The Do’s and Don’ts of Searching for Your First Job

by Trish Faber

     So you’re tired of asking your parents for money and decide you want to get a job.  But what do you do?  Who’s going to hire a student with no experience?  Lots of people if you play your cards right and follow a few do’s and don’ts. 

• DO call around to several businesses and ask politely if they are hiring.  A simple, “Hi my name is…and I was wondering if you might be hiring now or in the near future?” sounds great.
• DON’T say, “You guys hiring?” Not only is it incredibly informal, it sounds rude.  Remember, you’re not calling a friend to make plans for the night; you’re calling someone who may become your boss. 
• DO use common sense when calling or dropping off a resume.  If you’re applying to a restaurant, for example, DON’T call or show up during the lunch or dinner rushes.  The person is not going to have time for you and may be angered that you’ve interrupted them during peak periods.  Yes, you might be busy too, but you’re not the one doing the hiring.
• DO leave any attitude at home.  No one hires a smart mouth or know-it-all.
• DON’T smoke just before talking to a prospective employer.  The smell will still be on your breath and clothes.  No amount of gum can hide it, especially if you are talking to a non-smoker.  It’s a definite turn-off.
• DO remember to smile and be polite to all the employees when you hand in your resume.  You want these people to only say good things about you based on their first impression.
• DO dress appropriately.  A stained or ripped T-shirt with a skull and crossbones or a barely there mini-skirt will not help your chances.  You may think you look good but choose otherwise.  It’s better to dress more on the conservative side.  That doesn’t mean you have to change who you are, just tone it down.

     Remember that while your first job is probably just a stepping stone in your career, for your prospective employers, it’s their livelihood, especially if it’s a family-owned business.  These people work incredible hard, so show them some respect and be considerate of their time.  It’s only fair. 

     The easiest way to get your foot in the door and land at least an interview is to make a great first impression.  You can have the best resume in the world, full of activities and volunteer work, but if you come off as rude or unpleasant, you guarantee your resume a quick trip to the garbage can.  That’s not going to help you save for that new iPod.  Do your best, follow these tips and you’ll be sitting in an interview in no time.

This article was written for the teen audience.