SUBTITLE e t a d up A MAGAZINE FOR CAREER DEVELOPMENT AUGUST 2016 9 GRADUATE TRAINEE – HELLO? FROM STUDENT INTERN TO HER FIRST JOB 11 THE NEXT CHAPTER THE RISE TO SUCCESS OF SITHABISO MNCWANGO 15 MAKING A DIFFERENCE THE THUTHUKA PROGRAMME 21 SYMPLI FANTASTIC NEW CAREER SERVICE MANAGEMENT TOOL FROM HOPE TO ACTION THROUGH KNOWLEDGE. SUBTITLE update A MAGAZINE FOR CAREER DEVELOPMENT AUGUST 2016 3 5 FROM THE ED TEAM T he scene was the South African Graduate Employers Association (SAGEA) Quarterly Network Event in Cape Town. At 10h30 on Tuesday, 5 July 2016 the drum-roll was played and Tim Wise, Research Director of High Fliers said: “And now the 2016 Universities of Choice are ….” UWC Careers Service is proud to announce that we remain in the Top 7 ‘Best Careers Service’ and ‘Best Careers Fair’ since 2013. At the November 2015 SAGEA Conference, the Office for Student Development (OSD) shared the award with UCT in the category of “Best Employability / Work Readiness Initiative”. In April 2016 we saw a significant increase in the number of companies attending our Careers Xpo. In December 2016 we will launch the Career Service Management (CSM) tool offered by Symplicity to assist with the effective and efficient provision of services. All this points in one direction – we are marching with confidence into the next Strategic Operating Plan of our University. This publication is only one of our offerings. These articles will give students further insight into the challenges of the job search and their entry into the world of work. The article “New Kid on the Block” introduces the UWC Co-curricular Record. We share the next chapter of determination by siblings who have demonstrated resilience against all odds. Two young UWC graduates are writing their own script of entrepreneurship. We welcome back our student writer, Lester Malgas, who also shares his story of “Unfinished Business”. All about YOU The new kid on the block by Lester Malgas 9 Graduate trainee… Hello? 11 The next chapter 15 Making a difference by Lauren Franke by Lester Malgas by Lester Malgas 21 Sympli Fantastic by Winston Middleton 22 24 Wall of Fame Don’t go psycho over Psychometric Tests by Arlene Josephs 29 Beyond and despite articles by Busisiwe Mathonsi and Winston Middleton We trust that every reader will draw from the experiences of our students and graduates mentioned in the articles in finding an ideal employer or starting your own business. THE ED TEAM WINSTON MIDDLETON, NAZRANA PARKER, NATALIE MARRION AND MONITA VELOEN 32 Spirit of Entrepreneurship by Lester Malgas ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS Career Update is produced by the Office for Student Development, University of the Western Cape. EDITORS: Winston Middleton, Nazrana Parker, Monita Veloen. SUBBING, DESIGN AND LAYOUT: Kult Creative PRINTING: FingerPrint Worker Co-operative Ltd 37 Breaking the ice by Nazrana Parker and Natalie Marrion 40 Unfinished Business Thank you to all the writers and participants. Career Update, August 2016 TELEPHONE: 021 959 2436 EMAIL: [email protected]. by Lester Malgas Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in this magazine are those of the authors and writers and do not necessarily represent nor reflect the views of the University of the Western Cape. © All rights reserved. Articles may only be reproduced, stored or transmitted with written permission of the copyright holder. 43 Acing virtual interviews by Monita Veloen | UNIVERSITY OF THE WESTERN CAPE | CAREER UPDATE 2016 | 1 SUBTITLE FOOD FOR THOUGHT ALL ABOUT YOU! Ten out of ten Thanks for your assistance in revamping my CV. I always thought that it was perfect until I came to OSD. I believe it is now more attractive to potential employers. I give you 10/10 for your excellence in assisting students. and managing my time kept me at the top of my game. This set me apart from my peers. PRINCE SIBANDA BSC COMPUTER SCIENCE AND PHYSICS, 2013; SOFTWARE DEVELOPER, CSIR POZISA MANISI B COM HONS – INFORMATION SYSTEMS Extensive research Since my second year, I made extensive use of our Careers Service. I worked through several drafts of my CV. I compiled an extensive list of possible interview questions. NOSIPHIWO QWABI LLB, 2014 CANDIDATE ATTORNEY, FAIRBRIDGES WERTHEIM BECKER advisory services of OSD also played a valuable role. I kept up to date by reading articles about current IT products and services in the industry and did extra reading for my academic work. Students must find a match between their skills and the requirements of a post. Successful candidates come across as optimistic and go-getters despite challenges. Ask the recruiter for feedback to improve your future performance. TEBOGO MOTUMI B COM IS, 2015 GRADUATE TRAINEE, SOFTWARE SERVICES IBM Acing your job search During vacation programmes, I interacted with many professionals and displayed an eagerness to learn. I researched the values and achievements of each law firm. I excelled academically and in social responsibility activities. During interviews I spoke without pretence, asked relevant questions and made the interview a “conversation”. CINDY-LEE BEKEER LLM, 2014 CANDIDATE ATTORNEY, Enrich your offering From the five job offers I accepted IBM’s. My academic results and participation in a project in Germany about digital transformation of business models in the transportation sector set me apart from other applicants. My ability to market myself put me in good stead at interviews. The career WEBBER WENTZEL Top of his game As a double major undergrad, my days were full. Students saw me as a geek. The academic challenges | UNIVERSITY OF THE WESTERN CAPE | CAREER UPDATE 2016 | 3 ALL ABOUT YOU! Going for gold! In February 2012, I accepted an internship at a gold mine. On examining the contract carefully I left after a month. I then started teaching Physics and Maths at a high school. In 2013, I completed my Honours degree in Applied Geology at UWC after saving up for the registration fee. I received a Sports Merit Award and played in the inaugural Varsity Cup Football tournament. I worked as a student assistant for Petroleum Agency SA where I managed the career exhibitions and thus built up many contacts in the industry. During December 2013 – January 2014, I dropped off my CV at mines in Gauteng, North West and Mpumalanga. In February 2014, while working at a car wash, I met a lady who told me about interviews for geologists at Gold Fields. I arrived at the interviews without an appointment and received a job offer in April 2014. My contract was extended after a year. Currently I am working with the best team of Geologists and with the best equipment. My greatest lesson is that the “real world is Real” and not as we view it from a student perspective. My ‘never say die’ attitude coupled with my determination, confidence and patience have kept me going. “If you pray for the rain, you must deal with the mud also”. TEBOGO HLAPA B SC HONS – APPLIED GEOLOGY, 2013 GRADUATE IN TRAINING PRODUCTION GEOLOGIST, GOLD FIELDS LTD www.bakertillygreenwoods.co.za 4 | UNIVERSITY OF THE WESTERN CAPE | CAREER UPDATE 2016 | CO - CURRICULAR RECORD THE NEW KID ON THE BLOCK by Lester Malgas With much pomp and ceremony Prof Pamela Dube, DVC: Student Development and Support, launched the UWC Co-Curricular Record on 5 May 2016. Those present at the launch included the SRC, representatives of student clubs and societies, sporting codes and staff. So, with this large and diverse audience present, what is the Co-Curricular Record and what was all the fuss about? Who is this new kid on the block? T he Co-Curricular Record (CCR) provides students with an official transcript on a UWC letterhead of their involvement in learning and development activities outside the confines of the academic programme. The CCR will assist students when applying for bursaries and scholarships, and even entering the world of work as their involvement and participation will now be verified and validated by the University. The document will demonstrate to prospective employers and sponsors the students’ commitment to holistic learning and that they have developed appropriate attributes and skills. By way of example, we can look at the story of Sbu Mncwango, a UWC law student who graduated before the launch of the CCR. He worked as a Mentor, Tutor and Talk Show Host in Residence and Peer Facilitator during the Student Orientation Programme all which served to develop his ‘soft’ skills. Even though Sbu did not have the benefit of presenting his cocurricular efforts on an official transcript his case is instructive. On the other hand, Vuyo Dlamini, a third year Science student, is a passionate and devoted athlete. He won a gold medal in the 400 metres at the University Sport S.A. tournament in 2014 and World Student Games in 2015. He also participated in the UWC Peer Mentoring Programme. After extensive consultation with Careers Service about his job search documents, he is now applying for an internship. Vuyo’s application together with his CCR will give him a competitive advantage over other applicants. At the launch, both Profs. Vivienne Lawack (DVC: Academic), and Pamela Dube noted that UWC is one of only five universities in the country that provide students with a Co-Curricular Record. Currently, only campus-based programmes and projects are recognised, alongside other meritorious and academic achievements. As the initiative grows, the University >> THE CCR WILL DEMONSTRATE TO PROSPECTIVE EMPLOYERS AND SPONSORS THE STUDENTS’ COMMITMENT TO HOLISTIC LEARNING AND THAT THEY HAVE DEVELOPED APPROPRIATE ATTRIBUTES AND SKILLS. | UNIVERSITY OF THE WESTERN CAPE | CAREER UPDATE 2016 | 5 CO - CURRICULAR RECORD will open the platform to further areas of student development and involvement. The SRC Deputy President, Lukhanyiso Matebese, warned students of the competitive nature of the job market in current times. “Academic success is not enough”, she said, listing “team-building, leadership, analytical thinking and emotional intelligence” as skills sought after by employers. “The organisations out there”, she continued, “want graduates who are proactive”. And she’s right. According to the Employer Survey conducted by the South African Graduate Employers Association, the average number of applications per vacancy in 2015 was 58. It is now, more than ever, crucial to have something that will set you apart from the other graduates who also want that position. The following table reflects some of