23 answers
Megan
Student
Baltimore, Maryland
4
Questions
Asked
6096 views
How did you find and get hired for your very first job?
I’ve been struggling to find my first job, and I'm curious to hear about how other people have gotten a job when they had no experience.
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23 answers
Morgan Watts
Market Learning Manager
2
Answers
Saanichton, British Columbia, Canada
Updated
Morgan’s Answer
Hello Iesha! Finding your first job can seem daunting, but don't worry - you'll find one. Here are some actionable steps to help you in your job search:
1. Create a resume, even if you don't have any formal work experience. Highlight your volunteer work, successful school projects, sports, and other extracurricular activities that demonstrate your skills and teamwork abilities.
2. Think about your personal connections, such as friends, family, or teammates, who might have jobs that you're interested in. They can act as character references and give you valuable insights into potential job openings.
3. Reach out to these connections and ask if their workplaces are currently hiring. If so, inquire about the best time to meet with their manager, and prepare to drop by with your resume.
4. When visiting potential workplaces, dress professionally, be polite, and show enthusiasm about the opportunity.
5. Follow up with the manager a few days after leaving your resume and express your continued interest in the position.
Remember that networking and persistence are key factors in securing your first job. Good luck with your search!
1. Create a resume, even if you don't have any formal work experience. Highlight your volunteer work, successful school projects, sports, and other extracurricular activities that demonstrate your skills and teamwork abilities.
2. Think about your personal connections, such as friends, family, or teammates, who might have jobs that you're interested in. They can act as character references and give you valuable insights into potential job openings.
3. Reach out to these connections and ask if their workplaces are currently hiring. If so, inquire about the best time to meet with their manager, and prepare to drop by with your resume.
4. When visiting potential workplaces, dress professionally, be polite, and show enthusiasm about the opportunity.
5. Follow up with the manager a few days after leaving your resume and express your continued interest in the position.
Remember that networking and persistence are key factors in securing your first job. Good luck with your search!
Michelle M.
Entertainment Industry
1879
Answers
Updated
Michelle’s Answer
Hello, Megan !
The question you've asked is fabulous. Asking it will give you a variety of insights that will inform and motivate.
I have two different first job experiences. The first is not for a company and the second is my first job hired by a company. My first time working was in private childcare. I was twelve years old and one of my mom's student's mother asked me if I would babysit her two children. I started babysitting and after that everyone was asking me to babysit on referrals from that first person. That was my very first job ever and it grew quickly. I was babysitting and getting paid for it and actually being able to save money for things I wanted.
Now, the first job I obtained from a company was when I was 16 years old. I was a Dietary Assistant in a large hospital. The way I obtained this job was interesting. At that time, most of my friends were getting jobs in retail at the local department store and I did not find that interesting so I didn't go along with that trend. One day I was in gym class with a friend and we were talking. I asked her about her job and she said she was quitting. I told her that I would like to apply for it and she gave me the information.
I remember that I went to the hospital in person and found the office where the Director was. I introduced myself, explained that I knew my friend and I would like to apply for the vacancy. I filled out an application and got the job after my labs (part of the application process) came back approved. The irony of this story is that about five months later, my friend came back asking for a job and she got the same position back so we were now working together. I loved the work very much and I was also doing volunteer Counseling at the local community Counseling Center for a project for 11th grade. Everything worked out perfectly and that's how I found out I liked Social Service work, a field I went into decades later.
I guess you can say that I literally got my jobs based on who I knew. This goes to show how important networking can really be. I do hope my story can be of some inspiration and I hope you found it to be of some help.
Best wishes to you !
The question you've asked is fabulous. Asking it will give you a variety of insights that will inform and motivate.
I have two different first job experiences. The first is not for a company and the second is my first job hired by a company. My first time working was in private childcare. I was twelve years old and one of my mom's student's mother asked me if I would babysit her two children. I started babysitting and after that everyone was asking me to babysit on referrals from that first person. That was my very first job ever and it grew quickly. I was babysitting and getting paid for it and actually being able to save money for things I wanted.
