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First Time Job Seekers?
It is time to find that first job, start earning money, and start
building a career. Even though it seems scary and overwhelming,
finding that first job can be exciting and fun! In fact, it can be
one of the most exciting events in your life if you are prepared.
No matter what your educational level or work skills, following a
few simple rules can get you on track to find that job.
Find out who you are and what skills you can offer
Those are the first things an employer would like to know. Ask yourself
what you like to do and what jobs might fit your skills, hobbies, and
interests. Talking to an employment counselor at college, a guidance
counselor at high school, or a staff member at the Hancock County JOBsolutions
also may help you pinpoint your skills and interests.
(We can test your aptitude and assess your marketable skills.)
In addition, talk to family members, neighbors, and friends about the
kind of jobs available in their workplaces. At times, reading the help
wanted ads in the local newspaper may be helpful. Not all jobs available
are advertised in the newspaper, but the newspaper can be a good
starting point to see what types of positions employers are trying to
fill and what skills are necessary to handle those positions.
Get ready to advertise yourself
Once you know your skills and what type of job you're seeking, it is
time to advertise your abilities to employers. One of the most
efficient ways to accomplish this task is to create a
cover letter and
resume that
highlights your education, work skills, work experience, and
accomplishments.
Prepare for the interview
When an employer is interested, you’ll be invited to their office for
an interview. It's only natural to be a little nervous. However, you
will be more at ease if you are prepared. Here are some tips:
1) Dress appropriately and on the conservative side.
Most employers will be more impressed in you if you don't dress in
trendy styles, bright colors, and a lot of jewelry. Check out how the
other employees at the business dress before going to your interview.
This way, you will have a good understanding of the company dress code.
2) Arrive ten minutes earlier than your interview time. This way the
employer will know you punctual.
3) Listen carefully to the interviewer's questions and answer them
directly without rambling, bluffing, or lying.
4) Avoid talking about salary or benefits. The employer needs to know
about you and your skills before talking about salary and benefits.
5) Offer a firm handshake to the interviewer at the beginning of the
interview and at the end on the interview.
6) Ask for the job at the end of the interview. If you want to work
for the employer, say so and that you are eager to prove that you will
do a good job.
7) Send an after interview letter. This is overlooked by many job
seekers and could give you an advantage. There is a sample
After Interview Letter on
this Web site.
For additional help with your job search, we added some links to other
web sites that may be helpful
First Steps in the Job Hunt
Loaded with helpful tips for job seekers.
http://www.interbiznet.com/hunt/
Building a Job Search Toolkit
Learn how to recognize your skills and present them to employers.
http://www.ocs.fas.harvard.edu/basics/toolkit/index.htm
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