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How to register as a work seeker on South Africa’s ESSA service
Prepare your information, use the official service and keep track of opportunities without paying a registration fee.
South Africa’s Department of Employment and Labour offers the Employment Services of South Africa, or ESSA, to help work seekers find registered opportunities. The department describes online registration and job-search services as free. Registering gives you another channel for finding work; it is not a job offer or a guarantee of an interview.
Start with the department’s own website
Open the department’s ESSA guide and follow its link to the official system. The department says you can register as a work seeker, look for opportunities and apply online. It also says the information you enter can generate a CV to download. If the system is unavailable, contact a labour centre using details on the department’s website and ask about assistance.
Prepare an accurate profile
Have your contact details, education, work history and skills ready. Check names, dates and the phone number on which you can receive calls. If you have not yet worked formally, describe completed training, projects and volunteer responsibilities accurately rather than inventing an employer. Review your profile before using it for an application.
Choose opportunities carefully
Read the job description, location and closing date before applying. Keep a simple list of the roles you have submitted and note any response. A role in another province may involve travel or accommodation costs; check those practicalities before accepting an interview.
Never give someone your account password or pay a person who promises to register you or secure a post. Follow the official instructions and contact the department directly if a request looks suspicious.