How to Land Your First Job

Jul 26, 2024

How to Land Your First Job - Summary

Introduction

  • Story begins with a relatable scenario of wanting to buy things but lacking funds.
  • Introduction of the topic: how to land your first job.

The Importance of a Resume

  • Your resume is your sales pitch to employers.
  • Key components to include:
    • Education: High school/college details, GPA, SAT/ACT scores.
    • Experience: Prior jobs or relevant extracurricular activities (clubs, sports, community service).
    • Skills: Highlight traits such as responsibility, organization, and teamwork.
  • Employers expect you to highlight extracurriculars rather than experience, especially at a young age.

Resume Length and Structure

  • Keep your resume to one page
  • Typical structure includes:
    1. Contact Information (Name, Phone, Email, Website)
    2. Education
    3. Experience (or Activities if no work experience)
    4. Skills
  • Use bullet points for descriptions, starting with action verbs.

Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS)

  • Resumes are often screened by ATS before reaching employers.
  • Tailor your resume keywords to reflect the job description using a word cloud generator.
  • Keep descriptions clear, concise, and relevant.

Building a Portfolio Website

  • A personal website can enhance your job application.
  • Showcases your work, projects, and professional appearance.
  • Hostinger’s AI website builder is an option for creating a portfolio easily:
    1. Choose website type (Portfolio)
    2. Customize layout, content, and domain name.
  • Professional email address demonstrates credibility.

Job Search Strategies

  • Use platforms like LinkedIn and Indeed.
  • Main categories for students: Fast Food and Retail.
  • Factors to consider:
    • Distance: Ideally within 15-30 mins commute.
    • Responsibilities: Ensure job role matches personality preferences.
    • Hours: Balance work with academics.

Application Process

  • Understand that applying may require several attempts.
  • Typical application documents needed: Resume, Cover Letter, References.
    • Cover Letter: Explain suitability for the job.
    • References: Individuals who can vouch for your character (e.g., teachers, coaches).
  • Keep track of applications using a spreadsheet.

Interview Preparation

  • Arrive 10-15 minutes early; dress business casual.
  • Show friendly, energetic composure, maintain good posture, eye contact.
  • Prepare to answer common questions, including:
    • "Tell me about yourself."
    • Use STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure responses, especially for behavioral questions.

Post-Interview Steps

  • Expect to hear back within a week or two.
  • Follow up if no response after two weeks.
  • Rejections are common; persistence is key.

Conclusion

  • Reminder to save and invest money earned from jobs, beyond just spending on clothes/sneakers.
  • Potential for future discussions on finance-related topics if there is interest.

Final Thoughts

  • Encouragement to believe in oneself and keep pushing through the job market challenges.