First job
None of this is expert advice. It's what people worked out for themselves, usually the hard way — what actually helped, and what they'd tell someone standing where you are. Take what fits and leave the rest.
If you only read a few
Volunteer or work for free in your desired field for a few months to gain connections, references, and experience.
It is way more valuable than low hourly wages.
- Do not work somewhere that has tons of unpaid interns, as they may not appreciate or care about you.
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Explore various roles early in your career, even imperfect ones, to learn what you want.
Trying things that are not long-term ideal paths helps you learn more about your preferences.
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Show up to apply before peak hours rather than during the height of the store's business.
Do not try to force the manager to come and meet you.
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Handle the entire job application and interview process yourself without your parents speaking or applying on your behalf.
It demonstrates independence, self-motivation, and maturity, whereas parental involvement can lead to automatic disqualification or embarrassment.
- Parents using their connections to get a teenager's name out is acceptable, but the teenager must handle the rest of the process.
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Apply to jobs based on interest or passion rather than just generic first jobs.
You could be surprised by the outcome.
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Send owners cute photos of their pets while pet sitting to prove you are present and caring for them.
It assures owners that you are actually there.
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Start searching for internships and making connections as early as possible, even as a freshman.
The earlier you make connections, the better.
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Call first to inquire about hiring instead of showing up unannounced.
It is less awkward.
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Read the employer's application guidelines and follow them exactly.
It really pisses employers off when people don't read the info made available.
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Find a way to make yourself memorable to the interviewer by demonstrating confidence and willingness to work with them.
Interviewers conduct many interviews and need a reason to remember you; they are determining if they would enjoy working with you.
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Take up independent projects or side hustles, like developing something online or selling on eBay, to demonstrate enterprise skills.
It shows 'enterprise skills' and 'drive'.
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Seek seasonal work at retailers like Spirit Halloween or resorts that may provide employee housing.
Resorts typically offer employee housing, providing both a job and a place to live if hired
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Apply to grocery stores, Amazon warehouses, or hotel housekeeping positions.
They have high turnover rates and are normally always hiring.
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Submit your application at a reasonable time, avoiding periods that are too early or too late.
Applications submitted too early may be forgotten.
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Research the store's history, products, and services before interviewing.
Interviews often include questions about why you want to work there.
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Ensure your handwritten application is legible and answer every question completely.
Illegible handwriting or blank sections may result in not being hired.
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Create a separate, professional email address using your name or initials for job applications.
Inappropriate email addresses can negatively impact otherwise good resumes.
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Ask your academic advisor about research assistant or student worker positions, as this approach has led to employment for some students.
- Based on one person's experience
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