INTERVIEW: Tuuda Haitula on Human Resources

Tuuda Haitula, an industrial psychologist by profession, recently led a program called Free Career Guidance for the Norwegian Boy Child, aimed at assisting young men transitioning from university or high school to the workforce. The program, initially designed for 30 participants, expanded quickly due to overwhelming interest, with 150 applicants ultimately joining the initiative.

The Program’s Vision and Growth

Tuuda explained that the motivation behind the project stemmed from his extensive experience in the human resources (HR) space. He had seen many young people make avoidable mistakes during interviews and in preparing their CVs and cover letters. This inspired him to offer free career guidance to young men, especially those facing challenges in the job market. Recognizing the growing success of women in the workforce, Tuuda sought to empower young men by providing the tools to excel in interviews and career development.

After receiving the 150 applications, Tuuda enlisted the help of a group of friends to manage the large number of registrants. They divided the participants into two groups to hold sessions throughout the year, concluding with the final session in October. The sessions, conducted online, allowed for nationwide participation, with attendees from across Namibia, though regions like Kunene and Kavango West did not register.

Key Learnings and Impact

The program covered several core topics, including CV writing, cover letter creation, and interview preparation. Participants were encouraged to actively engage, sharing their personal experiences and practicing answers to common interview questions. Industry experts and social workers also joined the sessions, providing additional insights into career development, goal-setting, and the importance of setting boundaries.

By the conclusion of the program, many participants reported tangible outcomes, such as securing internships, job interviews, and even full-time employment. The feedback received showed how beneficial the sessions were in providing practical advice that helped them present themselves more confidently.

The Evolving HR Landscape

During the interview, Tuuda was asked whether HR practices and interview processes were evolving. He confirmed that HR is an ever-changing field, particularly in recruitment. While traditional interviews were once the standard, new methods such as psychometric tests and skills assessments have become more common. Tuuda stressed the importance of continuous learning and upgrading one’s skills to stay competitive in the job market.

He compared the need for personal skill development to updating a phone’s software—constant upgrades are necessary to stay relevant and meet new job requirements. Tuuda encouraged individuals to embrace this mindset and to keep learning, especially given that the skills required today might be outdated in the near future.

The Role of Online Courses and Certifications

A key question raised was whether unaccredited online courses could add value to a CV, especially for someone who had completed their degree but could not afford the final certification. Tuuda advised that, while unaccredited courses might not carry the same weight as formal degrees, they still offer valuable knowledge. He suggested that individuals list these online courses on their CVs, along with a clear description of the skills acquired and how these courses complemented their education. Additionally, he recommended that individuals provide proof of their university coursework or academic transcripts if they hadn’t received their final degree due to financial constraints.

Looking Forward

Tuuda hopes to make the career guidance program an annual initiative, continuing to support young men in navigating the often complex job market. He expressed gratitude for the platform that allowed him to give back to his community, and his goal remains to keep helping young men achieve their career potential in the coming years.