Now, the first job I obtained from a company was when I was 16 years old. I was a Dietary Assistant in a large hospital. The way I obtained this job was interesting. At that time, most of my friends were getting jobs in retail at the local department store and I did not find that interesting so I didn't go along with that trend. One day I was in gym class with a friend and we were talking. I asked her about her job and she said she was quitting. I told her that I would like to apply for it and she gave me the information.
I remember that I went to the hospital in person and found the office where the Director was. I introduced myself, explained that I knew my friend and I would like to apply for the vacancy. I filled out an application and got the job after my labs (part of the application process) came back approved. The irony of this story is that about five months later, my friend came back asking for a job and she got the same position back so we were now working together. I loved the work very much and I was also doing volunteer Counseling at the local community Counseling Center for a project for 11th grade. Everything worked out perfectly and that's how I found out I liked Social Service work, a field I went into decades later.
I guess you can say that I literally got my jobs based on who I knew. This goes to show how important networking can really be. I do hope my story can be of some inspiration and I hope you found it to be of some help.
Best wishes to you !
Michael Torio
Consultant - Data Reporting & Analysis (HQ Finance)
342
Answers
Alpharetta, Georgia
Updated
Michael’s Answer
Hi Megan:
At 16 years old, my very first job was having a paper route and delivering newspapers. I got the job by answering a Help Wanted Ad in the Business section of the newspaper. The Newspaper Delivery Manager interviewed me for 30 minutes and decided to hire me. He went over the responsibilities of being a newspaper delivery boy, expectations, responsibilities, getting paid, etc.
Around 6:00AM, I had to ride my bicycle about 1 mile away from my house to where the newspaper bundles were delivered. Then, the newspapers were individually folded and placed in plastic bag sleeves. Upon completion, all of the individual bagged newspapers would be placed in the basket holder on my bicycle.
My newspaper route had about 125 homes. All of the newspapers had to be delivered by 9:00AM. They were thrown onto driveways.
Every two weeks, I had to go door by door and collect the monies from homeowners for their newspaper subscriptions. They would either pay by exact cash or by check. A money/envelope pouch was carried with me. The total amount would be written down on a ledger and it would indicate which homeowner paid or not paid. The Newspaper Delivery Manager would receive the money/envelope pouch and the ledger in order to follow up with those homeowners who have not paid for their newspaper subscriptions.
I got paid every two weeks from the newspaper company. In addition, homeowners would provide monetary tips to me when I collected their payments for their newspaper subscriptions. The money and tips that I made from being a newspaper delivery boy went towards my college savings fund.
The newspaper delivery job taught me about time management, customer service, accountability and financial responsibility. It allowed me to interact with the public, that is, the homeowners. The newspaper delivery job was done for 1.5 years until I graduated high school and went onto college.
During college, I worked in restaurants by waiting tables and bartending. With no prior experience, a friend who worked at a restaurant recommended me to the manager. The manager interviewed me and asked questions about my major, school activities, community service, etc. He hired me on the spot and this was my first job working in a restaurant. All of my training was on the job and I learned quickly. It was fun and hard work being on one's feet during the entire shift. There were times when I did not get home until 3:00AM, but the tips were good.
My advice is to network, network and network with family, friends, classmates, etc. Sometimes, it is not what you know, but who you know who will give you that first break ... that first job to gain experience and to gain exposure and to make money.
Hope my personal experience helps you and good luck on finding your first job!
At 16 years old, my very first job was having a paper route and delivering newspapers. I got the job by answering a Help Wanted Ad in the Business section of the newspaper. The Newspaper Delivery Manager interviewed me for 30 minutes and decided to hire me. He went over the responsibilities of being a newspaper delivery boy, expectations, responsibilities, getting paid, etc.
Around 6:00AM, I had to ride my bicycle about 1 mile away from my house to where the newspaper bundles were delivered. Then, the newspapers were individually folded and placed in plastic bag sleeves. Upon completion, all of the individual bagged newspapers would be placed in the basket holder on my bicycle.
My newspaper route had about 125 homes. All of the newspapers had to be delivered by 9:00AM. They were thrown onto driveways.
