Paths 2 Jobs Nigeria

The Partnership for Transforming Health Systems 2 (PATHS 2)  is recruiting qualified professional staff to fill positions based in Abuja, Enugu and Jigawa. This job post is about positions for Programme Assistant (Enugu) and Office Assistant (Jigawa). JobsNigeriaPlus notes that PATH 2 is a DFID funded programme in Nigeria that aims to improve the planning, financing and delivery of sustainable and replicable pro-poor health services for common health problems, focusing on six states and Nigeria's federal government.

JobsNigeriaPlus notes that to be considered for any these job positions, and applicant must  submit his/her CV and an application letter that provide details of the applications qualifications for the desired position, to:

hrjobs@paths2.org

In the subject line of the email, write the specific job title and location (Enugu, Jigawa) of the position you wish to apply for. Deadline for submission will be 6th of November 2012. Only qualified candidates will be contacted for interviews.

Here are the job details:

PROGRAMME ASSISTANT (Enugu)
S/he will assist Program Management staff with responding to administrative and programmatic requests from Headquarters, donors, state offices and other PATHS 2 team members, assist with planning technical assistance, visits,  workshops, and meetings. S/he will also coordinate on arrangements for travel undertaken by team members, consultants or colleaques from PATHS 2 HQ. Assist with information  research and data assembly for presentations or reports made by team members, follow up  with state offices on development and submission of work plans and other planning and reporting documents as required.

Qualification requirements - Should have a minimum of one to three years' work experience in the development sector with excellent programmatic and administrative skills.
An advanced degree is preferred in health, communications or other relevant field.
Proficiency in a wide range of software packages, including Word, Excel, Outlook, and PowerPoint is required.


OFFICE ASSISTANT (Jigawa)
will perform routine maintenance tasks around the office.
Also check and replenish stock. S/he will serve as the initial point of contact for the program administrative and logistical operations. In addition, perform general clerical duties, such as photocopying, faxing, scanning, mailing, and filing. Maintain hard copy and electronic filing systems, for the office.

Qualification requirements - Secondary School completion (minimum), or a Bachelors Degree (desirable), two years experience in office assistance or other relevant work.

Loan Officer Microfinance Bank Jobs Nigeria

A Microfinance bank in Nigeria has announced that it is recruiting Loan Officers. AB Microfinance Bank with Head office situated at Ikeja, Lagos is one of the listed jobs in Nigeria. Loan Officers are required as it offers banking services to micro, small and medium enterprises and private individuals in the country.

Here are the Loan Officer Job requirements:

LOAN OFFICERS (Ref Code: LO)
Main Tasks:
direct promotion in markets
Evaluation of loan applications and preparation of loan proposals
Participation in loan committees
Monitoring of disbursed loans
Assuring long term relationship through high client satisfaction, reaching a high ration of revolving clients.

Requirements:
Minimum educational level of B.Sc./HND
Basic knowledge of financial mathematics & Accounting
Detail and target oriented.
Motivated and dynamic individuals who like to work outdoors.


Method of Application
Interested and qualified candidates should send a soft copy of their curriculum vitae as an attachment to:
jobs@ab-mfbnigeria.com 

not later than Friday, November 2nd 2012.
Note: Please indicate the POSITION and REF CODE as the SUBJECT of the mail.
Failure to comply would disqualify your application.

Job Search Research You need to be doing

Looking for a job? Information is power. The right information can make all the difference. As we say at Jidaw – more knowledge means more power. Better information keeps you ahead of the pack. It differentiates you by portraying you as an interest, dedicated and knowledgeable candidate. The right approach to job search research can confer advantage.

Where are you searching? And why? Is it based on an area of interest, a target organization you wish to work for or a job announcement? In whatever situation, Jidaw advises candidates to appreciate the job need. If it is an announcement, read the announcement or advert carefully. What is required? How much do you know about the employing organization? Company websites and financial records are sources of information. But don’t restrict yourself to historical information. In particular find out more the organization’s interests, values, areas of focus and mission.

