Thursday’s front page photo of an apparently busy Job Fair in Aleeze Convention Center at Madame Estate was encouraging. The second annual edition held by National Employment Service Center (NESC) in cooperation with St. Maarten Hospitality and Trade Association (SHTA) featured more than 40 companies representing 11 different industries with more than 700 vacancies combined.
This shows that, certainly ahead of the high tourism season, legal residents looking for work have a good chance of finding it. Those who like to claim the contrary should take note.
Although positions on offer may not be quite what one wants, it is advisable to grasp opportunities that actually exist, especially at a young age. Remember that not every job has to turn into a career.
Becoming active on the labour market, even if in a short-lived role, helps develop important related characteristics such as discipline, time-management, being part of a team, etcetera. It basically gets you in the running and greatly improves your future prospects.
Once people are “out there” they will also make contact with others in the profession who may prove valuable assets going forward. Hard workers willing to learn and play by the rules usually get ahead because their efforts don’t go unnoticed.
If it’s between staying home and complaining or trying to land at least temporary employment and earn a bit of money pending that dream job, the choice seems clear. Everyone has to start somewhere.