Every two weeks, I had to go door by door and collect the monies from homeowners for their newspaper subscriptions. They would either pay by exact cash or by check. A money/envelope pouch was carried with me. The total amount would be written down on a ledger and it would indicate which homeowner paid or not paid. The Newspaper Delivery Manager would receive the money/envelope pouch and the ledger in order to follow up with those homeowners who have not paid for their newspaper subscriptions.
I got paid every two weeks from the newspaper company. In addition, homeowners would provide monetary tips to me when I collected their payments for their newspaper subscriptions. The money and tips that I made from being a newspaper delivery boy went towards my college savings fund.
The newspaper delivery job taught me about time management, customer service, accountability and financial responsibility. It allowed me to interact with the public, that is, the homeowners. The newspaper delivery job was done for 1.5 years until I graduated high school and went onto college.
During college, I worked in restaurants by waiting tables and bartending. With no prior experience, a friend who worked at a restaurant recommended me to the manager. The manager interviewed me and asked questions about my major, school activities, community service, etc. He hired me on the spot and this was my first job working in a restaurant. All of my training was on the job and I learned quickly. It was fun and hard work being on one's feet during the entire shift. There were times when I did not get home until 3:00AM, but the tips were good.
My advice is to network, network and network with family, friends, classmates, etc. Sometimes, it is not what you know, but who you know who will give you that first break ... that first job to gain experience and to gain exposure and to make money.
Hope my personal experience helps you and good luck on finding your first job!
You've written such an excellent account of what is a very special memory for you. I enjoyed reading it !
Michelle M.
Paulo Leite
Technical Sales
4
Answers
San José, Costa Rica
Updated
Paulo’s Answer
When I was just 15 years old, I started high school at a technical college. There, along with the regular subjects, I had the chance to learn about basic electronics. This awesome opportunity led me to an internship when I turned 16 at a company that specialized in selling and repairing computers. Ever since then, I've been hooked on the world of technology and consider myself pretty lucky to have found my passion at such a young age! 😊
Pay attention to the companies and people's jobs, see what you think you like
Do a quick course related to that subject
Get to know someone that do what you'd like to do, ask for help
Paulo recommends the following next steps:
Tina Laterza
Sales, Operations, and Training Manager
2
Answers
Cincinnati, Ohio
Updated
Tina’s Answer
I think the main thing is to start getting work experience! Apply for things that interest you and lay the groundwork by proving yourself. Even entry level jobs build great careers and are applicable to more things than you can imagine.
Stephanie Short
Regional Operations Manager
3
Answers
Yardley, PA
Updated
Stephanie’s Answer
Hi Megan,
When I was 15 years old looking for my first job, I looked for opportunities at places that I had interest in. This ultimately lead me to getting a Job at a Hair Salon.
I didn't have any experience but I was able to show that I was eager to learn and could retain the information.
When I was 15 years old looking for my first job, I looked for opportunities at places that I had interest in. This ultimately lead me to getting a Job at a Hair Salon.
I didn't have any experience but I was able to show that I was eager to learn and could retain the information.
Jenn Stone
Business analyst
1
Answer
Columbus, Ohio
Updated
Jenn’s Answer
Hello Megan,
Embarking on your first job is a thrilling journey! I advise you to explore various job opportunities within your local area and put yourself forward by applying. Don't hesitate to reach out to your family and friends for any leads on open positions - remember, networking is crucial. If you've done any volunteer work in the past, it's a great idea to feature that prominently on your resume. You can also consider asking your mentors if they would be comfortable being listed as references on your resume. My own first job was at a public library as a circulation clerk during my summer break from college, where I learned all the essentials needed for the role. When you land an interview, remember to prepare thoroughly beforehand and follow up with a thank you note afterwards.
Wishing you all the best on this exciting journey!
Embarking on your first job is a thrilling journey! I advise you to explore various job opportunities within your local area and put yourself forward by applying. Don't hesitate to reach out to your family and friends for any leads on open positions - remember, networking is crucial. If you've done any volunteer work in the past, it's a great idea to feature that prominently on your resume. You can also consider asking your mentors if they would be comfortable being listed as references on your resume. My own first job was at a public library as a circulation clerk during my summer break from college, where I learned all the essentials needed for the role. When you land an interview, remember to prepare thoroughly beforehand and follow up with a thank you note afterwards.
Wishing you all the best on this exciting journey!