You need information on what the organization has done, what it is doing now and what it intends to do. It’s not just about where the organization has been, it’s also about where it is going. During counseling at Mastercomputers seminars we encourage candidates to adopt forward looking approach to job search and career development. How does the employer plan to create the future? Is the organization expanding into new territories, maintaining the status quo or contracting? If it is expanding, which areas will be affected and what are the anticipated needs? Will the company be opening new plants? Is the organization planning to overhaul its IT infrastructure? Or are meeting up with new standards and government regulations the focus?

At Jidaw we stress that information must translate to knowledge if it is to be applied for advancement. Progress requires quality and relevant knowledge about the employer and the environment. Go past surface awareness and get in-depth knowledge. Do your research. Sure your desire must be high but passion is nothing without knowledge. Furthermore, what do you know about the unique challenges, peculiarities, rewards as well as learning and career growth perspectives on offer? Is there a special scheme for young graduates? What are the career prospects? Don’t fly blind. Jidaw questions: Will you work for a well known company even if it will mean suppressing your talents and passions? Understand what the particular organization represents and how members in the IT field, department or team contribute towards the organization's vision and mission.

Make your research meaningful – what are the strengths you bring and how will you fit in to the organization? Jidaw asks: do you know what will be expected of you and what is it like to work in that organization? For example, the culture and requirements at service providers are quite different from what obtains in banks like Ecobank or UBA. Do your research. Are your expectations for pay and benefits realistic – or too low or too high? How much do you know about salary and compensation structures in the sectors?

During career seminars at Mastercomputers we always urge participants and job seekers to ensure that they live in the same value city as the organization of interest. Jidaw urges the job seeker to make research a priority. Equipping yourself with such knowledge garnered from research and contacts helps you know how to search and differentiate yourself in an effective manner. It’s more than just who you are. Knowledge with purpose means power. Jidaw, asks: how real is your passion? Research is an indication of desire. It is integral to preparation. But not just research for the sake of research. Focus on the job research you need to be doing

All the best in your job search!

Jide Awe

Founder, Jidaw

Career Development. Training. Consulting. Web Content Provision

Science Journalism Intern

A Science journalism internship is now available to African science journalists. The opportunity from Research Africa is being offered to African science journalists, or African scientists with a proven track record in journalism. JobsNigeriaPlus notes that it is an intensive seven-month science journalism internship at Research Africa's headquarters in Cape Town, South Africa.

According to the release the science journalism internship is expected to commence in January 2013. The successful applicant will be exposed to opportunities to develop their journalism skills in Cape Town and at
Research Africa's sister offices in London, as well as go on a reporting trips to an African country.

JobsNigeriaPlus notes that the successful intern will work with Research Africa's editorial team which

produces news and analysis on African research funding and science trends on the continent. Non-South African applicants will be prioritized.

Research Africa will cover the costs of travel to and from South Africa, accommodation and a small stipend. Visa costs will be reimbursed if valid receipts are submitted. The internship is funded by Canada’s International Development Research Centre (IDRC) as one of their five science journalism awards.

Method of Application
Interested? Applicants need to propose a short research project that they will carry out during their internship. This should investigate a topical issue related to the popularisation of research in Africa.

Applicants must also submit their curriculum vitae, three recent articles (print or electronic) and a letter of permission from their line manager confirming that they would be allowed to take seven months off work (paid or unpaid leave).

Applicants should be mature, self-motivated and independent, with fluent written and spoken English and a high degree of numeracy. They should be computer literate, and able to use word processors. Competence in both PC and Mac environments is recommended.**

Please email application, including certified copies of academic degrees:
to *sjp@research-africa.net* with the subject line: Research Africa-IDRC science journalism internship.

Deadline: 20 November 2012.

Job Search Passion not Desperation

When the job search isn’t yielding results desperation can set in. “I’m eager for any type of job”, “any job will do.” Jidaw notes that this perspective can be damaging both in the short and long term. Hunger and desire are good. But no matter how long you have been searching, never cross over to desperation. Desperation undersells. Desperation is unhelpful because it doesn’t connect with the needs of the employer and your life mission.

Avoid giving the desperate "I just want a job" impression. Be honest, what does the job in IT mean to you? What does the accounting work opportunity offer you? How does it fit into your life goals? Are you simply falling in line to meet societal expectations or do you desire the ability to make a difference? At Jidaw we believe you should be enthusiastic about what you want to spend your life doing. Otherwise what is the point? For most of us our enthusiasm for sports and entertainment flows naturally. But what is your career passion?

