Train and certify to keep yourself marketable
With the level of competition for jobs on the increase in South Africa, there’s a very real need for job seekers to keep up with the market’s skills requirements. The somewhat controversial Employment Tax Incentive (ETI) Act serve as a reminder to businesses about the role commerce can play in equipping the country’s youth to form part of - and contribute to - the economy.
As we’ve heard before, this act was formulated and presented as a means to address the country’s escalating level of unemployment among the youth. At its core, it offers incentives to employers who bring on board young trainees who, in turn, gain valuable workplace experience and on-the-job training while also earning a salary.
In much the same way as the Skills Development Levy and Sector Education and Training Authorities (Seta) were instituted to encourage training and job experience, the ETI Act is designed to help businesses justify the costs of implementing apprenticeships and investing in individuals.
HR experts on the ETI Act
At the same time, HR experts advise candidates to enrich their skills base and industry knowledge while gaining this invaluable workplace experience.
People should adhere to the principle of lifelong learning. Those entering the market should pursue every avenue to gain as much knowledge as possible. In this ever-changing market, irrespective of the industry or line of work, it’s critical to keep your skills up to date and regularly keep tabs on developments.
Certification and acquiring formal recognition of study or practical work experience is a critical component in ensuring that candidates are empowered to attract the attention of potential employers.
Employers will do the maths in terms of the cost-to-company of a skilled employee against the value that they’d derive from their skills. Certification demonstrates that the candidate, while they may have some workplace experience, also has proven theoretic knowledge.
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Teryl Schroenn is the CEO of Accsys (Pty) Ltd. Her entire career has been in the IT industry, starting as a programmer, moving into business analysis and then into sales and marketing management. General management positions followed, including board positions. She is actively involved in industry bodies, including the ITA where she was elected president, a position she held for two years. |