Narina Mamedova
Guest Relations Agent
3
Answers
Astana, Kazakhstan
Updated
Narina’s Answer
Hello Megan!
As soon as I’ve finished university and obtained a university degree I found my dream job.
I was just passing by Radisson Hotel all the time and imagined myself working in Carlson Rezidor Hotel Group.
I just came to the reception desk and asked for vacancy, they were very polite which I liked that much and just told me to fill in the form.
After a couple of days I have received a phone-call from the Front Office Manager who tested my English Speaking ability and was invited for a short interview with General Manager and FOM assistant.
Luckily, there were no obstacles from both sides and I was hired as a Telephone Operator first and after approbation period which is 3 months approximately, and appraisal I was moved to the position of Guest Relations Manager.
Do not be afraid if you go to a prestigious organization they will provide a sufficient training first then only promote you to other departments.
Hope this will be enough for the very first time.
As soon as I’ve finished university and obtained a university degree I found my dream job.
I was just passing by Radisson Hotel all the time and imagined myself working in Carlson Rezidor Hotel Group.
I just came to the reception desk and asked for vacancy, they were very polite which I liked that much and just told me to fill in the form.
After a couple of days I have received a phone-call from the Front Office Manager who tested my English Speaking ability and was invited for a short interview with General Manager and FOM assistant.
Luckily, there were no obstacles from both sides and I was hired as a Telephone Operator first and after approbation period which is 3 months approximately, and appraisal I was moved to the position of Guest Relations Manager.
Do not be afraid if you go to a prestigious organization they will provide a sufficient training first then only promote you to other departments.
Hope this will be enough for the very first time.
Jacqueline Dotson
4
Answers
Clarksville, Tennessee
Updated
Jacqueline’s Answer
The best way is to make sure you research the job and what they are known for as a company. This is so that when they ask you why you want to work for the company you will have educated yourself on the company. Make sure that you are always dressed neat ,clean in dressy casual clothing. Make sure you keep your answers direct give complete eye contact because it shows a person that you are confident an listen when they speak. Always ask a few questions about the job like salary, benefits an is there room to grow for me in this company. At the end always thank them for taking time out their schedule for interviewing you. Let them know how make you greatly appreciate them giving you a opportunity.
sonia moreno
customer service
1
Answer
El Paso, Texas
Updated
sonia’s Answer
Hi Megan,
When I embarked on my professional journey, I made sure to highlight all my academic achievements on my resume. This allowed potential employers to recognize my commitment, diligence, and strong work ethic, which could be valuable assets to their business. During personal interviews, I confidently expressed how I could contribute positively to their organization with the right training and trust.
Remember, it's essential to believe in your unique abilities and what you can offer. Don't underestimate your worth due to lack of experience - it's something that you'll gain over time. Wishing you the very best. Remember, you're capable and you've got this!
When I embarked on my professional journey, I made sure to highlight all my academic achievements on my resume. This allowed potential employers to recognize my commitment, diligence, and strong work ethic, which could be valuable assets to their business. During personal interviews, I confidently expressed how I could contribute positively to their organization with the right training and trust.
Remember, it's essential to believe in your unique abilities and what you can offer. Don't underestimate your worth due to lack of experience - it's something that you'll gain over time. Wishing you the very best. Remember, you're capable and you've got this!
Ecaterina Apostoiu
Concierge Manager
1
Answer
Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Updated
Ecaterina’s Answer
I always knew what was the type of job / career I wanted. I had a very clear image of where I needed to start. I had done my research. I built a tinny, but professional looking resume. I was humble. I had sent over 30 job applications every day. Expanded my geographical area. And still received so many rejections, for months, close to a year, that I didn’t even need to read the whole email/ letter, to know it was a rejection, simply from its format. It was very disappointing to see that no one wanted to give me a chance, while stating that I was most of the times over qualified for the jobs I was seeking.
And then, I found my dream job, in my dream place, with my dream team(s), where I accomplished everything I was dreaming as a young professional, over the last 10 years of my career. My teams became close friends. And over time and space we still help and rely each other.
What I took from this, is:
- to never give up or lose hope;
- when something does not work out, it means that was not the right environment; Move on!
