OPINION: Will your child find a job when she graduates?
The question of whether or not your little darling will find a job when the time arrives is fast becoming more and more important in an economy that is rife with joblessness and downward trends.
Even if there is no picture perfect position at a lovely company that will pay for studies, annual leave and sick leave, there is still a rewarding way of making a living. It may not be as easy as signing a job contract, but for those that have what it takes, it is a life that will repay the willing and able. This is the life of a business owner.
Granted, this is not for everyone, but it may be that you have no choice. There are only a finite number of jobs available and they’re decreasing daily. Big business makes up a mere 30 % of our economy and the rear is brought up by small, medium and micro enterprises (SMMEs). SMMEs create work fast but instead of the required 70 % contribution, SMMEs in South Africa trend at a frightening 27 %.
Let’s look at the street hawker. This person has realised that to survive, they’ll have to create their own income stream. Technically, this person is a survivalist entrepreneur.
Plan a business for your child instead of a job. Have your high school child take a psychometric test. These tests can now determine whether a person is suited to entrepreneurship and what type of business would be a good fit.
Instead of putting thousands into a degree that may not produce a living, consider putting these funds into a business. If you have a solid business concept you could create a return on investment that might set your family free from debt and generate a livelihood beyond your expectations.
You could see a business coach with that idea that’s been growing within you for as long as you can remember. Do the numbers. It might be that you have a winning recipe. You might even qualify for government business funding.
In summary, there really aren’t enough jobs available at present and it’s going to take innovation to rectify the situation. It’s a brave new world we live in and jobs are no longer a foregone conclusion.
Written by small business strategist Michelle Schourie.
