FRESHERS GUIDE: Grades are not all that matters, employers are looking for the X factor

Congratulations upon making it to the university.

Now, while here, it should not be about the grades only.

Look, I am not saying that you should not mind your academics.

In fact it's only grades that matter for our parents, but for employers, it has to be more than just that.

A friend of mine just graduated this year in January with a first class degree in Bachelor of Business Administration with a major in marketing.

He applied for a job at a top marketing agency and guess what? He was called for an interview where all other shortlisted candidates had a first class degree.

Employers are looking for solutions.

Employers want people with that X factor that makes them stand out and this is why your time at the university should not be entirely about books.

Develop your communication skills

While at the university, try as much as possible to develop your communication skills. This is the time to drop that slang as its even disgusting to some potential employers.

If you ask me, I will say that this is the time that you should drop that short hand as well. Prepare yourself for the job world.

Male Moses who is a human resource assistant in GiftAds Marketing said that grades can help a candidate to be shortlisted for the interview but nailing the interview to land that job has to be more.

"When we short list candidates for the interviews, that's where your academic prowess might end.

During these interviews, we are looking at unique qualities other than grades," he said.

Employers are looking for solutions

With the ever changing business landscape, doing business is becoming more and more competitive.

The employers have the money and they are now looking for people to work with.

Employers are looking for solutions and what you can do for them.

In the media space where I work for example, it doesn't matter whether one was the best in journalism school or not, it's all about what you have to offer.

While at the university, you can make use of the many volunteering opportunities, widen your network, learn a skill or two.

This will help you to stand out than the lot who graduate with just grades.

Good time management skills

There is a common adage that goes; 'time is money,' and yes, businesses exist to make money.

No employer would like a poor time manager however brilliant your transcript might be.

Use your time at the university to train yourself how to keep time.

Make it a habit to arrive at least fifteen (15) minutes before the scheduled time for a lecture or any appointment.

This culture will help you stand out.

Fix your attitude

Whereas the university gates have a number of professors, non of them is going to help you fix your attitude.

This is something that you will have to fix yourself.

Employers want people with a positive and vibrant attitude towards work.

Train your self to see the positive side of every situation that life throws at you.

Have that "I can" attitude. Be hard on yourself and you will find life after school a bit simpler.