the skills sought by graduate employers which could be developed through co-curricular activities and reflected in your CCR (The SAGEA Employer Survey 2014). These skills can be grouped into the following categories: You might be wondering how to apply for your Co-Curricular Record. Well, it’s simple. Vuyo regularly updates his Co-Curricular record by: • clicking on the ‘STUDENTS’ tab of the UWC website; • clicking on the blue STUDENT DEVELOPMENT icon; • clicking on the CO-CURRICULAR tab to proceed with his application. receive an acknowledgement via his myuwc email. After the application has been verified and validated, the status would change to either “Approved” or “Declined”. His transcript will eventually look like the example below. Once the application had been successfully submitted, he will SELF-RELIANCE SKILLS PEOPLE SKILLS GENERAL SKILLS Self-awareness Team working Problem solving Proactivity Interpersonal Flexibility Willingness to learn Oral communication Business acumen Self-promotion Leadership IT / computer literacy Networking Customer orientation Numeracy Planning action Foreign languages Commitment SAMPLE OF ACTUAL CCR 6 | UNIVERSITY OF THE WESTERN CAPE | CAREER UPDATE 2016 | SUBTITLE 8 | UNIVERSITY OF THE WESTERN CAPE | CAREER UPDATE 2016 | FIRST JOB AND JOURNEY GRADUATE TRAINEE… Hello? Career Update catches up with our 2015 OSD Intern, Lauren Franke, to focus on her journey from student intern to landing her first job, her experiences as a TFG (The Foschini Group) Graduate Trainee and some tips for applying to the fashion industry. I f you considered applying for a position within the fashion industry, I am here to convince you that it is ‘defs’ a must! My journey to TFG My journey to securing my very first job was catalysed in the UWC Office for Student Development. When a student did not pitch for the TFG Mock Interview, I was afforded the opportunity to participate. I sat down with the Markham HR Manager: Operations and an Engineering Manager and handed them my “five drafts, five days later” CV. I was glad this was previously reviewed by the Careers Service staff. We chatted about my strengths, development areas, why HR was my career choice and importantly, why I would like to work for TFG - all pleasant and relaxed. I got a call two weeks later requesting my personal documentation and academic transcript. I was invited to an interview with Recruitment Consultants in July 2015. Thereafter, I completed psychometric assessments and attended my second interview with Head of HR: Operations and OD and Head of HR: Foschini – phew, that was a tough one! In August I attended my third interview with Head of HR: Exact & The FIX, Head of HR: Markham and the Markham HR Manager: Operations. My beautiful interviewers convinced me to take a picture with them. After two weeks I received an offer to be a HR Trainee within The FIX (formerly known as Fashion Express) and Exact Brands – deal done! Tip Get your CV reviewed by Careers Service and participate in the Mock Interview Project. Enter the Graduate Trainee On 18 January 2016 I reported for the jam-packed TFG Grad Induction Week. As trainees we introduced ourselves to the other grads and coaches (easily more than 90 By Lauren Franke people). The training included a three day World of Work workshop; a competitive, nail biting, heartpumping Amazing Race and a tea with the CEO, Doug Murray. Thereafter I visited stores across The FIX, Exact and Soda Bloc brands and met with Head Office staff to gain a greater understanding of the business, the alignment of my role and to network. I attended a presentation skills training (at TFG we present a lot) and Employee Relations (ER) training. During our visit to the Tygerberg Distribution Centre we learnt about the distribution process. We also visited TFG Corporate Social Investment initiatives, the ‘Learn to Earn Centre’ and the ‘Feel Good Store’ in Khayelitsha. March was super busy. All trainees participated in the Annual Graduate Showcase where groups, according to discipline, presented to colleagues on a predetermined ‘real’ TFG project. Our group presented on a Leading Change Strategy and Plan. Fashion Express officially launched as The FIX, with a prestigious night event held at the >> | UNIVERSITY OF THE WESTERN CAPE | CAREER UPDATE 2016 | 9 FIRST JOB AND JOURNEY revamped Canal Walk store which included a rocking DJ, blogging queens, cocktails, sweets and snacks galore, all surrounded by the hottest new merchandise. At the end of March, I spent two days at the Oudewerf Hotel in Stellenbosch brainstorming our divisional HR objectives and strategy for the year with the Exact, The FIX and Soda Bloc HR Team. In April, I accompanied the Graduate Recruitment Team to a Showcase at UCT and Careers Xpo at UWC. I marketed TFG and my Brands, and provided insight into HR and the details of applying. I modelled for The FIX Social Media pages (Like us on Facebook & © 01 ©20 0 5 Bl B oo oom o omb om mberg m r L.P. Alll rig r hts rese reserved rved. 613 397 971 9 97 7 963 63 08 63 081 0 81 815 8 WHAT WE Insta!) and the new TFG Careers Website (https://www.tfgcareers. co.za/) - check it out. More recently, I had the opportunity to attend the three day FIX Breakaway in Pretoria where Melissa Davids (HR Trainee) and I presented ‘Miss Gen Y’s Customer Experience’ to the Management and Field Team as well as Top Store Managers. For the past month I am participating in ‘Thrive’ aimed at personal and professional growth. On a daily basis I am involved in general HR including booking of training, assisting with ER queries and recruiting of store staff as well as other commitments including the Marketing brainstorming sessions and special projects. Time flies when you’re having fun! Learning, development and exposure is big at TFG and yes, TFG is FUN! Tips for applying to TFG or the Fashion Industry • Sort out CV and Letter of Motivation early • Participate in the Mock Interview Project • Research the company thoroughly: brands, CSI initiatives, divisions, career roles and social media presence • Enhance your interpersonal, communication, listening & presentation skills • Grab every learning opportunity • Dress the Brand. COMMUNICATE HELPS O NIO OPI ONS S DELIVER FUELS CULTURES CALCULATE CREATE LIFTS WEALTH GEN ENERA EN E TE EXPLORES DECISIONS DESCRIBE IMPROVES MOTIVATES T PO OSSIBILITIE ES IN ERP INT ER R PRET RP RET RE T ENGAGE ENG AGES S OPI OPI OP PIN NIO IO ON NS S IM IMP MP PLEM LEMENT EN ENT INFLUE INF IN NFLUE U NCES NCE ES CU CUL C U LTUR UL TU TU UR RES ES REP RE EP E P ORT ORT OR ADV AD DVANC ANC ANC C ES S CA CAR C ARE AR EER EE ERS ER DEVE DEV ELO ELO ELOP OP DRI DRI R IVE VES VES S OPP O OP PP P PO OR ORT RT R TUN UNI U NIITIE N TIIES ES FIG FIG IGURE UR RE E OUT OUT OU SHIF SHI SH HIF HI FT FTS TS TS IDE IID DE AS DE AS DEC DE EC E C OD OD ODE DE E MAX M MA AX A XIM IM IMI MIZE ZES ES S TEC TE EC E CHNO C HNO NO OL LOG O Y OG FO F FOC OC OC US US ON ON P PRO PR MOT MO OTES OT ES IIND IN ND N DUS UST U STRIES S RI THI T TH H HIIIN NK N K EN ENH E NH N HAN AN ANC NC C ES ES LEA LE L EA E ADE DER D ER E RS ENV NVIRONMENTS bloomberg.com/careers /bloombergcareers 10 | UNIVERSITY OF THE WESTERN CAPE | CAREER UPDATE 2016 | #MNCWANGO2 THE NEXT CHAPTER IN A TALE OF DETERMINATION Back in 2007, Career Update featured the inspirational and against-all-odds rise to success of Siboniso “Sbu” Mncwango, a then final year law student. F ollowing his recruitment by one of the biggest international law firms, Sbu did not forget where he came from. It was his advice and encouragement to his younger brother, Sithabiso, that gives rise to this chapter - an inspiring account of what can be achieved when one refuses to give up and harnesses your resources. The story of Sithabiso Mncwango is the next chapter in a demonstration of how tenacity and the power of education can spill over in positive benefits to the lives of those around you. WHEN THE GOING GETS TOUGH, TURN CHALLENGES INTO OPPORTUNITIES. by Lester Malgas The year was 2007. In an article penned by himself, Sbu Mncwango shared with the readership of Career Update, his story “of excitement at entering tertiary studies, academic progress, feelings of hopelessness, determination to be assisted financially,” culminating in, what he most deservedly referred to as “my moment of glory.” The article was titled, “When the going gets tough, turn challenges into opportunities”. In it, Sbu relates how his Mother, a single parent, was not coping financially and that even completing high school was in doubt when he was a Grade 10 learner at King Zwelithini High School in Eshowe, KwaZulu-Natal in 2001. A UWC alumnus provided financial assistance for his registration to study Law at UWC. The story continues with his struggle to adjust to life far from home, times when he had no money for food or textbooks, and the various jobs he held as a student. “When I was told that Deneys Reitz (now Norton Rose Fulbright), one of the biggest international law firms, decided to offer me a scholarship”, he gushes, “I jumped for joy!” Reflecting in 2008 on a rich and challenging experience, Sbu >> | UNIVERSITY OF THE WESTERN CAPE | CAREER UPDATE 2016 | 11 THE NEXT CHAPTER “MY JOURNEY TO UWC HAS BEEN A VERY ROUGH ONE, BUT MOST OF ALL HAS BEEN A BLESSING, IN THAT IT CAME AT THE RIGHT TIME, WHEN I HAD LOST ALL HOPE ABOUT MY LIFE.” expresses his gratitude to his Mother who has since passed on, as well as to “the people at home who have assisted me. UWC has also lived up to its promise to open the doors of learning and not to exclude this financially needy but academically deserving student. I will make UWC proud one day.” Fast forward… eight years later we have come to the next episode. “Born and bred in Eshowe, KwaZulu Natal”, also a product of King Zwelithini High School and “the youngest of five siblings”, Career Update is proud to present #Mncwango2. Sithabiso Mncwango, Sbu’s younger brother, is currently a second year Pharmacy student at UWC. His story, however, is set to surpass 12 Sbu’s as he has overcome virtually insurmountable odds in order to take his place among those of us privileged as to obtain an education. “My journey to UWC has been a very rough one,” he says, “but most of all has been a blessing, in that it came at the right time when I had lost all hope about my life.” What makes Sithabiso’s story so incredible is that he has a severe visual impairment. But Sithabiso has scant regard about his disability. “I