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Introduction: When Saying “No” Becomes a Power Move

Yes, you read that right, I rejected two job offers even though I was completely jobless at the time. Sounds crazy? Maybe. But sometimes, walking away is the most powerful step you can take toward walking into the right opportunity.

Between July and September, I applied for 11 job openings, attended 5 interviews (I was called for one but didn’t show up), and landed 4 job offers. But here’s the twist; I turned down two of them.

Why? Because the conditions weren’t favorable, and I refused to settle for less than I deserved.

The Job Hunt That Tested My Patience

If you’ve ever searched for a job, you know the process can feel exhausting, applying to countless openings, waiting for responses, and sometimes never hearing back.

In my case, I made 11 applications within three months. Out of those, I got called for five interviews. Four resulted in actual job offers.

That’s not luck, that’s preparation meeting opportunity.

While many young people complain about not finding jobs, I’ve realized that the problem isn’t always the economy. Sometimes, the problem is us.

We underestimate the power of being prepared, of showing up not just with a certificate, but with clarity, confidence, and competence.

Why I Rejected Two Job Offers (Even Though I Needed One)

When you’re jobless, any offer can feel like a lifeline. But I’ve learned that saying “yes” out of desperation can sometimes block your path to better opportunities.

The first two job offers I received had conditions that didn’t align with my goals. The pay was low, the growth opportunities were unclear, and the work culture didn’t feel right.

So, I said no.

Then, I started one job in Yaoundé and after working for just one week, I left and returned to Bamenda for a better opportunity. Yes, it might sound impulsive, but sometimes your intuition knows when something isn’t for you.

That decision led me to where I am now; working in a place that aligns with my values and growth ambitions.

Then Came the Unexpected Offer

Just when I thought things had settled, something amazing happened. The Director of one of the district hospitals where I had done my clinical internship called me out of the blue and offered me a job.

Here’s the catch: I didn’t even apply for it.

That moment reminded me of something powerful, when you carry yourself with excellence and intention, people notice. Even when you’re not actively looking, your reputation speaks for you.

So, How Did I Stand Out?

If I could summarize it, I’d say it all came down to preparation, personal branding, and purpose.

Too many graduates enter the job market unprepared. They have the qualifications but not the presentation. They show up but can’t communicate their value.

Thanks to Oppnergy, I learned how to stand out, not just by being qualified, but by being visible, valuable, and versatile.

The Role Oppnergy Played in My Journey

Oppnergy has been more than a community for me — it’s been a launchpad.

Through the mentorship of our Vision Bearer, @Nsom Emmanuel, I learned how to:

Brand myself authentically so that employers see me as a solution, not just an applicant.

Communicate effectively, both in writing and in person.

Ace interviews with confidence and clarity.

Build and sustain networks that open doors even when I’m not knocking.

These lessons didn’t just help me land jobs, they helped me make better choices about which jobs to accept.

Today, I’m not only a proud Oppnaut, but I also serve as a Coordinator at Oppnergy, working in synergy with other brilliant minds to create ripple effects of growth and transformation across Africa.

A Call to Every Young Graduate Out There

If you’re a young person reading this and you’ve been struggling to find a job, let me ask you:

How hard are you really looking?

How prepared are you for the opportunities you say you want?

If you were invited for an interview today, could you ace it?

Before blaming the economy or the system, take a step back and evaluate your readiness.

Sometimes, the job isn’t missing, the prepared version of you is.

Join the Oppnergy Movement

Oppnergy is more than a platform, it’s a movement of visionaries.

If you’re ready to grow, connect, and unlock your full potential, I invite you to explore what this community can do for you.

🌍 Visit our website: www.oppnergy.com

🚀 Join Cohort 5 and become an Oppnaut

Let’s build together. Let’s grow together.

See you at the top. Cheers! 🥂😊