For The Apprentices’ Post

No one wants a job without a salary. (but it opens career doors if structured properly). I met George Adjebeng in his office 3 years ago and after our conversation, we had a deal. The aim was to test the power of corporate volunteering. So, we gathered our volunteer knights, 14 strong - Nii Odoi Dzatsui Glover, Abraham Amoako-atta MSc, PMP®, Nana Fremah, Samantha Mensah, Robert Baah-Halm, Jennifer Lotse, Jnr Kwame Kwakye Mintah, Mukhtar M., Papa Harrison-Indome, Alice Gyimah, Belle Belvice Zangu, Ebi-Yaa Kwaw, Daniel Rex Danquah, and Rodney Addy. What did we do? 1. We successfully launched the SG Innov8 Hub. 2. The Artivity Project was also a hit. → Cohort 2 ended last year under the new brand - Artention. (Did we get anything in return?) Yes! 1. No salary (but we loved it). 2. Employee volunteers got engagement points. 3. My team members got national service and internship slots. 4. We built new connections. Never underestimate the power of corporate volunteering. (To get value, you need to give value.) P.S. Which volunteer experience has served you well the most?

Breaking the Cycle: A Path for Recent Graduates As a recent graduate, you might find yourself in a challenging situation: to get a job, you need experience, but to gain experience, you need a job. This paradox can be frustrating and disheartening. However, there is a way to break this cycle. Volunteer Work and Free Services: One effective solution is to engage in volunteer work or offer your services for free. By doing so, you can gain valuable experience, build your portfolio, and receive feedback and recommendations that will enhance your resume. Building a Strong Network: Volunteering also provides an excellent opportunity to network with professionals in your field. These connections can lead to job opportunities and valuable insights into the industry. Showcasing Your Skills: Use platforms like LinkedIn to showcase the projects you’ve worked on, even if they were unpaid. Highlight the skills you’ve developed and the impact of your work. Remember, every experience counts. By taking proactive steps and leveraging volunteer opportunities, you can build the experience you need to land your first job and kickstart your career.

How to get volunteering/internship roles as a virtual assistant. (Part 2). === I started talking about how to get volunteering/internship roles as a beginner virtual assistant. Incase you missed the last post, check it out here - https://lnkd.in/e6czhasT In this post, I'd complete the series on how to get volunteering roles as a virtual assistant. === 5. Craft Your Approach to Reach Out. Be Specific About How You Can Help. When reaching out, focus on how you can support their business goals. For example: “Hi [Name], I noticed your brand is growing, and I’d love to volunteer as a virtual assistant to help manage emails and social media tasks. This would allow you more time to focus on the bigger picture.” Emphasize Professional Growth and Mutual Benefit. Explain that you’re looking to gain experience and would appreciate any guidance they can provide. This shows humility and a willingness to learn. 6. Be Reliable and Consistent in Your Work Treat it Like a Paid Position. This is where most people who volunteers get it all wrong. Show up on time, communicate regularly, and meet deadlines. Going the extra mile as a volunteer builds a positive reputation and sets you apart from others. Once you’re in, be attentive and ask for feedback. These relationships can eventually turn into job referrals or paid opportunities. A good impression as a volunteer can lead to future paid work, so take this seriously. 7. Follow Up and Request Referrals. Ask for Testimonials. When your volunteer period is complete, request a testimonial or LinkedIn recommendation that you can add to your profile. This is why you did it in the first place right? 😊 Politely ask if they know other entrepreneurs who may benefit from your services. Personal recommendations go a long way in the virtual assistant world. === By following these steps, you can build a solid foundation for your virtual assistant career and start building a network, portfolio, and credibility that will set you apart as a virtual assistant. What did you learn? Share with me in the comments. Don't forget to share this post. Someone on your timeline might need it. #adeboyedavid

A BALANCED VIEW ON INTERNSHIPS, VOLUNTEERISM HELPS There are different ways of looking at internships and volunteerism. For many entry level job seekers, your frame of mind falls in any of the perspectives outlined below. Examine each perspective carefully and consider the implications before deciding on how you spend your free time. ✍ One extreme view: Internship and/or volunteerism is ‘’being used by organizations, why should I work for an organization without pay (or with limited pay)?’’ The person holding this view concludes that internships and volunteerism are evil and stays away from both. S/he would rather spend free time idling than do work that does not  attract immediate financial benefits. ✍ Second extreme view: ‘’We are called to give; giving is caring, my life mission is giving’’ etc. This person may hop from one unpaid work to the other without counting the cost of resources used such as time. The people or organizations this person gives UNLIMITED probono work may not remember the sacrifices for long. Personal resources may run out. The person may even struggle to meet their financial needs and end up being frustrated later in life because of lack of tangible returns on investment. In extreme scenario, this person may grow resentment or even get depressed because there are bills to pay in real life. Note key word is unlimited free time. ✍ Balanced view: “I have career goals; The world is competitive today and potential employers apply various filters besides my academic scores and technical skills - I need to earn more badges to get ahead of the line; I have free time that I can make better use of by serving others while I seek paid opportunities; If I take on an assignment even on a voluntary basis, the assignment will give me some benefits that push me ahead of my competitors.’’ Examples of non-monetary benefits from internship/volunteerism especially for entry level job seekers. ✔ Reference letter from the organization ✔ Build networks ✔ Practical exposure to the world of work ✔ Acquire real world skills and experience. The person who holds this view carefully evaluates their goals and searches for internships or volunteer opportunities that will help them to accomplish their goals. If not clear on professional goals yet, s/he volunteers with the aim of gaining  broader insights into the world of work. This person limits their probono work to what is reasonable. They actively seek out better opportunities to ascend to better positions that are remunerable. 🔊 Overall, do not undermine the value of well-thought-out  internship or volunteers. That opportunity can be the eye opener to what you are capable of. It can also become your link to the world you could not access to on your own.

