How to find a job
So, you’ve decided to become a working class citizen. It’s said that searching for a job is a job in itself, so we’ve got some pointers to help you out. If you take the right steps and put a little effort into it, you’re bound to find a job in no time.
How to start
There are many ways to find a job. You can begin by cold looking for businesses or talking with managers to see if there is any work available, hand your résumé to the manager, etc. You can also browse a list of classified ads in newspapers, online or in career centers for information on job offers. You can call/email these employers to explore potential job openings.
You may be required to apply for a job in person with a written application form, but many companies require you to submit an application online. The Government of Canada, provinces and territories and cities use the Internet to post job openings. There are lots of benefits available with these jobs.
You may be able to get a job through your contacts. These contacts can include your friends, family, previous co-workers, etc. If they can’t get you a job, they may have ideas of where you can go. They’re one of your best shots since they know you and your qualities.
How to ace that interview
Now that you’ve finally got your foot in the door, it’s time to make a good impression and have a great interview. If you do well, you will have a really good shot at getting the job. Here are a few interview tips:
- Learn about the company: Show that you’re interested in the company by researching their needs, philosophies and what they are looking for prior to your interview.
- Know yourself: Figure out what skills and traits you have that will benefit the company.
- Answer and prepare questions: We all know that there’s a group of about 20 questions (“How will you be an asset to this organization?”) that come up in almost every interview. Think about answers for these types of questions ahead of time so you are not struggling to answer them during your job interview.
- Talk to people you know about their experiences in their interviews: They may have some advice for you if you feel nervous about your job interview. One very useful trick for situational type questions (“Tell us about a conflict in the workplace and how you handled it”) is the STAR method (S- SITUATION, T- TASK, A- ACTION, R- RESULT).
- Dress appropriately: First impressions are very important, because it is what will stand out in the interviewer’s memory. Dress to impress and be on time for your interview!
- Watch that handshake and language: A firm handshake is always nice, as it shows you have confidence. During the whole interview, watch your body language. If you’re slouching forward and playing with your hair, you don’t exactly give a good first impression. Sit up, lean in a little bit, smile, make eye contact and relax.
- Follow up: Send an email or call to check on how the process is going and thank the person for their time.
The major misconception when applying for jobs is that you should only apply for a couple. But, in fact, you should assess your skills, look for something you would like to do, and then get out there and find jobs that will keep you happy. The more jobs you apply for, the more chances you have of finding a good one. Remember, applying for a job does not mean you’re going to stay in that position forever. It’s just a starting point.
Links
Careers in the Federal Public Service – I am a student
Service Canada – Job Bank – Student/Youth Job Search
Government of Canada – Youth
