Start Your Career Plan

How to Start a Job Search

So you're looking for a job.  Where to begin?  Think about what you like to do.  Think about what you're good at.  If you have a job that matches up with your interests, goals, and talents, you'll ENJOY going to work!  The tips below are some helpful guidelines for starting out on your career path.

1. Don’t pull your hair out in frustration — Hang in there!


2. Brainstorm a list of hobbies and jobs that might interest you.
   Often, a young job seeker might think that it doesn't matter what the job is, you'll do anything to get that paycheck. This isn't true. You have things you would like to do and things you definitely don't want to do. To help narrow it down, circle your answer to these questions:
• Would you prefer to work inside or outside?
• Do you have an interest in helping any of these types of people? Senior Citizens, Children, Disabled Patients in a hospital?
• Could you picture yourself working in any of these places?
  Park Grocery Store  Office  Hospital  Pet Store
  Bank Camp for youth School  Restaurant  Auto Shop
  Pool Retail Store  Pharmacy Recreation Center Movie Theater
  Now write down any other ideas you have for places you want to work.


3. Look at your list of possible jobs and decide which would be best for you according to your skills, interests, schedule, and transportation.
   
   DECISION FACTORS:  CHOOSING THE RIGHT JOB FOR YOU
   
   

   Interest	Is the job interesting to you? Does it expand on a hobby or something you want to explore?
   Location	How long will it take you to get to work? Is this job close to home? On a bus route?
   Transportation	Do you drive? Will you be able to get a ride to work? Will you need to walk or take the bus? Will your transportation be reliable to get you to work on time?
   Salary	How do the wages compare to other businesses? Factoring in clothes and transportation costs, will you be making money?
   Scheduling	Are the hours flexible if you have other commitments (sports, academics, etc.)?
   Use of Skills	Do you have the skills necessary to properly complete the tasks on the job?  Will you have the opportunity to acquire new skills?
   Challenge	Is there personal challenge and motivation involved in the activities of the position?
   Long-Range Goals	Does this position and the activity of the organization fit in with your long range education and career objectives?
   Training Opportunities	Does the organization/business offer on-the-job training or a training program for further career growth?
   Work Environment	What are the physical facilities like? Are the working conditions relaxed or formal?  Does the environment appeal to you?
   Size of Organization	Would you be happier in a large or small organization? Are you more comfortable working in a more systematized operation or one where there is greater flexibility and versatility is required?
   Other Factors	What other personal factors may be involved in decision?
   Where to Look	Ask your friends and family for help. (NETWORK!) Be sure to check out Classified Ads. Use the Internet (See the Best of Youth Websites)



4. After narrowing the list of jobs to key choices, begin to actively seek job leads that match your interests and needs.  Nobody gives you a job, it takes work to get one on your own and you are off to a great start!
• Look for Help Wanted signs
• Call the businesses and ask about openings
• Fill out applications
• Seek interviews by talking with managers directly

How to Get Good References

Good References=Gold

What is a reference?  On a job application or during an interview, the employer will ask you for references.  These are the names of contact information of people the employer will call to ask questions about you.  The employer  has just met you, so they want to double check  and make sure that you have the potential  to be a good employee. Most of the time, young  job seekers will give the names and phone numbers of family or friends…BUT THIS IS A MISTAKE!!! Employers want to talk with people that will tell them you are responsible, honest, and dependable.  They prefer to talk with someone who has seen you work or volunteer.  A second preference is to talk with one of your teachers, coaches, or guidance counselors.

Special Note: If you are 14-15 years old, sometimes employers want you to be older or show that you have some work experience on your own.  They also want you to have your work permit papers (see pages about that!) .  Think about if it makes more sense right now for you to start your own small business instead.  Babysitting, lawn cutting, car washing, or doing nails are great ways to earn some cash on the side and it will show employers later that you are responsible!