9 answers
Edith
Student
Duncannon, Pennsylvania
1
Question
Asked
2619 views
Translated from Spanish .
Cómo se que hacer para consegir un trabajo ?
How do I know what to do to get a job?
I'm 15 years old in high school and I've been looking for a job since my sophomore year, so I'm trying to get a job for my senior year. I found options and started taking action for them (i.e. finding employers with available jobs and emailing them), but I don't really feel prepared enough for it. I talked to family, friends and teachers, I still feel like I don't fully understand it. Especially since I haven't sat down and put together a good resume yet (I have no prior work experience), any advice?
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9 answers
Ciarra Cummins
Scrum Master; Software Project Manager
5
Answers
West Valley City, Utah
Updated
Ciarra’s Answer
When you're getting your first job at such a young age, most companies will be looking for unskilled labor, meaning that they won't expect you to know very specific information that can't be trained or is obvious in order for you to do the work. The main thing that can hold you back from getting jobs is your age and if you can drive, however, these are temporary and shouldn't hold you back for long. It's already amazing that you're trying to take the initiative and get a job! Keep working at it and I'm sure you'll have a job in no time!
I would first focus on getting a drivers license as soon as you can, as having a drivers license as an ID is very useful and it'll open up some more jobs that might require a license (delivery, Uber/Lyft, valet driver, etc.).
Next, I would get a resume made even if you don't have any job experience yet. Some things that can go on a resume are any volunteer work you've done, club activities you've participated in, or events you've helped out with or managed. These things will show that you are capable of doing work, following requests, and socialize with strangers or customers. It's a good thing that you're sending out emails as that shows you're dedicated to get the job and you should keep doing it, but it's more beneficial to pair that with a resume as well. There are lots of resources out there to find good resume templates and how to write out your experience to fit the jobs you want.
After that, you search for work. The easiest way to find jobs is to look on jobsites such as LinkedIn, Indeed, Glassdoor, Monster, etc. as they will have a variety of jobs available that companies may not have been outwardly advertising for. You'll typically apply on their website or the website that manages applicants and upload your resume and answer some questions. Have a work/professional email to go along with your resume (usually it's your first name and last name or a variant of that, there are lots of examples online) as the hiring manager will typically send you an email asking for an interview. Sometimes they will call you, but this is rarer. Another option to find work is to go on Google/Apple maps and see what companies are near your home and go onto their websites to see what positions they are hiring for. Most companies have a Careers section on their website to see what jobs are available. You could also go to these locations physically and ask if they are hiring, as some are old-school and have physical forms that you fill out. Make sure you bring some copies of your resume with you. Another spot to find jobs are career/job fairs that can be hosted by schools, companies, or organizations to help people find work. However, they usually expect 18+ folks to show up at these areas, but you can still talk to these people and see if their company has policies in place to hire minors. By talking to them as well, you can learn about what skills they want to see in folks while you determine what career/degree you want to pursue.
Ciarra recommends the following next steps:
JOHN German
90
Answers
Bluffton, South Carolina
Updated
JOHN’s Answer
Hello:
The beauty of not having any experience, especially when your 15, is that plenty of employers are looking for inexperienced workers to help fulfill gasp in their staffing. So, food sector, retail, etc. Though not lucrative to start off with, those jobs do help you gain experience in many factors: customer relations, hard work, work ethic, establish a root of duties while time management, etc. are welcomed within that.
Also, you could find you enjoy the business and continue to work for the establishment; I knew a worker who worked as a delivery driver for a pizza joint. Kept with the organization and rose to leadership roles within as the years progressed.
Grateful within every path your roads step.
God Bless,
John German
The beauty of not having any experience, especially when your 15, is that plenty of employers are looking for inexperienced workers to help fulfill gasp in their staffing. So, food sector, retail, etc. Though not lucrative to start off with, those jobs do help you gain experience in many factors: customer relations, hard work, work ethic, establish a root of duties while time management, etc. are welcomed within that.
Also, you could find you enjoy the business and continue to work for the establishment; I knew a worker who worked as a delivery driver for a pizza joint. Kept with the organization and rose to leadership roles within as the years progressed.
Grateful within every path your roads step.
