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How do I find my first job?
Where to apply, how to apply, advice on finding internships that fit my career goal.
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14 answers
Updated
Adrian’s Answer
There are various methods to find your first job, depending on your profession, experience, and specific qualifications. I suggest exploring internships in your local area, even if they don't perfectly align with your desired career, as this will provide valuable hands-on experience in the business world. Many colleges maintain strong connections with nearby businesses, which can be a great resource for you.
Updated
Thomas’s Answer
Hey Ayla!
You are already taking the first step in your career journey by asking this question, congrats!
There are a variety of different ways to finding your first job or internship. However, before you start applying to opportunities, I would make sure that you prepare and finalize the following:
1. Updated Resume
2. Cover Letter template
3. Updated LinkedIn Profile
It is important to update your resume with your previous experiences to showcase your skills and value to organizations. This is how you "get your foot in the door". Having a sharp, organized, and intentional resume will help get you that first round interview. There are a few key sections to a resume including your header (with contact information), education, experiences, and skills. Below I have included a link to a template that highlights these key sections.
https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/resume-samples
Just like your resume, a cover letter compliments your resume by communicating a more personalized message around why you are interested in the position you are applying for. Creating a Cover Letter Template allows you to have an easy-to-use document to tailor to the role you have applied to allowing you to reuse for other roles you apply to. Below I have attached a link to a template and some pointers on cover letters.
https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/resumes-cover-letters/free-cover-letter
Finally, having a polished and updated LinkedIn profile is important for employers to be able to learn more about you. They will be trying to find you online, so it is important to create a professional profile to highlight all the great experience and skills you have. Trying to mimic your resume on LinkedIn is the approach I have taken, ensuring that everything I have in my resume is also visible on LinkedIn creates a consistent story around your experience. Below I have attached a link to some tips around making your LinkedIn profile standout.
https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/10-expert-tips-make-your-linkedin-profile-stand-out-#:~:text=10%20Expert%20Tips%20To%20Make%20Your%20LinkedIn%20Profile,LinkedIn%20Recommendations%20To%20Your%20Advantage%20...%20More%20items
In conclusion, searching for your first job can be nerve-racking, but taking these 3 steps will help you start your career journey off on the right page. Remember, the first step to finding a job to just try and apply to opportunities that are interesting to you. I hope this was helpful and wish you the best of luck on your career journey!
You are already taking the first step in your career journey by asking this question, congrats!
There are a variety of different ways to finding your first job or internship. However, before you start applying to opportunities, I would make sure that you prepare and finalize the following:
1. Updated Resume
2. Cover Letter template
3. Updated LinkedIn Profile
It is important to update your resume with your previous experiences to showcase your skills and value to organizations. This is how you "get your foot in the door". Having a sharp, organized, and intentional resume will help get you that first round interview. There are a few key sections to a resume including your header (with contact information), education, experiences, and skills. Below I have included a link to a template that highlights these key sections.
https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/resume-samples
Just like your resume, a cover letter compliments your resume by communicating a more personalized message around why you are interested in the position you are applying for. Creating a Cover Letter Template allows you to have an easy-to-use document to tailor to the role you have applied to allowing you to reuse for other roles you apply to. Below I have attached a link to a template and some pointers on cover letters.
https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/resumes-cover-letters/free-cover-letter
Finally, having a polished and updated LinkedIn profile is important for employers to be able to learn more about you. They will be trying to find you online, so it is important to create a professional profile to highlight all the great experience and skills you have. Trying to mimic your resume on LinkedIn is the approach I have taken, ensuring that everything I have in my resume is also visible on LinkedIn creates a consistent story around your experience. Below I have attached a link to some tips around making your LinkedIn profile standout.
https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/10-expert-tips-make-your-linkedin-profile-stand-out-#:~:text=10%20Expert%20Tips%20To%20Make%20Your%20LinkedIn%20Profile,LinkedIn%20Recommendations%20To%20Your%20Advantage%20...%20More%20items
In conclusion, searching for your first job can be nerve-racking, but taking these 3 steps will help you start your career journey off on the right page. Remember, the first step to finding a job to just try and apply to opportunities that are interesting to you. I hope this was helpful and wish you the best of luck on your career journey!
