Page 37 - DUT CONNECT - Spring 2024

FOR Alumni and Friends OF THE DURBAN UNIVERSITY OF TECHNOLOGY
“Dedication and a willingness to learn...“
My journey into being integrated into mainstream employment began at the entry-level,where dedication and a willingness to learn are paramount. Starting at the bottom provided me a valuable opportunity to grasp the intricacies of the job and industry. I ensured I embraced each task with enthusiasm, no matter how small, as it laid the foundation for my growth. I continuously showed initiative by seeking out challenges and offering solutions. I learnt the importance of building strong relationships with colleagues and supervisors which fostered a supportive network and opened doors and new prospects.
My advice is to always stay adaptable and proactive in expanding your skill set through continuous learning and feedback. Remember, every experience, setback, and success contributes to your journey upward in the professional world.
by Ms Ronelle Lyson
Alumni Relations Coordinator
How to prepare for an interview
Look presentable, spray on your best confidence and know why you are there.
Body language and non-verbal communication is very important in an interview.They see what you’re not saying. It’s always imperative to be knowledgeable of the organisation you’ve applied to and being interviewed for. Use all resources you can find to investigate about the organisation. But that’s the easy part.The difficult part lies at “selling yourself”.
They can read about your accomplishments and educational history on your CV but they need to knowYOU.YOU must know yourself and be able to showcase your best side but also be able to show how you’re willing to learn and become better. No one is perfect and interviewers know this, so be human, be sure, be well-informed but most importantly,They need YOU to be YOU.
by Ms Pretty Nokulunga Zulu
Fundraising and Stewardship Officer
Love what you do no matter what it is.
I completed my high school education at Mthui Secondary School in Ozwathini, a remote institution without internet or computers. Despite my lack of experience with computers, I found them fascinating. I started working as a waitress at MIMMOS around the same time as I arrived in Durban in search of a school. In order to pay for my tuition, I worked my way through college and university.
These occupations helped me grow as a person and taught me a lot, including the fact that not everyone wants to see you succeed or achieve what they want to but are unable to do. Recognizing various work settings, knowing when to participate, or simply keeping out a negative vibe around you. I gained acknowledgment for my work and was able to enjoy going to work, which was the most essential lesson I learnt there. I also learned to love and thrive at my profession. I developed that environment for myself, and it’s how I’ve survived my entire professional career.
My advise to you is to like your work no matter what it is you do, as this will help you get the confidence to learn new skills and become proficient in it, earning you the respect and recognition you are due.
by Mr Zipho Chamane
Prospect Research and Database Officer
DUTConnect // 37