God Bless,
John German
Dr. Tulsi Patel
Dental assistant / internationally trained dentist
43
Answers
Gurnee, Illinois
Updated
Dr. Tulsi’s Answer
Hello there! It's awesome to see you diving into the world of job hunting. While it can feel overwhelming at times, trust me, you're taking a fantastic step toward gaining valuable experience and independence. But I do agree with both John and Rita small jobs are the ideal place to start your journey. However, I'd like to add a few tips to address your other concerns:
Now, about being unprepared – totally normal, especially when you're just starting out. Don't stress if you haven't polished up your resume yet. Start by jotting down any experiences you've had, even if they seem small. You'll be surprised at the skills and qualities you can highlight!
When reaching out to potential employers, confidence is key. Craft a friendly message expressing your interest and why you'd be a great fit for the job. Keep it professional but authentic – you want to show off your personality!
Don't forget about your support system. Don't hesitate to ask for advice or feedback, whether it's family, friends, or even online communities like this one. We're all in this together, and there's a wealth of knowledge out there to tap into.
As you navigate this exciting journey, remember that every step forward is progress. Stay positive, stay proactive, and don't forget to celebrate your achievements along the way. You're capable of great things, and this community is here to support you on your path to success! Keep up the awesome work! 🚀
Hope this helps :)
Explore Volunteer Opportunities: If paid positions are scarce, consider volunteering. It's a fantastic way to gain experience, build connections, and demonstrate your dedication.
Attend Job Fairs and Workshops: Keep an eye out for local job fairs or workshops geared toward young job seekers. They're great opportunities to network and learn more about different industries.
Stay Persistent: Job hunting can be a rollercoaster of highs and lows. Don't let setbacks deter you. Keep applying, following up on applications, and exploring new avenues.
Polish Your Communication Skills: Whether it's writing professional emails or practicing interview techniques, honing your communication skills will serve you well in any job.
Now, about being unprepared – totally normal, especially when you're just starting out. Don't stress if you haven't polished up your resume yet. Start by jotting down any experiences you've had, even if they seem small. You'll be surprised at the skills and qualities you can highlight!
When reaching out to potential employers, confidence is key. Craft a friendly message expressing your interest and why you'd be a great fit for the job. Keep it professional but authentic – you want to show off your personality!
Don't forget about your support system. Don't hesitate to ask for advice or feedback, whether it's family, friends, or even online communities like this one. We're all in this together, and there's a wealth of knowledge out there to tap into.
As you navigate this exciting journey, remember that every step forward is progress. Stay positive, stay proactive, and don't forget to celebrate your achievements along the way. You're capable of great things, and this community is here to support you on your path to success! Keep up the awesome work! 🚀
Hope this helps :)
Dr. Tulsi recommends the following next steps:
Rita Chuang
Physician
189
Answers
Henderson, Nevada
Updated
Rita’s Answer
I think it's great that you are starting your career so early. Honestly, I think my first job was in college so you are way ahead of the game. I think you can first start with jobs around your neighborhood like babysitting, pulling weeds etc. My sister just hired someone to babysit and take care of the cat when she is away.
I think you can also look at the fast food industry. You might think that you don't want to work in that industry but it's more than just the job. It's learning how to get along with people, earning your paycheck and understanding taxes etc, and then you have something on your resume. Like I mentioned, I did not get my first job until in college and I wish I had a job at your age. It doesn't matter what type of job. You learn from every experience.
I think you can also look at the fast food industry. You might think that you don't want to work in that industry but it's more than just the job. It's learning how to get along with people, earning your paycheck and understanding taxes etc, and then you have something on your resume. Like I mentioned, I did not get my first job until in college and I wish I had a job at your age. It doesn't matter what type of job. You learn from every experience.
Katherine Avery
Run a music studio and teach private music lessons; teach college-level religion classes
350
Answers
Spanish Fork, Utah
Updated
Katherine’s Answer
Read Ken Coleman's book From Paycheck to Purpose, and it might help you get ideas for how to move forward!
