First Job: How to Get Your First Job – Newbie Job Search Guide

Getting your first job out of college– no doubt it can be a bit stressful.
Wondering were to apply, how to apply, how to make a good first impression and the list goes on. Without any past experience, knowing how to get a first job is a bit like wondering through a maze with blinders on.

Good news – our Newbie Job Search Guide will have you nailing your first job in no time.

Getting that First Job

The following are the first steps of Job Searching.
Employment Eligibility
Make sure you are legally able to work prior to beginning your job search.

You may have to provide proof of employment eligibility to any potential employers in the form of work permit, SSN, driver’s license, or government ID. If you aren’t sure if you are old enough to work check with the state and/or federal rules. Before you get the job first make sure you have all your paperwork in place.
Be Creative in Where You Apply
Whether this is your first job out of college or your summer job in high school everyone seems to gravitate to the same places.
Why not try to think outside the box and apply in less common places. Search online job banks, career centers, local newspapers, and your counselor’s office.

Have Information for Application Handy
Even with resume in hand, many employers will require you to fill out one of their applications.
Be ready to do this while you are there by having the necessary information available including:

• How to contact you
• When you are available to work
• The names of your references and how to contact them
• The name and address of any volunteer work you’ve done

Always include a copy of your resume even when you do fill out an application.
Read Also: First job – resume for first job and Resume examples for first job.

First Impressions
When people first job search they may not be aware of the importance of that first impression. Make sure you are properly groomed, and that you are wearing clothes that are neat and tidy. Never wear short skirts, tight clothing, or revealing clothing, and go easy on makeup and perfume.
Read more on – first job interview.

Be Persistent
As a first time job hunter don’t get discouraged by the amount of rejection you hear. Be prepared not to be called, and not to be offered a job. There are things you can do to improve your chances of being hired and one of those is to be persistent. Come back often, and each time leave a copy of your resume. Always thank the employer for taking time to talk to you.

Making the Most Out of Your First Job
Your first job might not be what you dreamed of, but remember just a little experience can really help you to get that next job that’s more to what you were hoping for. It also allows you the opportunity for advancement. So show up on time for your shift, and always give it your best providing quality work.

Your Future Career
You may or may not know what you’d like to be in the future.
If you have an idea of what type of career you’d like, you can always try to find work that would give you some experience in the general field. For example, if you’ve been thinking about being a teacher perhaps a job at a summer camp would be a great idea. Just remember no experience is ever wasted, and all your work experience including your very first job is valuable.

“Your first job is a bit like your first date you aren’t quite sure what to expect”