never thought that another person from my family will make it this far again.” Schooling was also a challenge. “I passed Grade 11 relying on my listening skills”, he says. “I was lucky to have a friend, Khanyisani, who would rewrite the mathematical problems large | UNIVERSITY OF THE WESTERN CAPE | CAREER UPDATE 2016 | enough for me to see.” True to form though, he gives credit where it is due, “but through people who care and never stop believing, I discovered my inner strength.” He acknowledges his brother, Sbu, who assisted him in applying to study here. Not that the application was a straightforward matter, as he points out that “my application was successful after the second time.” He speaks fondly of his first day at UWC and meeting staff members of the Office for Student Development “through my brother,” who he proudly extols as “the UWC law graduate of 2007. The staff warmly welcomed me.” Sithabiso’s go-getter attitude shone through when asked to deliver a speech at the welcoming of new students during Orientation. “Without hesitation I delivered my first speech in front of thousands of new first-year students.” Sithabiso’s orientation to life at UWC has been anything but unproblematic. “Being away from home,” he says, “really took me out of my comfort zone, realising that I have to live with new people and the challenge to do well in my studies made me nervous.” About his first few weeks here he says, “I remember that during Orientation I was sleeping at the CHC offices on campus, along with other students. Classes started and I was still sleeping at the CHC office. I was angry and cursing but I then looked back and realised that I had come too far to give up now. At that point I told myself that I am here to fight for my future. I wrote my first THE NEXT CHAPTER test under those circumstances and I aced it. This taught me that nothing can stop me. I sought help at the Financial Aid Office with my accommodation predicament, where Miss Nomaphelo Malamlela assisted me to finalise my bursary and entry into residence.” Sithabiso’s outlook exposes a strong philosophical, introspective and pragmatic bend. On the advice of Winston Middleton to maximise his use of campus resources, he registered with the Office for Students with Disabilities (OSwD), where he receives valuable support and assistance from Mrs Evadne Abrahams and her team. He has discovered that many students, able-bodied and otherwise, seem to disregard our campus resources such as the Office for Student Development and the Centre for Student Support Services (CSSS). In this regard he provides us with an affirming example, “I approached the Peer Mentoring Programme (PMP) and was assigned a mentor who helped me greatly in managing time and studies. The caring attitude of support staff has motivated me to do my best in my studies and not to disappoint anyone.” As a second year Pharmacy student, Sithabiso has ‘graduated’ to become a Mentor in the PMP office. Sithabiso realises that “his journey is not over. More challenges and blessings are yet to come.” He reiterates that his experience at UWC has taught him so much about survival and drawing on his inner strength. He is confident that he will pass all his modules and become a role model. His parting words are: “Don’t ever let the present determine your future; never give up on your dreams; never forget where you come from and don’t be afraid to fail but be afraid of what you’ll lose if you fail.” This is reminiscent of big brother Sbu’s motivational message to all students back in 2007, one that continues to hold true today: “Never give up. Decide what you want in life; keep your eye on the end goal and, when challenges come, do not lose sight of the bigger picture.” 2+2=4 Hoooo . | UNIVERSITY OF THE WESTERN CAPE | CAREER UPDATE 2016 | 13 SUBTITLE 14 | UNIVERSITY OF THE WESTERN CAPE | CAREER UPDATE 2016 | THUTHUKA PROGRAMME MAKING A DIFFERENCE THUTHUKA PROGRAMME by Lester Malgas We are often reminded about the skills shortage in our country. Our balance sheet points to a serious shortfall in Maths, Science, Technology and notably, the focal point of this article, Accounting. A ccording to a recent Media24 report, Karin Iten, a Project Manager for Marketing at the South African Institute of Chartered Accountants (SAICA) said, “The latest Talent Shortage Survey for South Africa shows that accounting and finance staff are among the top 10 positions that employers in South Africa are having difficulty filling”. All is not doom and gloom. SAICA, through the Thuthuka Programme, is providing capital injection as an up-tempo counterpoint to the customary weeping, wailing and gnashing of teeth. Thuthuka (which means ‘to develop’ in Zulu) is a national programme established by SAICA that seeks to address the skills shortage in accounting through a variety of interventions. These include identifying promising learners at high school and offering them Maths and Science Development Camps, hosting an annual Accounting Olympiad and offering bursaries for tertiary studies. In this way, the Thuthuka Programme seeks “to transform the demographics of the profession to reflect those of the country in terms of race and gender, and provide educational support to Black learners and students”. Since the inception of the Pilot Thuthuka Programme (PTP) in 2009 at UWC, the first group of CA (SA) Trainee Accountants have qualified. Over the past two years our Thuthuka graduates made up the bulk of the academic trainees and assistant lecturers in the Accounting department. Students receive a full cost bursary for their undergraduate studies and Post Graduate Diploma in Accounting. They also benefit from additional tutorial support, mentorship as well as teambuilding and work readiness workshops. Students report that these workshops are improving their understanding of the coursework and themselves, and develop their work readiness skills. Kwanele Hlope, a third year Accounting student, provides feedback on the value of the support given to Thuthuka students. This has helped him with his personal growth and development beyond the realm of academics. The caring and supportive role of Ms Charmaine Trueman, Student Co-ordinator of the PTP, has changed my life. We are given an opportunity to mentor and tutor junior Thuthuka students. Monde Bhengu, a third year Accounting student, speaks fondly of the role Mrs Trueman plays in >> | UNIVERSITY OF THE WESTERN CAPE | CAREER UPDATE 2016 | 15 SUBTITLE YOUR ROADMAP TO BECOMING A • Face to face (lectures, tutorials, etc.) UNDER (MINIMUM 4 YEARS) ACADEMIC REQUIREMENTS F U LL T I M E/R E S I D E N T I AL • Various universities * GRADUATE • Usually 3 years, but 4 year extended programmes offered at some universities • Face to face (lectures, tutorials, etc.) POST Delivery: Offered by: Time to complete: Delivery: • Various universities * GRADUATE Offered by: “CTA” • Usually over 1 year * Make sure the degree you are registered for is a SAICA accredited programme BRIDGING OR CO NVE R S I O N CO U R S E D I S TAN CE LE AR N I N G Time to complete: • Limited face to face contact, alternative delivery channels (MyUnisa) • Limited face to face contact, or alternative delivery channels • Unisa * • Various universities * • Rare to complete in 3 years, varies depending on number of subjects taken and passed each year • Usually over 1 year CO NVE R S I O N • Limited face to face contact, alternative delivery channels (MyUnisa) If you have a non-accounting related degree (eg. music, engineering) • Unisa * • Over 1 or 2 years (check Unisa website for entrance criteria) BRIDGING If you have completed an accounting related degree that’s not SAICA-accredited ENTRY REQUIREMENTS: SAICA accredited postgraduate programme (CTA) WRITTEN: January and June each year FORMAT: 4 papers 100 marks each, 3 hours, including a ½ hour reading time per paper Delivery: (MINIMUM 3 YEARS) I N I T I AL T E S T O F COM PE T E N CE (I TC) PROFESSIONAL REQUIREMENTS GO = ITC AND PROFESSIONAL REQUIREMENTS PROFESSIONAL PROGRAMME Offered by: Time to complete: TRAINING CONTRACT • Face to face & alternative delivery methods (eg. electronic learning platform) • University of Cape Town and Accounting Professional Training ASSESSMENT OF PRO F E S S I O NAL COM PE T E N CE (APC) ENTRY REQUIREMENTS: • Usually over 7 months (April – October), done during training contract period (after hours) Passed ITC; completed the professional programme; & completed a minimum of 20 months of the training contract WRITTEN: ENTRY REQUIREMENTS: November each year • Matric (training contract will be 5 years) • Non-accredited degree (training contract will be 4 years) • Accredited degree or CTA (training contract will be 3 years) FORMAT: TRAINING ENVIRONMENT CHOOSE BETWEEN: • Public practice DXGLWÀUPV • Public sector (e.g. AGSA, SARS, Eskom) • Commerce & Industry (e.g. Absa Bank, Shoprite) Competence based multi-disciplinary case study with certain information pre-released, written over 8 hours. Writing using a computer to be introduced in 2016. G O = CA(SA) Must register with SAICA once all above eligibility requirements have been met in order to use the CA (SA) designation. CA in my pocket www.nowiCAn.co.za www.nowiCAn.mobi 16 For more info visit : www.saica.co.za/LearnerStudents | UNIVERSITY OF THE WESTERN CAPE | CAREER UPDATE 2016 | THUTHUKA PROGRAMME 45% OF THE STUDENTS ON THE DEAN’S MERIT AWARD LIST FOR 2015 WERE PTP STUDENTS “unlocking the leader within me”. After entrusting him with a tutorial class, he developed confidence in public speaking and enhanced his leadership experience. On a continuous basis, PTP offers oneon-one sessions where personal or academic problems experienced are discussed and a plan of action is implemented. This encourages its students to stay motivated and cope with the demands of the Accounting degree and student life in general. The benefits for our Thuthuka students are evident. As a reflection of their academic performance, 45% of the students on the Dean’s Merit Award list for 2015 were PTP students. PTP students who won awards for 2015 VERNON HANSLO • Top Financial Accounting third year student • Top Taxation third year student • Top third year B Com Accounting student • The Most Versatile B Com Accounting student • Top Overall B Com Accounting student Mr Hanslo also graduated with a Summa Cum Laude NOMVELO NCENGWA • Top Auditing third year student MONDE BHENGU • Top Management Accounting second year student | UNIVERSITY OF THE WESTERN