Breaking Barriers: Thriving in the Job Market with a 2.2 Grade

As an education consulting firm, Techie has dealt with fresh graduates facing various challenges. One that comes up often is the problem of the 2.2 grade. Each time we are contacted by a graduate with a second-class lower, it's easy to spot someone who has lost or nearly lost all hope. We've helped some concerned graduates in the past and hope to assist hundreds more in the future.

Since this is an ongoing concern, I've dedicated some time. collecting data from our students and following forum discussions on the issue of graduates coming out with a second-class lower or lower credit (in the case of polytechnic). I've read more personal stories than what our clients, combined, have told us. With this stock of points of view, experiences, and challenges, I've come up with some points that will benefit you if you're in the same position.

1. Having a second-class lower or lower is not the end. This is not just motivation but a reality, as most people have shared experiences that debunk whatever bad news you might have heard (more in this article).
2. You're luckier if you're a versatile graduate. Although certification and grades are important anywhere in the world, some testimonials of graduates who were able to get jobs primarily not because of their grades but for their disposition in interviews, and versatility during the recruiting process have shown there is more beyond the grades.
3. There are ways to complement that deficiency if you understand and are capable of following some post-graduation paths.

When Richard joined our coaching class as a fresh graduate, we reached a point where the issue of grades surfaced. He insisted we narrow our support to how he could get jobs even with his lower credit as he was not interested in starting a business. Well, I want to assume that you're like Richard, and as such, it will save you the trouble of any alternative to seeking jobs. If you prefer to consider the business option, that is a topic for another day. Let's explore finding jobs with your 2.2. In this article, I will be sharing professional experiences regarding steps and strategies that can help you overturn the story, thereby securing a fitting job on your first few tries.

You're Not Alone

I've read a thread by a 2:2 graduate who claimed to have worked with the likes of ExxonMobil, Shell, Acergy, and Saipem before going abroad as an expatriate. The story wasn't detailed enough to clear up the confusion of how he managed to do that. In Nigeria, nothing is impossible, but I won't be surprised if he opened up to have been helped by the big men of the country to navigate the turbulence of getting a job with a 2:2, not to mention with the listed companies. One point to note, though, the story was from the 2000s when things were still relatively tough. Today, it may not be too difficult to get a job in companies but those multinational companies may not open their doors unless you're backed.

Another person narrated how he graduated with a 2:2 but without delay or dwelling on that, increased his chances in the labor market by continuing capacity building, and running various programs simultaneously (MBA, ICAN, ORACLE, etc.). He claimed it took him 5 years to achieve all. He boasted to be one of the best-known modern Accountants. This approach is more practical and signifies the fact that in the long run, some, if not most businesses, will want to employ you for your after-graduation certifications rather than your degree or HND.

Similarly, one contributor shared that he got his first job as a corps member (NYSC) in a Nigerian bank and stayed in the industry for another 5 years (changed banks though), did a master's abroad (was only bettered by a Chinese genius in my masters class), and had a brief stint with consulting abroad. He returned home 4 years back and got a managerial role in one of the major mobile telcos, left about a year ago to start an investment/corporate finance boutique on the island and also an oil marketing firm, and just last month commissioned our first fuel station. This apparently symbolizes that true versatility is achievable even when you're a graduate with a lower grade. It's not about your grade; it's about whether you have what is more than your grade, be ready to give it at any available opportunity. Similarly, if you're lucky to be posted to serve with any bank or big company, it's the best opportunity to turn the table around.

Another story that resonates with versatility is one who claimed to have found out that the first job as a 2:2 grad may not be one with enviable pay, but it really does not matter. He spent his first 5 years of work gathering experience on his own and studying hard to hit off a few certifications. He had a job in a Federal establishment and spent every day wanting out. He moved on to another job after 5 years, and his first salary was x5 of the last one! He did not stop there but moved on to another job after two years and has been happy as he moves up the ladder of life.