- asking for help is nothing to be ashamed of; A solution might come from anywhere, unexpectedly;
- always show up and bring on the enthusiasm.
Good luck!
And then, I found my dream job, in my dream place, with my dream team(s), where I accomplished everything I was dreaming as a young professional, over the last 10 years of my career. My teams became close friends. And over time and space we still help and rely each other.
What I took from this, is:
- to never give up or lose hope;
- when something does not work out, it means that was not the right environment; Move on!
- asking for help is nothing to be ashamed of; A solution might come from anywhere, unexpectedly;
- always show up and bring on the enthusiasm.
Good luck!
Lucas Gomes
Teller
2
Answers
Braintree, Massachusetts
Updated
Lucas’s Answer
Having a good resume and having a good first impression in your interview can have a manager be really interested in hiring you
Aimee Campbell
Talent development
1
Answer
Gaithersburg, Maryland
Updated
Aimee’s Answer
Hi Megan! What an exciting time! I highly recommend finding a job that has aspects that you are passionate about (ex. travel, hospitality, fitness, kids, technology, animals, problem solving). If you have yet to find your true passion (I feel like I still don't know what I want to be when I "grow up" sometimes) then try to jump into something that you know you will enjoy at a company with a good reputation for developing their people. While growth is something you should think about, if you truly enjoy who you are working with and the company has good values it likely will happen organically.
When crafting your resume, highlight things you enjoy and are good at thinking about how they will best translate to a professional work environment. If you have any extra curricular activities you take part in or places you volunteer be sure to highlight those as well.
I'd also recommend interviewing at a couple different places, asking questions during each interview to best understand the type of work, the working environment/team dynamics, what they are looking for in a candidate and opportunities for growth. This shows employers you are thinking about how they can help you grow but you are also learning about them/the company that can help you best decide where you will be the best fit.
Best of luck!
When crafting your resume, highlight things you enjoy and are good at thinking about how they will best translate to a professional work environment. If you have any extra curricular activities you take part in or places you volunteer be sure to highlight those as well.
I'd also recommend interviewing at a couple different places, asking questions during each interview to best understand the type of work, the working environment/team dynamics, what they are looking for in a candidate and opportunities for growth. This shows employers you are thinking about how they can help you grow but you are also learning about them/the company that can help you best decide where you will be the best fit.
Best of luck!
Iesha Age
PACT rep
2
Answers
Wilmington, North Carolina
Updated
Iesha’s Answer
For my first job i went to the restaurant to see if they were hiring, now times are a little different. I would suggest going on Indeed.com or going to local places in your community. First impression is always the most important. Also put together a resume even if you have not had any jobs. list anything you have volunteered and education
Shannon Craig
Audit Assistance
3
Answers
Chippewa Falls, Wisconsin
Updated
Shannon’s Answer
My first job started as housekeeper at a local hotel. It depends on how old you are and if you have transportation. I think the food and beverage industry is easy to get into at any age. I also started as a tour guide at a local historical place that was interesting and helped me gain knowledge of the area and talk in front of people. I really think any position even starting out gives you knowledge for things later on in life. So, starting small as a hostess, house keeper, etc... is all going to help build your resume. Just showing you worked toward something in high school is a positive thing.
Ann C
Learning & Development, Software, Administrative, Tech, Systems
37
Answers
Atlanta, Georgia
Updated
Ann’s Answer
Megan, this is an exciting time for you! Savor every minute. Go to local businesses that you know and ask if they're hiring. Always have a resume with you that highlights all your good qualities. Be confident and try for something you think will be fun, rewarding or challenge - whatever you want the most.
My first job was at a local store, and it was by word of mouth (friend of a friend). I interviewed and got the job right away. You just never know. Asking is free and the worst thing someone can do is say no, so never be afraid to go for something you may like or sounds interesting.
Funny story, when I was early in my career, I didn't want to drive in traffic a lot because my time was so important to me. So, I would find buildings where I wanted to work and drop off resumes at those businesses. It doesn't work that way anymore these days, but it worked for me. It took a lot of guts to take that route, and I'm proud that I did it and it worked for me.
Best of luck!