Even though you love football and music, do have such passion for your job interests? You stand out in the eyes of the employers if they are convinced that you care deeply about the potential job opportunity and the impact it will have. It’s about living a fulfilling life in which your job plays a major role. A job should be more than an “I’m just working for my pay” meal ticket.  Jidaw’s core interest is in Information Technology (IT).

At Jidaw’s human capital empowerment seminars, the need to own the desire to achieve through IT in the specific sector is constantly stressed. For example your area of interest could be information technology in the banking sector. Why banking? It helps to know more about the field and how IT functions in the sector. Though you have no work experience, your desire is apparent in the research in you have done on the sector, volunteer opportunities you have seized, the knowledge you have about what it takes to work in that field and the enthusiasm you display about the nature of experience.

No employer really wants someone who is merely in need of a job or salary. Our belief at Jidaw is that in the job search and career development, passion rather than desperation stands you out. Organizations need of contributors to their mission not people who are looking for “any job”. Passion that is directed and purposeful connects and sells. It is passion that tattoos the pursuit of excellence into your DNA. Are you prepared to go the extra mile just to complete a job with excellence?

In assessing you employers will look for clues of what make you come alive, what makes you tick. What do you love doing outside the work setting? For example, do volunteer for causes that impact society? And if you do, how involved are you? Some employers will want to know if you are capable of translating the motivations behind your “external passions” into the work environment.

Is there passion in your job search? Where is the purpose in your career development? Embrace hunger; Avoid desperation.

All the best in your job search!

Jide Awe

Founder, Jidaw

Career Development. Training. Consulting. Web Content Provision

IT Assistant Job Kebbi Nigeria

IT Assistant - Kebbi

Save the Children has announced a job opportunity for IT Assistant in Kebbi, Nigeria. JobsNigeriaPlus notes that the organization is a global not for profit organization with a focus on child care and child development. The opportunity is for ensuring the particular office in Nigeria has human capital that can enable the organization benefit maximally from its investment in IT infrastructure.

JobsNigeriaPlus notes that the job announcement for IT Assistant states that the successful candidate will provide IT technical support services to the to all field bases by providing computer training to users; troubleshooting, ensuring timely maintenance of all communication and IT equipment and provide IT based back up support.

Qualifications and Requirements:

• A University Degree in computer Engineering or Electrical Electronics or equivalent subject.
• Industrial working experience in a similar position. Proven knowledge of PABX, hardware maintenance and ability tosolve simple hardware problems; this includes set-up and management of network devices e.g; printers scanners,etc.
• Solid experience in maintaining, troubleshooting and administering a Microsoft Windows-based (local area) network.
• Knowledge of Microsoft Windows operating systems, including XP, Windows 2003, and Window 7, and Microsoft Office applications (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, etc).

Method of Application
Interested and qualified for this job in IT technical support? Then send your C.V. and covering letter on or before 1st November 2012 explaining why you are suitable to
e-mail: Nigeria.Recruitment@savethechildren.org 

State position and location in the subject field as applications without appropriate subject will be disqualified. Also, applications received after the deadline will not be considered.
Save the Children states that the selection processes reflects its commitment to the protection of children from abuse.

Consulting Jobs Nigeria

Consulting job vacancies have been announced by the BDO Professional Services office in Nigeria. JobsNigeriaPlus notes that the jobs for experienced professionals are required by the firm to provide professional services in accountancy, assurance, management consultancy, taxation and corporate advisory services. Specific opportunities are in Tax, ICT, Systems Auditing, Human Resource Management

TAX CONSULTANT
Age: Not more than 35 years
Qualifications and Experience
A good first degree, ACA/ACCA is a must, and ACTI will be and added advantage.
5 years of cognate experience in tax management. Passion for excellence and good knowledge of excel and MS word is required.

ICT CONSULTANT
Age: Not more than 35 years
Qualifications and Experience:
A good second degree in Computer science. Certification in CCNA/ MCSE is an advantage.
7 years post qualification experience Proficient in a programming language thorough knowledge of hardward, software, IT infrastructure & Networking.

