Service Alert
Job searching is an intricate process that takes time and energy. It also may seem daunting to those who are not very familiar with the process. Whether you are searching for a part-time after school job to get some extra money, or you want something that will go toward your future career, making sure to follow these steps will help you with the process!
Step 1: Figure out what it is you want
What kind of a job are you looking for? Don't just apply to anything that is open. Make sure the jobs you apply for are actually what you need. What hours will work for you? What level of work is acceptable for you? What kind of career trajectory are you looking for? Or, are you just wanting to make some money? Do you need this for your resume, or for college applications? Figure out what it is you need/want before you do anything else. Write it down as a list that you can reference while job searching.
Step 2: Create a resume
A resume is a way to show off your skills. It will look different for each person depending on what that person can offer. These are some things that people typically include in a resume:
Don't panic if you don't have a lot of experience to add. Things like babysitting, dog-walking, volunteering, etc. are counted towards experience if they were for people or organizations in the community. When you are filling out applications, they may or may not ask you for the resume. Going ahead and making one will help you, not only in case they ask for it, but all the information will be there for you to just copy into your application.
One tool that can help you with your resume is available on our website through NCLive. It's called Cypress Resume. You simply go in and input your information, and the resume will be formatted for you. It is free to use with your library card!
Step 3: Searching for a job/putting in applications
Knowing what kind of job you are looking for will help you determine how to find that job. Most job postings are listed online now, with online applications. However, the type of job you are looking for will tell you which type of website to go to for job hunting.
Be aware that part of the application process for some businesses include an assessment of your skills. These assessments can take up to 45 minutes so schedule your time!
Step 4: Interview
This is the part that most people dread. The interview can be a nerve wracking thing, but it isn't meant to be. It's a chance for you to show off your awesomeness while speaking with your potential boss. The questions range from scenario questions, where you might be asked what you would do in a given situation, to questions about your personality and opinions.
The most important thing to remember is to be yourself. Answer the questions as honestly and truthfully as you can. Because if you are given the job, but your behavior does not match what you said in the interview, it will damage your working reputation and can hinder you in finding a job later.
Always dress the part. Don't ever go to an interview in your everyday school clothes. Dress in nice, casual/dressy clothing. Make sure your hair is neat and you are presentable. It doesn't matter what the job is for. Businesses want to make sure that you will put your best foot forward in any situation.
One last thing to remember is that from the moment you arrive to your interview, you are being observed. This includes when you walk into the building and anyone you might speak with, even those not involved in the interview. Present yourself in a professional manner to everyone you come across. Remember these steps and you should ace that interview!
Lastly:
Some other little pieces of advice. Don't apply for every single job you see. This can lead to issues later when you start getting calls and you aren't sure where or what you actually applied for. It will come across to the hiring manager and will not look good.
Resumes and cover letters give you a chance to show off what you bring to the table. The reason a skills list can and should be added to the resume is for those who have skills that may not be explained in the education and job experience sections to point those skills out. Say you list that you have babysitting and dog-walking experience on your resume. That says that you are responsible, but it doesn't say anything about the technology skills you may have, or the organizational skills you have. List those under the skills section.
Job searching can be a very stressful thing, but it doesn't necessarily have to be so long as you know what you are doing and why are you doing it. Never lose sight of why you are doing it and it will help keep you on track.
Good luck and happy job hunting!
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