Early work experiences (e.g., paid employment, internship, or work-based learning) are especially critical for young people. Even in our current situation, do not assume there are no jobs. In every down market, there are always some companies looking for employees. Take a look of who’s hiring in Erie County. Then check out other ways to land a job.
Ace a Virtual Internship
3 Ways to Find an Internships or Job When You Can’t Leave the House
- Tell friends, family and your network. It’s been estimated that between 70-90% of jobs are landed through relationships. Have conversations every week with people every week and inquire about their job path and advice for landing your own job.
- Start following on social media people who work where you want to work. Learn about their companies through their posts. Perhaps you can even write a proposal for a short-term project based on your findings. Showing initiative and pitching a position is definitely a way to stand out from the crowd.
- If you don’t have a LinkedIn profile, it’s time to make one. A polished profile is a great way to catch the interest of a recruiter. As a teenager the profile should highlight where you attend high school, your extra-curricular activities, including awards or accolades. Also include what you see as your best skills, and a summary of the sort of career that may interest you. LinkedIn Checklist for Students
Beef Up Your Resume While Social Distancing
The job market is harsh right now. It will be difficult (but not impossible) to find a summer job. If work is out of the picture, think about other ways to build your resume. Don’t waste the summer…
- Update your resume to reflect critical skills. The top skills employers look for such as verbal and written communication and problem-solving should appear on your resume.
- Take a course online and/or get certified in a skill. If you are lacking in key areas, build those skills at home right now. Massive Open Online Courses, also known as MOOCs, like EdX and Coursera let you take classes for free.
https://www.coursera.org/promo/free-courses-high-school
- Build your personal brand. Use this time to create your own projects: design a bench, write an article, solve a mechanical problem, write code, or start a blog. Use a school project and expand upon it. Document your journey and add it to your resume.
https://itstillworks.com/make-teen-blog-7676235.html
- Volunteer with a relevant organization. You may have expertise that a non-profit organization could use. This is also an opportunity to help and build skills at the same time. Look for an opportunity to serve (following social distancing and local regulations). Try out Volunteennation to start.
http://www.volunteennation.org/
5 Ways to Make a Good First Impression
First impressions are crucial. Want to make a good impression (virtually) during a job interview?
- Consider your digital footprint and erase embarrassing and/or inappropriate posts
- Prepare responses for common interview questions. For example, many interviewers will ask “What are your strengths and weaknesses?” or “Why should I hire you?” Prepare answers in advance and practice.
- Make a list of questions for the interviewer. Asking questions demonstrates real interest. For example, “What makes an ideal candidate for this job?”
- Dress appropriately. A rule of thumb is to dress one level above what will be expected at the job for which you’re interviewing. For example, if the dress there is casual or uniformed, arrive in “business casual.”
- Write a thank-you note. Script a general note before the interview and fill in a few specific details after. Send within 24 hours.
https://www.livecareer.com/resources/interviews/prep/teen-job-strategies
https://www.snagajob.com/blog/post/job-interview-tips-for-teens