SYSTEMS AUDITOR
Age: Not more than 35 years
Qualifications and Experience:
A good first degree in Computer Science. ACA/ACCA is a must.
ISA/CICS or CISA is required.
7 years post qualificatin experience Sound knowledge of Internal Control and IT Systems Audit, as well as good knowledge of Microsoft applications.

HUMAN RESOURCE MANAGER
Age: Not more than 40 years
Qualifications and Experience:
A good second degree in social or management science.
10 years of post graduation consulting experience in a similar capacity. Experience of International Consulting organisation and good knowledge of Microsoft applications will be an advantage.

FINANCIAL ADVISOR
Age Not more than 35 years.
Qualifications and Experience:
A good second degree in Finance.
ACA/ACCA is a must
7 years of post graduation consulting experience in a similar capacity
Experience of International Consulting organisation, and good knowledge of Microsoft applications will be an advantage.

Method of Application

Interested in this job opportunity for experienced professionals? Qualified and interested candidates are advised ti visit the BDO website for more information while applications containing detailed curriculum vitae and position applied for, marked as subject of e-mail, should be forwarded to recruitments@bdo-ng.com, not later than 5.00pm on 31st of October, 2012.Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

Audit Trainees Wanted in Nigeria

Audit Trainee job vacancies have been announced by BDO Professional Services. JobsNigeriaPlus understands that the firm is a member of the global BDO network. The international network consists of firms that offer professional services in accountancy, assurance, management consultancy, taxation and corporate advisory services.

In the opinion of JobsNigeriaPlus, the Audit trainee job is for beginners to the audit field which could lead to careers in accounting and the provision of services mentioned. Essentially it is for young people with the interest and passion for such a field. The scope of opportunities can be quite wide. Since it is a trainee position this will involve both learning and work experiences. JobsNigeriaPlus notes that audit trainees usually find that in addition to their work experience with the firm, they also need to prepare for and pass for professional Accounting exams such as ICAN/ACA/ACCA to maintain relevance and for career progression in auditing/accounting.It is expected that suitable candidates will be interested in further learning and professional validation through the recognized accounting exams.

Here are the AUDIT TRAINEES requirements:

• Age: Not more than 26 years
• Qualifications and Experience:
• A good first degree in any discipline with a minimum of second class upper or its equivalent from a reputable institution
• Good knowledge of Microsoft applications is required.

Method of Application

Interested in this beginner job opportunity? Qualified and interested candidates are advised ti visit the BDO website for more information while applications containing detailed curriculum vitae and position applied for, marked as subject of e-mail, should be forwarded to recruitments@bdo-ng.com, not later than 5.00pm on 31st of October, 2012.Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

Royal Exchange Graduate Management Development Trainee Programme

Royal Exchange has announced job vacancies for its Graduate Management Development Trainee Programme. JobsNigeriaPlus notes that the vacancy indicates a need for young, energetic, talented graduates. Obviously the freshness of the young is desired. As expected the program will expose successful to a learning and work experience over a twelve month period that may eventially result in full time employment with Royal Exchange. JobsNigeriaPlus notes that it is a unique opportunity to start and build a management career with a known name in industry.

Stated Requirements in the job announcement are as follows:

• Prospective candidates must possess a minimum of Second Class (Lower) division or equivalent in any discipline.
• Completion of NYSC by 31st December, 2012.
• Minimum of 5 credits in WASCE, SSCE or GCE 'O' level at one sitting, which msut include Engling Language and Mathematics.
• Age: Not more than 28 years old by 31st December, 2012.
• The programme is open to only graduates who obtained their bachelor's degree in the last six years.

Method of Application
Qualified and interested in this job opportunity, visit the Royal Exchange Website AND  complete the application form
OR
Submit an application in your own handwriting to:
The Group Head (Human Resources)
P.O. Box 1804, Ikeja

DEADLINE: 30 October 2012

Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted through their e-mail and/or by SMS to the telephone number provided.

Related Information:
Job Tips for Fresh Graduates

Desire the Job Game Changer

In the job search? Need to oil the tank to boost your job search effectiveness? Relying only on qualifications and experience? You need to add more to your arsenal.  Make no mistake, your skills and previous work background will always come into play. Your ability to deliver is important and should never be downplayed. But at Jidaw we stress that desire is the game changer. 

