How to Get an Industrial Training (IT) Placement in Lagos Without Stress

If you’ve ever searched for an Industrial Training (IT) placement in Lagos, you already know how frustrating it can be. Some companies won’t even acknowledge your application, while others will tell you there’s no space. The worst part? You might see people securing IT placements effortlessly, leaving you wondering if you’re doing something wrong.

The good news is that getting an IT placement in Lagos is not as difficult as it seems—if you know the right steps to take. Whether you’re a polytechnic or university student, this article will show you how to secure a placement without wasting time or money.

Start Early Before Others Take the Best Spots

Lagos is a busy city, and companies receive hundreds of applications for IT placements. If you wait until the last minute, you might struggle to find a spot. Some students start searching months before their IT period begins, and by the time you’re ready, many positions are already filled.

To avoid this, start making inquiries as soon as possible. If your IT is scheduled for six months, begin searching at least three months before. This gives you an advantage over those who wait until the last moment.

Decide on the Industry You Want

Many students make the mistake of applying everywhere without a clear plan. While this might seem like a good idea, it can backfire if you end up in a place where you won’t learn anything useful.

Instead, focus on industries related to your course. For example:

• Engineering students should target construction companies, manufacturing firms, or oil and gas companies.
• Mass Communication students can apply to media houses, radio stations, or PR agencies.
• Computer Science students should look for IT firms, software development companies, or tech startups.
• Business Administration students can apply to banks, consulting firms, or corporate organizations.

Knowing where to apply makes your search easier and increases your chances of getting a placement that benefits your career.

Use Your School’s IT Placement Office

Most schools have an Industrial Training (IT) placement office that helps students find positions. Many companies prefer to work with schools directly instead of dealing with individual students.

Visit your school’s IT placement office and ask if they have a list of companies that accept students. Some schools even have partnerships with companies that offer automatic placement to their students.

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Apply to Big Companies Early

Big companies like Dangote, MTN, and Nestlé offer IT placements, but their slots fill up quickly. If you’re interested in large organizations, apply months in advance.

Many of these companies advertise openings on their websites, so make sure to check regularly. You can also follow them on LinkedIn and turn on notifications for job openings.

When applying, ensure your email is professional, and attach all necessary documents, such as:

• A well-written CV
• A cover letter stating why you want the position
• A letter from your school (if required)

Leverage Family and Friends

Sometimes, who you know matters more than what you know. If you have family members or friends working in companies that accept IT students, ask for help. A simple recommendation from an insider can increase your chances of getting accepted.

Let people around you know you’re looking for IT placement. You’d be surprised how many opportunities exist through personal connections.

Visit Companies in Person

Not all companies advertise IT positions online. Some prefer to accept walk-in applicants.

Print several copies of your CV and visit companies related to your field. Dress properly and speak confidently when introducing yourself. Some companies might ask you to submit your documents and come back later, while others could offer you a spot immediately.

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Use Online Platforms

The internet is your friend when searching for IT placement in Lagos. Many websites and social media platforms list opportunities for students.

Some places to check include:

• LinkedIn: Many companies post internship opportunities here. Connect with professionals in your field and ask if their company is accepting IT students.
• Job Websites: Websites like Jobberman and MyJobMag occasionally list IT placements.
• Facebook Groups & Twitter: Some companies post internship openings on social media. Follow job-related pages and check frequently.

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Don’t Ignore Small and Medium-Sized Companies

Many students dream of working in big companies, but smaller firms often provide better learning opportunities. In large organizations, you might be assigned small tasks with little practical experience, while smaller firms allow you to be more involved.

If you don’t get into a big company, don’t be discouraged. Many small businesses in Lagos need IT students and are willing to teach you valuable skills.

Be Willing to Work Without Pay

Some companies in Lagos do not pay IT students, and this discourages many applicants. However, if the company offers valuable experience, it might be worth accepting an unpaid placement.

Instead of focusing on pay, think about the skills and connections you can gain. Sometimes, unpaid IT positions lead to full-time jobs after graduation.

Follow Up After Applying

Many students apply and wait, hoping for a response. If you don’t hear back after a week or two, send a follow-up email or visit the company again.

A polite message like this can make a difference:

“Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name], I hope this email finds you well. I applied for an IT placement at your company two weeks ago and wanted to follow up to see if there are any updates. I am still very interested in the opportunity and would appreciate any feedback. Thank you for your time.”

Persistence shows seriousness and can help you stand out from other applicants.

Be Prepared for an Interview

Some companies conduct interviews before accepting IT students. Prepare by practicing common interview questions such as:

• Why do you want to intern with us?
• What skills do you have that can help our company?
• What do you hope to learn during your IT?

Dress professionally, arrive on time, and speak confidently. Even if it’s just an internship, showing professionalism increases your chances of being selected.

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