6 answers
Jupiter
Student
Dalton, Massachusetts
1
Question
Asked
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How do I know what to do to get a job?
I'm 17 in high school & I've been wanting a job since my sophomore year so I'm trying to get a job for my senior year. I've found options & started taking steps for them(I.e. finding employers with avaliable jobs & emailing them), but I really don't feel prepared enough for it. I discussed with family, friends & teachers, I still feel like I don't fully understand. Especially since I haven't really sat down & figured out a good resume yet (I have no previous work exprience) any advice?
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6 answers
Ryan K
32
Answers
Irvine, California
Updated
Ryan’s Answer
It's great that you're taking the initiative to find a job during your senior year of high school! Here are some steps you can take to feel more prepared and create a strong resume, even without previous work experience:
Focus on your skills and achievements: Since you don't have work experience, highlight your skills, achievements, and extracurricular activities. Include any leadership roles, volunteer work, or relevant coursework that demonstrates your abilities and dedication.
Tailor your resume to the job: Research the specific job requirements and tailor your resume accordingly. Highlight transferable skills such as communication, teamwork, problem-solving, and time management that are relevant to the position you're applying for.
Include a strong objective statement: Start your resume with a clear objective statement that highlights your career goals and what you can bring to the role. This will help employers understand your motivation and potential.
Emphasize education and coursework: Since you're still in high school, emphasize your education section by including relevant coursework, academic achievements, and any honors or awards you've received.
Seek feedback and guidance: Reach out to your teachers, career counselors, or mentors for feedback on your resume. They can provide valuable insights and help you refine your document.
Gain experience through internships or volunteering: Consider seeking out internships or volunteer opportunities related to your field of interest. This will not only provide you with valuable experience but also enhance your resume.
Remember, employers understand that high school students may not have extensive work experience. Focus on showcasing your skills, enthusiasm, and willingness to learn. With a well-crafted resume and a proactive approach, you'll increase your chances of landing a job during your senior year.
Focus on your skills and achievements: Since you don't have work experience, highlight your skills, achievements, and extracurricular activities. Include any leadership roles, volunteer work, or relevant coursework that demonstrates your abilities and dedication.
Tailor your resume to the job: Research the specific job requirements and tailor your resume accordingly. Highlight transferable skills such as communication, teamwork, problem-solving, and time management that are relevant to the position you're applying for.
Include a strong objective statement: Start your resume with a clear objective statement that highlights your career goals and what you can bring to the role. This will help employers understand your motivation and potential.
Emphasize education and coursework: Since you're still in high school, emphasize your education section by including relevant coursework, academic achievements, and any honors or awards you've received.
Seek feedback and guidance: Reach out to your teachers, career counselors, or mentors for feedback on your resume. They can provide valuable insights and help you refine your document.
Gain experience through internships or volunteering: Consider seeking out internships or volunteer opportunities related to your field of interest. This will not only provide you with valuable experience but also enhance your resume.
Remember, employers understand that high school students may not have extensive work experience. Focus on showcasing your skills, enthusiasm, and willingness to learn. With a well-crafted resume and a proactive approach, you'll increase your chances of landing a job during your senior year.
Darryl Talbert, MBA, PMP
Finance Manager
2
Answers
Atlanta, Georgia
Updated
Darryl’s Answer
If you want a job and don’t think you are prepared but don’t know how to create your resume or build your skills, you should look for a local program that prepares students for college and the workforce by teaching them most of the things they need to know. Contact your high school guidance counselor and ask them to help you to find a program in your area that fits your needs.
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity.
3955
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Hello Jupiter,
Understanding Your Career Path
To navigate the process of securing a job, especially as a high school student with limited work experience, it’s essential to approach the situation strategically. Here are some steps you can take to enhance your chances of landing a job:
1. Self-Assessment: Before diving into the job search process, take some time to reflect on your skills, interests, and strengths. Consider what type of work you enjoy doing and what you excel at. This self-assessment will help you identify potential job opportunities that align with your abilities and preferences.
2. Research Potential Job Options: Explore different industries and job roles that interest you. Look for entry-level positions that are suitable for high school students with little to no prior work experience. Consider part-time or seasonal jobs that can accommodate your school schedule.
3. Build a Resume: While you may not have previous work experience, you can still create a compelling resume highlighting your education, extracurricular activities, volunteer work, skills, and any relevant coursework. Focus on showcasing your strengths and transferable skills that would be valuable in a workplace setting.
4. Network: Reach out to family members, friends, teachers, or community members who may have connections to potential employers or valuable advice on job opportunities. Networking can open doors to hidden job openings and provide insights into the hiring process.
5. Apply Strategically: When applying for jobs, tailor your resume and cover letter to each position you’re interested in. Emphasize how your skills and experiences make you a good fit for the role. Follow up with employers after submitting your application to demonstrate your enthusiasm and commitment.
6. Prepare for Interviews: Practice common interview questions and scenarios to build confidence and articulate your qualifications effectively. Dress professionally, research the company beforehand, and ask thoughtful questions during the interview to show your interest in the position.
7. Seek Guidance: Don’t hesitate to seek guidance from career counselors at your school or local community centers. They can provide valuable resources, feedback on your resume, interview tips, and guidance on navigating the job market successfully.
Remember that landing a job is a learning process, and it’s okay to feel uncertain or unprepared at times. Stay proactive, persistent, and open to feedback as you embark on this journey towards securing employment during your senior year of high school.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used in Answering this Question:
The Balance Careers: The Balance Careers is a reputable online resource offering expert advice on various career-related topics such as resumes, job search strategies, networking tips, and interview preparation.
Indeed Career Guide: Indeed’s Career Guide provides comprehensive information on job search techniques, resume writing guidelines for beginners, interview tips for entry-level candidates, and insights into building a successful career path.
