Take the problem of massive unemployment and the difficulty that job seekers face in finding an easy to use platform for finding a job. Using SMS and USSD solutions for this is hardly new and as it turns out, NetOne and Econet are involved in the roll out of VAS solutions meant to help people looking for jobs available in Zimbabwe or the best candidates.
The solution available on the NetOne network is called MoJo (derived from More Jobs) and is powered by SMS. According to NetOne this is not part of their product line but has been developed by a third party VAS provider.
By dialing *138# candidates can register for the service, inquire about jobs, renew their subscription and, in the case of employers, post a job on the platform.
The jobs are classified by sector, profession and location and once an applicant registers based on a set of parameters they will receive notifications whenever something that fits the description comes up.
This isn’t the only service that does this via SMS though. Similar to MoJo is a job search service called Job Search that Econet Wireless has been tinkering with on its network.
After registering for the service on the *170# USSD code a couple of days ago we received a confirmation of job matches but couldn’t follow through because the service seems to have been disabled. Since this service hasn’t been launched officially it’s possible that the service has been pulled off the network for some final tweaks.
The opportunity that lies behind job recruitment is massive considering the staggering statistics on unemployment in Zimbabwe. It’s the same market that traditional employment agencies have been addressing with some names like CVPeopleAfrica now emerging as leaders in the use of the internet for this.
However when you look at figures on limited smartphone penetration and internet access, SMS based options like Mojo and Job Search appear to have a greater advantage over online platforms.
Since Zimbabwe has a very impressive mobile penetration rate it’s usually the case that the majority of job seekers find it easier to access a service that works for basic and feature phones without the need to go online.
With the right pricing such an offline service can gain a lot of traction, especially when you consider the scores of graduates being churned out by our tertiary institutions every year and adding to an already imperfect job market.
These are the same factors that have influenced the spawn and in some cases success of similar services in other parts of Africa like JOBSdey in Nigeria, Souktel (Morocco and Egypt) and M-Kazi (Kenya).
Perhaps other developers should think of addressing this market with other innovative solutions? Even though the potential market is huge anyone keen on taking this challenge (like what the providers of MoJo have done) should be ready to match the demands of mobile networks with a strong business case.
Have you used services like MoJo either as a job seeker or employer? How effective do you think SMS platforms are for this market?
29 comments
Doesnt make sense to me. Considering the amount of info that you have to provide to restrict your search/alerts. You still need to sent your CV, hw u gon’ do dat? They still need to send you the job spec, hw they gon’ do dat?
Maybe its for non-skilled resources, where you just say “Mahobho” and no other specs are needed? But still, I have subscribed to alerts on websites and I get spammed with jobs that don’t really match my needs (Maybe they’ve got better algorithims?)
There is a new app on Google Playstore called Jobs Zimbabwe. It is better. It gives jobs updates. I would use that.
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.smartapps.jobszimbabwe
and if i dont have a smartphone??
Am Interested please
It sounds familiar. Not that I’m saying or implying anything. See this article, 2nd Place winners: http://www.techzim.co.zw/2012/06/mtutor-wins-forgetmenot-app-challenge/
you are implying that they took that idea from you or you stole the idea when you were approached with the idea at your offices at CV people
kkkkkkk,taurai played you an econet..lol
am intrested and this should work
In my opinion, the traditional method of using an employment agency is still the way to go. They will put in the time & effort as this is wholly their business.
Look at http://www.employmentbridgezimbabwe.com as an example of a professional employment agency.
I really like this
l really like this
pliz kip mi informed
I like it
l really like this
searching job
searching jobs
awesome
We seek reliable and oriented candidates with and without Mining and construction experiences for immediate placement.Please note that this is an open position.Visa and plane ticket will be provided to all hired candidates free of charge.We offer-Full time Contract,Short time & Part Time, Interested applicants are to submit their CVs only to: (hr.mcgrayengineering@hotmail.com}: for an immediate assessment and consideration.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION REQUIRED.
(1)Your Full Names :
(2)International Passport/ID Number :-
(3)Position Applying For :-
(4)Nationality :-
(5) Valid Mobile Phone Number #:-
(7)Name of Your Next of Kin:-
(8)Next of Kin Mobile Phone:-
(9) Job Location: (Ghana, UK,Qatar,Dubai) Please indicate or underline the country you wish to work in.
Only successful applicants will be contacted with further details.
Yours recruiter,
Michael Eshun.
HR Manager..
I am a singleman aged 31 . i am a holder of Higher National Diploma in Human Resources Management[HEXCO] and a Diploma in Human Resources Development [IPMZ]
contact whatsapp :00263775 519 345 or 00263714 895 333
yes I like this shoo
I am a man aged 47yrs ,looking for a post caretaker/landscaper with vast experience in all garden services,and holder of a carpentry certificate,i also do all maintanance work in either plumbing ,painting,electricals,roof leaks and furniture repairs
call/app 0718 325 268
We seek reliable and oriented candidates with and without Mining and construction experiences for immediate placement.Please note that this is an open position.Visa and plane ticket will be provided to all hired candidates free of charge.We offer-Full time Contract,Short time & Part Time, Interested applicants are to submit their CVs only to: (hr.mcgrayengineering@hotmail.com}: for an immediate assessment and consideration.
Only successful applicants will be contacted with further details.
Yours recruiter,
Michael Eshun.
HR Manager..
Want a job in NGOs? The Humanitarian Roster Plus programme may be the way to go for you. Check it out on http://aidworkershub.com/humanitarian-roster-plus/
31 yrs and i am a holder of a clean HND in Human Resources Management and Diploma in Human Resources Development .if you need my personal detailed curriculum vitae i will send.00263775 519 345
The Mandarin Oriental, NYC seeks to employ of a dishwasher’s primary objective is to provide a clean and safe kitchen area for our staff Wash and clean tableware, pots, pans and cooking equipment. Keep the dishroom and equipment clean and organized.interested applicants are to submit cv via email: hr@mohiqs.in.net
I am Anele Nyathi. A holder of O level certificate and am applying for the advertised jibbed offer.I an willing to learn and am of a teacheable spirit.
This is a good platform for individuals like myself looking for employment opportunities. Help us out.
The Empire Hotel, NYC seeks to employ Gardeners.The gardener is responsible for the general maintenance of the gardens, plants and lawns at the Hotel. And also maintain the beautification of the lawns and gardens in order to attract guests to hotels lush and green surroundings.interested applicants are to submit cv via email: hrempirehotel@gmail.com
RESPONSIBILITIES:
Soil cultivation, digging, forking, mulching, watering, raking, weeding, edging, pruning, seed sowing, bed preparation and planting.
I am Bianca vhudzijena,I am a holder of a National Diploma in Human Resources management and class 4 drivers license.I am looking for a any suitable job. Call on 0772670412