How to get a job in high school

How to get a job in high school

Most teens, including me, started applying for jobs when we finally reached the age of 15 (in the state that I live in) where we can legally enter the workforce. Applying for jobs can be daunting, mostly because you don't know what to expect and you are putting yourself out there. But I would definitely encourage every high school student to apply for jobs because you will learn so many skills in doing so. If you are currently in the process of applying for jobs, or you are considering to apply then here are some tips to help you out.

1. Check the minimum age when you can start working in your state

A super important tip here! Different states have different ages of when you can legally start working. Make sure to check them before you start applying for jobs because employers cannot hire you if you are below the legal age of working in your state.

2. Have a resumé

Employers will most definitely ask you for your resumé because it outlines your experience and skills. They look at this to decide if you are a good enough fit for the job to give you an interview. Most teens won't have a resumé if they are not applying for jobs so employers will be really impressed with you if you already have one ready for them to look over. It tells them that you are responsible and are prepared to take on the responsibility of having a job.

3. Make your resumé stand out

I find that a simple resumé template works best for me as it looks more professional and sleek. Try to avoid resumé template that uses too many colours because personally, I think that it might distract the employer from looking at the words on your resumé. DO NOT underestimate the power of putting your extra-circular activities or clubs that you do on your resumé. This is extremely important if you don't have any work experience. Employers love to see that you have great leadership and communication skills, which can be found in activities such as sport, volunteering and debating.

4. Use websites such as indeed and seek.com.au for job hunting (in Australia)

We teens live in such an exciting time because we don't even have to step a foot in stores to apply for jobs. Be sure to use trustworthy websites such as indeed and seek for job hunting. Applying for jobs on company websites are the best as you can be sure that it is legit.

5. Read the job description

This is super important because in some way or the other it will come up in the interview (congrats if you got an interview). You need to know what the job requires you to do so that you can highlight the skills you have that matches the job.

6. Know how to write formal emails

You should practice writing formal emails because this might be the method that your employer will contact you with. Let's be honest, nobody wants to see slangs in an email because it just sounds unprofessional. Formal language is the way to go when writing emails.

7. Tell everyone (yes, everyone) that you are looking for a job

Connections are truly powerful. In fact, I got my first job interview at a fast food restaurant from my best friend's friend because I told her that I was looking for a job. I didn't get the job but it did teach me a lot about what employers are looking for. So, go tell everyone including your friends and family that you are looking for a job. You never know, you might actually get a job from your friends and family.

If you are looking for a job or thinking about applying, I hope that these tips would help you in some way. It is scary to put yourself out there but it will be worth it, I promise.