Young adults with SEND (Special Educational Needs and Disabilities) can pursue a variety of jobs, depending on their interests, strengths, and support available. Here are some options: Supported Internships: Supported internships offer real work experience and help young people with SEND transition into paid employment. These programs provide personalized support and help build skills and confidence. Retail and Customer Service: Jobs in retail or customer service, such as working in a store, café, or call center, can be suitable for young adults with SEND. These roles often offer flexible hours and opportunities for social interaction. Administrative and Clerical Work: Roles such as data entry, filing, and office support can be a good fit for those with organizational skills and attention to detail. Creative and Artistic Jobs: Jobs in creative fields, such as graphic design, photography, or working in a community arts center, can be great for those with artistic talents. Care and Support Work: Care roles, such as working in a care home or as a personal assistant, can be fulfilling for those who enjoy helping others and have strong interpersonal skills. Hospitality and Catering: Jobs in the hospitality industry, such as working in a hotel, restaurant, or as a barista, can provide opportunities for social interaction and skill development. Gardening and Landscaping: For those who enjoy working outdoors, roles in gardening or landscaping can be a good option. Volunteering: Volunteering can provide valuable experience and help young adults with SEND build their confidence and skills before moving into paid employment. Specialized Programs and Resources: There are various programs and resources available to support young adults with SEND in finding and maintaining employment, such as job coaches, employment support services, and disability-friendly employers. #macintyre #employers #opportunities #SEND #specialeducationalneeds #disability #givethemachance

⭐ I have this exact same conversation with every teacher I work with! We talk about their experience and they say "Oh idk I'm just a teacher, I do teacher stuff!" And then I dig a little deeper to find out that they actually volunteer with their local food nonprofit, wrote grants to secure six figures of funding for that nonprofit, and led a volunteer effort to build a thriving community garden with that funding. OKAY, so you're telling me you're a highly successful grant writer with skills in project management, resource allocation, people management, scheduling, budgeting, and more??? You DO have the skills to be successful, it's just a matter of how you present that experience! #teacher #teachers #careertransition

Dear highschool leavers. As you embark on this exciting new chapter, I want to share some advice that can shape your future positively. While considering job opportunities during your wait for university admission, if you have the option to choose between been a sales person for a business owner in a local market or working as an ordinary secretary who carries file up-and-down, I encourage you to seek office jobs rather than working as a salesperson in a local market. YOU MAY ASK WHY AN OFFICE JOB? 1.Professional Environment: Working in an office will immerse you in a professional setting, helping you learn valuable skills such as communication, organization, and teamwork. 2.Networking: You'll have the chance to build connections with professionals who can offer guidance and support as you progress in your career. 3.Relevant Experience: Office experience will be beneficial for your resume, making you a strong candidate for future job opportunities and internships during and after university. 4.Career Advancement: Starting in an office job can open doors for you to return to the organization after completing your degree, potentially leading to long-term career growth. 5. Skill Development: You'll gain experience with office software and tools, enhancing your digital literacy and technical skills, which are essential in today’s job market. By choosing an office job, you'll stay in a circle that aligns with your academic and career aspirations, positioning yourself for success in the university and beyond. WHAT KIND OF OFFICE JOB CAN A WASSCE HOLDER DO 1. Office Assistant 2. Office secretary 3. Receptionist 4. Customer service representative etc. In any of these positions you will be required of Handling office tasks such as filing, generating reports, setting up for meetings, and reordering supplies. Inputting data into computer systems, maintaining databases, and ensuring data accuracy. Handling customer queries, managing inventory, and processing transactions. YES AGAIN! YOU WOULD ASK, ARE THERE JOBS? Don't be deceived or discouraged there are still jobs. But the question is, do you have the skills. Do you have what it takes to standout from the crowd? For this reason I will encourage you, use the first few months get trained on workplace digital skills. standout from the crowd, enhance your employability. Assoxcel. #digitalskilltraining #jobtips #nextlevel