CAPE | CAREER UPDATE 2016 | 17 THUTHUKA PROGRAMME KIRSTEN WOODMAN • Top Financial Accounting second year student • Top Auditing second year student • Top second year B Com Accounting student BANGWANI MAPHOPHE • Top Financial Accounting first year student • Top first year B Com Accounting student PHUMZILE LUWI • Top Business Ethics second year student Career Update interviewed one of the most celebrated PTP students, Vernon Hanslo. He bagged five awards and graduated with Summa Cum Laude. He modestly stated that “Accounting is not the easiest degree to study. I have been told on many occasions that I would have had to fully live my life before I began studying this degree. However, my passion and enjoyment for the subject and the support of my lecturers 18 and Charmaine Trueman, helped me to achieve these accolades.” Bangwani Maphophe, a second year Accounting student, shared his elation after the release of the Matric results. Both he and his twin brother planned on pursuing tertiary studies. However, the concern was how their parents would source funding for both of them. The offer of the Thuthuka Bursary brought hope and an opportunity to realise his dream. | UNIVERSITY OF THE WESTERN CAPE | CAREER UPDATE 2016 | The PTP is not, however, consumed with ‘bean counting’. The Thuthuka Charity Drive is held during every semester whereby our students give back to the community. One of the beneficiaries is the Unakho Children’s Home in Gugulethu. PTP is available and active on social media: UWC Pilot Thuthuka @uwc_thuthuka SUBTITLE Say it was you Imagine being part of something so big it changed the world. That it changed the people in it, the trees, the air and the water. That it made people and the elements smile with a renewed, sustainable energy. Join SA’s No.1 Top Employer and accelerate your career. With access to world-class training and professional development; exposure to senior mentors and coaches; as well as opportunities to travel internationally - Unilever provides you with the head-start for your career that will allow you to achieve your ambitions. Take a stand and lead the way. Say it was you that joined the Unilever Future Leaders Programme. Visit our website and like us on Facebook for more information on the Unilever Future Leaders Graduate and Internship Programmes. • • • Unilever Careers South Africa www.unilever.co.za/careers World-class expert mentorship and support International opportunities Permanent employment from outset | UNIVERSITY OF THE WESTERN CAPE | CAREER UPDATE 2016 | 19 SUBTITLE 20 | UNIVERSITY OF THE WESTERN CAPE | CAREER UPDATE 2016 | CAREER SERVICE MANAGEMENT TOOL SYMPLI… Fantastic By Winston Middleton The Office for Student Development (OSD) has identified the need for a career service management tool. This tool will enrich the Student Experience by providing them with a meaningful and stimulating job search process. At the same time it will enhance UWC’s brand and provide an additional mode of engagement using information technology. S ince 2013 UWC features in the Top Seven for ‘Best Careers Service’ and ‘Best Careers Fair’ amongst universities in South Africa. The consequence of these rankings is that UWC has positioned itself as an institution of choice when employers search for graduate talent. Approval has been granted to purchase a Career Service Management (CSM) tool offered by Symplicity to assist with the effective and efficient provision of services. The tool can store and manage student and employer details, job vacancies, event management, job search resources, CV builder and mock interview exercises. 72% OF THE WORLD’S 50 TOP-RANKED UNIVERSITIES USE SYMPLICITY. What’s in it for OSD? • Effective and efficient service to students and recruiters • Quick report generation • Organised events calendar • Manage updates and notifications. … for Recruiters? • An efficient and paperless interaction • Enhance the current manual event booking process. … for Students? • Electronic notification of career events • Receiving job opportunities in real time • Connecting to prospective employers world wide • Building their CV and Letter of Motivation • Online Mock Interview exercise • Live chat with Careers Service staff • Mobile friendly and available for Android, IOS and Windows mobile devices. 98% OF CAREER SERVICES OFFICES HAVE AN ONLINE POSTING SYSTEM. In this way our Office will ensure that UWC remains a place of quality and a place to grow. WATCH THIS SPACE! CAREERS SERVICE https://www.uwc.ac.za/Students/Career-Services | UNIVERSITY OF THE WESTERN CAPE | CAREER UPDATE 2016 | 21 SUBTITLE WALL O What sets MANY OF OUR GRADUATES are making their mark in the world of work. that set them apart from other students. We share their “beyond the CODLIN SCHIPPERS CONAL DA COSTA LLB, 2015 Graduate Trainee at FNB – Industry, Compliance and Fraud B Sc Comp Sci, 2015 Solutions Architect, Kurtosys Systems I am learning much from different people and about myself, and involved in major decisions. Take advice and constructive criticism from others. As a student be involved in co-curricular activities and vacation programmes while maintaining good academic grades. RYAN SCHIPPERS B Com IS, 2015 Graduate Trainee Systems Analyst, FNB/ RMB Forex Your marks get you an interview while your character gets you the job offer. Employers are looking for well-rounded graduates. Be ready to discover that your education has not ended as you have access to amazing, experienced people. Become the best, by learning from the best. 22 | UNIVERSITY OF THE WESTERN CAPE | CAREER UPDATE 2016 | I was identified through my LinkedIn profile by Stephen Fleming of Kurtosys. My participation in co-curricular activities greatly assisted my personal and academic growth. Most company internships paid little but those intelligent people taught me much. NICOLE ISAACS MA Linguistics, 2015 Alumni Relations Intern, UCT Graduate School of Business As an undergrad, I actively sought work experience opportunities as I knew that the job search would be tough. I attended Careers Xpos and Job Search Skills training organised by OSD. I received valuable feedback about my job search documents and how to succeed with job interviews. F FAME SUBTITLE them apart? Career Update tracked them to find out what they did during their job search box” and extra-ordinary efforts that gave them an edge over their peers. NOZUKO HLWATIKA SIPHOKAZI MZONGWANA B Admin, 2015 National Liaison Programme Intern, Academy of Science of South Africa B Com, 2015 Human Resource Management Graduate, Oceana Group During my final year I responded immediately to job and internship adverts. After many job applications I was interviewed by ASSA. I prepared thoroughly on possible questions and had insightful questions to ask. This indicated my interest and desire to learn. I worked as a waitress at Spur (where I formed many networks) and at the TFG call centre. I responded to vacancies on the job search engines where I made contact with the Oceana Group. Do not limit your job search to one field. CORIN GOLIATH B Com, 2015 Intern: Strategic Information Governance and People Management, Western Cape Education Department Don’t lose hope on receiving many regrets. I did a thorough company research and knew the requirements of the post. My confidence at interviews pulled me through. I am a step closer to my career goal. DAIYAAN SALIE BSc Mathematical & Statistical Sciences, 2015 Graduate Trainee Analyst, FNB Every day is a new learning experience. At work don’t worry about not being able to do it all; be open to training and suggestions by colleagues and mentors; do not be afraid to ask questions. | UNIVERSITY OF THE WESTERN CAPE | CAREER UPDATE 2016 | 23 PSYCHOMETRIC TESTS DON’T GO PSYCHO OVER Psychometric Tests As a student preparing for the job search, you will most likely be requested to complete a psychometric test during the candidate selection process. Students are often anxious about the questions and how to prepare for it. This article provides insight into psychometric tests, why employers use it and how to approach the test. by Arlene Josephs What are Psychometric Tests? • Systematic and scientific activities to measure competencies, skills, knowledge, abilities, personality, attitudes and learning potential. • Assessment Day exercises are based on human interaction assessments. • Most psychometric tests are conducted online. Why do employers make use of psychometric testing? Companies receive hundreds of applications for graduate trainee programmes and need to select the best fit for particular roles. Recruiters value psychometric testing as it is a tool to compare candidates’ strengths and forms part of the total selection process either at the start or after the first screening interview. Common types of Psychometric Tests Aptitude or ability tests determine your capability to execute or carry out different tasks. Mental reasoning 24 | UNIVERSITY OF THE WESTERN CAPE | CAREER UPDATE 2016 | 1990 Type of University Unemployed are no ‘right’ or ‘wrong’ answers. Therefore, you should avoid faking your answers or assuming what the employer wants to see. 2000 Employed Unemployed Employed Private 155 1475 125 1350 Tips on preparing for Psychometric Tests State 125 1610 150 1610 • Inquire about the type of tests to be administered. • Revisit the job advertisement and think about what skills and attributes the employer is looking for. • Ensure that you have all the necessary tools to complete the test (e.g. a calculator, paper and pen). • Get a good night’s rest in order to be alert. • Arrive early at the venue. • Read the instructions before starting. • Work speedily and accurately. • Avoid spending too much time on one question. If you get stuck, move on. • Have a watch to keep track of time. • You may be given a few practice questions to complete before the test starts. If you don’t understand how the test works, ask the instructor to clear any uncertainties. • Stay focused and energised. • Go back and check your answers if you have spare time. • Don’t stress about not completing the test. • Do your best! Not doing well does not make you less intelligent. If you do not get this job there will be others. Learn from your mistakes and continue to improve yourself. 