Amid the jubilation of graduation day, a lady I will call Pauline and her friends graduated from Engineering school. They all dreamt big and hoped to land cool jobs, eager to earn that engineering stamp of approval – ‘Engineer’ in the future. However, things turned out differently for Pauline.

While her friends quickly secured jobs, Pauline found herself stuck in a three-year job hunt. This does not mean that she was lazy about finding a job, she tried almost everything from talking to friends, to sending out applications, and prayers. The once-promising world of engineering now seemed like a desert of missed chances, and the journey ahead for Pauline looked more challenging than she had ever anticipated.

Back home, her parents at some point gathered some resources and set up a grocery store for her. This did not work out as the family gradually became dependent on the store’s income. Her parents lost faith and believed that maybe marriage was the solution to her struggles. They encouraged her to find a partner, settle as a stay-at-home mother and just give up on work. Yet, for Pauline, abandoning her dream was not an option. Despite the mounting pressures, she was determined to persevere. At this point, she was willing to take on any opportunity that would bring some money and not necessarily confined to the realm of engineering.

The gap between Pauline and her friends grew wider, and she felt like an outsider during the alumni gatherings. The job language became a puzzle, making her feel disconnected and even depressed.

One morning, as she sat down contemplating her journey, a friend she had reached out to long ago called her, offering a valuable referral to a prominent engineer. From that point forward, everything changed.

Unemployment is not just a period of idle waiting; it is a demanding full-time job that comes with a bunch of challenges and difficulties. In the pursuit of employment, individuals often find themselves grappling with a range of issues that extend beyond the traditional boundaries of workday. Here below are some of the challenges job seekers face;

Emotional Toll: Unemployment takes a toll on the emotional well-being of individuals. The constant uncertainty about the future, coupled with societal stigma attached to joblessness, can lead to feelings of anxiety, frustration, and even depression.

Financial strain: One of the most palpable difficulties is the financial strain it imposes. Without a steady income, meeting basic needs becomes a constant challenge. The inability to contribute to household expenses, pay bills, or plan for the future creates a sense of hopelessness and exacerbates the emotional burden associated with joblessness.

Skill Erosion: Extended periods of unemployment can result in the erosion of skills. Technological advancements and industry trends wait for no one, and being out of the workforce can lead to a gap in knowledge and expertise. This, in turn, makes re-entering the job market even more daunting as people grapple with the need for retraining and upskilling.

Social Isolation: The nature of unemployment often leads to social isolation. The absence of daily interaction with colleagues can contribute to a sense of loneliness. Additionally, the fear of being judged or the shame associated with being unemployed may lead to individuals withdrawing from social activities.

Job Search Fatigue: The process of job searching in itself is a demanding task. The constant crafting of resumes, attending interviews, and facing rejections can lead to job search fatigue.

What should you do in the process of waiting?

The truth is that there isn’t a single concrete action one must take while waiting. However, I have compiled some thoughts on what could be done, with the hope that it might be beneficial for someone.

Network Strategically: Networking is a powerful tool in the job search process. Instead of merely applying online, actively connect with professionals in your desired industry. Attend networking events, engage on LinkedIn, and leverage personal connections. Building relationships can provide valuable insights, job leads, and recommendations.

Showcase Your Skills Online: In this digital age, having a strong online presence is crucial. Create a professional LinkedIn profile that highlights your skills, experiences, and accomplishments. An online presence not only helps recruiters find you but also allows you to present a more comprehensive picture of your skills and expertise beyond what a traditional resume can convey.

Stay Positive, and do not be afraid to seek support: Job searching can be emotionally taxing, especially when faced with rejections or prolonged periods of uncertainty. Maintaining a positive mindset is crucial for resilience. Celebrate small victories such as securing an interview or receiving positive feedback.

Anthony S. Kasirye

Associate- Strategy & Business Excellence

Talis Consults Ltd.