In high school, some students decide to get jobs or internships to either make money or get volunteer hours. In some cases, it is more convenient to get an actual job where you get paid and still help you for college.
There are a few ways to get a job. Not all job hunting will be successful, but it’s important to know that putting yourself out there gives a sense of being persistent.
Creating a Resume:
A resume is basically a profile about you but on paper. It has all the information about you (e.g. work experience, what you do as a hobby, or volunteer work).
Gaining Work Experience:
Having work experience can be essential when trying to get a job. Most managers look to see if you have any work experience at all before you can get hired. Volunteering is considered as work experience and can have a positive impact on potential employers.
Get a “Job Search” App:
A job search app can help create your profile and let managers know what to expect from you before an interview. When having the app, you can see the background of companies with their salaries and benefits. This helps you get an idea of what would be the best fit for you to work at.
Examples Include:
Contact People Who Have a Job:
Having connections with people who have a job can keep you updated on job opportunities that may not be officially posted.
Find the Perfect Job for you:
When getting a job, the best idea would be to work on something you’re good at. Getting a job requiring a skill you’re not familiar with is risky since it can become tough and keeping your position will be hard. Although it’s important to be adaptable and open to learning new things, a good strategy is to start with the small steps that are based on what you do every day.
Things to Keep in Mind:
- Job responsibilities
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- Having a job means acting professionally and responsibly in situations. Every job will require you to act with a clear head, so it’s important to think critically no matter what.
- Salary & benefits
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- Certain jobs can give you benefits, such as employee discounts, paid vacations, and a 401k (retirement plan that gives tax benefits).
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- Location
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- It is important to consider how far your job will be. It can be hard to get to your location specially if you don’t own a vehicle.
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- Make sure you like doing your job
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- A job you like is a job you’re passionate about. If you don’t enjoy your job, you might consider quitting or it can upset your state of mind
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- Having the right skills
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- Each job requires specific skills and you have to acknowledge which jobs you know you’ll be able to handle, as well as the amount of skills you’ll need in order to avoid too many challenges while working.
We asked a few students who have a job to share their experience of how they got hired:
Emiliano G. / Class of 2025 / Job Place: Ziggy’s Coffee Shop
How did you get your job?
I applied for a job online, got the interview, nailed the interview and got hired.
Did you use your resume or a job app or get recommended by someone?
No, no handouts around here. It was a new store, so I personally could not be recommended. I have applied with recommendations and haven’t even gotten an interview, so I doubt it helps.
Do you have job benefits?
Free drinks and chill work, nothing crazy.
What are your talents?
Quick, Charismatic and socializing.
What questions did they ask you during the interview?
What are three things I would take with me if I was stranded on an island?
How do you handle criticism?
What drinks am I most excited to try out?
Previous work experience?
Braden C. / Class of 2025 / Job Place: Systems Training Center
How did you get your job?
One night my mom asked me if I wanted to take a job at a gym, and I accepted. I filled out some paperwork and got an interview. I was nervous at first, but I ended up liking it.
Did you use your resume or a job app or get recommended by someone?
My mom recommended it to me.
Do you have job benefits?
I was able to get free training and work experience.
What are your talents?
I’m good at organization, cleaning, communication, and leadership.
What questions did they ask you during the interview?
They asked me if I had previous work experience, what skills I have, and what are some things I’m good at.
Alexxa G. / Class of 2025 / Job Place: Target
How did you get your job? Explain it all
In November of 2024 I applied to Target as a seasonal worker. The whole process was online, as well as the interview. Everything was a long process because I was still a minor at the time with no experience. I had to get a workers permit and speak to Ms. McClaren about what was expected of me. I kept my grades up, and I went into my orientation day and was automatically put at a register after shadowing a coworker for a few minutes. During the two months, I worked hard and made sure to always do things the correct way and learn from my mistakes. After all the holidays were coming to an end, they started getting rid of the seasonal workers. Later on throughout the day, I received a call from my manager, and she told me the great news that I’ve been chosen to stay and become a team member.
Did you use your resume or a job app or get recommended by someone?
I had created my resume months beforehand, so I had everything ready when they asked me to submit it online, although I have to give some credit to my sister because she helped me with the process. Not only that, but she had already been working at that location, so she had recommended me to one of our team leads. I truly believe that having connections with other people can help you receive many more opportunities.
Do you have job benefits?
I’m not fully aware of all the benefits that I have, but I do know that I receive employee discounts and health benefits. They also offer some free therapy sessions for those who need it.
What are your talents?
I think that I’m somewhat of a creative person. I know how to paint, draw, play instruments, and carry lots of empathy for others. I can speak and understand two languages, which can come in handy while working.
What questions did they ask you during the interview?
What was a challenge you faced, and how did you overcome it?
How would you approach a customer who looks like they’re having a hard time looking for something ?
Why would you be a good fit?
Tell me about a time where you had to work with someone else to solve a problem.
How would you react if someone had different beliefs about certain topics?
