Weekend job? Part time? Full time?
Whatever kind of job you're going for, the way to go about it is much the same… (For info regarding employment law, pay, etc, see the Holiday Jobs factfile [hyperlink].)
Job factoid Young people change job an average of four times in their first three years of employment. Future Matters
Where to look
Jobs are advertised in:
- Job vacancy websites
- Newspapers (local and national)
- Recruitment agencies
- Shop windows
You could also take your CV along your local high street – even if they have no vacancies you can show them how charming you are, so when they do have a vacancy you'll be the person they call.
What's a CV?
It stands for Curriculum Vitae, and is basically one side of A4 containing your personal details, skills and experience. You can find out how to do a CV via the links below.
Covering letters & application forms
You need to send a cover letter with a CV, and some employers want you to complete an application form. There's detailed info on cover letters and application forms in the websites listed below.
Not got any experience?
Everyone has to get a first job, and you can big up your transferable skills on your CV. If the job description asks for 'Excellent communication skills' or 'Organisational skills,' you can mention occasions when you had to use these skills, e.g. being a prefect or getting all your coursework in on time.
The interview
If an employer rates your CV/application form, you'll be invited to an interview. The general rules of interviews are:
- Dress one shade smarter than those who do the job already.
- Turn up on time.
- Greet the person who's interviewing you by name: "Hi Joe / Mr Smith [depending on which you'd think they prefer], nice to meet you."
- Tell the truth.
- Think about what questions you'll be asked (based on the required skills listed in the job description) and prepare your answers in advance.
Written by Ali Cronin
Last updated 17th June 2007
Further help and advice
- Directgov: finding and applying for your first job.
- Connexions Direct: loads of info about finding and being in work.
- TheSite.org: info and advice on doing job applications.
Disclaimer: Thee BBC cannot be held responsible for the content of external websites
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marie, 16
for my first job i wanted to work with young kids at nurserys and primary schools but that wasnt 4 me so i chose to put the best of my ability in hairdressing.
natalie, 14
i have i job because my dad owns a shop and when i leave school im going to be a manerger
Sinead, 17
Its really hard to first find a job because employers will always take someone with experience first.The bad thing is how can we get experience when nobody gives us a chance.I started doin promotional work on commission.It was difficult but earns a bit of extra money and in turn i got a job in a shop.I love it and have been their for 8 months now.My advice don't give up and get any expience ye can put on your cv(babysitting, charity work etc) Good luck x x x
bill and ben, 13
ive been trying to get a job for the past month now and everywhere i go, i seem to be asked if im 14, if not, i dont get the job. What else can i do? ive tried newspaper rounds but it gets dark really quickly love you
Katy, 16
I had to look 4 a job 4 ages be 4 I got it my advice is don't give up
kerry, 16
i have just got my first job in clarkes shoe shop :D and i am so proud of myself because there was 8 people in the interview and i feel great that i have achieved this. my advice is dont be nervous, just be yourself and do everything as best as you can!
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