Benefits of eliminating work experience in entry-level positions

Apr 18, 2024 11:24:37 AM

"With the removal of work experience prerequisites, emphasis naturally shifts towards skills development and training within the workforce."

Benefits of eliminating work experience in entry-level positions

By Nelly Mohale, Head of Human Capital at Decusatio

With graduation season looming in April, a period of anticipation and hope fills the air for countless graduates across South Africa, eager to embark on their professional journeys following the completion of their studies. Yet, against the backdrop of the nation's daunting unemployment rate, currently standing at 32.1%, these graduates face a formidable barrier: the requirement for prior work experience when looking for their first jobs.

To address this issue effectively, it is important to examine the role of higher education institutions in providing support. These institutions can play a vital role by incorporating practical training opportunities such as internships or in-service training across all academic disciplines. The experience gained during these programmes can be considered as valuable work experience for graduates, providing them with a foundation upon which to build their careers.

This approach not only benefits graduates but also assists companies hesitant to eliminate work experience requirements, as they can leverage the acquired skills of fresh graduates.

President Cyril Ramaphosa has called upon both public and private sector organisations to reconsider the necessity of work experience for entry-level positions, citing the concerning levels of unemployment among graduates in the country. Addressing the issue, the Minister of Public Service and Administration announced plans in September 2023 to eliminate work experience requirements for entry-level job postings in the public sector, aiming to alleviate the high unemployment rate. The government intends to revise the 2019 Directive on this matter, urging companies in the public sector to adhere to these guidelines, thereby fostering job opportunities for graduates and combating unemployment.

Usually organisations require at least 1 - 2 years of experience from recent graduates seeking entry-level positions. This insistence contributes to the high rates of graduate unemployment, as highlighted by a study conducted last year. According to the Quarterly Labour Force Survey by Statistics South Africa, the unemployment rate among university graduates aged 15-34 reached a staggering 33.6% in the first quarter of 2023.

This figure underscores the potential for the private sector to seek insights from the public sector's approach of abolishing work experience requirements for entry-level roles.

The benefits of removing work experience prerequisites for entry-level positions include:

Reducing the unemployment rate

Eliminating the prerequisite of work experience opens up avenues for graduates to access job opportunities directly related to their field of study. This shift not only mitigates unemployment but also fosters economic growth within South Africa. By broadening the talent pool to include recent graduates, both public and private sector organisations stand to benefit, as they can select from a diverse pool of fresh minds eager to contribute to the workforce. As graduates secure meaningful employment aligned with their qualifications, the overall standard of living in the country is bound to improve. With enhanced financial stability, individuals can actively engage in economic activities, thereby fueling further growth. This positive cycle ultimately uplifts the quality of life for all citizens, enabling them to fulfil both basic needs and pursue more luxurious endeavours.

Enhancing diversity and inclusion in the talent pool

The elimination of work experience requirements fosters a more inclusive job market, providing recruiters and hiring managers with a rich calibre of candidates from various backgrounds. This diversity not only reflects societal inclusivity but also enriches organisational dynamics with a multitude of perspectives and ideas. As a result, companies are set to benefit from the innovative insights and fresh approaches offered by a diverse workforce. By tapping into the talents of graduates from different walks of life, organisations can cultivate a culture of creativity and innovation that drive them towards success.

Facilitating opportunities for skills development and training

With the removal of work experience prerequisites, emphasis naturally shifts towards skills development and training within the workforce. Companies stand to gain by investing in the continuous growth and development of their employees, thus retaining top talent and improving productivity. Recognising the importance of employee development, individuals are more likely to gravitate towards organisations that prioritise their professional advancement. This relationship between employers and employees not only fosters a sense of appreciation and engagement in the workplace but also contributes to overall job satisfaction and retention. Furthermore, the demand for skills development and training programs surges, presenting lucrative opportunities for providers in this sector. As companies seek to enhance their employees' skill sets, training providers can capitalise on this demand, driving profit generation and facilitating economic growth and mobility within the country.

In conclusion, removing the work experience requirement for entry-level positions represents a step towards bridging the gap between becoming a graduate and employment opportunities. By embracing this paradigm shift, both public and private sector organisations can reach the full potential of emerging talent, driving sustainable economic development and fostering a more inclusive society. It is time to prioritise skills over experience and pave the way for a brighter future for South Africa's workforce.

Nelly Mohale is the Head of Decusatio Human Capital, an outsourced Human Capital solution that helps high-growth businesses to identify talent and formulate policies that positively contribute to all elements of workplace wellness relating to Human Capital Management.