The Youth Employment Service (YES) programme has become one of the biggest opportunities for unemployed young people in South Africa. Every year, thousands of young people apply for YES opportunities hoping to gain work experience, improve their skills, and open doors to future employment.

However, competition is high. Many applicants apply for the same opportunities, and not everyone gets selected. The good news is that there are practical things you can do to improve your chances of being chosen.

If you are planning to apply for a YES opportunity, here are some important ways to stand out from other applicants and increase your chances of success.

Understand What YES Employers Are Looking For

Before applying, it is important to understand what companies want from YES candidates.

Most employers are looking for young people who are:

  • Willing to learn
  • Reliable and punctual
  • Professional
  • Positive and respectful
  • Able to follow instructions
  • Eager to gain work experience

You do not need years of experience to be selected for YES. In fact, many YES opportunities are designed for people with little or no work experience. What matters most is your attitude, willingness to work, and ability to present yourself professionally.

Make Sure You Meet the Requirements

One of the biggest mistakes applicants make is applying without checking whether they qualify.

While requirements may differ depending on the company, many YES opportunities require applicants to:

  • Be South African citizens
  • Be between 18 and 34 years old
  • Be unemployed
  • Not be studying full-time
  • Have a valid South African ID
  • Have a matric certificate or relevant qualification (for some positions)

Some companies may also ask for:

  • A CV
  • Proof of residence
  • Certified copies of qualifications
  • A bank account
  • SARS number

Always read the application carefully before submitting anything.

Create a Professional CV

Your CV is one of the first things employers see. A poorly written CV can reduce your chances immediately.

A good YES CV should be:

  • Clear and simple
  • Free from spelling mistakes
  • Easy to read
  • Updated with your latest information

Include the following:

  • Full name and contact details
  • Educational background
  • Skills
  • Any volunteer work or experience
  • References if available

Even if you do not have formal work experience, include things such as:

  • School leadership roles
  • Community volunteering
  • Church involvement
  • Helping in a family business
  • Computer skills

These experiences still show responsibility and commitment.

Use a Professional Phone Number and Email Address

Many applicants lose opportunities because they use unprofessional contact details.

Avoid email addresses that look childish or inappropriate. Instead, use something simple like:

Also make sure:

  • Your phone number is active
  • You answer calls professionally
  • Your voicemail is appropriate

Recruiters often contact shortlisted candidates by phone.

Apply Early

YES opportunities often receive thousands of applications. Some companies close applications once they receive enough entries.

Applying early gives you a better chance of being noticed before the application system becomes overloaded.

Do not wait until the closing date.

Follow Instructions Carefully

A lot of applications get rejected simply because applicants fail to follow instructions.

For example:

  • Uploading wrong documents
  • Using incorrect file formats
  • Leaving sections incomplete
  • Sending blurry documents
  • Applying through the wrong platform

Take your time when applying. Double-check everything before submitting.

Improve Your Communication Skills

Good communication can help you stand out during interviews and assessments.

You do not need perfect English, but you should be able to:

  • Introduce yourself confidently
  • Answer questions clearly
  • Speak respectfully
  • Listen carefully

Practice common interview questions such as:

  • Tell us about yourself
  • Why do you want to join YES?
  • What are your strengths?
  • What skills do you want to develop?

The more prepared you are, the more confident you will sound.

Be Active on Job Platforms

Many YES opportunities are advertised online. To improve your chances, stay active on trusted job platforms and company career pages.

Popular places where YES opportunities may be posted include:

  • Company websites
  • Recruitment agencies
  • Job websites
  • Social media pages

Check these platforms regularly so you do not miss opportunities.

Build Basic Computer Skills

Many workplaces now require basic digital skills. Even entry-level positions may expect you to know how to:

  • Send emails
  • Use Microsoft Word
  • Search online
  • Upload documents
  • Attend virtual interviews

If your computer skills are weak, consider taking free online courses or practicing at local libraries and community centres.

Digital skills can make your application stronger.

Prepare Your Documents in Advance

Do not wait until applications open before collecting your documents.

Keep certified copies of:

  • ID
  • Qualifications
  • Proof of residence
  • CV

Store both physical and digital copies so you can apply quickly when opportunities become available.

Keep Your Social Media Professional

Some employers may look at applicants’ social media accounts.

Avoid posting:

  • Offensive content
  • Hate speech
  • Violent material
  • Illegal activities
  • Extremely inappropriate photos or videos

You do not need to be perfect online, but maintaining a professional image can help.

Gain Experience Wherever You Can

Even small experiences can strengthen your application.

Consider:

  • Volunteering
  • Community projects
  • Short courses
  • Temporary work
  • Assisting local businesses

These experiences show initiative and willingness to work.

Remember, employers value attitude and effort.

Stay Positive After Rejection

Not getting selected the first time does not mean you will never get a YES opportunity.

Many young people apply multiple times before being selected.

Instead of giving up:

  • Improve your CV
  • Learn new skills
  • Apply again
  • Practice interviews
  • Look for other opportunities while waiting

Persistence matters.

Beware of Scams

Because YES opportunities are popular, scammers sometimes target desperate job seekers.

Remember:

  • Real YES opportunities do not require payment to apply
  • Be careful of fake WhatsApp messages
  • Verify opportunities through official company pages
  • Do not share sensitive banking information unnecessarily

If something sounds suspicious, research it first.

Develop a Strong Work Ethic

Employers want young people who are serious about work.

Show professionalism by:

  • Arriving on time
  • Responding quickly to communication
  • Dressing neatly for interviews
  • Being respectful
  • Taking opportunities seriously

Even small actions can create a strong impression.

Final Thoughts

Getting selected for a YES opportunity is not only about luck. Preparation, professionalism, and persistence can significantly improve your chances.

Many employers are not expecting perfect candidates. They are looking for young people who are willing to learn, work hard, and grow.

Focus on:

  • Creating a strong CV
  • Applying correctly
  • Improving your skills
  • Staying professional
  • Remaining persistent

Every application is a chance to move closer to employment and valuable work experience.

For many young South Africans, YES can become the first step toward building a successful career.