1. How many more employed were there in 1990 than in 2000? A. B. C. D. E. 75 360 485 100 135 FIGURE 1: EXAMPLE OF A NUMERICAL REASONING TEST QUESTION is the most commonly used aptitude test and is most likely to be measured (Recruitment Guide, University of Johannesburg, 2013): • Numerical tests – involves the assessment of how well you interpret data, graphs, charts or statistics • Verbal reasoning tests – this test measures your understanding of written information and how you evaluate arguments and statements • Non-verbal reasoning tests – assess how well you follow visual information or spot patterns • Logical reasoning tests – measure how well you follow through to a conclusion given basic information or using your current knowledge or experience • Abstract or spatial reasoning tests – determines the ability to recognise patterns • Information checking tests – evaluates your ability to pick up errors and attention to detail • Intelligence Quotient (IQ) – measures your overall ability to study and master new tasks. These tests are usually timed whereby you are instructed to select the correct answer from a range of choices. “Employers prefer to measure the numerical and verbal reasoning skills and, where necessary, add abstract reasoning or information checking” (2013: Recruitment Guide, University of Johannesburg, p.57). Focus on correctly answering as many questions as quickly as possible. Personality tests measure your personality traits, emotional tendencies, how you relate to others or your way of approaching and solving a problem. The tests determine how likely you will fit into the particular role and organisation. Some personality tests may measure factors such as conflict management, emotional intelligence, communication style, leadership style, etc. Employers look for people with certain characteristics for particular jobs. The layout of the tests is generally presented in a series of questions where you are required to select your preference. There Opinion from a Grad Career Update spoke to Michael Jones, a final year Finance student who shared his experiences about psychometric tests. “My first encounter was not what I expected. >> | UNIVERSITY OF THE WESTERN CAPE | CAREER UPDATE 2016 | 25 SUBTITLE 26 | UNIVERSITY OF THE WESTERN CAPE | CAREER UPDATE 2016 | PSYCHOMETRIC TESTS Exactly like me Generally like me A little like me Not at all like me SELF-REPORT QUESTIONNAIRE I choose work which doesn’t require an eye for detail I give other people guidance and assistance with the completion of their tasks When I encounter difficulties I press on until I master the task I try to establish a more personal relationship with work colleagues I often run out of ideas during a brainstorming session I quickly notice the weakness of a strategy Even under pressure I am able to use my abilities to the full It is not difficult for me to make a quick decision It bothers me if my job requirements change continuously Usually I undertake the coordination of the team I was told that I would have to complete three tests online based on Personality, Numerical and Verbal Reasoning. As a Finance student, I thought that I would score high on the Numerical test.” pdf/beginners-guide-psychometric-testjobtestprep.pdf • https://www.jobtestprep.co.uk/images/freepdf/free-psychometric-test-questions-only.pdf • https://www.assessmentday.co.uk/ A TYPICAL SELECTION PROCESS THAT INVOLVES PSYCHOMETRIC TESTS (EMPLOYER: KPMG) aptitudetests_numerical.htm http://www.psychometric-success.com/ Michael reported the following lessons: • Don’t overestimate your ability especially if the test is in your field of study • Do practice tests beforehand (listed below). downloads/download-practice-tests.htm Online practice tests: • https://www.cebglobal.com/shldirect/en/ practice-tests • http://www.criterion.co.uk/verbal-reasoningtest-example-questions/ • https://www.cebglobal.com/shl/assets/ Best-Practice-Guidelines-Management-ofPsychometric-Tests.pdf • https://www.jobtestprep.co.uk/images/free- RIGHT SKILLS ATTITUDE FOR THE ROLE SOURCE: https://www.jobtestprep.co.uk/what-is-a-psychometric-test | UNIVERSITY OF THE WESTERN CAPE | CAREER UPDATE 2016 | 27 SUBTITLE 28 | UNIVERSITY OF THE WESTERN CAPE | CAREER UPDATE 2016 | BREAKING NEW GROUND BEYOND AND DESPITE ARTICLES Many law students think of serving articles as the most lucrative career option after graduation. This article wishes to dispel this myth and point out the avenues beyond and despite serving articles. T he norm of only pursing articles upon attaining their degree and staying at a law firm might not be a suitable path for all law graduates given the diverse opportunities that are becoming available. Following this norm uncritically restricts graduates’ professional potential to encounter and attain career success and fulfillment. The decision to do articles is a personal question and must be thoroughly interrogated before embarking on this journey. Students are encouraged to do vacation work at law firms and speak to candidate attorneys about their experiences. Law graduates work in a variety of settings including attorneys in law firms and Legal Aid South Africa; National Prosecuting Authority as prosecutors and magistrates; as judges, chief justices and judge presidents for the Department of Justice and Constitutional Development; City of Cape Town; financial and insurance institutions as compliance officers or legal advisors; in the Bar as advocates; South African Revenue Service; tertiary institutions; corporate companies; state owned enterprises like Eskom; researchers at the Legal Resources Centre; South African Police Services; SA National Defence Force; consultants, researchers, conveyancers, entrepreneurs, commissioners for organisations such as the United Nations and many of others. The possibilities are unlimited! Career Update spoke to law graduates who have followed different paths to realise their dream. Prof. Bernard Martin, Dean of the Faculty of Law at UWC, started law articles in 1981 but soon realised that an academic career would be a better fit. After short stints as a Legal Advisor at Old Mutual and Afrikaans Teacher at high school, he grabbed the opportunity in 1983 to be a Tutor and later on a Junior Lecturer in law at UCT. His personal brand and networks as a law student influenced his subsequent applications as a law lecturer to the University of Venda and University of Fort Hare. His networking at conferences opened the door in 1988 at UWC as a Senior Lecturer. After rising through the ranks over the last two decades, today he is By Busisiwe Mathonsi and Winston Middleton the Dean of the Faculty of Law. His specialty is Intellectual Property Rights and Indigenous Knowledge. Prof. Martin reflects that “pursuing articles might not be the forte’ of all law graduates and advises students to broaden their horizons after and despite articles. A career in academia is an excellent option for those who have a passion for teaching, reading, writing and research”. It is not essential for law academics to have followed the articlesattorney-advocate route but rather a strong academic track record is essential with a good co-curricular performance in order to teach and relate especially to young people. He continues, “Our Graduate Lecturing Assistant programme provides an effective launching platform for future academics”. Mr. Shervaan Rajie, a former Partner at Cliffe Dekker Hofmeyr, completed articles and then practised for several years before becoming the Director of Legal Services at UWC. The prospect of a better work-life balance, among other, influenced his decision to leave the fast pace, highly demanding environment of a >> | UNIVERSITY OF THE WESTERN CAPE | CAREER UPDATE 2016 | 29 BREAKING NEW GROUND Contract Administrator for the Walt Disney Company, Head of Melomed Group, Legal Counsel at Cipla Medpro, Legal Risk Officer at Standard Bank Namibia, Business Compliance Manager for Global Markets at Standard Bank Group, Corporate Secretarial Services, Parliamentary researchers, Constitutional Court Researchers, and many more. legal firm. His current duties include that of advising the University on all legal matters and managing compliance, contracts, litigation and student discipline. Mr. Rajie strongly advises students to “develop networks within and beyond their field of study, and to expend some energy into co-curricular activities. In this way critical work related skills would be developed that will give them a competitive advantage during their job search and they will be exposed to other career opportunities which they initially might not have thought about”. The good examples do not end with our Dean and Director. Law graduates of UWC are working in diverse companies and organisations. These include ADVOCATE SUMAIYA DE’ MAR. PICTURE CREDIT: EBEN PHOTOGRAPHY A ‘breaking new ground’ example of carving out a career in a niche area which marries passion and a legal qualification is Advocate Sumaiya De’ Mar. From a young age she was fascinated by fashion in magazines and films and decided to work in this industry. The choice of studying law came naturally to her as law runs in her family. After completing LEARN PARTI PA CI V A NCE TE AD $ ÀUP WKDW·V EHHQ DURXQG IRU PRUH ANALYSE WKDQ D KXQGUHG \HDUV XQGHUVWDQGV WKH YDOXH RI LQQRYDWLRQ FUHDWLYLW\ DQG QHZ ZD\V RI WKLQNLQJ 2XU &RPPHUFLDO &RQYH\DQFLQJ /LWLJDWLRQ DQG ,QWHOOHFWXDO 3URSHUW\ STRATEGISE SUDFWLFHV FRXOG EHQHÀW IURP \RXU XQLTXHSHUVSHFWLYHRQWRGD\·VZRUOG Apply now. Our growing law practice would suit you. COLLABORATE FOR MORE INFORMATION, CONTACT US ON GRADrecruitment @ adamsadams.com or VISIT adamsadamsGRADrecruitment.com 30 | UNIVERSITY OF THE WESTERN CAPE | CAREER UPDATE 2016 | BREAKING NEW GROUND her law degree at UNISA, her love of fashion led to her involvement in numerous projects within the fashion industry. From trend forecasting to fashion designing, styling to editing – through these roles she gained valuable insight, experiential knowledge and a holistic understanding of this trillion dollar industry. As Fashion Workshop Manager at the Cape Town Fashion Council she combined her degree with what has always fascinated her. Besides managing fashion workshops she drew up legal contracts for the Council’s projects and confidentiality agreements, and consulted with designers regarding intellectual property. Currently she is the Director of her legal consultancy, SA Fashion Law. Fashion law combines several legal disciplines but at the heart of it is intellectual property law which deals with copyright, trademarks, patents and branding development and protection; drafting and negotiating contracts; and consulting on design protection, licensing, sustainability and consumer protection issues. Her clients include artists, photographers, retail stores, manufacturers, modeling agencies, distributors, editors, public relations agencies, beauty companies and designers. It seems as if De’Mar is a life-long learner; still a student since her early days and this enriches her mind, keeps her motivated and helps her stay ahead of the game. These stories showcase law graduates who treaded the roads into and outside of law articles. The world is your oyster! References • Harris, M. (2016, February 14). Protecting ideas in the flighty world of fashion. Sunday Times-Careers. 