Updated
Mo’s Answer
To secure your initial job, begin by utilizing the resources at your disposal. The majority of universities offer dedicated career advisors and job boards to assist you. Numerous companies also recruit at colleges, so consult with your career counselors and discover recruitment events that catch your attention. Additionally, consider joining career-focused groups within your college to establish connections with experts in your desired field. Furthermore, I recommend setting up a LinkedIn account and filling it with your personal details, experiences, and interests. Platforms like LinkedIn and Twitter can help you connect with professionals in your chosen industry.
Updated
Josh’s Answer
To find your first job, first figure out what interests you now or what career you think you may be interested in. If the job you want is local or service-related (like working at a local restaurant, ice cream parlor, or grocery store), you can walk in, ask for an application, and ask to speak with a manager who may help you. If the job you want is more of a corporate job, build a resume. Then go to the company website and look for internship opportunities or related jobs. Apply for those with your resume. Also, work with your school to see how they can help you to get something. Ask your friends and family for referrals to companies where they may know someone.
Updated
Aadesh’s Answer
There are many resources available online that can help land you your first job! I would start by focusing on getting your resume in shape, as many times that will be your first impression to companies you are applying to. Make sure to get your resume reviewed by someone that you can trust to give you concrete advice/guidance. I would also use websites such as LinkedIn or Handshake (if applicable) to search for job that match your skills/interest. Lastly, use any connections you may have to land something that interests you. I remember I got my first internship through a family friend which helped me land the job I am currently in!
Good Luck!
Good Luck!
Updated
kassidi’s Answer
Hello when wanting to find an job it's best to start applying early and looking for jobs that interest you from nursing- marketing and or social media I say to keep applying because once you do test and see what makes you happy from remote jobs to in person and make it so where it can be flexible for you.
Updated
Ravi’s Answer
Hello,
You're all set with essentials such as your resume, establishing a profile on job websites, and networking through LinkedIn. Keep up the great work!
You're all set with essentials such as your resume, establishing a profile on job websites, and networking through LinkedIn. Keep up the great work!
Updated
Dino’s Answer
Hello Ayla, fantastic inquiry! Firstly, I appreciate you getting in touch with us. The most effective way to prepare for your initial job is by excelling in your studies. Companies offering internships to students will also consider your academic achievements. Consistently focus on your academic growth, as it will provide a strong foundation for your first job or internship experience. Companies seek students who possess discipline, dedication to high performance, a positive attitude, people skills, stress management, a drive to learn new things, and a willingness to be coached. Your academic success and the way you present yourself during the interview can reinforce these qualities. Lastly, search for an internship that aligns with your academic program. Best of luck, Ayla!
Build your resume even for a one page will be enough.
Ask around in your community for possible internship or job.
Attend job fair events in your school in coordination with the counseling office.
Dino recommends the following next steps:
Updated
Sabeeka’s Answer
Hello! When looking for your first 'professional' job, I always suggest starting with internships. Get in contact with the internship or career center at your college or university. The nice thing about internships is that you get real work experience and also get a feel for the work and decide if that is what you want to pursue. If not, then you can try a different one. The internship office generally works with you to cater your resume to your interests and education.
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Elena’s Answer
Hi Ayla!
This might seem unappealing to you, but I have some advice: Many jobs provide educational training as part of their onboarding program. When looking for your first couple jobs, you might want to consider looking into non-career related jobs that interest you. There are a lot of life skills you can learn from different jobs, as well as social skills outside of your typical encounters. This is in addition to the money you will be paid to learn these things. Its like free education and you can leave whenever you want. I would look for food skills, drink skills, money skills, teamwork skills, information system skills, or whatever you feel any curiosity about at all! Have fun exploring all your options, and remember that fitting in learning experiences can happen anywhere and can be just as valuable as a career.
Look into jobs that involve things you like or are curious about.
Ignore the pay, get their training, and work there long enough to really develop those skills.
Leave.
Repeat.
