Every fresh graduate in Nigeria stepping into the profession knows one thing: there are white-collar jobs for largely an overpopulated group of unemployed people. So, practical or organizational experience matters a lot in such a competitive market, as it is for any country and mostly necessary in an organization. This is one of the exhilarating challenges you'll face because while you may think some employers are being harsh and mean, the truth is everybody is just trying to protect their investment and livelihood. Every commercial organization is more like a battle formation; any broken link or weakness can cause an overall defeat or death of a fellow warrior.
The success of any commercial organization consistently relies on the collective performance of its employees. Companies will forever continue to seek capable hands and demand working experiences to minimize potential weaknesses or "broken links" in their teams. Experienced and skilled employees are not just needed to make up numbers; they are seen as assets who contribute effectively to the overall productivity and success of the organization. Capable hands help reduce the risk of failures or shortcomings in every business operation. This is your dilemma as a fresh graduate: if 75 out of every industry demands working experience that spans over a certain year, how do you approach job hunting, especially in a country like Nigeria?
Do you to embark on an internship or dive directly into full-time employment?
The thing is, each path has its merits, and the best choice depends on every individual's goals and circumstances.
The Case for Internship
Internships offer a valuable bridge between academia and the workforce. They provide hands-on experience, allowing graduates to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world scenarios. In Nigeria, where the job market can be competitive, it can be a strategic move for you to build a relevant skill set, make industry connections, and enhance employability.
Furthermore, internships provide a low-risk environment where you can explore different sectors and roles. This can be particularly beneficial in a country with diverse industries like Nigeria; it allows you to discover your passions and strengths before committing permanently or temporarily to a specific career path.
The Pros of Full Employment
Opting for full-time employment immediately after graduation comes with its own set of advantages. It provides a stable income; you get to gain financial independence sooner than most people. In a country where economic stability can be uncertain like Nigeria, having a steady job provides you a sense of security.
Full employment also offers a deeper immersion into the professional world. It exposes individuals to long-term projects, team dynamics, and the intricacies of corporate culture. It accelerates your career growth, providing a faster trajectory to help you climb up the professional ladder.
Consider the Middle Ground
In the Nigerian context, a hybrid approach can be considered. If you are lucky, you can secure a full-time job with a structured onboarding process while committing to continued learning and development; it offers the best of both worlds if your responsibility and task permit it. This approach allows you to contribute to your workplace while simultaneously pursuing additional skills through online courses or workshops. However, in cases of someone with no organizational experience at all, an internship is best advised after Uni, during or after NYSC.
There are hundreds of platforms and organizations now online and offline offering causes and opportunities for both paid and unpaid internships and professional programs to prepare graduates for the industrial world. Make good of these opportunities to prepare yourself ahead; a better way to start early is to apply during your University days if you can juggle both activities all at once.
Key Considerations:
Your decision between internship and full employment should align with your personal goals, financial circumstances, and the specific industry landscape. It's crucial to assess the long-term impact of each choice on one's career trajectory.
In a dynamic job market like Nigeria's, networking is invaluable. Both internships and full-time jobs provide opportunities to connect with professionals in the field. Building a robust professional network can open doors to mentorship, collaborations, and future job opportunities.
Conclusively, there is no one-size-fits-all answer to the internship vs. full employment dilemma. What every fresh graduate in Nigeria should do is carefully weigh the pros and cons, consider your career aspirations, financial needs, and the dynamic nature of the job market. Whichever path is chosen, the key lies in continuous learning, adaptability, and a proactive approach to career development. The most important thing is to truly know what you claim you do, do it better, consistently and continually.