Durban - The Department of Employment and Labour has explained the mistakes that job seekers should avoid when applying for positions.
The department’s Public Employment Service Unit in Limpopo held a seminar on Wednesday in Jane Furse, gaMashabela.
It said in a statement that the purpose of the event was to help correct errors that most work seekers make when drafting CVs as well as to assist them to register on the Employment Service of South Africa.
Career counsellor Thabo Kgoale said there are a lot of mistakes that work seekers make when applying for jobs.
Kgoale said these mistakes should be avoided:
– Typing (spelling and grammar) errors in their CVs
– Untidy CVs with irrelevant information
– Seeking advice pertaining to CV writing from untrained individuals
– Not putting required skills and knowledge on the CVs.
– Poor interview skills
Kgoale said work seekers needed to compile CVs that are fully detailed and updated according to the post they are applying for.
He added that references from previous employers were important.
"Applicants should put their former employers as they know their work ethic, qualities and skills rather than family members."
He also said online tools should be used to look for job opportunities.
“Young people have devices that can be used to look for employment but rather spend time on sites that are not self-empowering. Visit online newspapers to check for job opportunities, check billboards and notice boards," said Kgoale.
Giving advice about interviews, Kgoale said job seekers should prepare before going for interviews, look presentable and show self-confidence.
He suggested doing research about the job and consulting with career counsellors about the nature and background of the job.
He also warned against sending others to submit applications on your behalf and to beware of scam artists.
Kgoale said those without qualifications should look for opportunities, including hair plaiting, selling items or other hands-on work.