Getting a Job

So I’m writing this article, curled up in my bed with sore feet and a headache, chowing down on a piece of chocolate cake – a reward for my tiring day. Why was my day so strenuous that it warranted cake therapy? Well, today I officially joined the ranks of the working, and let me tell you, it was no mean feat. First of all, getting a job as an unqualified, unlicensed high school student these days is akin to winning at one of those games at a carnival – it does happen but it’s pretty rare and when you get your prize, you realise it’s nowhere near as cool as you thought it would be.

The main obstacle for students seeking part time work is that most positions require previous experience in their field. The obvious question so few people ask is; “But if you won’t give them a job, how can they get work experience?”

In my opinion, the best way for students to acquire part time work is not to apply for a specific position but go for the broader approach of handing out your CV to a wide range of employers. Just like casting a net into the ocean is more likely to get you a tasty dinner, than waiting around with just one rod; you’re more likely to be offered a position by one of several employers than get one specific job.

Then comes the interview. For me, it was a pretty nerve-wracking process but in all honesty, interviews aren’t something to be nervous about. The employer wants to know if you’re the right person to hire, so it’s important to display the qualities they’re looking for. If you’re going to be interacting directly with customers, make sure you come off as friendly and approachable. If you’ll need to be speaking a lot, make sure you’re clear and articulate. For the kinds of jobs students will be applying for, the questions asked are likely to be general and won’t require any previous knowledge, but it’s probably a good idea to do a little research about the place you’re hoping to work, to avoid any embarrassing situations.

If you’ve made it this far in the process, I congratulate you – Welcome to the work force, you are now earning your own money (minus what the government steals from you), of course your social life is now severely diminished, and I’m pretty sure that within a few weeks you’ll loathe your job and possibly your workmates (depending on how lucky you are). Like I said, it’s nowhere near as cool as you thought it would be, but hey – as adults will tell you, and they certainly tell me: Welcome to life.

Laura J Garforth

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