My first job was at a local store, and it was by word of mouth (friend of a friend). I interviewed and got the job right away. You just never know. Asking is free and the worst thing someone can do is say no, so never be afraid to go for something you may like or sounds interesting.
Funny story, when I was early in my career, I didn't want to drive in traffic a lot because my time was so important to me. So, I would find buildings where I wanted to work and drop off resumes at those businesses. It doesn't work that way anymore these days, but it worked for me. It took a lot of guts to take that route, and I'm proud that I did it and it worked for me.
Best of luck!
samantha smith
customer service
2
Answers
Muscle Shoals, Alabama
Updated
samantha’s Answer
Hi Megan!
Looking for your first job can be an exciting journey. Here are a few steps to help you get started:
1. identify your interests and skills =: think about what youe njoy doing and what you are good at. this will help you narrow down potential job options
2. research job opportunities: use methods like online postings, career centers in your area, staffing agencies, newspapers, or family and friends referrals.
3.prepare your resume:create resume that highlights your education,skills, and any relevant experience you may have.
4. write a compelling cover letter: a cover letter allows you to introduce yourself and explain why your interested in the position. its a chance to showcase your enthusiasm and qualifications.
5. apply for jobs, submit resume and cover letter and keep track of places submitted to
6. prepare for interviews: if you get called in for an interview, research the company beforehand, practice common interview questions and dress professionally.
7. follow up: after and interview, send a thank you note or an email to express gratitude and reiterate your interest in the position.
remember, finding your first job may take time and patience, but stay positive and keep putting yourself out there. GOOD LUCK:
Looking for your first job can be an exciting journey. Here are a few steps to help you get started:
1. identify your interests and skills =: think about what youe njoy doing and what you are good at. this will help you narrow down potential job options
2. research job opportunities: use methods like online postings, career centers in your area, staffing agencies, newspapers, or family and friends referrals.
3.prepare your resume:create resume that highlights your education,skills, and any relevant experience you may have.
4. write a compelling cover letter: a cover letter allows you to introduce yourself and explain why your interested in the position. its a chance to showcase your enthusiasm and qualifications.
5. apply for jobs, submit resume and cover letter and keep track of places submitted to
6. prepare for interviews: if you get called in for an interview, research the company beforehand, practice common interview questions and dress professionally.
7. follow up: after and interview, send a thank you note or an email to express gratitude and reiterate your interest in the position.
remember, finding your first job may take time and patience, but stay positive and keep putting yourself out there. GOOD LUCK:
Sandi James
Project Manager
3
Answers
Ephrata, Washington
Updated
Sandi’s Answer
Consider what you are interested, and what you want to learn from your first job. If you enjoy being around other people and want a flexible schedule positions working in restaurants/fast food or retail shops are good options to consider.
Pay attention Help Wanted postings in your area
Sandi recommends the following next steps:
Timnesha Walton
Sales and Service Consultant
4
Answers
Norfolk, Virginia
Updated
Timnesha’s Answer
My first job came my way when a friend referred me, proving that personal recommendations can be a fantastic method to open new doors. I took on the role of a cashier and sandwich maker at a Firehouse Subs outlet. However, it's crucial to remember that a recommendation alone isn't enough. You must also prepare thoroughly for your interview and demonstrate the essential qualities that employers seek during these sessions.
Katelyn Jeffrey
Client Experience Coordinator
2
Answers
Brea, California
Updated
Katelyn’s Answer
I started off by building a resume, when I completed it, I had a couple family members look over it. Once I felt it was good to go, I printed a bunch out and walked into every place I had wanted to work and asked to speak to manager. I would give them my resume, fill out an application and call to follow-up the next day. I did that multiple times a week until I finally got a call back!
Jean Doherty
Customer Service
1
Answer
Chicago, Illinois
Updated
Jean’s Answer
My first-ever job was as a newspaper delivery boy in our local community. This brief stint taught me the value of responsibility and the importance of earning my keep.
Upon turning 16, I landed a job at a retail shoe store, serving as one of three cashiers. Balancing high school and part-time work, I managed to work a few evenings during the week and most weekends. This job offered me ample opportunities to interact with customers and work alongside a diverse team. The experience I gained here was invaluable, and it set the foundation for my future roles in customer service.
