5 answers
Abdiel
Student
Limestone, Maine
3
Questions
Asked
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How difficult is it for a recent high school grad to get hired for a job?
Let's say I just graduated and never had a job before, will it be possible to get a job? #graduate-school #first-job
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5 answers
Emily Minty
School Counseling
5
Answers
Chelmsford, Massachusetts
Updated
Emily’s Answer
For most entry-level jobs, my impression has been that persistence is especially key. This means, instead of just dropping off or submitting an application and expecting someone to call you, it's critical to follow up (in person if possible) to ask about the status of your application. Some employers use this as an informal way of screening out who is truly interested and takes initiative. For a first job of any kind, you will probably also find that you need to apply to many, many jobs to eventually get some interviews and offers. Once you do gain experience, you won't need to apply to quite as many. Early on in the process, it's important to keep at it even if it takes a while and not to give up. Sometimes, starting out through a temp agency is also a great way to land a permanent job. There are some companies that only hire through temp agencies for entry level positions also.
Brent Murray
Appraiser
4
Answers
McKinney, Texas
Updated
Brent’s Answer
Hello Abdiel!
As a high school graduate there should be numerous entry level type job openings in the marketplace. However, given the current Covid-19 issues, I would keep an eye on your specific market area and the entry level jobs that would be available. Remember, as things loosen up and return to normal, there will be more and more jobs coming back online.
If you are interested in specific area then keep an eye out for those specific opportunities. You can get the names/addresses of companies in those specific areas and send them a cover letter and resume!
Stay positive and stay focused and you will be working before you know it!
As a high school graduate there should be numerous entry level type job openings in the marketplace. However, given the current Covid-19 issues, I would keep an eye on your specific market area and the entry level jobs that would be available. Remember, as things loosen up and return to normal, there will be more and more jobs coming back online.
If you are interested in specific area then keep an eye out for those specific opportunities. You can get the names/addresses of companies in those specific areas and send them a cover letter and resume!
Stay positive and stay focused and you will be working before you know it!
Katerina Alikaridou
principal recruiter
1
Answer
Utrecht, Netherlands
Updated
Katerina’s Answer
Especially now giving the pandemic situation might be quite tricky to enter the market. A possible method would be to stay consistent and set a specific day ( for example every Wednesday) where you are looking for job opportunities every week. You could create a file where you keep a track of vacancies and your applications and you could possibly divide your search into two categories: a first job relevant to your skills or interests and a temporary first job that could bring you some income.
Before you look for a job take some time to think about what are your strengths, hard and soft skills you have, perhaps ask around your friends/ family about what do they think your strengths are. Write them down and include them in your CV and cover letter as well.
While you are talking about a new job opportunity, your enthusiasm and motivation will be what will distinguish you from other candidates. Make sure you understand very well what the role requires and be prepared to answer why would you like to be part of this team, why this role suits you and how will you contribute to this role.
I wish you all the best of success in your future endeavors and if you find a role where you would like to be very well prepared for the interview let us know.
Before you look for a job take some time to think about what are your strengths, hard and soft skills you have, perhaps ask around your friends/ family about what do they think your strengths are. Write them down and include them in your CV and cover letter as well.
While you are talking about a new job opportunity, your enthusiasm and motivation will be what will distinguish you from other candidates. Make sure you understand very well what the role requires and be prepared to answer why would you like to be part of this team, why this role suits you and how will you contribute to this role.
I wish you all the best of success in your future endeavors and if you find a role where you would like to be very well prepared for the interview let us know.
Anthony Otalora-Sugaste
Physical Therapist
1
Answer
West Orange, New Jersey
Updated
Anthony’s Answer
I think it depends what your interests are and what areas to explore. While researching jobs, the postings will have the typically education requirements. In my opinion clothing stores, electronic stores, restaurants will probably be a little easier. When you do get an interview, I recommend being there 15 minutes early, dress for the job with a little more professional look and have a couple of questions for the employer. Practice interviewing with a friend, family member or former teacher to get feedback.
Kim Igleheart
Career Counselor | Police Officer
1664
Answers
San Antonio, Texas
Updated
Kim’s Answer
Sure you can get hired! Use care in filling out the application. Be neat. Follow instructions.
"First" jobs can be in things like retail, fast food, restaurant, "helper" for construction sites or other skilled trades (roofer helper, plumber helper, etc), car wash, etc. The purpose of a first job is to get some experience to be able to put on an application for a better job. These aren't normally jobs that will pay the bills and allow you to move out on your own, unless you are living with friends.
When you get an interview, remember to be on time, dress appropriately, cover tats and remove piercings (unless you are positive they are ok), don't chew gum. Make eye contact. smile. shake hands. Everyone is nervous at interviews, so, don't worry about that.
Employers are looking for reassurance that you have a good work ethic and have what it takes to do the job. So, let's say you apply for a roofer position and they ask, "have you ever been on a roof?" If you say "no", that might be the end of it. But, if you realize they want to know if you are scared of heights, you could say (if it is true!), "no, but I am not afraid of heights. I go zip lining and bungee jumping."
Do you have transportation? If you hesitate, they will pick up on that. If you will be dropped off and picked up, you can say "Yes." you don't have to explain. However, if you say "yes, and if something goes wrong, I have neighbors who will help me out." Everyone has a car that won't start at some point or another.
They also want someone who helps the company to make or save money. On the job injuries are very costly. So safety, following the rules, not taking shortcuts are all important. The same for regulatory compliance. Suppose you are selling alcohol and fail to check someone's ID and get busted by the alcohol bureau. The company gets fined.
And, ability to get along with people. You should be able to give examples of that from school activities. Sports, clubs, group projects, etc.
Did you do any community service projects? volunteer activities? Remember to work that in as well. Sometimes I include them when the application asks for "experience," unless it specifically asks for "paid" experience.
good luck!
Kim
"First" jobs can be in things like retail, fast food, restaurant, "helper" for construction sites or other skilled trades (roofer helper, plumber helper, etc), car wash, etc. The purpose of a first job is to get some experience to be able to put on an application for a better job. These aren't normally jobs that will pay the bills and allow you to move out on your own, unless you are living with friends.
When you get an interview, remember to be on time, dress appropriately, cover tats and remove piercings (unless you are positive they are ok), don't chew gum. Make eye contact. smile. shake hands. Everyone is nervous at interviews, so, don't worry about that.
Employers are looking for reassurance that you have a good work ethic and have what it takes to do the job. So, let's say you apply for a roofer position and they ask, "have you ever been on a roof?" If you say "no", that might be the end of it. But, if you realize they want to know if you are scared of heights, you could say (if it is true!), "no, but I am not afraid of heights. I go zip lining and bungee jumping."
Do you have transportation? If you hesitate, they will pick up on that. If you will be dropped off and picked up, you can say "Yes." you don't have to explain. However, if you say "yes, and if something goes wrong, I have neighbors who will help me out." Everyone has a car that won't start at some point or another.
They also want someone who helps the company to make or save money. On the job injuries are very costly. So safety, following the rules, not taking shortcuts are all important. The same for regulatory compliance. Suppose you are selling alcohol and fail to check someone's ID and get busted by the alcohol bureau. The company gets fined.
And, ability to get along with people. You should be able to give examples of that from school activities. Sports, clubs, group projects, etc.
Did you do any community service projects? volunteer activities? Remember to work that in as well. Sometimes I include them when the application asks for "experience," unless it specifically asks for "paid" experience.
good luck!
Kim