Ever heard a fresh graduate say, “Sijapata kazi, lakini siwezi kufanya hiyo kazi ya chini”? That attitude is what we call the degree holder’s sense of entitlement in job hunting. It’s the belief that a certificate alone guarantees a top job.
We’ll look at where this mindset comes from, how it hurts job seekers in our competitive market, and most importantly, what graduates can do to stand out. This is key for anyone navigating Kenya’s tough employment scene.
What Exactly is This “Sense of Entitlement”?
It’s not just being confident. It’s the rigid belief that a university degree automatically qualifies you for a high-paying, managerial role without needing to start from the bottom. A common misconception is that this is just youthful arrogance; often, it’s a product of societal and family pressure after investing so much in education.
The “Shule Nilienda” Mindset
Many graduates from top universities like UoN or Strathmore carry the prestige of their institution into interviews, expecting it to override a lack of experience. You might hear, “Nilienda Strathmore,” implying the brand name alone should secure the job, even for an entry-level position requiring hands-on skills they haven’t yet developed.
The Salary Expectation Gap
This is where reality bites hardest. A graduate might expect a starting salary of KES 80,000 or more because they have a degree, while many Kenyan entry-level roles in sectors like sales or administration start at KES 25,000 to 40,000. This huge gap leads to frustration and prolonged unemployment.
How This Entitlement Actually Hurts Your Job Search
This mindset isn’t just about pride; it has real, negative consequences in Kenya’s job market. It makes you miss opportunities and blinds you to the practical steps needed to build a career. Employers can spot this attitude from a mile away, and it often lands your CV in the “no” pile.
Here is how it plays out in reality:
- You Overlook Valuable Entry Points: You dismiss internships or graduate trainee programs at places like KRA or Safaricom because you feel “overqualified.” Yet, these are the very pipelines to the permanent roles you want.
- You Neglect Critical Processes: You might not bother properly registering on the eCitizen portal or getting a KRA PIN certificate, thinking such “small” admin tasks are beneath you. But no serious employer in Kenya will hire you without these.
- You Waste Precious Time: While waiting for the “perfect” job, you could spend six months to a year unemployed. Meanwhile, a peer who started at a lower salary gains experience, promotions, and a network.
Common Pitfalls That Keep Graduates Unemployed
Mistaking a Degree for a Skill Set
Your BCom in Finance is a foundation, not a guarantee. Employers at banks like Equity or NCBA need you to apply that knowledge. Instead of just listing your degree, showcase specific skills like financial modeling or data analysis you can use on day one.
Refusing to “Start Small” in a Big Company
You want to be a manager at a top firm immediately. The correct approach is to target their graduate management trainee programs or even contract positions. Getting your foot in the door at a place like Kenya Breweries is often more valuable than a fancy title at an unknown company.
Underestimating the Power of Networking
You think job hunting is only about sending CVs online. In Kenya, connections matter. Attend industry events, use LinkedIn to politely reach out to alumni in your field, and ask for informational interviews. A referral can bypass a pile of 300 applications.
Ignoring the “Hustle” Economy
You see freelance work or a small side business as a step down. The correct mindset is to view it as building a portfolio, earning an income, and developing real-world problem-solving skills that make you a stronger candidate for future full-time roles.
The Kenyan Reality: Practical Steps to Reset Your Approach
Let’s get real about the Kenyan job market. The “tarmacking” season after graduation is tough, but your strategy needs to be smarter than just dropping CVs in town. First, understand the timing: many large companies and government parastatals advertise graduate trainee programs between January and March, so you must be ready.
Here is what to do practically:
- Register and Complete Your eCitizen Profile: This is non-negotiable. Ensure your details are updated, and you have a valid KRA PIN. Many application portals, especially for government jobs, integrate directly with eCitizen.
- Budget for the Job Hunt: Set aside at least KES 3,000 to 5,000 per month for transport to interviews, printing professional CVs, and buying data bundles for online applications and virtual interviews.
- Use Your Local Alumni Network: Don’t just connect on LinkedIn. Attend physical chapter meetings for your university’s alumni association. A word from a former student at a company like Co-operative Bank can fast-track your application.
- Consider the Counties: Don’t limit your search to Nairobi. County governments and NGOs in towns like Kisumu, Nakuru, or Eldoret often have opportunities with less competition and a lower cost of living while you gain experience.
The Bottom Line
Your degree is a powerful tool, but it’s not a magic key. In Kenya’s job market, humility, adaptability, and a willingness to start where you are will take you further than any certificate alone. The real entitlement you should claim is the right to build your career step by step.
Share this article with a friend or classmate who is still tarmacking—it might just change their perspective and open a door.
Frequently Asked Questions About Degree Holders & Their Sense of Entitlement in Job Hunting in Kenya
What should I do if I’ve already been unemployed for over a year due to this mindset?
First, honestly audit your past applications and rejections. Then, actively seek a short-term internship or volunteer role to rebuild your CV with current experience. This breaks the unemployment gap that worries employers.
Consider upskilling with a practical, affordable short course from an institution like KCA or a government TVET college to add specific, marketable skills to your profile.
How do I negotiate a salary without sounding entitled?
Base your negotiation on research and the value you bring, not just your degree. Use sites like MyJobMag Kenya or Glassdoor to know the market rate for that specific role in Nairobi, Mombasa, or other towns.
Phrase it as, “Based on my research and the skills I have in [specific area], is there room to discuss a starting salary around KES X?” Always be ready to justify the number.
Is it worth taking a job that pays less than KES 30,000 just to get experience?
Yes, if it offers genuine skill development and a path forward. Calculate if the experience and network are worth the short-term financial strain. Many successful careers in Kenya started with such humble beginnings.
Set a clear timeline for yourself, e.g., “I will do this for 6-12 months to gain X skill, then seek a promotion or new role.” Don’t get stuck without a growth plan.
Can this sense of entitlement affect me in government job applications?
Absolutely. The Public Service Commission and county governments value discipline and a willingness to serve. An entitled attitude during interviews or in your application letter will be a major red flag for recruiters.
Ensure your application documents, especially the cover letter for jobs advertised on the PSC portal, emphasize public service and readiness to learn, not just academic credentials.
How do I handle pressure from family who expect me to get a “big job” immediately?
Have an honest conversation. Explain the current job market realities and share your concrete plan—like the graduate programs you’re targeting or the skills you’re building. This shows you’re serious, not just lounging.
Sometimes, showing them a detailed budget and your active job search efforts can help manage their expectations and reduce the pressure they put on you.