What pushes you to keep maintaining that effort? What pushes you to keep your energy levels high? What pushes you to ignore the taunts and mocking laughter when the search isn't going your way? Jidaw emphasizes that desire is the force behind enthusiasm.

However, a critical question is this: Is desire evident in your application? Or is it only resident on your inside? Internal strengths are critical and desire always starts from within. At Jidaw we label we give desire is the beginning of the "inside job". It is however, important that your desire shows up as well on the outside. Desire should not be the “invisible man"? Does the interviewer need to dig and search really deep and relentlessly to discover desire in you? Your desire should be evident for all to see. But at Jidaw we also caution that you should not mistake desperation for desire. Desperation can be crude, selfish and short term, without ethics and professionalism.

You don’t have experience, or maybe you have experience. Tell me one organization interested in hiring talent especially newcomers without passion. Certainly no one I know. And playing the sympathy card instead of having desire isn't too helpful. Let your passion flow- spread it like a virus infecting those that come in contact with you. Let it show at all times – not only during the job search process. 

During Jidaw's career seminar, we state that if your passion only shows up when you are job hunting, it isn’t passion, you are simply acting. It is simply a show mimicking the real thing. Desire is not an eight to five office job. Passionate about sports, entertainment? Do you have that same passion for your career field? Or are you just working for the pay? 

For example, through Jidaw's activities in IT we know it is a field that has the ability to change lives and society in incredible ways. So if you are interested in a job in IT, how driven you are about your interests in IT – networking, programming, web design, technical support, etc.This works for applicants in all fields - architecture, construction, medicine, education, finance, etc. Jidaw insists: Show your passion. Make change happen with desire.

All the best in your job search!

 

Jide Awe

Founder, Jidaw

Career Development. Training. Consulting. Web Content Provision

Ecowas Programme Officer for ICT Job

ECOWAS Commission has announced a job for Programme Officer for ICT. The Economics community of West African States (ECOWAS) is a regional group of fifteen West African countries.It is permanent internationally recruited position based in Abuja, Nigeria. The position is also in Community Computer Centre Directorate and the successful candidate will be supervised by the Principal Programme Officer, Technical Development.

Here are more job details:

Programme Officer Information and Communication Technology
(1 Position)

Reference: ECW-COMM/REC/CCC-P/002/2012

Duties and Responsibilities
Carry out system analysis, prepare detailed documentation of user needs and business systems specifications required to develop/modify specified applications required by directorates;
Gather client requirements using interviews, workshops, business analysis, and surveys. etc;
Carry out service delivery and support planning in respect of institutional and governance software systems;
Supports the implementation of policies, processes and procedures (PPP);
Prepares routine reports (quality, customer service, operational efficiency, etc)

Qualifications/Experience/Skills
Bachelor’s degree or equivalent in Business, Information Technology or related fields
Minimum of five years relevant professional work experience in Information and Communications Technology or related fields
Extensive knowledge of business issues and processes as well as Information Technology resources and enabling technologies.
Extensive experience in managing multiple projects/tasks of varying complexities, meet deadlines and work well under pressure.

Competencies (Skills, Knowledge and Abilities)
Professional and capable of being a team-player in a multicultural environment; Exceptional ability to work independently; Ability to set and meet deadlines; Possession of good writing skills; Excellent communication skills, written and spoken

The announcement states that the candidate should not be 50 years old or over at the point of recruitment and must be a citizen of one of the ECOWAS member states.
The candidate must must be fluent in one of the official languages of the Commission; English, French and Portuguese. A working knowledge of another would be an advantage.


Apply Online and Get more Job details on the Job SITE

Closing Date: 31 October 2012

Getting a Job is Process

I hope you have found the tips on JobsNigeriaPlus useful. JobsNigeriaPlus is an opportunity to provide some insight to help you get the job you desire in line with your career and life goals. Do they provoke you? Note that no one size that fits all. Forget about formulas. There is no one way to break the job search barrier. Rather than being one dimensional an approach that combines suggestions usually works best.

Tremendous competition for jobs can be intimidating. But don’t let the heat scare you. It comes with the job market territory. It is not an uncommon challenge. Ignore the things that outside your control. Instead focus on what you can do.

