When looking for a job, it’s wise to remember the old saying, “don’t put all your eggs in the same basket.” Applying for just one or two jobs at a time and then waiting for a reply is a slow-motion way of job-hunting that produces predictably slow results. Always have several job applications out there and follow up on them by calling or emailing the employer. The more hooks you have in the water, the more likely you are to catch a fish.
Unfortunately, students have among the highest rates of unemployment. A lot of different factors contribute to this reality, mainly the fact that most students lack job experience. As a result, employers might lean towards someone else with a more proven track record. But if you stress your strengths and minimize your weaknesses, you can up your chances of securing a job offer. Read on and learn how you can pull this feat off.
Dress for Success
Before employers hire you, they want to know whether or not you’ll fit in with their current employees. One important clue they’ll look for is how you’re dressed. If everyone wears a suit and tie at the job you want, then that’s what you should wear to the interview. It can cut the other way too; if everyone in the workplace dresses casually, then coming to the interview too formally dressed might actually hurt your chances. The trick is to find out in advance what the workers wear to their jobs. If that’s not possible, then it’s always safest to choose formal attire.
Speak Up
In order to get hired, your personal network has to know you’re looking for a job. At any moment, a work opportunity might pop up, and your friends, family, and Facebook contacts are more likely to recommend you if they know you’re looking for work. After all, most job seekers get hired through word of mouth.
Don’t Overlook the Obvious
Students looking for jobs sometimes behave as if they think opportunity awaits someplace way off yonder. In fact, the job you’ve been looking for may very well be located right under your nose. Mowing lawns, shoveling snow, babysitting, and pet sitting are all jobs that can usually be found in your own neighborhood.
Be Broadminded
Sometimes the reason students can’t find a job has nothing to do with job availability, and everything to do with the fact that they aren’t considering a wide enough range of options. Your student job doesn’t have to be a major career move—it’s okay to take a job just because you need the money. Also, a job you thought you would hate could end up surprising you.
Know the Law
High school students are teenagers, and there are often rules, regulations, and laws governing what people under the age of 18 can legally do in the job market. The restrictions aren’t usually severe, but you need to know what they are in order to determine which jobs are appropriate for you.
Make a Resume
Students don’t always think they need resumes—especially since they’re generally applying for part-time work—but the fact is employers always welcome a well-written resume. That’s because a good resume has all of the relevant information an employer needs in order to contact and hire you. A professional resume will help you stand out, even if your document is a bit sparse or the job technically doesn’t require one.
Get Help
If you don’t know how to search for jobs, write a cover letter, or create a resume, then let LiveCareer help you out. LiveCareer will help you showcase your strengths, impress employers, and secure a job offer faster.
Source: www.livecareer.com