Job hunting can be such a nightmare when you are not yielding any results. However, only those who manage to get out from the other side can be able to give us a cheat sheet on how to manage such a season of life.
Image Source: Mercy Mukisa
Embarking on the journey of job hunting after completing one's education is a narrative that resonates with individuals from all walks of life.
Today, we have the privilege of speaking with Mercy Mukisa, a seasoned professional who has gone through the ups and downs of job hunting and emerged victorious. Currently serving as a Senior Human Resources Officer at Sogea Satom-Uganda, Mercy brings a wealth of experience and insights from her extensive tenure in the industry. Her passion for assisting job seekers and empowering individuals to make informed career choices is exemplified through her contributions to Fuzu, where she crafts compelling content aimed at guiding individuals towards fulfilling employment opportunities.
Can you describe your experience with job hunting over the past two years? What were your initial expectations versus the reality you faced?
Ah, the journey of job hunting after university... It's funny looking back now, but I was incredibly optimistic when I graduated. I had this unwavering belief that I'd secure a job almost effortlessly, whether through an offer from my internship or swiftly landing one elsewhere. However, reality hit hard as the days turned into weeks and then months, and those initial expectations began to fade. The constant stream of rejection emails served as a stark reminder of the competitive nature of the job market and challenged the rosy picture I had painted in my mind.
What were some of the biggest challenges you encountered during your job search journey?
I vividly recall the difficulty of crafting a compelling application letter and CV. Despite seeking advice from experienced individuals, I found myself at a loss as even they couldn't provide much guidance. This uncertainty weighed heavily on me, knowing that these documents were crucial in making a positive impression on potential employers.
Moreover, my limited knowledge of job search platforms added another layer of challenge to my job-hunting journey. With access to only a couple of job boards offering similar opportunities, I often felt constrained in my search. There were moments of frustration, especially when encountering listings seeking candidates for high-level positions far beyond my current experience level. It was disheartening to feel underqualified for many roles while simultaneously feeling limited in my options.
How did you maintain your motivation and resilience throughout the two years of job hunting?
One mantra I've lived by throughout my job-hunting journey is that there's simply no alternative to getting things done. It's a mindset that keeps me focused and motivated, even on the toughest days. I won't deny there were moments when I felt utterly defeated, finding myself in tears as I faced yet another rejection email. But I made a conscious decision not to let those setbacks define me.
I realized early on that no one was going to swoop in and rescue me from the challenges of job hunting. It was up to me to stay resilient and proactive in my approach. I've never been one to rely on luck; instead, I firmly believe in taking initiative – whether it's enhancing my CV, acquiring new skills, or submitting applications promptly. By taking ownership of my journey and embracing the reality that there are no shortcuts, I found a renewed sense of motivation. Of course, that's not to say it wasn't difficult. It certainly was. However, by embracing the challenges head-on and refusing to settle for an easier way out, I discovered a source of motivation within myself that propelled me forward.
Did you encounter any unexpected setbacks or obstacles along the way? If so, how did you overcome them?
One of the most impactful lessons I learned during my job-hunting journey was the importance of flexibility and open-mindedness. Initially, I had my heart set on a specific type of job, which unfortunately didn't materialize as quickly as I had hoped. This realization prompted me to broaden my horizons and consider opportunities that may not have initially aligned with my ideal role.
I came to understand that sometimes, your dream job doesn't manifest immediately after graduation. Recent graduates must embrace the idea of starting somewhere, even if it means taking a position that may seem below their qualifications. What's essential is ensuring that the job offers growth opportunities and aligns with your long-term goals. I encourage others in similar situations not to overlook opportunities simply because they may not fit the exact mould of their ideal job. Every role presents a chance to learn and develop valuable skills, ultimately guiding you closer to your desired career path.
Can you share any specific strategies or approaches you tried during your job search that you found particularly effective or ineffective?
Revamping my CV was a pivotal moment in my job-hunting journey. Initially, I had no idea how disorganized and lacking in essential details my CV was until a friend provided candid feedback. It was a humbling experience to realize the mistakes I had been making – from inconsistent fonts to missing information and even grammatical errors. However, this feedback catalyzed improvement. I immersed myself in researching best practices for CV writing, scouring articles, and online resources for guidance. It was a learning process, but one that ultimately paid off. Armed with a polished CV and cover letter, I began to see a noticeable difference in my job search outcomes.