Angie Vogel
Commercial Loan Specialist
3
Answers
St. Louis, MO
Updated
Angie’s Answer
Congratulations on the first step which is wanting to get a job! Most potential employers are not going to expect you to have any experience due to your age. I would concentrate on looking for opportunities close to your home giving you the possibility to walk to and from work. Some businesses place signs in windows stating they are looking for employment. When going in a business to apply make sure you are presentable, look people in the eye and present a confident handshake - all of these things matter. Talking to friends and family are great networking ideas for finding jobs - maybe others in your high school that have jobs in your area could recommend something for you. Right now there are lots of jobs out there and remember - your first job is not your last job. It is only a stepping stone on your path. Best of Luck
Venkatesh Ganesh
Software Engineer
1
Answer
Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
Updated
Venkatesh’s Answer
Hi Edith,
Congratulations for starting the career at an early stage. One advice I like to give you is, this is the time you can work on yourself, explore multiple sectors available. Like Healthcare, Software, Hardware, Finance and more.
Try to explore each sector a day. Read articles, News and latest innovation that has been coming around those sectors.
If you have interest in a specific sector, update the necessary skills and just apply for the job via LinkedIn or any job portal.
In LinkedIn directly reach out the company HR definitely they will try to help you out.
Once you are settled in a job, try to start a business out of it.
Thanks! and Good Luck!
Venkatesh D G
Congratulations for starting the career at an early stage. One advice I like to give you is, this is the time you can work on yourself, explore multiple sectors available. Like Healthcare, Software, Hardware, Finance and more.
Try to explore each sector a day. Read articles, News and latest innovation that has been coming around those sectors.
If you have interest in a specific sector, update the necessary skills and just apply for the job via LinkedIn or any job portal.
In LinkedIn directly reach out the company HR definitely they will try to help you out.
Once you are settled in a job, try to start a business out of it.
Thanks! and Good Luck!
Venkatesh D G
Tammy Laframboise
Present pension and financial planning information to members of a pension
43
Answers
Toronto, Ontario, Canada
Updated
Tammy’s Answer
Hi Edith,
At 15, potential employers will not be expecting a resume containing significant job experience. Most jobs you will be applying for will require you to complete an application and often will not even require a resume. The contents will include skills and interests. While you look for paid employment you might consider volunteering to give you some experience in dealing with people (both employers and customers), being on time, following rules and processes etc.
Good luck!
Tammy
At 15, potential employers will not be expecting a resume containing significant job experience. Most jobs you will be applying for will require you to complete an application and often will not even require a resume. The contents will include skills and interests. While you look for paid employment you might consider volunteering to give you some experience in dealing with people (both employers and customers), being on time, following rules and processes etc.
Good luck!
Tammy
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity => Self-Actualization.
6175
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Gracias Edith,
Answer:
To prepare yourself for finding a job at 15 years old, especially when you lack prior work experience, there are several steps you can take to increase your chances of success:
Identify Your Skills and Strengths: Even without formal work experience, you likely have skills from school, extracurricular activities, or volunteer work that could be valuable in a job setting. Consider what tasks you excel at, such as organization, communication, problem-solving, or teamwork.
Create a Resume: While you may not have traditional work experience to include, you can still create a resume that highlights your skills, education, volunteer work, and any relevant coursework. Include any achievements or responsibilities from school or other activities that demonstrate your capabilities.
Network: Reach out to family friends, teachers, or community members who may know of job opportunities suitable for someone your age. Networking can often lead to job opportunities that are not publicly advertised.
Research Job Opportunities: Look for part-time positions or internships that are suitable for high school students. Common options include retail jobs, food service positions, tutoring opportunities, or roles in childcare.
Prepare for Interviews: Practice common interview questions and scenarios with friends or family members to build confidence and improve your communication skills. Dress appropriately for interviews and demonstrate enthusiasm for the role.
Apply Strategically: Tailor your applications to each job opportunity by highlighting how your skills align with the requirements of the position. Follow up on submitted applications with a polite email expressing your continued interest in the role.
Consider Volunteer Work: If finding paid employment proves challenging due to age restrictions or lack of experience, consider volunteering in a field of interest. Volunteering can help you gain valuable skills and expand your network.
Seek Guidance: Don’t hesitate to seek advice from school counselors, career services professionals, or mentors who can provide guidance on finding employment at a young age.
Remember that persistence is key when searching for a job at 15 years old. Keep refining your approach based on feedback received during the application process and continue building your skills and experience through various opportunities.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used:
Indeed Career Guide: Indeed is a reputable job search platform that offers comprehensive resources on resume writing tips, interview preparation strategies, and job search advice tailored to individuals at different stages of their careers.