How undergraduate can  have 1 year work experience in the bag at graduation Upon graduation, prospective employers often seek candidates with established professional experience as a prerequisite for securing their ideal positions. However, for recent graduates, the challenge lies in acquiring such experience. How about I tell you that you can have 1 year work experience in a bag even before graduation. Now, having a year's worth of experience under your belt upon graduation can significantly enhance your resume and increase your employability.  Here's how you can accumulate valuable experience during your undergraduate years and stay ahead of your colleague after graduation. 1. Internships: Seek out internships related to your field of study during summer breaks or even part-time during the academic year. Look for opportunities that offer hands-on experience and allow you to apply what you've learned in the classroom to real-world situations. 2. Part-time jobs: Work part-time jobs that are relevant to your career goals. Even if they're not directly related, you can often gain transferable skills such as communication, teamwork, and time management. 3. Volunteering: Offer your time and skills to organizations or causes that you're passionate about. Volunteering not only allows you to make a positive impact on your community but also helps you develop leadership, teamwork, and problem-solving skills. 4. Research opportunities: If your field of study involves research, seek out opportunities to work with professors or research teams. Participating in research projects can deepen your understanding of your discipline and provide valuable experience for future academic or professional endeavors. 5. Extracurricular activities: Get involved in clubs, organizations, or societies related to your interests or field of study. Taking on leadership roles within these groups can demonstrate your leadership abilities and commitment to your chosen field. 6. Freelancing or side projects: Take on freelance work or start your own projects to gain practical experience and showcase your skills. Whether it's writing, graphic design, coding, or any other skill you possess, freelancing can help you build a portfolio and network with potential clients or employers. 7. Networking: Attend industry events, career fairs, and networking opportunities both on and off-campus. Building relationships with professionals in your field can lead to mentorship opportunities, internships, or even job offers. 8. Taking advantage of platforms that offer you the opportunity to not only learn and gain experience, but also provide an avenue for you to hone your skill, network, and connect with individuals that  are at the top of their career, as you  leverage their insights and guidance. To signup for our volunteer program, click on the link now for free 👇 👇 👉 👉 👉 www.skilledup.life

Recently, I have come to understand that propelling your career in office administration by setting early career goals involves a strategic approach; 1. Define Your Goals: focus on skills you want to acquire in the next 1-2 years, such as mastering specific software (e.g., Microsoft Office, project management tools), or in 5-10 years, like advancing to an office manager or administrative director role. 2. Skill Development: Invest time in learning relevant software and tools.   Also, enhance some of your soft skills like communication, time management, and problem-solving abilities, maybe through online courses. 3. Networking: Connect with colleagues, mentors, and industry professionals through networking events, online platforms, or local associations. Finding a mentor who can provide guidance and support is very necessary. 4. Gain Experience: apply for internship roles that provide hands-on experience, even if they are unpaid, the experience and knowledge should be your major aim. Offer volunteer services to non-profits or community organizations to build your resume. 5. Maintain a Positive Attitude: keep a positive outlook, even during setbacks. A resilient mindset is key to long-term success. Do you have an approach for career goals? or anything works for you? #officeadministration #opentowork #remote #virtualassistant #careergrowth #hiring #freelancing

If you have been working in hospitality, retail, in the care sector or having a part-time job, and you have decided it's #timeforchange, these strategies might interest you 👀! 🚀 7 Strategies to launch your first #officejob Practical tips on upskilling, networking and applying for the right role! ⤵️ 1. Develop Language Skills: Consider learning the local language of your target industry. Leave me a message down below to know more about private and group #englishlessons 2. Update Your CV: Make sure your resume highlights your relevant skills and experiences, even if they were gained outside the country. Use transferable skills to tailor it to fit the office environment you're targeting. 3. Network at LinkedIn: Create a professional LinkedIn profile showcasing your expertise and connecting with professionals in your desired field. Utilise the platform to connect with workers in target companies. Ask them for a referral! 4. Research Entry-Level Office Positions: Look for entry-level office roles that match your qualifications and skills. Common positions include #administrativeassistant, #dataentry #clerk , #customerservicerepresentative , or #officeassistant . You might have to start on entry-level roles, even if you have worked in management roles in your home country. 5. Expand Your Office Skills: Take courses or workshops to improve your office-related skills in the target country. Online platforms like Coursera , LinkedIn Learning, FutureLearn, or local community colleges may offer relevant courses. Research courses at www.fetchcourses.ie 6. Volunteer or Intern: Consider volunteering or interning in office environments to gain hands-on experience and network with professionals in the target country. Nonprofit organisations, community centres, or small businesses may offer opportunities where you can utilise your skills and learn new ones relevant to office work. 7. Consider temporary positions: Applying for temporary roles, short-term contracts or even maternity-leave cover positions might be a great opportunity to gain some experience in the office environment. 👩🏽💻 My name is Bianca Monteiro and I work with #professionalenglish for Career Growth. Remember, launching your career abroad is a journey that requires dedication, adaptability, and perseverance. Keep refining your skills, expanding your network, and staying proactive in your job search to maximise your chances of success! #jobinterviewtips #businessenglish #dicasdeingles #aprenderingles #brasileirosnairlanda #brasileirospelomundo #brasileirosnaeuropa #brasileirosemportugal