Written by/ Andrea Rivera and Kilani Sierra
Desperate to get the job, you await patiently at home after filling out a 5-minute application several days ago. Your thoughts hold you captive: “Will I get called back? Why would they pick me? Don’t other people have more experience?” But reality is, if you are simply sitting there, you are at the wrong place.
Don’t slack on the job search
Assume that you will not hear back from the location you recently applied to—keep applying to other job openings elsewhere. Be confident, but not comfortable. Job searching expert Alison Doyle stated in her article 15 Quick Tips That Will Help You Get Hired Fast that “…most job seekers are rejected by over 15 employers before landing a job.” It is more favorable to have numerous job offers to choose from than to have none.
Do you what you know
Your job search should focus on your qualifications. For example, most minors struggle due to lack of work experience. However, most teens have performed plenty of community service. With that being said, if you volunteered at a pet shelter, apply for a job that involves animals; if you volunteered at an elementary school, apply for a job that involves children. Consider whatever experience that developed skills essential in the workplace you seek.
Don’t underestimate the power of following-up
Let’s face it—reality is that you are not the only individual job-hunting. According to professor and corporate recruiting strategist Dr. John Sullivan, each corporate job opening receives on average of 250 applications, therefore your resume will face a lot of competition. Show interest by following-up. “It took at least five follow-ups before the interview,” said Young.
The interview portion of the job application process is very crucial. In order to have a successful interview experience, one should keep some important information in mind.
Dress like you want it
It’s plain and simple—if your persona wants it in the inside, it should reflect it on the outside. “I made sure I looked presentable because the way you look is actually like the way you present yourself at the job,” said senior Lenisha Young, who works in Taco Bell. There is a demand for professionalism in the workplace, and employers need to make sure whomever they hire portrays such.
Be honest
Sometimes “embellishing” or lying on a job application seems like a good idea, but when it comes to the interview, it is not. If you lied on the application, your interviewer will know for sure once the interview is conducted. Lying is not a positive way to start a work relationship.
Keep eye contact—show your interest
Good communication skills are key to any job. To display such skills, you should give the interviewer a firm handshake and keep eye contact. Demonstrating professionalism and dedication will surely prove to be a good first impression.
If you succeed in the interview and earn the position, then great-you have succeeded in the application process. All you need now is to prepare for work life. Young stated, “…time management is a lot better, because I use my work schedule to make sure I get all my school work done.” Time management is an important aspect to contemplate. Make sure to plan everything in a way that will not overwhelm you.