2016, p.15. • http://www.linkedin.com/in/sumaiyade-mar-33a87599?authType=NAME SEARCH&authToken=fC52&locale=en_US&trk =tyah&trkInfo=clickedVertical%3Amynetwork %2CclickedEntityId%3A351505054%2CauthTy pe%3ANAME_SEARCH%2Cidx%3A1-1-1%2Cta rId%3A1466511223657%2Ctas%3Asumai • http://safashionlaw.co.za/ Q&A “The firm has a great collegial culture in that everyone is always eager to help, and whilst we are motivated to work hard, STBB encourages a balanced lifestyle and the social environment is fantastic. It has been an honour to serve my articles of clerkship at STBB and I have thoroughly enjoyed every aspect thus far.” - Lamees Daniels (Candidate Attorney) When is the opening date for applications for articles? We have accepted applications since 1 May 2015 for 2017, while we are also now accepting applications for 2018. When is the closing date for application for articles? 30 April 2017 Do you accept any late entries for application for articles? Interviews will be conducted during June 2017; therefore we cannot accept late applications for articles for 2018. What do you look for in a candidate attorney? An LLB qualification is compulsory, and any supporting subject combinations are acceptable. Previous experience / practical exposure to the legal industry via vacation work are essential. Involvement in community projects will also add value. Our successful candidates are team players (either in leadership roles or members of a team) who take ownership of their tasks. A combination of the mentioned elements plus a sound academic record will guarantee an interview. Why should a student apply to your firm? STBB has a structured rotation program whereby Candidate Attorneys receive exposure to 4 different legal areas during their 2-year contract of articles. We believe in teamwork and have an open door policy to encourage regular communication on all levels. We focus on training in order to develop competent and confident Candidate Attorneys. Where is the location of your office/offices? Western Cape: Our head office is in Cape Town, while we have 6 other branches in the Western Cape. Gauteng: We have 5 branches in Gauteng. Please refer to our website for more information regarding the location of these branches and the services we provide. Visit www.stbb.co.za What training do you offer candidate attorneys and what is your rotation during articles? We conduct monthly in-house courses on the different areas of law. We also encourage our Candidate Attorneys to attend external courses as advertised by the Cape Law Society, LSSA and other accredited training providers. What are your firm’s practicing fields and specialist areas? The majority of our business is linked to Property law (Conveyancing), while we also specialise in the following areas: Commercial Law Litigation Estates , Wills & Trusts Construction law Tax law Labour Law Family Law Personal Injury and Insurance Law This is how a candidate attorney describes their experience: “The learning experience is made less daunting as Directors adhere to an open door policy and the support structure is strong. The firm has a great collegial culture in that everyone is always eager to help, and whilst we are motivated to work hard, STBB encourages a balanced lifestyle and the social environment is fantastic. It has been an honour to serve my articles of clerkship at STBB and I have thoroughly enjoyed every aspect thus far.” - Lamees Daniels Candidate Attorney Any news at your firm or big current cases which you would like to mention? STBB is continuously involved in large projects. A recent achievement is where we successfully acted on behalf of an international contractor on a long term retainer basis in an arbitration relating to a wellknown marine quarrying and breakwater project in South Africa. Do you have a vacation program? Yes, we offer a vacation program twice per annum. The dates for this year are as follows: 4th until the 8th of July 2016 28th of November until the 2nd of December 2016 How should I submit an application for articles? Please visit our website at www.stbb.co.za to obtain details of our requirements for the application process. Required documents: Cover letter plus summarised CV Certified copy of ID Certified copies of academic transcripts Two dated written testimonials, not older than 6 months Code of Good Conduct from the university attended Who should I contact regarding further information? You are welcome to contact Marianne Marais (HR Manager) for further information: E-mail: [email protected] Tel: (021) 406 9100 Fax: (021) 419 6607 www.stbb.co.za These students visit the different courts, participate in a mock trial and attend presentations by our Attorneys on all the services we provide to clients. | UNIVERSITY OF THE WESTERN CAPE | CAREER UPDATE 2016 | 31 START-UP ENTREPRENEURS SPIRIT… of Entrepreneurship UWC GRADUATES WRITING THEIR OWN SCRIPT by Lester Malgas CONFIRMATION NOTICE OF NAME RESERVATION UWC graduates, Jean Le Fleur (23) and Sesethu Fikileni (24) have recently registered their own company, Le Fleur and Fikileni Environmental Consulting Enterprises (LAFEC), at the Companies and Intellectual Property Commission (CIPC). T hese entrepreneurs completed their Honours degree in Environmental and Water Sciences at the University of the Western Cape in 2015. These budding Environmental Scientists reckon they are set to ‘box above their weight’ in the world of environmental consulting. If you hear of two young men in their early twenties starting their own company, you’d be forgiven for thinking that they are probably well off with a trust fund available to bankroll their business. Nothing, however, could be further from the truth. >> 32 | UNIVERSITY OF THE WESTERN CAPE | CAREER UPDATE 2016 | SUBTITLE Reason says: admire the difference. Instinct says: cherish the individual. At Grant Thornton, we recruit people with a passion for business, who combine reason and instinct to give the kind of advice that makes a real difference to the organisations they work with. They know it’s about more than just the numbers, it’s about enjoying tough challenges, seeking out opportunities and adding real value to our clients by unlocking their potential for growth. www.gt.co.za © 2015 Grant Thornton South Africa. All rights reserved. Grant Thornton South Africa is a member firm of Grant Thornton International Ltd (‘Grant Thornton International’). | UNIVERSITY OF THE WESTERN CAPE | CAREER UPDATE 2016 | 33 START-UP ENTREPRENEURS Le Fleur, whose studies were funded by a mix of the ROSE Foundation and bursaries from his academic department on campus, resides in Factreton with his parents (who are unemployed) and his elder sister and niece. Fikileni, who relied on NSFAS for the opportunity to study, is staying with two of his brothers in a one-room shack in Makhaza in Khayelitsha. He shares, “I grew up in a family of 17 members - my Father, Mother, Grandmother, siblings and cousins. I am the third son of eight children.” His father, the sole breadwinner, is a garden worker at an old-age home. “I am a first generation university student”, says Fikileni, “and that raised a hope in my parents as they believed that, after I graduated, I will get a job and assist financially at home”. Le Fleur, likewise, is feeling the pressure to succeed. “My community is looking up to me as a model citizen (to be respected and admired) for my diligence, hard work and education”, he explains. He continues, “to be discovered as unemployed like many in the community and the fear of disappointing them weighs heavily on me. I desire to help my parents financially since I am a first generation post-graduate student”. Beyond the financial and family pressures, there are other reasons why they decided to start their own company. Both Fikileni and Le Fleur cite the barriers to formal employment, including the fact that, for the positions that they are otherwise qualified, between two to three years of experience is sought both in the private and public sectors. They also point to the 34 high graduate underemployment and, Fikileni says, “I didn’t want to be part of these stats.” Le Fleur also refers to many unemployed “graduates who have completed the same or similar degrees.” STAY HUNGRY. STAY FOOLISH. EXCERPT FROM STEVE JOBS’ 2005 STANFORD COMMENCEMENT ADDRESS. So how does one go about registering one’s own company? “It was quick, easy and efficient,” says Le Fleur. “At the Companies and Intellectual Property Commission (CIPC) in Cape Town we registered our details onto their database and paid the R175 registration fee. Approximately five days later we received an email with the relevant documents, company registration number, Memorandum of Incorporation and instruction as to the printing of these documents.” And so LAFEC Enterprises was born offering a variety of services: soil assessments, environmental impact assessments, environmental management, environmental education and awareness, conducting studies on soil stability, moisture retention or drainage, sustainability, assessing the impact of environmental hazards, geographical information system (GIS) as well as groundwater sampling and monitoring. Environmental consultancies are a dime a dozen. How will their company compete in the current marketplace? Do they have an edge over their competitors? “We are | UNIVERSITY OF THE WESTERN CAPE | CAREER UPDATE 2016 | young minds,” says Le Fleur, “quick thinkers and innovative producers. We are different to our competitors in that we are not overwhelmed by the pressures of success, but rather relieved by the idea that we have nothing to lose and everything to gain.” In deference to a famous quote by Steve Jobs, he asserts: “We are hungry, and we are foolish.” But what about their track record together? Young entrepreneurs should have some idea of the synergy they have with