Job Search
Real-World tips for finding a job
Searching for a job can bring up a variety of emotions.
You might be feeling:
→ Excited about being able to work and make your own money.
→ Nervous about talking to people you don’t know.
→ Frustrated and/or discouraged about the process of looking for a job.
→ Confused by all the things each company asks you to do to apply for a job.
To successfully get a job, it is important that you keep your feelings in check. Don’t allow them to impact you in a negative way. The following is a real example of someone who let his feelings get in the way of looking for a job.
Marcus is 17 years old and is in high school. He decided that he wants a part-time job so he can start saving for a car. His goal is to be able to buy a car when he turns 18. Marcus doesn’t have any paid work experience. He is hopeful that he will find an entry-level job near where he lives.
He has created a resume and has been applying for jobs. He has submitted online applications at several businesses near his house. He has followed up like he was taught and made sure he acted professionally. He feels like he has done everything like he is supposed to.
Marcus is not getting called back for interviews. He is feeling frustrated and discouraged. He has stopped submitting applications and feels like he won’t be able to get a car when he turns 18.
Two weeks ago, Marcus’ friend’s mom told him that the coffee shop near his house is hiring. He was so discouraged he procrastinated about applying for a job there. Finally, he decided to apply for the job. When he looked for the position, he discovered that the job has already been filled.
As you can see, Marcus had a variety of feelings. In the end, the feelings affected his attitude in a negative way.
Here are some things you need to think about when you are looking for a job:
What does your online presence say about you?
Many employers are checking on social media and Google to learn about the people that they are thinking about hiring. Google your name and see what comes up. You may be surprised. Remember, once it is online, it never goes away; even after you delete it.
→ Is there an old photo of you smoking or drinking?
→ Are there pictures or videos of you using profanity?
→ What are your profile names/handles?
Make sure your online presence is flattering and professional. This includes your email address. What does crazygurl916@gmail.com say about you to a potential employer?
Is your head in the game?
Be prepared to take the time to look for a job. Looking for a job is a job. It is going to take time and a lot of effort. In most cases, jobs don’t just fall into your lap. You are going to have to go out and look.
Be persistent, be patient and be positive.
Don’t bank on one thing. You need to keep applying for jobs. Don’t just apply for one and then wait to see what happens. While you are waiting, you are missing other opportunities. Even if you have an interview scheduled, keep applying for other jobs. There is no guarantee that you will get the job you interview for.
Are you prepared?
Before you start submitting applications, you need to be prepared.
→ You need to have an up-to-date resume and a cover letter template ready to go.
→ You need to make sure your online presence is appropriate.
→ You need to talk to the people you want to use as references.
→ Ask them if you can use them as a reference.
→ Make sure that they will say good things about you.
→ You should know what your strengths are and be able to sell yourself.
*We will cover each of these items in future lessons.
Do you have a search strategy?
Before you begin looking for a job, sit down and develop a plan. A strategy might include:
Neighborhood – What jobs are you able to get to on your own? What is close to where you are (home, school, etc.)?
Transportation – How will you get to and from work? If you don’t have a car, what jobs can you get to by public transportation, riding a bike, skateboarding, or walking?
Hours – What hours are you available to work? Make sure to check local laws about work hours for youth under 18 years old.
When you are looking for a job…
→ Be professional and courteous to everyone you interact with. You never know what influence they will have in the decision to interview or hire you.
→ Always have a good attitude! Skills can be taught, but attitude cannot.
→ Body language sends an unspoken message. What message are you sending?
→ Apply for what you are qualified for. Anything else is a waste of your time.
→ Have a clear idea of what you are looking for and stay focused.
→ Be honest about what you are able to do.
→ Use time between jobs to build new skills or improve the skills you already have. This can be done through education or volunteering.
→ Keep an open mind. Not all jobs are going to be exactly what you want, but they can be the entry point for something better.
If you aren’t sure what kind of job you would like or are qualified for,
try completing a quick assessment.