CareerOneStop: CareerOneStop is an official website sponsored by the U.S. Department of Labor offering tools and resources for job seekers of all ages. It provides guidance on exploring careers, creating resumes, preparing for interviews, and finding training opportunities in different fields.
These sources were utilized to ensure accurate information and practical advice tailored to high school students seeking employment opportunities.
GOD BLESS!
James Constantine Frangos
Understanding Your Career Path
To navigate the process of securing a job, especially as a high school student with limited work experience, it’s essential to approach the situation strategically. Here are some steps you can take to enhance your chances of landing a job:
1. Self-Assessment: Before diving into the job search process, take some time to reflect on your skills, interests, and strengths. Consider what type of work you enjoy doing and what you excel at. This self-assessment will help you identify potential job opportunities that align with your abilities and preferences.
2. Research Potential Job Options: Explore different industries and job roles that interest you. Look for entry-level positions that are suitable for high school students with little to no prior work experience. Consider part-time or seasonal jobs that can accommodate your school schedule.
3. Build a Resume: While you may not have previous work experience, you can still create a compelling resume highlighting your education, extracurricular activities, volunteer work, skills, and any relevant coursework. Focus on showcasing your strengths and transferable skills that would be valuable in a workplace setting.
4. Network: Reach out to family members, friends, teachers, or community members who may have connections to potential employers or valuable advice on job opportunities. Networking can open doors to hidden job openings and provide insights into the hiring process.
5. Apply Strategically: When applying for jobs, tailor your resume and cover letter to each position you’re interested in. Emphasize how your skills and experiences make you a good fit for the role. Follow up with employers after submitting your application to demonstrate your enthusiasm and commitment.
6. Prepare for Interviews: Practice common interview questions and scenarios to build confidence and articulate your qualifications effectively. Dress professionally, research the company beforehand, and ask thoughtful questions during the interview to show your interest in the position.
7. Seek Guidance: Don’t hesitate to seek guidance from career counselors at your school or local community centers. They can provide valuable resources, feedback on your resume, interview tips, and guidance on navigating the job market successfully.
Remember that landing a job is a learning process, and it’s okay to feel uncertain or unprepared at times. Stay proactive, persistent, and open to feedback as you embark on this journey towards securing employment during your senior year of high school.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used in Answering this Question:
The Balance Careers: The Balance Careers is a reputable online resource offering expert advice on various career-related topics such as resumes, job search strategies, networking tips, and interview preparation.
Indeed Career Guide: Indeed’s Career Guide provides comprehensive information on job search techniques, resume writing guidelines for beginners, interview tips for entry-level candidates, and insights into building a successful career path.
CareerOneStop: CareerOneStop is an official website sponsored by the U.S. Department of Labor offering tools and resources for job seekers of all ages. It provides guidance on exploring careers, creating resumes, preparing for interviews, and finding training opportunities in different fields.
These sources were utilized to ensure accurate information and practical advice tailored to high school students seeking employment opportunities.
GOD BLESS!
James Constantine Frangos
Jerome Dees Jr.
Sales Professional and Networking Expert
516
Answers
San Francisco, California
Updated
Jerome’s Answer
I highly recommend that you look at volunteer opportunities. It can be a great way to improve your resume, create some connections and learn some new skills. This can also let you explore different fields with low pressure.
I've had many high school students do internships/volunteer with groups I have worked with and I was happy to provide references for each.
I've had many high school students do internships/volunteer with groups I have worked with and I was happy to provide references for each.
Alwyn Velásquez
Senior Product Designer (UI/UX)
57
Answers
Boston, Massachusetts
Updated
Alwyn’s Answer
Hey Jupiter, I see you're 17 and a sophomore, but it's surprising you haven't started working yet. Remember, to earn money, effort is required. Plenty of businesses, especially in the US, are in need of extra hands. Your first job might not offer a lot of options or high pay, but it's an excellent opportunity to gain experience. Don't hesitate to consider jobs in retail, food service, or supermarkets. By trying various jobs, you'll discover your preferences and future career goals, even if these jobs are just temporary. Embrace work, don't shy away from it. Go for it!
Thank you for giving me advice.
Rihanna
Great ideas, Alwyn! I just wanted to point out that some high schoolers may not work for many different reasons. I know my parents did not allow me to work when I was in high school even though I very much wanted to. I did give my daughter the opportunity to work when she was in high school and it taught her many skills that will continue to serve her in the future. Also, great point about gaining experience as opposed to searching for high pay; experience can lead you to the higher pay. Thanks for giving Jupiter your advice!
Sharyn Grose, Admin
Chris Resetar
Contract Management
22
Answers
Ellicott City, Maryland
Updated
Chris’s Answer
Hello Jupiter!
Getting a job is a great way to grow your skills as well as to learn more about yourself. My best advice for finding a job is to be open minded and don't be afraid to take a risk. Most employers who you interview with understand that when they are hiring a first-time job seeker that there will be some level of on-the-job training that is required. What is important from your end is that you show initiative and a willingness to learn and grow. From my personal experience, every job I have ever had required some level of learning new skills and I have absolutely had times where I felt a little behind. As time went on, I learned as much as I could and I gained confidence. The same will happen to you!
Good luck with your future endeavors!
Getting a job is a great way to grow your skills as well as to learn more about yourself. My best advice for finding a job is to be open minded and don't be afraid to take a risk. Most employers who you interview with understand that when they are hiring a first-time job seeker that there will be some level of on-the-job training that is required. What is important from your end is that you show initiative and a willingness to learn and grow. From my personal experience, every job I have ever had required some level of learning new skills and I have absolutely had times where I felt a little behind. As time went on, I learned as much as I could and I gained confidence. The same will happen to you!
Good luck with your future endeavors!