How To Find A Job

Summer is coming up and school is out! Gonna have a lot of free time on hand? Getting a job is a great way to pass the time, plus you get some cash while you’re at it. Everyone is hiring and applications are coming in fast. But how and where do you actually get one? What do you need to do and how do you need to prepare? Just follow these simple steps!

Do you really want a job?

Really think about this question. A job requires time, sacrifices, and commitment. Depending on what kind of job you get and how flexible that schedule is, there may not be time to do all the other fun things that come with summer. Like being with friends, family, free time, and hobbies. Getting a job can be rewarding with all the new people you’ll meet and the extra cash you’ll get. But it also has its drawbacks depending on what the job calls for.

Think about how long you want it to be.

Do you want a summer job or an all-the-time job? Part-time or full-time? It’s very important to decide on these things because it’s something the people who are hiring will ask you for and something that you’ll want to be sure about.

Think about what you want to do.

With a summer job there’s no need to think about your career here but something that will help you gain experience and have fun. If it’s more of a long term job then you’ll definitely want to keep a career in mind. Try to look for something that goes along the lines of what you want to do with your life, something that is flexible with school hours for when school comes back in.

Keep your eyes open and ears out.

So you’ve decided! Now is where things start rolling. Usually places will have signs on their windows or fliers inside. Make sure you take notice! Other times people talk, and hire friends or friends of friends.  Next time you’re with friends bring it up that you're looking for job and you’ll be surprised what they know! Now, if there’s a place that doesn't have signs or that you haven’t heard much about, don’t be afraid to go there yourself and ask them! The worst thing they could say is no, they’re not hiring. If they are hiring they’ll probably give you an application right off the back or a reference number to call. It doesn’t hurt to ask!

Building a resume.

The first timers may be wondering “What exactly is a resume?”. A resume is written compilation of your education, work experience, credentials, and accomplishments that is used to apply for jobs. It’s very important to have one and to always be updating and improving it.

Filling out an application.

Applications can be on paper or online and it is very important to fill them out as accurately as possible. When applying, make sure you do so to multiple places. It’s better to get more than one offer than none at all.

The interview.

Sometimes there’s an interview, sometimes there’s not. But most of the time there is. Having confidence in yourself and being true is vital. Remember to dress for success and to always smile with a firm handshake! Interviewers analyze everything you say and do so make sure to be self aware and focus on the situation at hand. One of the most impressive things you could do during an interview is to ask questions. Asking questions shows interest, concern, and leader like traits. Eye contact is a big thing too and so is posture.  “55% of communication is body language” - says Psychology Today. Always remember that! It becomes quite handy in general. So keep your body open to promote positive vibes i.e. legs and arms uncrossed, facing the interviewer, smiling, nodding, and gesturing with hands.

First Day.

Whoo hoo you made it! The first day is one of the most important days on the job. Make sure you pay attention and maybe even take some notes. You don't want to forget anything they tell you to do or you could potentially lose your and DO NOT be late!

Keeping it going. (or not)

Liking the job? Keep doing what you're doing and do what’s expected! Is it not what you thought it would be? School’s coming back? No worries, just let your boss know. Odds are they’ll ask for a 2 weeks notice which means you can quit in two weeks while they look for a replacement. In some cases, if you don't give a two weeks notice, you could be listed under non-rehireable.

And there you have it folks. How to find, get, and keep a job.