The question you should always ask is: what can I do to improve my prospects? How should you create advantage as you seek your desired job? JobsNigeriaPlus notes that creativity is a need just like food, sleep and shelter. But rather than being just an essential, creativity is also an enabler. Keep your motivation levels high and get creative. Getting a job is a process, an experience and not a “one stop”, off the shelf product.

Learn, share and grow during the experience. Don’t stop even after you get the job. The job itself is not everything. JobsNigeriaPlus asks: without passion what do we hope to achieve? Work experience is not an end in itself. It is not a job for the sake of a job but for worthwhile career growth. Besides it is not about you alone – it’s about what you are doing to improve yourself and others in a profitable and sustainable manner.

Maintain balance, see beyond the surface. Looking for a job? Can you handle the truth? The barriers are not the problem. The barriers are not the issue. The reality is that no barrier is insurmountable. JobsNigeriaPlus insists that the greatest barriers are within us. We must clearly understand the issues at play and apply thinking that matters. We all need understanding, honesty and dedication in our application of knowledge, creativity and ethics. You have what it takes!

Jide Awe

Founder, Jidaw

Career Development. Training. Consulting. Web Content Provision

Standard Chartered Bank International Graduate Programme Nigeria

Consider yourself a top class graduate? Interested in building a career in banking? JobsNigeriaPlus notes that Standard Chartered Bank, a bank operating in Asia, Africa and the Middle East has an International Graduate Programme for Nigerian graduates. Providing a wide-range of products and services for personal and business customers, the bank states that it aspires to be “We aspire to be the world's best international bank, leading the way” in the areas in which it operates. Asia, Africa and the Middle East.

JobsNigeriaPlus asks: are you interested in the banking sector? Do you see yourself being challenged by working in the provision of financial services? Fast paced and challenging, the program is for young individuals interested in innovation and driving change in the fast changing, technology driven world of banking. With very high standards, it is a performance oriented job opportunity that brings new intakes into the Standard Chartered network which includes fellow graduates from around the world. 

All newly recruited graduates in fact participate in the International Induction Programme (IIP) held in Kuala Lumpur. The academic programme provides candidates with the necessary foundation. JobsNigeriaPlus notes that this graduate trainee programme aims to equip successful applicants through a combination of training for the required business skills and  on-the-job development. Job training exposes the trainees to learning, career development and mentoring opportunities from senior managers and key stakeholders.

Typically Graduate Trainee positions, in the opinion of JobsNigeriaPlus, are work and learning opportunities for a definite period. It is start from scratch opportunity for young graduates who are ready to start from the ground up and have a career plan.

The International Graduate Programme offers seven streams covering Wholesale Bank, Consumer Bank and Specialist Functions.

International Graduate Programme Job opportunities are available in Nigeria in the following streams:

Financial Markets  - Wholesale Banking;
Consumer Banking     
Coverage & Corporate Finance      - Wholesale Banking
Group Internal Audit
Consumer Banking Fast Track Programme

CLOSING DATE IS:  1 Mar 2013 

• Consumer Bank International Graduate Programme is taken over a period of 18 months; Entry requirement is a Master's degree, any discipline
• Wholesale Bank International Graduate Programme is taken for a 12 month period; Entry requirements is an undergraduate degree, any discipline
• Group Internal Audit is an 18 month Specialist Functions programme; Entry requirements is an undergraduate degree, any discipline
• The 12-18 month Consumer Bank Fast Track Programme is an accelerated programme, Entry requirements is an undergraduate degree, any discipline

Is any of these streams something you would love doing? Get more information from the Nigeria Standard Chartered Bank Jobs SITE

Let NOTHING steal your confidence

Looking for a job? Just been laid off? Without self belief we are defeated even before we start. Do you believe in yourself or are you just going through the motions because it is “expected”? A major barrier we address during Jidaw’s career seminars is the lack of self belief. 

During the job search process – cover letters, interviews, etc – what message do you send out - a message of confidence or panic? 

Nothing sells better than confidence and enthusiasm. You achieve more when you do things out of passion and interest than you do it as a duty. Sure you may be a newcomer. Or the competition looks tough. It certainly isn’t always easy to recover after losing a job. The issue is that attitude is what we use to overcome our challenges and fortify our strengths. Stop running scared. Don’t let your lack of experience or the present uncertainty weigh you down.