their chosen business partners. Le Fleur and Fikileni do have a considerable history of working together. Fikileni provides a brief summary of their background: “Jean and I have been working together since our first year at University. From back then we knew if we can continue working together we can achieve much. We started an organisation in 2013 with friends, where we were organising clean ups and raising awareness on environmental and socio-economic issues at university and in communities. It was a great experience to work with students and communities in Khayelitsha.” Le Fleur provides further detail. “Sesethu and I were part of a student organisation in 2014 called Young Environmental Africans. The organisation was based at UWC. As co-founders of the organisation, Sesethu and I served on their Executive as Treasurer and External Relations Officer, respectively. We engaged students in awareness surveys and campaigns on the socio-economic issues that result from the ignorant disposing of waste by littering and dumping. Students also participated in gardening and ploughing natural START-UP ENTREPRENEURS soils and planting natural seeds at one of the largest community gardens in Khayelitsha. This, in turn, taught youth about the value of nature and the importance of keeping nature undisturbed from human interference and the economic benefit. We hosted the Greener Grass Summit with speakers from Stellenbosch, China Africa Institute for Humanities and the Green Campus Initiative. The talk was centred on how the religious, economic, political and social aspects influence the environment and its holistic co-existence with human communities, as well as human thinking and behaviour toward nature and its consequences.” So there you have it. These young men seem to be all set. Their company is registered, they have a solid service offering and they have no illusions about the challenges that they face. Le Fleur reports that their “day-today challenges include social, household and financial. Daily financial challenges”, he adds, “include gathering funds to be able to make necessary business trips, printing, calls and so forth.” Neither of the two, however, appear to be daunted. On their readiness for the business world, Le Fleur is upbeat and buoyant. “If the business world required a maximum speed of 60 km per hour, I would gauge our readiness at 80 km per hour.” An inquiry on their likeliness to succeed meets with a steel-like intensity beyond their years: “I think we will succeed because we will not stop trying” Le Fleur quite succinctly sums it up. He continues, “Experience and Capital. Currently, Mr. Fikileni and I are in the process of drawing up a Business Plan, an indispensable tool for procuring the muchneeded capital for our venture.” To all the budding entrepreneurs out there, Fikileni and Le Fleur’s advice is uncompromising: “Focus and commit to one important and unique thing at a time, instead of focusing on too many things at one time. In other words, if you’re a start-up entrepreneur who wants to become a successful business owner, then leave everything else and do that, and don’t be AFRAID of failure.” | UNIVERSITY OF THE WESTERN CAPE | CAREER UPDATE 2016 | 35 SUBTITLE FIND YOUR WITH OLD MUTUAL GREATNESS KNOWS NO BOUNDARIES, FIND YOURS WITH THE NUMBER ONE TOP EMPLOYER IN FINANCIAL SERVICES AND INSURANCE FOR FIVE CONSECUTIVE YEARS. No. 1 Top Employer in Financial Services No. 1 Top Employer in Insurance No. 2 Top Employer South Africa Certified Top Employer in eight other African countries 170 years of experience has shown us that people excel in excellent environments. Our Top Employer Award is proof of this. Visit www.oldmutual.co.za and find your greatness. Old Mutual is a Licensed Financial Services Provider 36 | UNIVERSITY OF THE WESTERN CAPE | CAREER UPDATE 2016 | FCB10018922JB/E UP YOUR GAME! %HVW:RUN 5HDGLQHVV ,QLWLDWLYH 8QLYHUVLW\RIWKH :HVWHUQ&DSH VDJHD $:$5' BREAKING THE ICE THROUGH MOCK INTERVIEWS by Nazrana Parker and Natalie Marrion In 2012 recruiters reported that many of our students were not adequately prepared for their first job interview. The Office for Student Development then consulted with recruiters and students, and then devised the Mock Interview Project which has enabled students to up their game. A t the South African Graduate Employers Association Awards on 5 November 2015, the Office for Student Development (OSD) shared the award for “Best Employability / Work Readiness Initiative” with UCT. Our submission was our reviewed and restructured Mock Interview Project (MIP). In 2015 and 2016 our MIP yielded success in coaching students for this nerve-wrecking aspect of the job search. The job search is competitive among campus peers and nationally. The job interview is your chance to demonstrate your suitability for a post. What is a Mock Interview? A mock interview is a simulated job interview which will help you to: • discover and affirm what is expected; • improve your presentation at the real interview; • reduce your anxiety and boost your confidence; • receive constructive feedback in a low-stress environment, and • improve the quality of your application. Students need to address their application for a specific post or training programme at the company offering the mock interview and must thoroughly research the company. Each applicant must consult with OSD staff beforehand. After each interview feedback is provided by the interviewer and written feedback by OSD. By attending mock interviews students will realise the value of tailoring their job search strategy for each sector and prospective employer. In this way students can avoid mistakes and thus up their game as they seldom receive feedback about their performance at real interviews. MIP is growing Thank The MIP has grown since 2010. In 2016, YOU! eight companies offered their services, namely, Allan Gray, Auditor General of SA, Investec Asset Management, Kurtosys, TFG, Truworths, PWC and Webber Wentzel. >> MOCK INTERVIEW PROJECT YEAR NO OF RECRUITERS NO OF STUDENTS 2010 1 16 2011 3 53 2012 2 35 2013 2 28 2014 3 63 2015 5 91 2016 8 118 | UNIVERSITY OF THE WESTERN CAPE | CAREER UPDATE 2016 | 37 UP YOUR GAME! Feedback from students Feedback from Lecturer “I gained greater insight into job interviews as previously I did not market myself effectively. The interviewer boosted my confidence and gave me constructive feedback on my interview performance and job search documents.” “Thank you for arranging the mock interviews. Students have indicated that they benefit tremendously in that they are more confident of themselves and received constructive feedback on improving their shortfalls in answering questions. Many students also indicated that they received great interview tips which contribute to the success of their job search. As a mentor, I found that students are more responsive to interactive learning in my classroom and more confident in various forms of class participation since the implementation of the mock interview initiative. This initiative has successfully linked our students ASIVE KLAAS, B COM GEN III “The OSD staff provided initial feedback on improving the quality of my CV and letter of motivation. Then the interviewer gave me tips on improving my explanation regarding suitability for the post and the company fit. I give them 10/10.” LINDA MAVUME, B SC HONOURS POPULATION STUDIES with potential employers. Many of my top final year and Honours students have landed formal interviews and received job offers.” PROF HENG-HSING HSIEH, DEPUTY DEAN EMS FACULTY AND LECTURER AT THE SCHOOL OF BUSINESS AND FINANCE Recruiter value proposition The MIP offers: • Corporate Social Investment opportunities to contribute to student development • Brand awareness • Opportunity to market your graduate recruitment programme to students. Will you wait for the future to happen, or take a hand in shaping it? Whenever you join, however long you stay, the Exceptional EY experience lasts a lifetime. =p[]hlagfYd[Yj]]jkYj]g^l]f\]Ôf]\Zql`]ajZ]_affaf_k&:]_afqgmj[Yj]]joal`=QYf\qgmoadd _Yafl`][gfljY[lk$]ph]ja]f[]kYf\h]jkh][lan]kl`Yloadd\]Ôf]qgmj^mlmj]& Come in - join us. www.ey.com/za/careers [email protected] facebook.com/EYAfricaCareers 38 | UNIVERSITY OF THE WESTERN CAPE | CAREER UPDATE 2016 | %HVW 5HFUXLWPHQW 3URFHVV (< VDJHD $:$5' UP YOUR GAME! Students should remember that their performance (or lack thereof) at a mock interview does not jeopardise their chances at the real interview with the same company. We trust that more students will realise the value of preparing effectively for the job interview and utilise the opportunities OSD provides for mock interviews. | UNIVERSITY OF THE WESTERN CAPE | CAREER UPDATE 2016 | 39 A LESSON IN LIFE-LONG LEARNING! UNFINISHED BUSINESS by Lester Malgas Back in 2002, I was registered for Honours in English at UWC. While I excelled at the coursework, sadly, I didn’t complete it. S o here I am, 14 years later. Student life sure isn’t what it used to be, but then again, what is? Now six months into the Honours degree programme, I am amazed at the opportunities opened to me. While 40 in my professional life I was as good as burnt out, I now see my return to academic life as a means for the ‘phoenix to rise from the ashes’. Back then I thought I wanted to be a journalist… no, actually … a private investigator. However private | UNIVERSITY OF THE WESTERN CAPE | CAREER UPDATE 2016 | investigation companies were not looking for graduates in English and Philosophy and no related work experience. In the end, becoming a journalist appeared to be a better alternative. I would still be required to speak to informants, look for A LESSON IN LIFE-LONG LEARNING! WHILE IN MY PROFESSIONAL LIFE I WAS AS GOOD AS BURNT OUT, I NOW SEE MY RETURN TO ACADEMIC LIFE AS A MEANS FOR THE ‘PHOENIX TO RISE FROM THE ASHES’. PICTURE CREDIT: WALLPAPERSONTHE.NET clues, follow up on paper trails and make deductions. I thus enrolled for the English Honours degree at UWC which, back then, focused on preparing the next generation of reporters and columnists. I was once told that it was best to write about things you were familiar with. In my case this was music. During my undergraduate years I worked part-time at Musica, one of the most successful local music retail outlets in the country. Over the years I gained deeper insights into the music industry through club-hopping and selling CDs to club-hoppers, 80s compilations to housewives, and Jazz Funk and