Whether you’re changing jobs or looking for your first job, finding work may not be easy. Two of the most important things employers look for in potential employees are experience and skills related to the job.
Deciding a Career. Contact your school counselor or local Job Service Center. You might also want to talk to people you know who working a field that you’re interested in. Community centers and local organizations might also provide job skills training courses.
Ready to apply for a job? Check out the applying and interviewing for jobs fact sheet for some helpful ideas on how to prepare yourself for entering the job market.
Look in a variety of places for jobs openings. There are lots of places you can look for work. Some of these include internet job sites and your school’s career center. Approaching organizations or people who you’re interested in working with can be a great way to show that you are looking for a job.
Add to your skills. You can major in the field or take as many courses as you can in the field of study. Your school may also have an academic club you can join to become even more involved in the field. You can talk to your professors, advisor, or career counselor about what opportunities are available to you to improve your skills. Volunteering or interning while in college or after you’ve graduated is also a great way to find out whether or not a field or job is right for you.
Stay confident. The longer you’re looking for work, the harder it can feel.
Acknowledgement: This fact sheet was originally developed by youth and staff at ReachOut.com, a website that helps teens get through tough times.