Then use your full tool belt to start the career of your dreams.
This might seem unappealing to you, but I have some advice: Many jobs provide educational training as part of their onboarding program. When looking for your first couple jobs, you might want to consider looking into non-career related jobs that interest you. There are a lot of life skills you can learn from different jobs, as well as social skills outside of your typical encounters. This is in addition to the money you will be paid to learn these things. Its like free education and you can leave whenever you want. I would look for food skills, drink skills, money skills, teamwork skills, information system skills, or whatever you feel any curiosity about at all! Have fun exploring all your options, and remember that fitting in learning experiences can happen anywhere and can be just as valuable as a career.
Elena recommends the following next steps:
Updated
ALi’s Answer
Hey Ayla! That's an awesome question! It demonstrates how amazing you are for wanting to apply your talents in the real world.
Plenty of opportunities are out there just waiting for someone like you to seize them. To start, consider looking for local recruitment firms or agencies that provide part-time jobs (temporary). This will give you multiple chances to build your CV (resume) and broaden your skills in a practical setting.
Next, creating a LinkedIn profile and updating it with your experiences can draw the attention of recruiters who might want to hire you.
In conclusion, searching for your first job can be tough, especially when you're still discovering your passions. But the good news is that connecting with local recruitment agencies can open doors to real-world job experiences. I hope this helps, Ayla, and feel free to reach out if you need anything else.
Plenty of opportunities are out there just waiting for someone like you to seize them. To start, consider looking for local recruitment firms or agencies that provide part-time jobs (temporary). This will give you multiple chances to build your CV (resume) and broaden your skills in a practical setting.
Next, creating a LinkedIn profile and updating it with your experiences can draw the attention of recruiters who might want to hire you.
In conclusion, searching for your first job can be tough, especially when you're still discovering your passions. But the good news is that connecting with local recruitment agencies can open doors to real-world job experiences. I hope this helps, Ayla, and feel free to reach out if you need anything else.
Updated
Praveen’s Answer
Determine your career goals: Identify the specific industry, field, or job role you are interested in pursuing through the internship. Understand the skills and experiences you want to gain during your internship that will support your long-term career objectives.
Research companies and organizations: Look for companies and organizations that operate in your desired industry or field. Explore their websites, social media platforms, and online job portals to identify internship opportunities they offer. Consider both large corporations and smaller organizations or startups.
Utilize online job search platforms: Utilize popular job search platforms such as LinkedIn, Indeed, Glassdoor, and InternMatch to find internship opportunities. Use relevant keywords and filters to narrow down your search based on location, industry, duration, or specific requirements.
Network with professionals: Leverage your network and reach out to professionals in your desired industry or field. Attend career fairs, industry events, and networking events to connect with individuals who can provide insights, advice, and potentially refer you to internship opportunities. LinkedIn is also a valuable platform for networking.
Visit college career centers: Take advantage of your college or university's career center. They often have resources, job boards, and connections with companies that offer internships. Career advisors can provide guidance, review your application materials, and offer tips for a successful internship search.
Tailor your application materials: Customize your resume, cover letter, and any other required documents for each internship application. Highlight relevant skills, experiences, and academic achievements that align with the internship requirements and showcase your enthusiasm for the specific company or organization.
Prepare for interviews: Practice common interview questions and prepare thoughtful responses that demonstrate your interest in the industry and your motivation for the internship. Research the company or organization beforehand and come prepared with questions to ask during the interview.
Follow up and stay organized: After submitting your applications or attending interviews, send personalized follow-up emails to express your continued interest and gratitude. Stay organized by keeping track of the internships you have applied for, deadlines, and any communication you have had with companies or recruiters.
Consider remote or virtual internships: In addition to traditional in-person internships, explore remote or virtual internship opportunities. These can provide flexibility and allow you to gain experience from anywhere, opening up more possibilities for internships that fit your career goals.
Seek feedback and learn from the experience: If you don't secure an internship initially, seek feedback from interviewers or career advisors to understand areas of improvement. Use this feedback to refine your approach, strengthen your application materials, and enhance your interview skills for future opportunities.