After the shoe store, I juggled two part-time jobs—one as a receptionist at a hair salon and the other as a sales associate at a clothing store. I continued these roles through the remainder of my high school years. Post-graduation, I transitioned to a full-time position at a major department store, where I learned the nuances of sales, particularly as the job was commission-based. The harder I worked, the larger my paycheck.
This experience honed my skills in sales and customer service, enabling me to progress to the role of Assistant Store Manager at another retail store. This company offered incentives to motivate employees, and we worked diligently to meet sales targets. The incentives, often in the form of clothing, helped me significantly expand my wardrobe.
I continued my journey in the retail sector, working in sporting goods stores, department stores, and even a major home improvement chain, where I spent 14 years. My dedication and hard work led to a promotion to Department Manager in the operations area.
During my tenure at the home improvement chain, I decided to pursue higher education and earned a Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, with a focus on Finance and a minor in Accounting. Although I left the home improvement chain to work for a major bank and later departed from the banking industry for personal reasons, the education I received has proven invaluable in various aspects of my professional and personal life.
For the past few years, I've been immersed in the cell phone industry, a field I thoroughly enjoy. Did I ever envision myself in this industry? Not at all. However, I decided to give it a shot a few years ago, reasoning that I would either enjoy it or move on to something else if it wasn't to my liking. So, I've learned never to dismiss an opportunity without first giving it a try.
Upon turning 16, I landed a job at a retail shoe store, serving as one of three cashiers. Balancing high school and part-time work, I managed to work a few evenings during the week and most weekends. This job offered me ample opportunities to interact with customers and work alongside a diverse team. The experience I gained here was invaluable, and it set the foundation for my future roles in customer service.
After the shoe store, I juggled two part-time jobs—one as a receptionist at a hair salon and the other as a sales associate at a clothing store. I continued these roles through the remainder of my high school years. Post-graduation, I transitioned to a full-time position at a major department store, where I learned the nuances of sales, particularly as the job was commission-based. The harder I worked, the larger my paycheck.
This experience honed my skills in sales and customer service, enabling me to progress to the role of Assistant Store Manager at another retail store. This company offered incentives to motivate employees, and we worked diligently to meet sales targets. The incentives, often in the form of clothing, helped me significantly expand my wardrobe.
I continued my journey in the retail sector, working in sporting goods stores, department stores, and even a major home improvement chain, where I spent 14 years. My dedication and hard work led to a promotion to Department Manager in the operations area.
During my tenure at the home improvement chain, I decided to pursue higher education and earned a Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, with a focus on Finance and a minor in Accounting. Although I left the home improvement chain to work for a major bank and later departed from the banking industry for personal reasons, the education I received has proven invaluable in various aspects of my professional and personal life.
For the past few years, I've been immersed in the cell phone industry, a field I thoroughly enjoy. Did I ever envision myself in this industry? Not at all. However, I decided to give it a shot a few years ago, reasoning that I would either enjoy it or move on to something else if it wasn't to my liking. So, I've learned never to dismiss an opportunity without first giving it a try.
Tailisha Rice
Customer Service
7
Answers
Detroit, Michigan
Updated
Tailisha’s Answer
I was very hard for me to find my first job once I got graduated from Medical Assistant school I worked at a Adult Foster Care home were they placed me. They guarantee to find you a job once you graduate and I must say this was the worst job I ever had. I went to school for Medical Assistant not CNA. The job consist of all CNA duties none of my skills I had learned were used and I felt like I wasted my money.
Hi Tailisha! That sounded like a challenging situation you went through! Do you have any suggestions for Megan in finding a job based on your experiences?
Sharyn Grose, Admin
KAYLA SAINT ELIARD
1
Answer
Updated
KAYLA’s Answer
Hey, this is a great question. I would start off building a resume that includes previous experience based off of where you are wanting to work (babysitting, volunteer work, walking dogs, etc.) . If none at all, write a cover letter explaining the skills you possess and how they can be applied to the position you are interested in. Its okay to sell yourself some. I would focus on demonstrating to your future employer the benefits of having you on their teams. Look for example cover letters to assist if needed but make sure you personalize it and show who you are.