How to Get Hired After NYSC: A Smart Guide for Nigerian Youths

Every year, thousands of young Nigerians complete their NYSC service with hope and anxiety. Many are posted to impressive companies, banks, media houses, or tech hubs. They serve diligently, contribute meaningfully, and still nothing happens. No job offer. No call back. Just a handshake and “we wish you the best”.

It’s a bitter pill. But it doesn’t have to end there.

If you’re one of those who were lucky to serve or do your IT in a good organization, this post is for you. Here’s how to position yourself smartly for employment either in the same organization or elsewhere.

1. Don't Just Serve Strategically Contribute
   Treat your NYSC like a one-year job interview. Go beyond the bare minimum. Be the kind of corps member who asks questions, volunteers for projects, and thinks beyond your job description. This mindset sets you apart from those who just wear the uniform and wait for the month to end.

2. Build Real Relationships Not Just Contacts
   Don’t spend the whole service year hanging out with only fellow corps members. Know your supervisors by name. Ask for performance feedback. Get friendly with HR. Understand the company’s culture. You don’t get hired because of your CV alone you get hired because someone remembers you.

3. Find a Problem. Solve It. Silently.
   Every organization has small gaps: a poorly designed spreadsheet, repetitive manual tasks, or slow systems. Find one. Fix it. Document it. Even if it’s unofficial. When people ask “who fixed this?” let your name come up for the right reasons.

   
   
   

4. Request a Personalized Recommendation Letter
   Before your service ends, request a custom letter of recommendation from your supervisor not the generic NYSC clearance. Ask them to mention your specific contributions, attitude to work, and professionalism. This will carry serious weight in future job applications.

5. Stay In Touch After POP
   After NYSC, don’t ghost them. Send a polite email or WhatsApp message:
   “Hello sir/ma, thank you again for the opportunity to serve with [company name]. I learned a lot. I’m currently open to job opportunities and would love to rejoin the team if any opening comes up.”
   This shows gratitude, maturity, and long-term interest.

6. Upskill Based on What You Observed
   If you noticed the company lacked strong digital skills or customer service systems, take online courses in those areas. Then later say:
   “During my NYSC, I noticed [gap]. I’ve now trained in [skill]. I’d love to help strengthen that area in your team.”
   Now you’re not just looking for a job you’re offering value.

7. Show Your Impact Not Just Your Certificate
   Put together a 1-page NYSC impact report:

• Projects you worked on
• Skills used
• Results delivered
• A short testimonial (if possible)
  Attach this with your CV. It proves you're not just looking you’re worth hiring.

8. Be Open to Contract or Volunteer Roles
   If they don’t have a full-time spot, ask about internships, short contracts, or even project-based work. Sometimes, the side door is your best entry.
   “I’d be happy to support the team on a short-term basis or during busy periods.”
   Once you're in, and they see your value, doors can open.

Final Word:
Serving in a good organization doesn’t guarantee employment but it gives you proximity, and that’s powerful. Don’t waste your NYSC by being passive. Be intentional. Let them see your value, feel your presence, and remember your impact. Because when it’s time to hire, they’ll be looking for someone like you or better still, they’ll be looking for you.

© Nworisa Michael's Blog

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