Now that school is out, it’s usually the time for broke college students to find a job fast. Whether you are just looking for a part-time job for the summer or a full-time job to pay your bills, there are a lot of things to consider when job hunting.
First, you should decide what kind of jobs you are considering. What might you be good at, where do your friends and family work, and what do you have experience doing? Do you see yourself in retail, the food industry or working at a desk? There are tons of jobs out there for college students if you are willing to take the time to look.
After you have thought of some positions or businesses you might be interested in, then make a list of them. Remember to keep your options open. Go down your list of possible employment options and look them up online. If you don’t have your own car then see what is within walking distance or close to a nearby bus route. See what positions are available and what the requirements are.
It could be very beneficial to set aside one whole day for job hunting. Visit the places on your list and just ask if they are hiring and if they have any applications.
Many places have applications online as well that you can either submit through their system or print out and take into the business. Try to make it a point to go into the business and ask to speak to a manager. It is always best to turn in an application in person or at least to meet an important person at the job because they could be the one potentially interviewing you or offering you a job.
If you do fill out the application in hard copy form be sure to write in black or blue ink and as neat as possible. Try not to get it dirty or crumbled up as well.
When providing references on the applications avoid family members or close friends. Aim for more business- oriented references that you believe would give positive feedback about you. Previous employers, places you have done volunteer work for, teachers, coaches or a previous co-worker who held a higher position than you are usually a good idea. It is also smart to inform your references that you used their name so if they do get a call regarding you, they are expecting it.
Try to have good availability for the job you are applying for as well. Don’t search for a midnight job if you don’t like to stay up late and don’t search for a morning job if you are not good at getting to places early. If you have summer classes, kids or another job already, put all of that into consideration so that you are putting down times you know you are able to work. Availability can play a very large part in who a business hires but you need to be honest with it as well.
Include your skills, talents and accomplishments. An application or an interview is trying to convince complete strangers how great you are, so do not be afraid to shine.
It is also good to give the business a copy of your resume with the application. If you are not sure how to make one you can use an online template for help at various sites like gotresumebuilder.com or resumecompanion.com.
When you turn in the application, be sure to smile and be dressed appropriately. Shake hands and introduce yourself. Show that you are eager and interested in the job you are applying for.
If you do not hear back from the business you applied to in a couple days don’t give up, call them. Show initiative. When you call ask to speak with a manager and then tell them you are following up on an application you submitted. Even if they don’t talk to you for long, they will usually take down your name and that is a good thing. Later on when they are going through the applications, they will remember your name and you will stand out to them.
If they call you for an interview make sure you write down the time, day and who your interview is with so you don’t forget. It is important to arrive about 10 to 15 minutes early for an interview and make sure to let someone know you’re there.
Dress professionally. You do not need to overdo it in a full suit or a formal dress, wear black or khaki pants with a nice shirt. Guys could possibly wear a button-up or a collared shirt with a tie.
Girls should not wear a skirt that is too short, heels they cannot walk in or show too much cleavage.
First impressions are everything.
If the interview is a group interview or one-on-one be sure to speak up, but always be polite as well. Give thoughtful answers to all of the questions they ask you and avoid words like “umm,” “like” and “I don’t know.” One of the most important things is to be confident.
While you are job searching just be sure to keep an open mind and try to find something that you will be good at. There are tons of opportunities out there but you have to take the initiative.
