The Nigeria Jubilee Fellows Programme (NJFP) introductory video is a critical assessment stage where candidates must avoid key mistakes to ensure their eligibility. The ten most common and damaging errors include rigidly exceeding the strict 60-second time limit, presenting with poor audio and lighting that obscures the message, and damaging credibility by reading directly from a script. Furthermore, candidates must refrain from using vague, cliché language and must balance their pitch by dedicating sufficient time to their specific contribution to the program, rather than focusing solely on personal gain. Finally, maintaining a quiet, professional background and composed body language are essential for conveying the necessary confidence and attention to detail.
10 Strong Common Mistakes to Avoid in Your Nigeria Jubilee Fellows Programme Introductory Video
The 60-second introductory video for the Nigeria Jubilee Fellows Programme (NJFP) is your single chance to make a confident, professional impression. While you should spend ample time preparing your script, you must dedicate equal attention to avoiding common technical and delivery errors that often lead to disqualification.
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This checklist is designed to help you review your practice recordings and ensure you submit a polished, professional video that stands out for all the right reasons.
Here are 10 Strong Common Mistakes to Avoid in Your Nigeria Jubilee Fellows Programme Introductory Video
1. Exceeding the 60-Second Limit (The Hard Stop)
This is the most crucial technical mistake. If you go over the one-minute limit, the recording may automatically cut off mid-sentence, leaving your pitch incomplete, rushed, and unprofessional. Strictly adhere to 60 seconds. Practice your delivery until you consistently finish between 55 and 59 seconds.
2. Poor Audio Quality
Mumbling, having excessive background noise (traffic, construction, music, or people talking), or speaking too quietly will make your video unusable. Assessors cannot grade what they cannot hear. Ensure you are in a completely silent room, and speak clearly and audibly into the microphone.
3. Reading Directly from a Script
While you must meticulously plan and use a script, do not stare down or scan off-camera repeatedly. This breaks rapport, makes you look stiff, and shows the assessors you are unprepared. Memorize your key points, and look confidently into the camera lens, simulating direct eye contact.
4. Inadequate Lighting (Looking Shadowy)
If the assessors cannot clearly see your face, your presentation suffers, making you look less credible. Avoid strong backlighting (where the light source is behind you, putting your face in shadow). Ensure the light source (a window or lamp) is facing you directly and illuminates your face evenly.
5. Focusing Only on Personal Gain
The NJFP is fundamentally a service programme designed to benefit Nigeria. Avoid talking only about what the fellowship will do for your career. Dedicate at least 40% of your time to explaining your specific contribution to the host organization and how you will support the program’s national development goals.
6. Using Vague or Cliché Language
Phrases like “I am a hardworking person” or “I am passionate about development” are too generic and tell the assessor nothing concrete. Use specific, results-oriented language and quantifiable achievements (e.g., “I developed a new inventory system that reduced resource waste by 15%”).
7. Inappropriate or Distracting Background
Avoid recording in busy areas, messy bedrooms, or rooms with posters, reflective surfaces, or highly noticeable objects. These distract the viewer from your message. A plain, light-colored, or neutral wall is always the safest and most professional choice.
8. Rushing Your Delivery
Nerves and the tight time constraint can cause candidates to speak too quickly to squeeze more information in. This makes you sound frantic, anxious, and hard to understand. Practice speaking at a steady, professional pace, even if it means ruthlessly cutting content from your script.
9. Failing to Include Essential Identity Details
Do not assume the assessor knows your name or background. Failing to clearly state your full name and highest educational qualification is a common oversight that shows poor attention to detail. The first 5-10 seconds must be dedicated to establishing who you are.
10. Unprofessional Body Language
Slouching, constant fidgeting, tapping, or excessive, distracting hand gestures detract from your core message. Sit up straight, maintain a calm but energetic posture, and use your hands sparingly and purposefully for emphasis. A stable, composed appearance conveys confidence and reliability.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: What is the absolute maximum duration for the video?
A: The absolute maximum is 60 seconds. We strongly recommend aiming for 55–59 seconds to allow for any minor technical delays and ensure your final thought is not cut off.
Q2: What kind of attire is appropriate for the recording?
A: You should wear professional attire. This could be business casual (a nice shirt/blouse, blazer) or neat, traditional wear. Avoid casual t-shirts, loud patterns, or overly distracting jewelry.
Q3: Should I record the video in portrait (vertical) or landscape (horizontal) mode?
A: Always record in landscape (horizontal) mode. This orientation is the professional standard for video viewing on most computer screens and is far less distracting for the assessors.
Q4: Is it okay to use my phone’s camera, or do I need a professional camera?
A: A modern smartphone camera is perfectly acceptable. Focus on high-resolution quality, stability (use a tripod or stable surface), and ensuring the lighting is optimized.
Q5: Can I use subtle background music during my pitch?
A: No. Background music, even if subtle, can sometimes interfere with the clarity of your voice or be interpreted as distracting. Keep the audio clean and focused only on your speech.
Q6: Can I include cuts or minor edits in the video?
A: Minor edits, such as trimming the start and end of the clip, are fine. Avoid using complex graphics, text overlays, or special effects. The focus is on your natural delivery and content.
Q7: If I mention a figure or statistic, should I provide a source?
A: Given the 60-second constraint, mentioning a source is usually unnecessary. Instead, ensure the achievement is relevant, quantifiable, and stated confidently as your own past result (e.g., “I grew the client base by 20% in six months”).
Q8: What is the best background color to use?
A: A plain, neutral color like white, light gray, or light blue is ideal. Ensure there is enough contrast between your outfit and the background so you stand out clearly.
Q9: What should I do if I stutter or forget a word halfway through my practice recording?
A: Re-record. While minor stumbles are human, the goal is to present a polished pitch. If you are consistently forgetting points, simplify your script and reduce your speaking pace.
Q10: How important is my energy level during the pitch?
A: Energy is very important. You should appear enthusiastic and confident, but not frantic. A steady, warm tone with clear articulation conveys passion and professional competence.
