The South African SaaS Industry: How to Get Hired in 5 Easy Steps

According to Statista, the South African SaaS (Software as a Service) industry is set to reach new heights, with an annual growth rate of 18.27%. This industry isn’t just for software developers or IT experts, the South African SaaS industry has roles for sales, presales, services, communications, marketing, and more.  As the sector grows, there is room for every kind of person – creative, technical, detail-oriented, strategic, inexperienced, expert, introverted, extroverted, and the list goes on.

There are many benefits to working in the SaaS industry: working at innovative companies, remote work opportunities, and developing technical skills that are growing in demand.

Considering breaking into the SaaS industry in South Africa? At SurTech, one of South Africa’s leading SaaS companies – just ask Financial Times – we’re always looking for new team members. We’ve made this guide with the answers to your burning questions about looking for jobs at any South African SaaS company.

There are many perks that come with SaaS jobs, especially in the South African SaaS industry. The industry is rapidly growing, meaning that people enjoy job stability at their company due to demand for their skills. On the note of skills, this industry is always changing with new technological developments happening every day – think about how AI has emerged in the last few years – meaning that there is always opportunity to learn new skills, master new technology, and become an expert in your field.

In South Africa, there are countless SaaS start-ups, including SurTech, that show a forward-thinking attitude to work. Flexible working hours, good pay, remote/hybrid working, and great company culture are a few benefits that you can find when working at a South African SaaS company. 

Step 1: Self-reflection

It’s tempting to jump straight into mass-applying for roles to avoid the anxiety of missing out, but what’s even worse is landing a role in an environment that is not right for you. Figure out what you want in a role, in a company, and in your future – and also figure out what you don’t want. At SurTech, we take our hiring process seriously, not just because we want someone who will be a great team member, but also because it is important to enjoy what you do.

Tip: Before applying, check out our values and see if they align with yours to make sure it’s a good fit.

Step 2: Your CV

Before applying, even to entry-level jobs, make sure you have a CV that you’re proud of. In the time of AI, it can be tempting to use whatever ChatGPT gives you – but your CV should be a personal reflection of you, so make sure that it has that personal touch by editing it to fit you. Make sure to include clear, well-written details of your education, experience, and skills.

Tips: 

• If you’re a student or university graduate with limited experience, include school projects and interests that show your strengths. 
• When applying for an entry-level role, make sure to provide your academic transcript as well. 

Step 3: Apply online

Once you have a CV you are proud of, you are ready to apply to jobs in the South African SaaS industry. This is the part of the process that takes time. Some companies follow Google’s example and will even make you take an online test as part of the application. When this happens, breathe and ensure you’re in the right headspace to give the test your all.

Tip: We may have a role you want – check our vacancies to apply!

Step 4: Interviews

So, you’ve done your application and you’ve been contacted for an interview, now what? Many companies, especially companies in the South African SaaS industry, tend to do online interviews to screen candidates. While you can totally get away with wearing a smart shirt with your pyjama bottoms, you can’t get away with things like a bad internet connection or a noisy environment, so make sure to find a quiet place with a reliable internet connection.

What about in-person interviews? Here’s where you say goodbye to the pyjama bottoms and arrive at the interview location on time, dressed in your best gear. Make sure to be well-groomed and polite to get off on the right foot. Researching the company, the role, and the industry will help you shine.

Step 5: Job offer

If you’re the best candidate for the role, you’ll be sent an offer and once you’ve accepted it, you’ll be onboarded and ready to go! Whether you’re starting your first job or you’ve got years of experience, this is always an exciting time. You’ve survived all the scary steps of this guide, from applications, to interviews, to testing. Pat yourself on the back and get ready to start your new journey.