Trapped in the Work Experience Loop: Why Graduates Can’t Get Hired—And How PromoLink is Changing That

For thousands of South African graduates, the moment they leave university or college is supposed to be the start of something exciting. But for many, it quickly turns into frustration. One job application after another ends in rejection—not because they lack ambition, education, or drive, but because they lack experience.

Here’s the irony:

You need work experience to get a job, but you need a job to get work experience.

This vicious cycle has become one of the biggest obstacles facing young people today. Even internships often demand previous experience. It’s a system that sets graduates up to fail—and that needs to change.

That’s where PromoLink comes in.

At PromoLink, we’re breaking that loop by providing real, accessible opportunities for young people to build their first job experiences. We’ve created a platform where students and recent graduates can step into paid promotional work, learn professional conduct, work with real brands, and build a record of reliability—all without needing previous job history.

Whether it's flyering for a fintech brand, representing a beverage company at a music festival, or helping with crowd engagement at a mall activation—every gig builds skills, confidence, and credibility.

And it’s not just about putting cash in their pockets. It’s about preparing them for the future.

How PromoLink helps build experience that matters:

• Verified work history: Every job worked through PromoLink becomes part of a trackable performance record—something to show future employers.

• Soft skills in action: Communication, punctuality, time management, and teamwork are all tested and developed on the job.

• Portfolio building: Promoters can start compiling photos, reviews, and events into a real portfolio that stands out.

Final Thought:

Graduates shouldn’t be punished for being new to the workforce. They deserve a fair shot. PromoLink is here to open that door—offering a way in when no one else will.

We don’t believe in waiting for opportunity. We believe in creating it.

Join the movement