successful job at the start of your career.