Renowned Professional Corporate MC, Safety and Security Events Consultant, and Event Organiser Chris Kirwa has called on the Kenyan youth to stop treating job applications lightly.
Kirwa argues that many young people are missing out on crucial opportunities simply because they use slang or exhibit a lack of professionalism when sending out their initial communication to potential employers.
In a pointed Facebook post dated November 11th, Kirwa emphasized that the language used during the first encounter with an employer is often the deciding factor in whether a candidate is considered or dismissed.
“The first words you use to be given an opportunity can make or break,” he posted, cautioning against overly casual requests.
He called out specific informal phrases commonly used in Kenya, urging young applicants to “Stop with ‘Si muniitiange job za ku shoot, ku Emcee, kuwa bouncer’ etc . Be professional.”
This sentiment quickly attracted support from his followers. One user, JM Wagatua, agreed strongly, noting, “Kwanza hiyo ‘si…. ‘ makes people disrespect you pap!”
Marketing language vs. job application
The conversation was not without dissent. A Facebook user who goes by the handle Kiprop Kiprotich argued for flexibility, stating, “Even Safaricom speaks their language. Be flexible.” suggesting that since major corporations sometimes use informal language or slang in their marketing campaigns to appeal to the youth, the same standards apply to job applications.
However Kirwa sharply refuted this idea, drawing a clear line between marketing language and the formal process of a job application.
“Try Send your cv to Safaricom with such and let us know when u get employed,” he challenged. He went on to illustrate the absurdity of mixing the two: “Don’t confuse marketing language and application to a company for a job… Or imagine sending a request to be promoted from Your current position to next… ‘Niaje bossie, nadai promotion walai! Nimetulia kwa position siku mob’ Please do and come tell us the outcome!”
Is professionalism eroding?
Kirwa’s post highlights a growing concern: is professionalism eroding in job applications, and is this why young people are missing opportunities?
While some companies have relaxed their corporate culture, the formal job application remains a demonstration of a candidate’s ability to communicate respectfully, follow procedures, and understand professional boundaries.
A job application is often viewed as the first piece of professional correspondence a potential employee sends; using slang suggests immaturity or a failure to respect the formal business context. For many hiring managers, it is an immediate deal-breaker.
By Samson Jura