The Balance Careers: The Balance Careers provides expert advice on various aspects of career development, including tips for teenagers seeking employment and guidance on creating resumes without prior work experience.
Youth Employment Services (YES): YES is an organization dedicated to helping young people find employment opportunities and develop essential skills for the workforce. Their resources often include tips specific to youth job seekers like yourself.
Considere en qué tareas se destaca, como organización, comunicación, resolución de problemas o trabajo en equipo.
Cree un currículum: si bien es posible que no tenga experiencia laboral tradicional para incluir, aún puede crear un currículum que destaque sus habilidades, educación, trabajo voluntario y cualquier curso relevante. Incluya cualquier logro o responsabilidad de la escuela u otras actividades que demuestren sus capacidades.
Red: comuníquese con amigos de la familia, maestros o miembros de la comunidad que puedan conocer oportunidades laborales adecuadas para alguien de su edad. La creación de redes a menudo puede conducir a oportunidades laborales que no se anuncian públicamente.
Busque oportunidades laborales: busque puestos de tiempo parcial o pasantías que sean adecuados para estudiantes de secundaria. Las opciones comunes incluyen trabajos minoristas, puestos en el servicio de alimentos, oportunidades de tutoría o roles en el cuidado infantil.
Prepárese para las entrevistas: practique preguntas y escenarios comunes de las entrevistas con amigos o familiares para generar confianza y mejorar sus habilidades de comunicación. Vístase apropiadamente para las entrevistas y demuestre entusiasmo por el puesto.
Postúlate estratégicamente: adapta tus solicitudes a cada oportunidad laboral destacando cómo tus habilidades se alinean con los requisitos del puesto. Haga un seguimiento de las solicitudes enviadas con un correo electrónico cortés expresando su continuo interés en el puesto.
Considere el trabajo voluntario: si encontrar un empleo remunerado resulta difícil debido a restricciones de edad o falta de experiencia, considere ofrecerse como voluntario en un campo de su interés. El voluntariado puede ayudarle a adquirir habilidades valiosas y ampliar su red.
Busque orientación: no dude en buscar asesoramiento de consejeros escolares, profesionales de servicios profesionales o mentores que puedan brindarle orientación para encontrar empleo a una edad temprana.
Recuerda que la perseverancia es clave a la hora de buscar trabajo a los 15 años. Continúe perfeccionando su enfoque en función de los comentarios recibidos durante el proceso de solicitud y continúe desarrollando sus habilidades y experiencia a través de diversas oportunidades.
Las 3 principales fuentes autorizadas utilizadas:
Indeed Career Guide: Indeed es una plataforma de búsqueda de empleo de buena reputación que ofrece recursos integrales sobre consejos para redactar currículums, estrategias de preparación de entrevistas y consejos para la búsqueda de empleo adaptados a personas en diferentes etapas de sus carreras.
The Balance Careers: The Balance Careers brinda asesoramiento experto sobre diversos aspectos del desarrollo profesional, incluidos consejos para adolescentes que buscan empleo y orientación sobre cómo crear currículums sin experiencia laboral previa.
Servicios de Empleo Juvenil (YES): YES es una organización dedicada a ayudar a los jóvenes a encontrar oportunidades de empleo y desarrollar habilidades esenciales para la fuerza laboral. Sus recursos a menudo incluyen consejos específicos para jóvenes que buscan empleo como usted.
Gracias Edith.
Answer:
To prepare yourself for finding a job at 15 years old, especially when you lack prior work experience, there are several steps you can take to increase your chances of success:
Identify Your Skills and Strengths: Even without formal work experience, you likely have skills from school, extracurricular activities, or volunteer work that could be valuable in a job setting. Consider what tasks you excel at, such as organization, communication, problem-solving, or teamwork.
Create a Resume: While you may not have traditional work experience to include, you can still create a resume that highlights your skills, education, volunteer work, and any relevant coursework. Include any achievements or responsibilities from school or other activities that demonstrate your capabilities.
Network: Reach out to family friends, teachers, or community members who may know of job opportunities suitable for someone your age. Networking can often lead to job opportunities that are not publicly advertised.
Research Job Opportunities: Look for part-time positions or internships that are suitable for high school students. Common options include retail jobs, food service positions, tutoring opportunities, or roles in childcare.
