How do I even start looking for a job? What do I need to do to apply?
If you find yourself asking similar questions or wondering the same thing, look below for some tips and tricks on looking for a job, applying for a job, and help with interviews.
The first thing to do when you decide that it is time to look for a job is think about what type of job you would like to do.
 Some examples of jobs are:
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Cashier
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Office assistantÂ
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Library assistantÂ
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Dog walkerÂ
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Gardening assistantÂ
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Greeter
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Retail associate/ stocker
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Social media marketing assistant
When considering what type of work is right for you, think about the following
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Your strengths. Are you creative? Are you empathetic? Are you good at talking to people? Are you friendly? Do you like to keep things tidy? Do you like working with animals or plants?Â
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Your interests. Do you have a passion for social media? Do you like animals? Do you like plants? Do you like working with money? Do you like working on the computer or with physical items?
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Your needs. What type of support do you need in the workforce? Do you need limited standing time? Do you need shorter shifts? Do you need more frequent breaks? Is noise reduction necessary? For more information, go to…
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Your motivations. Why do you want a job? Do you want to become more independent? Do you want to earn money? Do you want to help people? Can the job you are considering help you for what you want to do in the future?
Interviews can be the scary part
but they don't have to be.
Preparing for
the interview
On the day
of the interview
After
the interview
Think about what makes you unique, what is your story? How do your passions and skills align with the job you are applying for?Â
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Research the job. You can use websites like LinkedIn or Google to learn more about the business as well as the person you are being interviewed by. It is helpful to keep their goals in mind and create a short list of questions to ask about the job.
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PRACTICE! The best thing you can do to prepare is to do a mock interview with someone you trust like a parent, guardian, or a friend. Practice answering the questions and ensure that you stay on topic.
Dress appropriately! Your first impression with your outfit can show the interviewer how important the job is to you. Aim for a professional look and more modest. Some examples to wear are collared shirts, blouses, dress slacks, skirts, dresses, blazers, suits, and cardigans.
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Arrive early to show the employer that you are reliable. Try to arrive at least 10-15 minutes early to alloy extra time for parking or in case of traffic.Â
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Make sure to have what you need! This can include items like copies of your resume, phone, a water bottle, or whatever else you need for the day.Â
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Silence your phone to make sure you are not distracted during the interview.
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Try to maintain body language that shows you are calm and focusing on the questions being asked. Try to avoid biting your nails, cracking knuckles, pulling on your hair, etc.
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Ask questions!! Asking questions at the end of an interview shows that you did research and want to hear about next steps.
Send a thank you note either over email or make a card to your interviewer within one day of your interview. This shows your care in the job, gratitude, and continued interest.
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Make sure to offer references, people that can speak on your character or work ethic, contact information. If you share information for a reference, let them know before hand that they may be hearing from your potential employer.
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Learning from this interview is also a great way to learn for any future ones! This can be asking feedback and also reflecting on what went well and what didn't.
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Tell me about yourself.
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Why are you interested in this job?
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What experiences or skills make you a good candidate?
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What are your greatest strengths/weaknesses?
Common Interview Questions
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What are some of your hobbies?
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Do you prefer working by yourself or on a team?
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What are you most proud of?
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Where do you see yourself in 5 years?