You are not alone

Unemployed in South Africa? You Are Not Alone

Being unemployed in South Africa can be really difficult. You send your CV, you apply for jobs, you wait for that phone call or email… and sometimes nothing happens.

But while you are looking for a job, life doesn't stop. You still need airtime, transport, food and other things. That's why a lot of people are trying different ways to make money while they continue looking for proper employment.

And honestly, not every opportunity is going to make you rich. Some might only bring in a little money here and there. But sometimes even that little bit can help.

So, what are people actually doing?

Some people are using the skills they already have to make extra money.

Maybe you know how to do someone's hair. Maybe you can bake. Maybe you're good with social media, writing, taking pictures, fixing things or helping people with admin.

You don't always need a fancy office or a big business to start. Sometimes you can start with what you already know.

For example, someone who is good at baking might start selling cupcakes or small cakes to people in their area. Someone who knows how to braid hair might get clients through WhatsApp or Facebook. Someone who understands social media might help a small business post on Facebook or Instagram.

It might start small, but small is still a start.

What about making money online?

The internet has also opened up a few options for people who don't have a traditional job.

There are freelance websites where people can look for work based on their skills. There are also platforms that offer research studies, website testing, content opportunities and other types of online gigs.

The important thing is to check the platform properly before you sign up.

Don't believe every TikTok or Facebook post saying you can make thousands of rands in one day from your phone. If it sounds too good to be true, take a step back and check it first.

You don't have to wait for the perfect opportunity

This is something I think a lot of unemployed people need to hear.

You might be waiting for that one proper job  and you should keep applying if that's what you want. But while you're waiting, you can also look at other honest ways of bringing in some money.

Learn a new skill. Try freelancing. Look for legitimate online opportunities. Offer a service in your community. Ask around. Tell people what you can do.

You never know who might need exactly what you're offering.

Be careful of scams

This one is important.

There are many fake job offers going around, especially online. Some people will tell you that you need to pay a registration fee before you can start working. Others promise huge amounts of money for almost no work.

Be careful.

You should never feel pressured to send money just because someone says they have a job for you.

Before giving anyone your personal information or money, do your research and make sure you know who you're dealing with.

Unemployment doesn't mean you have nothing to offer

Being unemployed can make you feel like you're stuck, especially when you see other people moving forward.

But not having a job right now doesn't mean you have no skills or no value.

Keep applying. Keep learning. Try different things. And if you find a legitimate way to make a bit of money while you're looking for work, that's something too.

You don't have to figure everything out at once.

Sometimes you just start with what you have and take it from there.

If you know someone who is currently looking for work, share this article with them. They might find one of the ideas useful.