One valuable lesson I learned from this experience is the importance of thoroughly analyzing job adverts. By studying the key job duties and requirements, I could determine whether a position was truly aligned with my skills and career aspirations. This not only saved time but also allowed me to tailor my application materials effectively. Indeed, there's no one-size-fits-all approach to crafting a CV. It's an ongoing process of refinement and adaptation, tailored to each unique opportunity and individual skill set.
How did you cope with feelings of defeat or frustration during the job-hunting process?
I firmly believe that failure is an inevitable part of life's journey. It's not about whether we encounter setbacks, but rather how we choose to respond to them. Whenever I faced rejection or setbacks during my job search, I reminded myself that failure is not the end but an opportunity for growth and resilience. This mindset kept me going, even during the toughest moments. Seeking inspiration from success stories online was another strategy I employed to stay motivated.
Reading about the journeys of individuals who faced similar struggles but eventually found success reassured me that my efforts would eventually pay off. It served as a reminder that perseverance and determination can lead to breakthroughs, even in the face of adversity. Moreover, I found solace in the idea that every experience, whether positive or negative, contributes to our growth and development. As I persisted in my job search, I embraced the learning process, recognizing that each rejection and interview taught me valuable lessons. Over time, I became more adept at navigating the job market, leveraging my experiences to refine my approach and increase my chances of success.
Indeed, searching for a job for an extended period can be challenging, but it also offers opportunities for personal and professional growth. Embracing the journey and committing to continuous learning ultimately made the process more manageable and rewarding.
Read also: How to handle rejection when job hunting
Looking back, is there anything you wish you had done differently during your job search? Any lessons learned that you would like to share?
I've come to realize the value of patience, especially when navigating the challenges of job searching. Looking back, I wish I had been more patient with myself, understanding that success doesn't always come overnight. This mindset shift could have spared me a lot of frustration and anxiety during the job-hunting phase. Alongside patience, I've learned the importance of maintaining a balanced lifestyle during the job search journey. Investing time in activities like health and fitness has been a game-changer for me. Breaking a sweat after receiving a rejection email helped me release built-up tension and stay mentally resilient. It's essential to remember that while the job may be the ultimate goal, it's crucial to approach the search with a healthy mindset and prioritize self-care along the way.
Another vital lesson I've learned is the importance of quality over quantity when it comes to job applications. Rushing through applications and sending out substandard cover letters and CVs only led to disappointment and missed opportunities. I've since adopted a more deliberate approach, ensuring that each application receives the time and attention it deserves. Before hitting send, I asked myself whether I would hire myself based on the application submitted. It's all about putting in the work and presenting yourself in the best possible light.
Read also: Not hearing back from recruiters? Here's why your CV is not getting through the door and how to get feedback on applications
Now that you've navigated through this challenging period, how do you plan to approach your job search differently moving forward?
I've come to understand that my CV and cover letter are more than just documents – they represent my brand in the professional world. Recognizing this, I've prioritized dedicating ample time and effort to refining and perfecting them. Once I have my application materials in top shape, applying for jobs becomes the easy part. I've learned to approach every opportunity with an open mind. Even if a position may initially seem beneath my qualifications or expectations, I make a point to turn up and give it my best shot. You never know where a seemingly minor opportunity may lead, and each experience offers a chance for growth and learning. I've also discovered the importance of exploring company websites directly. Many companies post job openings exclusively on their websites, offering opportunities that never be advertised elsewhere.
By proactively checking my Fuzu account (and emails) and staying informed about potential openings, I've been able to uncover hidden gems that align perfectly with my skills and interests. Lastly, leveraging personal contacts has proven to be a valuable resource in my job search journey. Networking and reaching out to contacts in my industry have led to valuable insights and even job recommendations. Never underestimate the power of connections and recommendations in securing meaningful employment opportunities.
Thank you so much Mercy for sharing with us, any last words for someone going through a prolonged job-hunting period?
To all the job seekers out there, I understand the frustration and challenges you're facing. But I urge you, don't give up. Achieving our goals often takes time and perseverance, but with discipline and resilience, we can overcome any obstacle in our path. It's essential to remember that no one is coming to rescue you. Self-pity won't lead you to success. Instead, brush off the disappointments and setbacks, and keep pushing forward. Every rejection is just a stepping stone on the path to your ultimate goal.
Stay focused, stay determined, and keep striving for your dreams. With dedication and unwavering resolve, you will get there. Your persistence will pay off, and the right opportunity will come your way. Believe in yourself, and never lose sight of your worth and potential.
