Everyone has a career journey. Meet Jennifer Kamau, an IT graduate who has had her share of the corporate world with all the ups and downs that come with it. In this interesting interview, she shares an overview of her career journey and wise tidbits for young job seekers grappling with unemployment.
What was your first job after campus?
After campus I had a three months attachment in an academic institution. After the internship period, I had two job offers; one from the same institution and the other from another academic Institution. I took up the offer from the second institution.
How much were you earning then?
I started off with a basic pay of Ksh23,000 with a housing allowance of Ksh 6,000 and leave allowance of Ksh3,000. I was also entitled to 30% of the total fees paid by the students I was lecturing in networking courses. On average I had 15 students paying 13,000 per person providing me with an extra 58,500 at the completion of a three months semester.
What are you currently doing?
Unfortunately, the institution closed down and I had to look for another job. I am a Cisco Certified Instructor currently teaching on part time basis as I look for a full time job.
Have you ever quit your job?
Yes!
What happened?
Before joining campus, I was employed in a supermarket as a cashier. I got the job through a relative. The owner of the supermarket expected us to work Sunday to Sunday, public holidays, and even during Christmas period. There was no off day or leave. For the sake of my own emotional and mental health I decided to quit.
What did you struggle with the most at the beginning of your career?
I struggled to be accepted by other professionals and the community. My field is quite technical and mostly dominated by men. With time it has become acceptable for a lady to walk around with a cable tester, crawl under tables and fix networking cables.
Some organizations to this date cannot employ a lady to do user support. We are used to hearing the term “my IT guy” in reference to the person who handles computer issues. Ever heard of the term “my IT lady?”
Actually no….What is the best professional advice you’ve ever received?
You are a brand. Employers may change but always be the same professional person of integrity and do your work with excellence. It’s a global village; you will almost certainly deal with the same people over and over again. They will remember your service.
What are your future plans?
I have been thinking of studying Human Resource Development. I hope to find a way to blend Information Technology into it. I would like to expand my horizon.
What’s your advice to young job seekers struggling with unemployment?
First, find internship that may lead to employment even if it does not pay. Most organisations absorb the best interns because during the internship period, they have ascertained if you are a good fit or not. You can also volunteer in the line of your career as the experience will be an added advantage.
Secondly, learn a skill that can earn you some money. It may be making shaggy mats, doing online jobs, laundry, making and selling mandazi, running errands for busy people etc. Who knows, you may just meet your next employer while running his/her errands.
Finally, if you can, look for jobs outside the country. The rate of unemployment in Kenya is too high. There are many opportunities outside Kenya and you do not need to limit yourself to this country. With the current technology, it is easy and affordable to keep in touch. There should be no fear of loosing touch with loved ones while you are away.
Do you have an inspiring story to share? Get in touch with [email protected] for a one on one interview