 Unfortunately, rather than believe in ourselves, we look for quick fixes and magic cures from the "guarantee-masters" - those who want to exploit our hunger. Jidaw encourages you to stay positive with who you are and what you have. Enthusiasm sells. We all love encouragement but you will make more impact when you stop expecting others to be passionate for you. Nobody should have to challenge you or look up on you before you move. It should be inborn. It is an inside job. It is about your own career and future. 

If you can’t be enthusiastic about what you have to offer why should you expect others to be enthusiastic for you? Lack of enthusiasm and confidence undersells your innate talent and skills. Even if you don’t have experience, how well are you using what you have?  Stop undervaluing your personal qualities, values and achievements. In the job search process always display enthusiasm about what you have and what your energy and freshness will bring.

Not having a job can be frustrating. Nobody likes receiving rejections. But these are the realities job seekers face daily. It can be frustrating when the job search is not bearing fruit.  The easy route is to allow doubt to take over. We start accepting defeat. And I tell you something, without self belief the game is over. What is the point in submitting applications and resumes without zeal or expectation? We doubt ourselves and even accept the tag of “failure” because we’re not getting results. 

Whether you lost that job opportunity or haven’t had any success with job interviews, our view at Jidaw is that "Failure is a perception, not an option for those willing to learn and grow from their experiences."

During Jidaw career sessions, we ask: Who doesn’t face challenges? “The person that doesn’t make mistakes usually does not make anything.” So what if you chose the wrong training programs? Some people give up simply because they failed a certification exam. 

Through our experiences at Jidaw, I know firsthand how hard it can be for the job seeker. But we also know that we all go through ups and down. At Jidaw we keep seeing people who have been condemned to the status of "also rans" who are now "come-back" champions. Challenges are part of life. The job market is tough, especially for newcomers but opportunities always exist for the resilient. 

The achiever is the one who is able to keep pushing through despite the stress, doubt and feelings of frustration that will come when job search environment appears hostile and unfriendly.

If you feel down and low, it is self belief that picks you up. Develop the “can do” and “can bounce back” attitude. You don't have a job? Big deal! It isn't the end of the world. And all worrying and moping does is to leave you weak, depressed and unable to improve your situation. 

Jidaw urges you to stand on your promise. Stand on who you are, push hard and intelligently enough and you will get the breakthrough you deserve. Let NOTHING steal your confidence.

Jide Awe

Founder, Jidaw

Career Development. Training. Consulting. Web Content Provision

Ecowas Consultant Opportunity

The ECOWAS Commission has announced that it seeks to recruit two consultants to conduct an impact evaluation of the implementation of the ECOWAS Trafficking in Persons Plan of Action 2011. JobsNigeriaPlus notes that the plan which was extended in 2003 to 2007 and further to 2011 covering all the ECOWAS member states. The evaluation will be directly supervised by the ECOWAS anti-trafficking unit.

Qualifications/Requirements
The Consultants selected to conduct this mission shall, at least have the following:

• Have an advanced degree in Law, International Relations or any of the Social Sciences,
• Have relevant research experience in trafficking in persons or in  any related field or in the social sciences,
• Have extensive knowledge of international and regional instruments on trafficking in persons,
• Have excellent report written skills and must be computer literate,
• Must be fluent in at least one of the three ECOWAS languages,
• Must be a citizen of an ECOWAS Country.

JobNigeriaPlus notes that the ECOWAS Commission has invited Eligible Consultants (Individual) to indicate their  interests in  providing these services. The interested Consultants must provide all information supporting their interested Consultants must provide all information supporting their qualification to perform the services (Kindly attach detailed Curriculum  Vitae that highlights the following: Curriculum and Certificates; past Experiences of similar jobs over the past five years; IT knowledge; knowledge of the area and any other information useful for the accomplishment of this project).

