Often, in Nigeria, a university degree usually doesn’t fully prepare you for real-world job skills or experiences. You spend four years attending lectures, doing practicals (if you’re a science student), and buying expensive textbooks for a course you probably never intended to study.

It’s a harsh reality of the educational system. However, you don’t have to be one of those graduates leaving university with a degree of little relevance to hiring managers. This blog post will show you exactly what you need to do to land your first job after school, plus how to earn a digital skill certification—because let’s be honest, the world is moving away from traditional job roles.

The Digital Skills Deficit

New job roles are emerging across various sectors as technology continues to evolve. Unfortunately, there’s a significant shortage of skilled professionals to fill these roles. For instance, a survey by SAP Africa revealed that 80% of Nigerian companies are bracing for a technology skills gap, with many struggling to attract top talent. This trend isn’t limited to Nigeria; in the UK, Morgan McKinley writes on how Skill Shortage impacts Technology Growth, reporting that, 76% of technology hiring managers found recruitment ‘very’ or ‘quite’ competitive in 2023, highlighting the scarcity of qualified candidates.

This skills gap persists despite the attractive salaries offered in the tech sector. According to Nucamp’s methodology reported by Business Day, tech salaries in Nigeria range from NGN 300,000 to over NGN 2 million monthly, with high-paying roles in AI, cybersecurity, and cloud computing. These statistics highlight the growing demand for skilled labor in Nigeria’s emerging tech roles and the lucrative opportunities available for those with the necessary expertise.

Why Being Digitally Skilled Matters in Your First Job

There are three things we know.

First, you need a job since you’ve just graduated or are about to graduate. Second, your newly bagged degree might not land you your dream job with a seven-figure salary. Third, there’s a significant skills gap in the tech industry, with high-paying salaries, and employers are actively seeking talented individuals with the right skills. Four (here comes the bonus!), you can bridge that gap and secure your future with the right training and expertise!

So, how do you go from being a graduate looking for your first job to landing that role and climbing the career ladder? The answer is simple: you need digital skills, and you need them fast.

Today, employers and hiring managers are no longer just looking for a degree. They want candidates who are well-versed in digital tools and can contribute to their online growth. So, what are the key digital skills you need to get noticed?

1. Social Media Management: With nearly 4.7 billion active social media users globally, businesses are increasingly turning to platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn to engage with customers. You’ll be a valuable asset to any company if you can manage social media accounts, schedule posts, and track engagement.
2. Digital Marketing Basics: Understanding how to create, track, and optimize digital marketing campaigns is essential in most roles. As a fresh graduate, you could venture into digital marketing where you’ll learn email marketing, SEO (search engine optimization), and paid ads on platforms like Google and Meta Platforms.
3. Microsoft Office Skills: While it may seem basic, proficiency in Microsoft Office remains one of the most frequently requested skills in job postings. You need to learn how to navigate Excel (for data analysis), Word (for document creation), and PowerPoint (for creating compelling presentations).
4. Google Analytics: Data is king. Employers need candidates who understand how to interpret data and use it to make informed decisions. With Google Analytics, you can measure website traffic, track customer behavior, and gather insights that help drive business success. This is a skill you can’t afford to skip if you’re eyeing a role in digital marketing, or content creation.
5. Project Management Tools: Being able to use digital tools like Trello, Asana, or Jira, is crucial for graduates entering roles that involve project coordination or team collaboration. If you’ve never used these tools before, don’t worry, we will show you exactly how to use them.
6. Digital Design Skills: A report by Canva indicates that 92% of global business leaders consider digital design skills essential for effective communication. These skills are vital for creating presentations, visual reports, and engaging visual assets. 

Become Digitally Literate and Land Your First Job Faster!

Now that you know the essential skills employers are looking for, the next step is to upskill. Trail Alley’s 3-week Digital Literacy Program is designed for beginners who want to learn how to use digital tools to boost their chances of securing job roles or even transitioning into the tech industry.

The program will help you master the digital skills employers are looking for, ensuring that the next time you apply for a job, you’re one of the top candidates considered.

In 3 Weeks, You Will Learn…

• How to use design tools like Canva to create eye-catching flyers and social media graphics.
• How to use Microsoft Office and Google Workspace for efficient work and seamless collaboration.
• How to manage Google Calendars to keep track of activities and set up virtual meetings.
• How to create strong email signatures and send professional, effective emails.
• How to create strong passwords and protect your information from online threats.
• Various career paths in tech, along with the roles and skills required.
• How to build and enhance your online presence via LinkedIn and land your dream job.
• Effective LinkedIn optimization techniques.
• How to leverage LinkedIn to discover job opportunities.

Mentorship Criteria

• A smartphone, laptop, or desktop computer
• Reliable internet access
• Proficiency in speaking and understanding English
• Ability to commit at least 5 hours per week

Trail Alley’s Digital Literacy Program has changed lives. These three weeks of intense learning will set anyone ready to implement on the right track of success.

Chimaka’s Journey

Chimaka started as a complete novice when she enrolled in the 3-week course in January 2024. Here’s her testimony:

• “I can now create websites, and I’m proficient in Canva and Google Workspace.”

Chimaka has since built a thriving business, working with clients both locally and globally. She’s now her own boss, and this could be you too.

Sign up for the three-week program today!

Glory’s Transformation will leave you convinced!

After completing the course, Glory now collaborates seamlessly with stakeholders in her organization.

• “My collaboration with stakeholders has now improved. I can manage and track projects using the tools and skills taught during the mentorship”

In simple terms, Glory has a 9-to5 job and wants to feel more acknowledged. She knew that the only way to become more valuable was upskilling. So she gave herself a chance. Today, she can manage projects and track progress using digital tools like Google Sites and Google Slides has improved significantly.

Be like Glory. Give yourself a chance!

Festus’ Experienced Open Doors!

There are a lot of job openings daily, and only the top 1 percent of talents get these roles. Festus credits the mentorship program for enhancing his tech skills and providing a structured, comprehensive training experience.

• “The program improved my problem-solving skills and boosted my confidence in using technology. I’ve learned key concepts like data security (e.g., phishing scams), online collaboration (Google Workspace), and LinkedIn optimization. These skills have opened doors for me in terms of job opportunities and employment.”

Experience open doors in three weeks!

The job market may be fierce with competitors all around, but it isn’t the same for the top 1% of talent who are skilled. Give yourself a chance today, and join the Trail Alley Digital Literacy Program today!