In the vibrant and evolving socio-political landscape of Nigeria, national protests are a powerful expression of the populace's democratic rights. These movements often address critical issues ranging from governance to economic policies, reflecting the collective will and concerns of the citizens. Amidst such significant civic engagements, a pressing question arises for Human Resources (HR) professionals: Should employees be penalized for participating in national protests? Here, we explore why penalizing employees for exercising their right to protest is not only unjust but also counterproductive for organizations. 1. Right to Freedom of Expression and Assembly The Nigerian Constitution, in Section 39 and Section 40, guarantees every citizen the right to freedom of expression and the right to peaceful assembly and association. These rights are fundamental and form the bedrock of a democratic society. Penalizing employees for joining national protests infringes on these constitu

In today’s fast-paced corporate environment, maintaining a balance between work and personal life is crucial for employee well-being and productivity. HR departments play a pivotal role in fostering a culture that promotes sports, social activities and recreation, which can significantly boost morale, enhance mental health and ensure a healthy work-life balance. Here’s how HR can stimulate employees' interest in these activities. 1. Create a Diverse Activity Program HR should develop a diverse program that includes a variety of sports, social, and recreational activities. This can range from traditional team sports like football and basketball to more inclusive activities like yoga, dance classes and jogging. By offering a wide range of options, HR can cater to different interests and fitness levels, encouraging more employees to participate. 2. Organize Regular Events and Challenges Regular events such as sports tournaments, fitness challenges, and social gatherings can create a s

In the ever-evolving landscape of the modern workplace, understanding the dynamic between employer expectations and employee needs is crucial for creating a harmonious and productive environment. Employers and employees often have differing priorities, but finding common ground can lead to enhanced job satisfaction, improved performance, and reduced turnover rates. This blog post delves into the key elements that both parties value and offers insights into how to bridge the gap for mutual benefit. Employer Expectations Productivity and Efficiency Employers prioritize high levels of productivity and efficiency. They seek employees who can deliver quality work within set deadlines, contributing to the overall success and profitability of the company. To achieve this, employers invest in training programs, set clear performance metrics and encourage a results-oriented culture. Adaptability and Flexibility In today's fast-paced business environment, adaptability is a prized trait. Empl

 In today's competitive job market, having a well-crafted CV that is ATS (Applicant Tracking System) compliant can significantly boost your chances of landing your dream job. ATS is used by many companies to screen resumes efficiently, so it's crucial to optimize your CV to ensure it passes through these systems seamlessly. Here are some essential tips to make your CV ATS compliant:   1. Use Standard Formatting: Stick to standard fonts like Arial or Times New Roman and avoid complex formatting such as tables or text boxes. This helps ATS systems read your CV accurately. 2.  Incorporate Relevant Keywords: Tailor your CV for each job application by including keywords from the job description. ATS scans for specific terms related to skills, qualifications, and job titles, so incorporating these naturally into your CV is key. 3.Simplify Section Headers: Use clear, conventional headers such as "Work Experience," "Education," and "Skills." This hel

Diversity and inclusion (D&I) are increasingly recognized as critical components of a successful workplace environment globally. In Nigeria, as in many parts of Africa, embracing D&I goes beyond mere compliance; it fosters innovation, improves decision-making, and enhances organizational performance. Here’s why D&I matters and how HR and employees can leverage it for organizational profitability:  Why Diversity and Inclusion Matter Innovation and Creativity? Diverse teams bring together a variety of perspectives, experiences, and ideas. This diversity sparks creativity and innovation, leading to better problem-solving and product development.  Market Reach and Customer Insights: Nigeria's diverse population mirrors its market diversity. A diverse workforce can better understand and serve diverse customer segments, leading to improved customer satisfaction and market share. Employee Engagement and Retention: Inclusive workplaces promote a sense of belonging among emplo

2024 has divided into a year of abundant opportunities in Nigeria's dynamic job landscape. Whether you're aiming to secure a local role or explore exciting remote opportunities with global companies, here's a guide to the top skills in demand and the companies actively recruiting for them:  1. Data Science and Analytics  • Skills Needed: Data analysis, machine learning, statistical modeling, data visualization.  • Where to Acquire Skills: Coursera, Udacity, local universities.  • Remote Job Opportunities: Dive into remote positions with tech giants like MTN Nigeria and Flutterwave, or shape the future with local innovators at Access Bank and GTBank.  2. Digital Marketing and Social Media Management  • Skills Needed: SEO/SEM, content strategy, social media analytics, digital advertising.  • Where to Acquire Skills: Master your craft at HubSpot Academy or Google Digital Garage.  • Remote Job Opportunities: Explore freelance roles globally or influence locally with Jumia Niger