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First Time Job Seekers
It is time to find that first job, start earning money, and perhaps
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 Case Manager at JOBsolutions (formerly
Wyandot County Job & Training Center) also may help you pinpoint your
skills and interests. 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 on paper
Once you know your skills and what type of job you're hunting, it is
time to advertise your abilities to employers. One of the most
efficient ways to accomplish this task is to create a resume that you
can distribute to employers. A resume is a brief type-written page
highlighting your education, work skills, work experience, and
accomplishments. For your convenience, a resume writing tool is
available on this Web site. This helpful tool will guide you through
the entire process of creating a resume, even if you have never written
one before.
Prepare for the interview
You have been invited to an employer's office for an interview.
It's only natural to be a little nervous. However, you will be more
at ease if you prepared for the interview. 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 are time conscientious.
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 if you send one.
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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