Getting a job in Uganda can be so challenging due to so many reasons, and we can say that some of the reasons are the ones Ugandans created themselves. So why is hard to get a job in Uganda? The rising population growth rate: Uganda population has increased from 45.85 million as of 2021 to 48,582,334 in 2023 making it the top nine most populous country in Africa. Other factors includes favoritism, nepotism, and all forms of sentimentality. Getting a job in Uganda is almost an impossible task for those who have no connections to people in the helm. You find that those who know someone sitting at a high position is more likely to get the job than a qualified person who knows no one.
Sometimes, bribes are demanded if you want to be guaranteed a job but many job seekers are from low-income homes and cannot afford to buy their way into a job position. If nepotism, favoritism and bribery can be addressed and employment becomes more on merit, unemployment will not be as prevalent as it is and it will encourage Ugandans to appreciate excellence. In this case, many Ugandans see pursuing excellence as a waste of time because they can see that at the end of the day, what matters knows the right people.
Other reasons why it is not easy to find a job in Uganda is because universities in Uganda have become more affordable. Jenny Epit Okaka, the human resource business partner at KCB, says this means there are more graduates, and therefore, more competition for the limited number of jobs. Also, the era when having a degree alone would get you a job is over.
How to Get a Job in Uganda as Foreigners
Are you wondering how you can get a job in Uganda with no connection or experience? Then here is the deal:
Today I am going to reveal to you a step by step process you can follow if you want to get your dream job even if you are looking to land NGO jobs in Uganda.
According to this statistics, In 2022, the unemployment rate in Uganda remained nearly unchanged at around 4.28 percent. And it is not surprising that one of the greatest problems of today’s undergraduates is the fear of not getting a job.
Although, it’s not very difficult to find a job in Uganda as a foreigner if you prepare and know where to look. The process of recruitment is similar to that of other companies in other countries. If you have the right characteristics and qualifications, a company won’t be hesitant to hire you. The process getting a job in Uganda as a foreigner includes;
- Reflect on your skills
- Update your resume regularly
- Plan your career path
- Set your career goals
- Explore and improve your skills
- Prepare your CV
- Prepare for Job Interviews
- Know how to negotiate Salary
How is Job Hunting in Uganda? What are the Mistakes You Need to Avoid
Job hunting in Uganda just like every other thing to be achieved in life has a skill or a way it is carried out.
The fact that many job seekers in Uganda search aimlessly with no direction seems frustrating to them and they do not know any better. It is not a good idea to keep doing the same thing and be expecting a different result.
There are several job search mistakes job seekers in Uganda make in their search for a job that disqualifies them even though they may have all the necessary qualification. Let us consider some of these mistakes, things to avoid in the job-hunting process in Uganda.
1. No focus and direction in terms of career and job you seek
The popular saying “Jack of all trades, master of none” comes to play here. It is not exactly bad to know how to do many things and even do them all at a particular time but when it comes to the issue of choosing a career path, it is important to narrow these interests into something definite. The problem here is that, when an individual is yet to know their area of interest, they do not know which job to pursue. If you have two or three skills that are similar, apply to a company that can make use of these skills you have. Don’t be indifferent about this, this focus will define further knowledge you go for, there is no point going for certificate courses that will not be instrumental to your career, you may keep taking random courses but once you find your path, this will get you better equipped.
2. Failure to prepare enough for the job search and having no job plan
One thing you must know is that, if you don’t take the job search itself as a job, you may not be able to achieve the goal in mind. This preparation entails you listing out the names of the companies you are applying for, get your resume tailored to suit each company. Do not be too casual about it, as you send your resume, tick the companies you have covered, check how to follow them up, write down details about each one you have researched on so that you don’t mix them up. It is the preparation that makes you ensure that you are not sending out wrong resumes. If you are using one resume for all companies, remember to edit the name you are addressing the cover letter to, ensure you go through and edit properly before sending out. Leaving an obvious error in your resume will not speak well of you
3. The lack of confidence
If you are not confident about your ability to deliver, how do you convince the employers that you are the best candidate for the job? This is different from arrogance but having the necessary self-confidence. It is important not to act desperate; watch your attitude, don’t make them feel they are doing you a favor. It should be a mutual feeling because you are rendering a service to get paid and not just coming to get gifted money.
4. Ignoring your contacts and network
Another mistake job seekers make is to neglect their contacts and not take advantage of their network. Contacts consist of people who can help; friends, family, and professionals in the field you are applying for. When you are not willing to ask questions and receive help, this will lead to more complications. The contacts you make from the prospective company will give you insight into knowing what the company is about, what it is that they are looking for in a candidate and this will help you tailor your cover letter to suit their need. So be wise and make good use of the contacts you have.