While there are good experiences to share, there are bad ones, of course. You shouldn't expect otherwise if you've intentionally decided to read this article. One of such was one who claimed that he only got his first job out of sheer luck. He narrated how he had terrible experiences at first. 

I remembered sitting for an aptitude test and came third overall but got the shock of my life during the second stage of the interview. Someone among the interview panel said, 'How did I manage to get to this level?' They had an argument, someone mentioned to him, 'This guy was invited because he scored so high in the aptitude test, age-wise he is still young just 21 years old then though he graduated with a 2:2.' To cut the story short, the interview stopped midway because one dude insisted that they were to employ people with at least a 2:1.

Preparing for the Labor Market

As a lower-credit graduate, there are steps you can take to enhance your prospects in the job market. In this section, we'll share professional recommendations aimed at doubling your chances of securing a position. We hope these insights will be valuable as you embark on your career journey.

1. Mindset Shift: It's crucial to see a 2.2 grade not as a failure but as an opportunity to demonstrate versatility and potential. This mindset shift can significantly impact your job search and career trajectory. Over the years, we have observed candidates who adopt a positive mindset toward their academic performance are more likely to succeed in their job search endeavors. Similarly, Candidates who perceive academic challenges as opportunities for growth and development are better equipped to navigate the competitive job market and achieve their career goals.
2. Highlighting Versatility: Employers often value attributes beyond academic qualifications. Emphasizing your versatility, soft skills, and practical experiences in your CV and interviews can set you apart from other candidates. McKinsey Survey of African Businesses shows a lack of readiness (which includes punctuality and dependability) as the number two reason why employers are not employing graduates in Nigeria.
3. Continuous Learning and Skill Development: Investing in continuous learning, gaining practical experience, and acquiring relevant certifications can enhance employability. Consider pursuing additional qualifications or participating in internships, volunteer work, or part-time roles to build your skills and experience. A study revealed top obstacles for employers when trying to hire new employees with lack of experience and lack of technical skills being number 3 and 4.
4. Networking: Building a strong professional network is essential for uncovering job opportunities and gaining industry insights. Attend industry events, join professional associations, and connect with professionals in your field to expand your network and access hidden job opportunities. Recruiterplanet even recommended starting with your current network – classmates, former colleagues, friends, family, and even your neighbors.
5. Tailored CV and Interview Responses: Customize your CV to highlight how your skills and experiences align with the organization's goals. During interviews, focus on showcasing your practical knowledge, skills, and competencies that are relevant to the job role.
6. Persistence and Resilience: Success may not come overnight, but persistence and resilience are key. Keep pushing forward, continue learning and growing, and remain open to new opportunities.

There you have your comprehensive guide for graduates grappling with a 2.2 grade or lower credit, showcasing the significance of mindset, adaptability, continuous learning, networking, and perseverance in the professional realm. By shifting their perspective on academic setbacks and prioritizing practical skills and experiences, individuals with lower grades can substantially boost their job prospects and secure fulfilling career paths. The narrative draws from both anecdotal success stories and statistical trends to underscore the potential for growth and advancement beyond traditional academic metrics. Overall, we advocate for a proactive approach to career development and furnish actionable insights to empower graduates in overcoming academic challenges and achieving their professional aspirations.

Sources:

1. World Bank. (n.d.). Nigeria: Skills for Competitiveness and Employability. Retrieved from https://documents1.worldbank.org/curated/en/886411468187756597/pdf/96420-WP-P148686-PUBLIC-Nigeria-Skills-report-January-5-Final-Draft-report.pdf
2. Recruiterplanet. (n.d.). Networking in Nigeria as a Job Seeker. Retrieved from https://www.linkedin.com/posts/recruiterplanet_networking-in-nigeria-as-a-job-seeker-can-activity-7159853019512094720-QBZ2/
3. Judge, T. A., Higgins, C. A., & Cable, D. M. (2000). The employment interview: A review of recent research and recommendations for future research. Retrieved from https://today.iit.edu/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/Judge-Higgins-Cable-.pdf