Further Information
Interested consultants may obtain further information at the address below during office hours: Monday to Friday from from 9:00a.m (GMT+1) to 5.00p.m. (GMT+!).
ECOWAS Commission, Directorate of General  Administration, Procurement Unit, 101, Yakubu Gowon Crescent Asokoro District, P.M.B. 401 Abuja Nigeria,

E-mail: nkuakor@yahoo.fr; kabirnfr@yahoo.com.fr; bangoura53@yahoo.com


Expression of Interest
Expressions of interest must be delivered in sealed envelope and clearly marked: “RECRUITMENT OF TWO (02) INDIVIDUAL CONSULTANTS TO CONDUCT THE IMPACT ASSESSMENT ON IMPLEMENTATION OF THE ECOWAS PLAN OF ACTION TO COMBAT TRAFFICKING IN PERSONS IN ECOWAS REGION, do not open except in presence of the Tender committee”
to the address below by Wednesday, October 31st 2012 at 4.00p.m GMT+1,

ECOWAS Tender Box is located in the Office of Director of General Administration, 1st Floor ECOWAS Commission, 101 Yakubu Gowon Crescent, Asokoro District, P.M.B. 401 Abuja Nigeria.

A closed door is not a full stop

Do you equate joblessness with worthlessness? Does the job define who you are? Drop that negative mentality RIGHT NOW! At our Jidaw career seminars, we suggest that candidates should never allow the lack of a job or negative job hunting experiences take away your self esteem and confidence. Roadblocks are nothing new. In fact there is no achiever that has not been down in the valley. 

What matters is your ability to pick yourself up. “This too shall pass”.

Allow challenges to make you bitter and you lose the plot. Instead evaluate the quality of your effort. We learn from the highs and the lows. Ask the right questions. What are you learning about yourself, your career and the job environment? Be honest, what really happened in the interview room? Sometimes interviewers will advise or give you hints. Do a reality check and work on areas that need improvement. At Jidaw we stress that learning is for life. Have you looked at your resume quality, interviewing skills or issues of self improvement? Keep learning. Focus on substance and be grateful for the experience. Respond to fruitless job search experiences with equanimity and humility.

Rather than look for excuses or run from challenges, stay upbeat, throw light on the setbacks as you widen and improve your perspective. Focus on the positives. There is an opportunity in that challenge. But as we say at Jidaw, a positive attitude is nothing without knowledge and humility. Humility keeps us grounded enough to learn relevant lessons and go beyond our places of comfort. These challenges are not full stops. A job is not a career. And an unsuccessful job interview or failure at an employment assessment test is not the end of a career. Hurdles are part not the end of the journey. 

They are useful learning experiences. With the right perspective such negative situations actually help in building your backbone. Change your thinking says Jidaw. And don’t you realize even at the end of the day that choices made during job selection processes are subjective. It is about who the company feels will fit into the role based on short assessment process. It is definitely not perfect. So face that reality and stop banging you head against the wall.

Only one door has been closed, don’t let the closed door experience stop you from being long term in your search for another door that will be open. Always believe you can add value and that you deserve to be successful. Have a long term purpose.  Then plan and get creative. Be resourceful and persevere. 

“The best way to learn perseverance is to persevere. no idea, book, philosophy, no teacher can teach better than the hurt, doubts and stress we go through while pushing on and refusing to give up” - Jidaw.

If you are a newcomer accept that you are starting at zero level no matter how long you have been searching. And don’t allow delay to compromise your high energy level. It is essential to accept the temporary nature of life. Seasons go and seasons come. Keep learning and remind yourself of this important truth and get back on purpose. Beyond job search related activities, use your time to engage in constructive activities such as self improvement and networking activities in your community and in industry. Explore ways in which such skills and activities can improve your prospects.

The trial of job seeking without results should show the true you. At the day, at our career seminars we state that the hurdles should bring out the real desire in you. Do you know that difficult circumstances prepare us for leadership by helping appreciate the ups and downs of life, as well as equipping us with firsthand understanding of the pain others are going through? 

“Who feels it knows it.” Maturity is not an easy road. It is not about surrendering but about developing the maturity to deal with lack of results. Our belief at Jidaw, is that every situation should be about pushing forward, surviving and thriving despite hostility in the environment. Only your attitude and action can drive change. Self pity has no power to improve job opportunities. 

Timing may be outside our control, but NEVER ACCEPT DEFEAT. Keep hope alive. You can do it! A closed door is not a full stop.

Jide Awe

Founder, Jidaw

Career Development. Training. Consulting. Web Content Provision.