Old School to DJ wanabees. This influenced my decision to write CD- and gig reviews on house music events in Cape Town for the Cape Argus. This practical experience contributed to my excelling in the Journalism related modules of the Honours course. Due to my excellent academic performance, I was selected for a student exchange programme to the Missouri School of Journalism in the USA. Prior to leaving for Missouri I completed my coursework. I needed to complete my mini thesis during my stay in the USA. However, I did not submit my work on time and thus did not complete the Honours degree. On my return I was headhunted by M-WEB, who sought to groom me as Editor of their M-WEB Africa Entertainment site. Once one starts earning, as you may well understand, it is easy to forget about your ‘unfinished business’ in the academic realm. I completed a three month internship at M-WEB. I then started as a Writer and Media & Communications Officer at an international environmental NGO, SouthSouthNorth, where my focus was on climate change and sustainable development. I have presented at the United Nations conferences on four continents; attended the International Energy Agency headquarters in Paris as an expert reviewer to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change’s Fourth Assessment Report; chaired civil society conventions in Brussels; pitched project activities in Switzerland; and attended teambuilding exercises in Indonesia. This globetrotting among talented and motivated people reminded >> | UNIVERSITY OF THE WESTERN CAPE | CAREER UPDATE 2016 | 41 A LESSON IN LIFE-LONG LEARNING! LESTER MALGAS AT A UN CONFERENCE me of the value of a good tertiary education. I missed many job opportunities due to the lack of a post graduate qualification. At times like these I would think back to the Honours degree I left unfinished in 2002. Fourteen years later I have returned to UWC to complete the Honours degree in English. The narrative of unfinished business is not the sole motivation for my return to 42 the academic space. One of the things I learnt at the Missouri School of Journalism is that many of their astute professionals go on sabbaticals to their alma mater to update themselves on the latest developments in their field - a recharging of their batteries as it were. I thus seek to add these ideas of ‘recharge’, ‘update’ and ‘sabbatical’ to my narrative. To my surprise I discovered that great advances have been made in the areas of Information and Communication Technology which are game-changers in my field. I am now in a much better position to decide how to develop myself further in my field and | UNIVERSITY OF THE WESTERN CAPE | CAREER UPDATE 2016 | better equipped, both in terms of attitude and skills, to excel in my present studies. What a lesson in life-long learning! I was introduced to the Japanese philosophy of Kaizen which emphasises continuous improvement as a long term approach to work that systematically seeks to achieve small, incremental changes in processes in order to improve efficiency and quality (http:// searchmanufacturingerp.techtarget. com/definition/kaizen). VIRTUAL INTERVIEWS ACING VIRTUAL INTERVIEWS S o your carefully crafted CV and Letter of Motivation managed to land you an interview but you are told it will be conducted via telephone or Skype. What a relief, right? Online interviews seem less intimidating since it’s not conducted in-person. Well, not quite. It still takes much preparation and skill to convince the interviewers remotely that you are the most suitable candidate. Treat telephonic and online interviews as seriously as you would face-to-face interviews. To save time and cut costs many recruiters are moving towards this form of screening. Companies could utilise various forms of online interviews including Skype, webbased system and/or a video clip of your answers to set questions, and the telephone. Careful preparation and practice is the key to nailing these interviews, so here are a few guidelines. Behind the Scenes • Be techno savvy. Don’t wait until the last minute to prepare and familiarise yourself with the appropriate device. Make sure that it is reliable and that you have a good understanding of how the technology works. To minimise those awkward moments of a video call freeze or unexpected pop-ups remember to turn off all apps or programmes that might interrupt the interview. In addition check whether you look good on camera and by Monita Veloen adjust the setting and features for optimal quality. In the case of telephonic interviews rather make use of a landline for better network coverage. If using a cell phone ensure you have a good reception and that the battery is fully charged. • Choose the suitable location. For the interview select a quiet location where there will be no disruptions. Pay attention to the background; keep it plain and simple. It would be wise to inform others about your interview to prevent unnecessary distractions. • Be on-time before-time. Arrive at the venue at least 30 minutes before the interview starts to ensure that the venue is still available and acclimatise to your surroundings. >> POSSIBLE QUESTIONS TO INTERVIEWERS ? Will there be rotation across departments. ? How many trainees are retained. ? Will I have a mentor. ? What makes a graduate successful in your programme. ? When can I expect the outcome of the interview. | UNIVERSITY OF THE WESTERN CAPE | CAREER UPDATE 2016 | 43 VIRTUAL INTERVIEWS • Have back-ups. Confirm the contact person’s name and number, and interview time the day before the interview. If something goes wrong, for example the loss of internet capability, you can inform them immediately. As far as possible try to have a back up device available. • Some honest ‘cheat’ tips. Jot down in point form your response to possible questions to avoid awkward silences. Apply the STAR principle (S – Situation, T- Task, A – Action, R – Result) to behavioural based questions. Also have a few questions ready to ask the interviewer. A benefit of telephone interviews is that you can have notes in front of you or relevant online company information open on your desktop. COMMON MISTAKES × Failing to research the company. × Arriving late. × Ill-prepared to answer standard questions. × Failing to demonstrate enthusiasm. × Inability to market yourself. × Failing to explain why you are the best candidate. × Blatant lying. × Not having questions for interviewers. Dress formally irrespective of whether the interview might take place in the comfort of your home or telephonically. In this way you will be psychologically prepared to give it your best shot - avoid the PJs and onesie. • Have a glass of water at hand. • Warm-up your voice. 44 • http://jobsearch.about.com/od/ jobinterviewtypes/a/videointerv.htm Lights, Camera, Action! • Tone of voice. Interviewers will only have your voice to go on hence you should sound clear, confident and enthusiastic. If you speak too soft it could be an indication that you lack confidence and if you speak too loud it could be interpreted to be disrespectful. • Use positive body language. Recruiters will get a glimpse of your personality based on your body language. Therefore smile, make eye contact and listen keenly to what the interviewer says. Furthermore maintain a good posture and sit up straight. • Listen carefully. If you are unsure of a question politely ask the interviewer to repeat it. Quickly formulate your response which should be pertinent to the question. Keep in mind the length and quality of your answer. • Be yourself. Avoid pretending especially during telephone interviews as there is no face-toface interaction. References • About careers (2016). Tips for a successful video job interview. Retrieved from http:// jobsearch.about.com/od/videointerviews/a/ online-job-interviews.htm • Careers SA (2012/2013). The job interview. What top graduates need to know. 44-45. • Hansen (2016). Tips for how to face you online video job interview. Retrieved from https://www.livecareer.com/quintessential/ acing-online-video-interview • Maison, D. (2015). How to Ace a Skype Interview. Retrieved from https://www. prospects.ac.uk/careers-advice/interviewtips/how-to-ace-a-skype-interview • The Graduate Recruitment Handbook (2008). How to Ace that Interview. University of the Western Cape: Career Development Programme. 148-150. • UCT Career Services 2011. Interviews. End of scene • Physical preparation. Make sure you are well rested and that the interview is scheduled at a time when you are free and most alert. Resources Remember to say thank you and wait for the interviewer to end the call first. Follow up with an email to show that you’re serious about getting the job. | UNIVERSITY OF THE WESTERN CAPE | CAREER UPDATE 2016 | Telephonic Discussions and Interviews. 10-11. Retrieved from http://www.careers.uct.ac.za/ sites/default/files/image_tool/images/37/ INTERVIEWbooklet-web.pdf • UCT Careers Service Guide (2015). Game of Thrones Interview Style. Career Toolkit, 48-49. Graduate Programme SUBTITLE “It’s great to know you’ll be challenged.” Warren Ndlovu 2015 Graduate We want the ones who stand out. We’re looking for the ones who want more and who are willing to do what it takes to get it. We’re looking for tomorrow’s leaders. Your passion is the inspiration that drives us to transform your ambition into reality. risingeagles.mobi joinus.barclays.com/africa Aim high. Prosper. Barclays Africa Group Limited Reg No 1986/003934/06 Terms and conditions apply | UNIVERSITY OF THE WESTERN CAPE | CAREER UPDATE 2016 | 45 SUBTITLE Wherever you are, you’re never that far from your first step into global law. Norton Rose Fulbright invites students to apply to our 2017 and 2018 candidate attorney program Voted number 1 graduate employer in the legal sector South African Graduate Employers Association Candidate Survey 2013, 2014, 2015 Applications are invited from all law students expecting to commence articles in 2017 and 2018. 2ʷHUVZLOOEHPDGHSURJUHVVLYHO\DVDQG ZKHQVXLWDEOHFDQGLGDWHVDUHLGHQWLʸHG Applications must be submitted online at nortonrosefulbright.com/za/apply Follow us on Twitter @NLawGrad Facebook Norton Rose Fulbright South Africa Law around the world nortonrosefulbright.com Financial institutions | Energy | Infrastructure, mining and commodities Transport | Technology and innovation | Life sciences and healthcare 46 | UNIVERSITY OF THE WESTERN CAPE | CAREER UPDATE 2016 |
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