Finding a Job!

Why are you looking for a job? Do you need to make some money? Do you want the experience? Are you thinking about the job as a step to a career? What ever the reasons there are some basics that you need to know.

Who is hiring teens?

Jobs are not listed in one place and sometimes they aren’t listed anywhere. You will have to spend some time looking on the web, and talking to people.

• Looking on the Web- This website keeps a list of job opportunities in the County.
• Talking to People- Lots of jobs are never listed anywhere. You learn about them by asking family and friends, asking at school and calling people companies and talking to people – networking.

The Job Hunt

Before you step out the door or make a phone call you need to prepare. It takes a little time to get organized, but it pays off in the end! Putting your best foot forward and making a good impression are keys to your success.

Putting Together a Resume

Resumes are a way to let people know who you are and how to get a hold of you. Having a resume will let prospective employers know that you have put some effort into finding a job.

Even if you have no work experience you can give employers an idea of who you are and what you know. Have you been a baby-sitter? Have you mowed lawns? Are you part of any groups such as the Boy/Girl Scouts, 4-H, or through your church? Do you belong to any clubs? What courses are you taking in school and what is your grade point? Do you play any sports or are you in the band?

Appearance Matters!

Make sure when you head out the door, that you are well groomed and well dressed. You don't need to be in a suit, but this is a time to dress conservatively. Don’t wear jeans, lots of jewelry, tank tops, or flip flops. No gum chewing!

Networking

Networking means talking to people and letting them know that you would like to find a job.   Develop contacts - friends, teachers, family, and neighbors - anyone who might know about leads.  You can take a direct approach and ask for job leads or try a less formal approach and ask for information and advice.  Contact everyone you know. At least 60% of all jobs are found by networking.

Prepare for "No"

Before you apply anywhere, prepare yourself for rejection. Nobody gets a job every single place they apply. There's nothing wrong with a store owner saying to you, "I'm sorry, we don't need anyone right now." However, there is a right and a wrong way to respond to a business owner or manager who says they have no need for you. If you get a "No" (and you will!), respond by saying, "Well, if you do need someone in the future, please give me a call. I'll leave you a copy of my resume. Thank you for your time." This shows that you are serious about getting a job, and have demonstrated the ability to follow up. Simply walking away from the store shows the manager that you weren't serious about the job to begin with.

Stand Up Straight and Be Mature

Not to sound like your parents, or anything, but… Contact the employers on your list either by phone, e-mail or just walk in the door, and ask for that job. Keep you head up, maintain eye contact and have a firm handshake. Employers look for certain qualities when a jobseeker walks in the door. It is important to show your ability to communicate well and to give a good first impression. You need to show the employer that you are serious about getting a job and that you will be an asset to the company.

Follow Up

This is probably the most important part of getting a job. After you have an interview, send a note or an e-mail to thank the person for their time and to let them know how interested you are in the job. If you don’t hear anything in a week, make a call, and when you do, make sure to get on the phone with the person who will be hiring. Don't rely on someone else to leave the right message for you.