Table of Contents
Key Takeaways
- Key lessons from NSMQ include being ready for opportunities, showing confidence, and valuing teamwork.
- Quick thinking and clear communication are crucial for adapting in both NSMQ and the workplace.
- Composure under pressure and resilience in the face of setbacks are vital skills for success.
- NSMQ serves as a training ground for developing employability skills highly sought after by employers.
Every year, the National Science and Maths Quiz (NSMQ) takes over Ghana- group chats are buzzing, timelines are heated, schools are mobilising alumni, and the whole country becomes a classroom. But beyond the hype, NSMQ actually teaches career lessons, especially for job seekers preparing for interviews and new work opportunities. But beyond the excitement, NSMQ is an example of how soft skills drive real performance, especially under pressure. This aligns strongly with the World Economic Forum’s Future of Jobs Report (2023), which states that;
“The socio-emotional attitudes which businesses consider to be growing in importance most quickly are curiosity and lifelong learning; resilience, flexibility and agility” (World Economic Forum, 2023).
So, here are the 7 things you can learn from the National Science and Maths Quiz, NSMQ;
1. You Don’t Get Lucky, You Get Ready
NSMQ contestants don’t walk onto the stage because they “know a little science.” They prepare with strategy, mock tests, coaching, and constant practice. In the same way, a successful job search shouldn’t be random. Don’t apply to every role. Research the company, tailor your CV to match the job description, and rehearse your answers before the interview. The more prepared you are, the more confident and persuasive you become.
2. Confidence Makes People Believe in You
Even when NSMQ contestants are unsure of an answer, the strongest among them speaks with controlled confidence, a steady voice, and eyes up. Employers are not only assessing what you say, but also how you say it. Practice speaking slowly and active listening. Sit upright, make eye contact during video interviews, and trust that the work you’ve put in has value because you came prepared. Confidence helps employers feel confident in choosing you.
3. Teamwork Always Wins
In NSMQ, everyone knows their role. The quick buzzer person, the calm explainer, the strategist. They win because they understand how to collaborate. In the workplace, the individuals who grow the fastest are those who support others, share information, and collaborate to solve problems. No one works in isolation from other departments. You don’t have to be the loudest. Just be reliable, respectful, and willing to work with others.
4. Quick Thinking Helps You Adapt at Work
When the quizmaster drops a surprise riddle and the clock is ticking, contestants must think fast and adapt. Work environments are the same. Things shift, priorities change, and problems arise without warning. Thinking on your feet is a sought-after skill that employers look for. So, train yourself to stay alert, think logically before reacting, and ask clarifying questions to make you more valuable in any role.
5. Communication Matters More Than Just Knowledge
NSMQ contestants don’t just solve equations; they explain them clearly and concisely. The workplace rewards people who communicate with clarity. It’s not about big grammar; it’s about expressing ideas simply and confidently. To improve this, practice summarising your thoughts before speaking and avoid rushing your words. Clarity builds trust.
6. Composure Is a Must-Have
NSMQ finals come with pressure, including expectations from the entire school, the crowd, the cameras, and the tension. Yet the best contestants remain composed even when the competition intensifies. Interviews are no different. When you stay calm, breathe slowly, and take a moment before answering, you demonstrate to employers that you can handle stress, and that is a highly valuable skill.
7. Resilience Keeps You Going
Not every NSMQ team wins, but many come back stronger the next year because they learned, regrouped, and improved. Job seeking is similar in this regard. Rejections don’t mean you’re not good enough. Job search may be tough, but once you review why you didn’t get the previous job and adjust accordingly, you’ll land that dream job and not just land but stay in it.
NSMQ isn’t just a competition; it serves as a real-life training ground for developing employability skills. If you can prepare smartly, speak confidently, work with others, adapt quickly, communicate clearly, stay calm under pressure, and remain resilient, then you are already building the qualities employers prioritise.
Looking to build and prepare yourself for the job market? Then, take our soft skills training course.