Remember, internships are not only valuable for gaining practical experience but also for building professional networks and exploring different career paths. Be proactive, persistent, and open-minded in your search, and don't hesitate to reach out to mentors or professionals for guidance along the way.
Research companies and organizations: Look for companies and organizations that operate in your desired industry or field. Explore their websites, social media platforms, and online job portals to identify internship opportunities they offer. Consider both large corporations and smaller organizations or startups.
Utilize online job search platforms: Utilize popular job search platforms such as LinkedIn, Indeed, Glassdoor, and InternMatch to find internship opportunities. Use relevant keywords and filters to narrow down your search based on location, industry, duration, or specific requirements.
Network with professionals: Leverage your network and reach out to professionals in your desired industry or field. Attend career fairs, industry events, and networking events to connect with individuals who can provide insights, advice, and potentially refer you to internship opportunities. LinkedIn is also a valuable platform for networking.
Visit college career centers: Take advantage of your college or university's career center. They often have resources, job boards, and connections with companies that offer internships. Career advisors can provide guidance, review your application materials, and offer tips for a successful internship search.
Tailor your application materials: Customize your resume, cover letter, and any other required documents for each internship application. Highlight relevant skills, experiences, and academic achievements that align with the internship requirements and showcase your enthusiasm for the specific company or organization.
Prepare for interviews: Practice common interview questions and prepare thoughtful responses that demonstrate your interest in the industry and your motivation for the internship. Research the company or organization beforehand and come prepared with questions to ask during the interview.
Follow up and stay organized: After submitting your applications or attending interviews, send personalized follow-up emails to express your continued interest and gratitude. Stay organized by keeping track of the internships you have applied for, deadlines, and any communication you have had with companies or recruiters.
Consider remote or virtual internships: In addition to traditional in-person internships, explore remote or virtual internship opportunities. These can provide flexibility and allow you to gain experience from anywhere, opening up more possibilities for internships that fit your career goals.
Seek feedback and learn from the experience: If you don't secure an internship initially, seek feedback from interviewers or career advisors to understand areas of improvement. Use this feedback to refine your approach, strengthen your application materials, and enhance your interview skills for future opportunities.
Remember, internships are not only valuable for gaining practical experience but also for building professional networks and exploring different career paths. Be proactive, persistent, and open-minded in your search, and don't hesitate to reach out to mentors or professionals for guidance along the way.
Updated
kim’s Answer
There are so many opportunities to discover your passion!!! Create a list of interest , and then I would suggest looking at local internships with in your local area and try for any non profit organizations. Reach out to do some job shadowing with local businesses of interest, which will help build your experience and help determine your path. Also I would suggest doing mock interviews and resume building!
Updated
Madi’s Answer
Hi Ayla,
Finding your first job is an exciting adventure!
To begin, try utilizing search platforms such as Google, LinkedIn, or Indeed by entering keywords related to internships in your desired field. This will provide you with a glimpse of potential jobs you may be interested in applying for. Additionally, don't hesitate to inquire with your school about any career services they offer to connect students with valuable internship opportunities.
After pinpointing some appealing internships, it's time to polish your resume. Plenty of resources are available to assist you in this process, including Google, your school's Career Services, and more. Make sure your resume showcases your accomplishments, extracurricular activities, and other relevant experiences. Once you're satisfied with your resume, you're all set to start applying!
Wishing you the best of luck on your job hunt!
Finding your first job is an exciting adventure!
To begin, try utilizing search platforms such as Google, LinkedIn, or Indeed by entering keywords related to internships in your desired field. This will provide you with a glimpse of potential jobs you may be interested in applying for. Additionally, don't hesitate to inquire with your school about any career services they offer to connect students with valuable internship opportunities.
After pinpointing some appealing internships, it's time to polish your resume. Plenty of resources are available to assist you in this process, including Google, your school's Career Services, and more. Make sure your resume showcases your accomplishments, extracurricular activities, and other relevant experiences. Once you're satisfied with your resume, you're all set to start applying!
Wishing you the best of luck on your job hunt!