Getting your first job opens a new chapter of your life. It lets you access a new environment, people, and opportunities. It can be scary at first because—aside from the fact that it’s something new—it’s possible for you to get rejected. That said, it’s worth the try.
It’ll be much better if you get hired after your first few applications. Not only will you save time, but you’ll also obtain the opportunity to work in a company immediately. Consider the following advice on securing your first job.
- Prepare A Resume
A resume is the identification of an applicant. It shows a person’s basic information, educational attainment, achievements, and mentioned skills. Consider customizing your resume based on the job role you’re applying for. This way, employers know that you’re fit for the position despite not having experience. For example, if you’re applying for an animator role with the help of Workforce Australia, you can mention that you’re excellent at drawing and provide proof.
It would be a good idea to check out a variety of jobs in your chosen sector. For instance, if you have an interest in healthcare, then you can look up phrases such as “home care jobs near me” to see what is available. Once you read through you can then adjust your resume to pin point your essential points that will get them to take notice and potentially invite you for an interview.
- Prepare A Portfolio
A portfolio, like a resume, may include an applicant’s basic information, educational attainment, and mentioned skills. Mainly, it’s a document that’s a compilation of content. Since you don’t have work experience yet, you can prepare a career portfolio to increase your chances of getting hired. For example, if you’re applying for a content writer position, you can provide sample articles.
In addition, consider putting a letter of interest in your portfolio. It’s a letter where you express your eagerness to be hired by a company. If you see their job post before you apply, you can imitate their tone. For example, if the job post appears casual and friendly, you can replicate it in your letter.
- Practice For Your Job Interview
Almost every job requires a job interview—a phase where a human resource representative talks to applicants to know them better. It will be a critical part of your application because this will be your chance to prove yourself to your preferred employer.
There will be deliberation among the company recruitment team using the data gathered during the job interview. Based on this information, they will choose those who will get the vacant positions and those who won’t.
To make you appear qualified for the job role you’re applying for, you need to possess self-confidence and character. Consider practicing before your scheduled interview to improve these traits further.
- Face yourself in a mirror. Observe how you look and how you speak. Identify what mannerisms you may have, especially when you feel nervous. It’s great to practice because you’ll see your appearance when the interview starts, enabling you to minimize unnecessary movement and improve your overall impression.
- Exercise your mouth. During the job interview, you’ll have to respond eloquently to the interviewer’s questions. Doing so will improve your ability to pronounce words.
- Memorize a little spiel when introducing yourself. The job interviewer will likely ask you to introduce yourself at the start. You can start with your name, age, and course taken.
- Ask a trusted friend or colleague to do a mock interview with you. It’s understandable to feel anxious about your job interview, especially because it’ll be your first time.
You can minimize your stress by letting someone conduct a mock interview with you. Such an exercise will train you to respond to the interviewer well. In addition, you’ll be able to receive feedback from others aside from yourself, which can help improve how you respond.
- Prepare Your Onboarding Documents
Once an applicant gets hired, their employer will ask them for documents necessary in onboarding. The employer will give a timeframe for their new hires to submit the documents. If a new hire fails to submit all their pre-employment documents, the employer may not pursue employment with the applicant.
For example, an employer may require the following documents or information:
- Proof of identification (e.g. passport and driver’s license)
- Employment eligibility form
- Taxpayer information form
- Payroll account
Preparing these documents and information may take some time. So, make sure to get them ready when you start your job seeking journey. This way, you minimize the avoidable inconveniences of pursuing and securing a job.
Conclusion
Getting your first job can be exciting but also tiresome. It can make you feel anxious, especially since it’s your first time. But if you know what to do, the anxiety and pressure you feel will lessen. Follow the tips mentioned in the article to increase your chances of getting hired. Good luck with your first job search.