Prepare for Interviews: Practice common interview questions and scenarios with friends or family members to build confidence and improve your communication skills. Dress appropriately for interviews and demonstrate enthusiasm for the role.
Apply Strategically: Tailor your applications to each job opportunity by highlighting how your skills align with the requirements of the position. Follow up on submitted applications with a polite email expressing your continued interest in the role.
Consider Volunteer Work: If finding paid employment proves challenging due to age restrictions or lack of experience, consider volunteering in a field of interest. Volunteering can help you gain valuable skills and expand your network.
Seek Guidance: Don’t hesitate to seek advice from school counselors, career services professionals, or mentors who can provide guidance on finding employment at a young age.
Remember that persistence is key when searching for a job at 15 years old. Keep refining your approach based on feedback received during the application process and continue building your skills and experience through various opportunities.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used:
Indeed Career Guide: Indeed is a reputable job search platform that offers comprehensive resources on resume writing tips, interview preparation strategies, and job search advice tailored to individuals at different stages of their careers.
The Balance Careers: The Balance Careers provides expert advice on various aspects of career development, including tips for teenagers seeking employment and guidance on creating resumes without prior work experience.
Youth Employment Services (YES): YES is an organization dedicated to helping young people find employment opportunities and develop essential skills for the workforce. Their resources often include tips specific to youth job seekers like yourself.
Considere en qué tareas se destaca, como organización, comunicación, resolución de problemas o trabajo en equipo.
Cree un currículum: si bien es posible que no tenga experiencia laboral tradicional para incluir, aún puede crear un currículum que destaque sus habilidades, educación, trabajo voluntario y cualquier curso relevante. Incluya cualquier logro o responsabilidad de la escuela u otras actividades que demuestren sus capacidades.
Red: comuníquese con amigos de la familia, maestros o miembros de la comunidad que puedan conocer oportunidades laborales adecuadas para alguien de su edad. La creación de redes a menudo puede conducir a oportunidades laborales que no se anuncian públicamente.
Busque oportunidades laborales: busque puestos de tiempo parcial o pasantías que sean adecuados para estudiantes de secundaria. Las opciones comunes incluyen trabajos minoristas, puestos en el servicio de alimentos, oportunidades de tutoría o roles en el cuidado infantil.
Prepárese para las entrevistas: practique preguntas y escenarios comunes de las entrevistas con amigos o familiares para generar confianza y mejorar sus habilidades de comunicación. Vístase apropiadamente para las entrevistas y demuestre entusiasmo por el puesto.
Postúlate estratégicamente: adapta tus solicitudes a cada oportunidad laboral destacando cómo tus habilidades se alinean con los requisitos del puesto. Haga un seguimiento de las solicitudes enviadas con un correo electrónico cortés expresando su continuo interés en el puesto.
Considere el trabajo voluntario: si encontrar un empleo remunerado resulta difícil debido a restricciones de edad o falta de experiencia, considere ofrecerse como voluntario en un campo de su interés. El voluntariado puede ayudarle a adquirir habilidades valiosas y ampliar su red.
Busque orientación: no dude en buscar asesoramiento de consejeros escolares, profesionales de servicios profesionales o mentores que puedan brindarle orientación para encontrar empleo a una edad temprana.
Recuerda que la perseverancia es clave a la hora de buscar trabajo a los 15 años. Continúe perfeccionando su enfoque en función de los comentarios recibidos durante el proceso de solicitud y continúe desarrollando sus habilidades y experiencia a través de diversas oportunidades.
Las 3 principales fuentes autorizadas utilizadas:
Indeed Career Guide: Indeed es una plataforma de búsqueda de empleo de buena reputación que ofrece recursos integrales sobre consejos para redactar currículums, estrategias de preparación de entrevistas y consejos para la búsqueda de empleo adaptados a personas en diferentes etapas de sus carreras.
The Balance Careers: The Balance Careers brinda asesoramiento experto sobre diversos aspectos del desarrollo profesional, incluidos consejos para adolescentes que buscan empleo y orientación sobre cómo crear currículums sin experiencia laboral previa.
Servicios de Empleo Juvenil (YES): YES es una organización dedicada a ayudar a los jóvenes a encontrar oportunidades de empleo y desarrollar habilidades esenciales para la fuerza laboral. Sus recursos a menudo incluyen consejos específicos para jóvenes que buscan empleo como usted.
Gracias Edith.