By Loveness Hulwane

The North-West University’s (NWU’s) School of Industrial Psychology and Human Resource Management recently held a Work Readiness Workshop to empower students in the school with the necessary know-how to successfully join the workforce after graduating.

Dr Thapelo Chaacha, deputy director of the school, organised the event.

Various industry professionals were invited to share their knowledge and experiences to prepare the students for their careers. The workshop focused on professionalism, skills, behaviours and other related qualities that can increase students' chances of getting a job and to develop an entrepreneurial mindset in their chosen industries.

Topics such as the value of early networking, the professional use of LinkedIn, the importance of professional associations, and the relevance of lifelong learning were also discussed.

Guest speakers included Keketso Mofokeng, a specialist in organisational effectiveness from SARS, Siphiwe Hlongwane, executive head of human capital at Sanlam, Keitumetse Moagi, learning and development specialist from the NWU, and Elmien Solms, a registered industrial psychologist and director of Reflections2020.

During the workshop, students were given insightful advice on transitioning from academia to the world of work, including the skills required, potential barriers, and how to position themselves as a brand rather than just a graduate. They learned how to advance as experts in their respective disciplines while exploring the various job options open to them within their academic fields.

"The workshop helped students to understand how businesses and different organisations function, and to realize the value of people management in organisations," said Dr Chaacha.