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Learn Ways to Get a Job

Take notes and answer questions here.

Review

In “Choose a Job or Career,” you learned about a job or career that interests you. Share what you learned.

Learn

Before you can apply for a job, you need to know where to look for one. Some ways you can search for a job include looking in newspapers and company websites, asking businesses if they are hiring, and asking people around you about available jobs. Talking to people you know can help you find employers that need your skills.

Talk about other places that post job openings in your area. Perhaps there is someone you know who could help you find a job where they work. Write down names of people who might be able to help you find a job you would like.

Job Application

To get most jobs, you need to fill out a job application. Since applications are important, practice filling one out beforehand. Ask for help if there are things on the application that you do not understand. Often you will need to apply to several jobs before you get one, so do not give up.

Here are some tips for turning in a paper application to potential employers:

• Write neatly as you complete all parts of the application.

• When going to the store or company office, dress nicely. Although you are not being interviewed yet, this shows you are serious about the job.

• Give your application directly to the person who will be hiring, such as a manager or supervisor, if possible.

• When you meet the manager, shake his or her hand and make eye contact. Smile and be polite and respectful to make a good first impression.

Curriculum Vitaes (CVs) or Resumes and Letters of Interest

Many jobs require you to bring a curriculum vitae (CV) or a resume to the interview. Others require a letter of interest. Some require both. A CV or resume is a document that tells employers about your skills and experience. A letter of interest (or letter of intent) is a document that tells employers more about you and why you would be a good employee.

Activity

The next pages show examples of a letter of interest and a resume/CV. These are examples of what you may need to complete as part of a job application.

As you read through these examples, think about what you would write in your own resume or letter of interest. Discuss what you should include in each document.

Sample Letter of Interest

Emmanuel Appiah

Address: P.O. Box 4501, Adum, Kumasi

Phone: + 233-2002-49508

Email: [e-mail]

06 June 2021

Dear Sir,

I am interested in the position of server at your restaurant. My past experiences with customer service and leadership have helped me gain the skills that an ideal candidate needs to succeed in this role and support your business.

Currently, I am working as a cashier in the Honeybee grocery store, where I regularly interact with customers and coworkers. Additionally, I regularly provide childcare for neighbors and fulfill leadership roles in my school and church. Because of the many responsibilities I have taken on, I have learned to work hard while being friendly and service-oriented.

I work well by myself and as part of a team. I am very compassionate and understanding. Due to my resourcefulness, I have solved problems between customers, coworkers, and peers. For example, a customer recently came to me, angry because of a defective product. I spoke to this customer calmly and respectfully, resolving the situation quickly so the customer went away happier.

I am currently a high school student, and I will graduate with a high school diploma next year. The knowledge and problem-solving skills I have gained from my high school education will allow me to effectively serve the customers in your restaurant.

It would be an honor for me to work in your restaurant as a server. Thank you for your time, and I look forward to hearing from you soon.

Sincerely,

Emmanuel Appiah

Sample CV

Emmanuel Appiah

Address: P.O. Box 4501, Adum, Kumasi

Phone: [phone]

Email: [e-mail]

Job Summary

I am looking for a company where I can contribute my problem-solving and good interpersonal skills to learn and grow and help the company succeed.

Education

Gorman High SchoolJanuary 2018–present

• Working toward high school diploma

• Classes include general mathematics, biology, social studies, and English

Experience

Cashier

Honeybee Grocery StoreSeptember 2019–present

• Work smoothly with customers

• Trained 2 coworkers

• Learned tech and systems

Childcare Provider

Self-employedApril 2016–present

• Provided physical care for 6–8 children below the age of 12

• Tutored children in various subjects

• Established, adjusted, and enforced rules

• Found creative solutions to problems

• Created activities to occupy and educate children

Extracurricular Activities

Volunteer

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints2018–present

• I have volunteered in various capacities in my role as a youth church leader.

References

Isaac Palomeras, Manager, Honeybee Grocery Store

• Cell: 020-511-0808

• Email: [e-mail]

Mary Atkins, Drama Club Supervisor, Gorman High School

• Cell: 020-891-6248

• Email: [e-mail]