Helpful ‘Get Hired’ Hints

The Holiday season is coming up quickly, which means you’re running out of shopping time. But, in order to shop, you need money! With this busy season at our doorsteps many businesses are looking for extra help. So, if you want to make some extra pocket money before this holiday, check out our helpful suggestions before you apply.

Before asking for an application you should:
Decide what kind of work is of interest to you. You do not want to apply for
a job that is going to make you miserable.
Make a list of job sites. It is always best to give yourself options.

After you’ve determined where you will apply, you may be asking yourself…

What should I wear? Usually, (unless you are applying for a professional job) you do not need to get “dressed up” to ask for an application. However, you should look presentable. If you come to apply sloppily thrown together, your possible employer may assume you treat your work the same way you treat your appearance.

How should I act? Be friendly, smile and give a firm handshake. Being personable is one of the top characteristics employers look for! Nobody wants to work with a grump, so show your enthusiasm and make your employers remember you.

What should I say? Do not walk in and ask, “Are you hiring?” You will sound uninterested and unprofessional. Rather, you should ask to speak with a manager, introduce yourself and shake hands. Tell him/her you are interested in working for their company, business, etc. Then, ask if there are any openings.

If they answer YES! Great! Ask if they have any applications available. Usually, you can fill the application out at that time, or they may allow you to take it home. Remember to thank them for their time.

If they answer NO! Do not be discouraged. There are plenty of people hiring this time of year. Thank him/her for their time, shake hands, and move on to your next potential job site.

What will I need? Depending upon the job you are applying for, you should generally bring a list of references, a schedule of your availability, and a resume if you have one. Some job sites require you send a cover letter and possibly a resume through the mail or by e-mail. If you are unsure a resume is necessary, call and ask. It is best to be prepared. Most employers look for references of past employers. If you have never had a job before, many will accept references of family, family friends, teachers, coaches, scout leaders, or even people you have babysat for in the past. If your references have not been employers, make sure you ask if they mind being references before you write them down. Remember, future employers have the right to contact your references, so make sure they are of good quality and creditable.

How will I know if I get the job? It may vary. Ask the manager when you can expect to hear from him/her. If you do not hear back within the allotted time, CALL. Most applicants wait 3-5 days before calling on the status of their application. Be aware that employers receive applications everyday; make sure you call and show your interest!

What happens next? If the employer is interested in hiring you, he/she may ask you to make an appointment to come back for an interview. The interview may be directly with him/her, or with another person with who you would, if hired, directly work for (the supervisor). You should again bring in the list of references, the schedule of your work availability, a resume if necessary, also, a pen and pad of paper. This would be the time to ask any questions you might have. If the interviewer is interested in hiring you, you may need to fill out further paper work. Generally, the two documents you will need are a photo ID and a Social Security Card. If you are not a resident of the country, you should also bring the necessary papers to prove you are allowed to work in the country. And as always, remember to be personable, confident and smile!

Amanda A.
PT, Intern
Boston, Massachusetts

Reprinted from Positive Teens Magazine Volume 6 Issue 6, Nov/Dec 2004

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