Find a job

Use your Careers Office (if you are 16 - 18) or your Job Centre (if you are over 18) to help you find a job.

Look in the Job Adverts section of a newspaper

For more ideas see Looking for Work.

top

Apply for a job

You can apply for a job by writing a letter or filling in an application form. The job advert will tell you if you need to send for an application form to fill in.

You can write or phone for an application form

Making a phone call

• Know what you want to say (write it down first)
• Choose somewhere quiet to make the call and have pen and paper ready
• Plan the time of your call - it can sometimes be better to ring early
• Be prepared to leave a message on an answer-phone and remember to leave your name and telephone number
• Be ready to answer questions about yourself
• Thank the person at the other end of the phone for their help
• Make a note of the date and details of the call

Applying for a job by letter

• Keep the letter short - one side of A4 is usually enough.
• Include the job vacancy reference or job title, e.g.. Shop assistant, Gardener, Mechanic etc.
• Neatly write or type your letter on good quality paper
• Include your CV
• Be positive and sound enthusiastic
• Try to match what the employer wants with what you are offering
• Ask someone to check over your letter for mistakes

Filling in an application form

• Read the form first and decide what you are going to write in each section
• Fill in the form neatly - first impressions count
• Include your CV if the form asks for it
• If you don't send a CV, include a short letter about yourself. Make it interesting and, if possible, include the reasons why you would like this job. Try to sound confident, keen and friendly.

Write a CV

A CV is a 'curriculum vitae'. This simply means a record of your life. It tells an employer about you - your qualifications, your skills, your experience and your interests.

CV's are very useful. A good CV can help you get an interview. Unless you get an interview, it's unlikely you'll get the job!

Writing your CV

• Keep it short - 2 sides of A4, maximum
• Make it look good - print it on good quality paper
• Be careful with spelling
• Use plain language
• Be truthful (you might have to answer questions about your CV in an interview!)

To write your own CV use the CV Template page

top

Go for an Interview

Before an Interview

• Check where you have to go and allow plenty of time to get there.
• Think about the questions that you are likely to be asked, and have some answers ready.
• Wear something suitable - be smart but comfortable.
• Take any certificates or documents if appropriate (e.g. Your Record of Achievement)
• At the end of an interview, you may get a chance to ask some questions. Thinks about these before you go and decide what you would like to ask.

During an Interview

• Sit comfortably
• Be positive and try not to look too nervous
• Speak clearly and smile from time to time (you'll get a smile back and that helps the nerves!)
• If you are successful, you might be offered the job at the end of the interview, but often there are other people to interview. Many employers let you know their decision a few days later by letter.

Accept a Job

If you are offered a job, make sure you understand what the job involves and are happy with the arrangements. If there is anything you are unsure of, e.g. working hours, rates of pay, working conditions, etc. check them out before you accept.

top

Modern Apprenticeships and Youth Training

When you leave school at 16 or 17, you can take part in different types of Youth Training, including Modern Apprenticeships. At this age, you can use your Training Credits to pay for your training.

For more information about Training Credits see Money and Work.

Modern Apprenticeships can be a way into a job if you are 16 or 17. They give you the chance to learn practical skills, and get some qualifications and experience in all types of jobs. The apprenticeships last from two years upwards. When you have finished, you should have the qualifications and experience to find a permanent job.

Modern Apprenticeships are open to all young people who can complete their training by their 25th birthday. Priority is given to those aged 16 and 17.

A Careers Adviser can tell you all about Modern Apprenticeships and other form of Youth Training in your area.

For more info and contacts see Resources

top