Job Application Tips for Teenagers

Job Application Tips for Teenagers Job Application Tips for Teenagers Are you a teen getting ready to start applying for jobs? Do you need some guidance on the best way to apply for jobs, secure interviews, and get hired? Teenagers applying for  summer work, or  part-time jobs  during the school year, should be aware that how you apply can make the difference in getting hired. Your application needs to be completed accurately and legibly, or you can expect it to get tossed into the reject pile. Leaving off important information can have the same effect. Whether youre  applying in-person  or online, its important to provide all the information the employer requests. Before you start filling out  job applications, be sure that you take the time to find out what information you will need to provide to prospective employers. It’s a good idea to put together a  resume, even though many employers won’t ask for one. It will give you the opportunity to organize and categorize your experience, and can be useful when filling out applications to maintain consistency and accuracy in filling in your work dates and experiences. Plus, it’s good to have a starting point that you can add to and edit as you gain experience over the next few years. Practice filling out an application before you start actually applying for jobs. Heres an  example of a job application  you can print and use to get started. If youre not sure about something on the application, ask for help from a family member, guidance counselor or friend. If you take the time to practice filling out an application, youll do better when the real thing comes along and increase your chances of getting hired. Top 10 Tips for Teens Completing Job Applications Whenever possible, take the application home  or fill it out online, so you dont have to rush while sitting in an employment office or  at  the front of a store. Make a list of all the informationyou need to include in your application  prior to filling it out. Not sure what to say when you need to pick up an  application for employment? Heres  how to ask for a job application.Neatness counts.  Have a friend or parent with nice handwriting  help  you  fill out your paper applications if your  handwritingis  subpar. If you have access to a copy machine, make a copy to use when filling out other applications, since they all ask for pretty much the same information, and often even in the same order. Or take a picture with your phone, so its easier to apply next time. Show the employer that you can follow directions  by filling in all  sections of the application form. If you dont have information to put in a box, you can say N/A (not applicable). Review all  of  the questions carefully to make sure you understand what they are asking for. If you dont have formal work experience, its fine to list jobs like babysitting or yard work, or even participation as an officer in a school club or student government. Request help from a parent or guidance counselor if you need assistance responding to any itemsthat  seem  confusing. Check your application for spelling and grammar mistakes  and have someone else review it. Put your finger on every word to make sure it is correct, even if you are typing and using spellcheck.Make sure you emphasize the job responsibilities of your past jobs which are most relevant  to your target position when completing your descriptions. For example, suppose that you only spent a fraction of your time generating documents in your campus job, but it will be the primary function inthe  job youre applying for. List that activity first on the application when describing your campus job, so your key qualification is easily noticed. Use  action words  to lead your phrases when describing past jobs. Employers of teens value reliability, especially in terms of attendance and punctuality.  Try to incorporate references to perfect attendance and punctuality, if possible.Dont forget to include honors or awards.  Employers will likely  perceive  achievements  like  a  competitive  GPA or  membership  into  the  Honor Societyas  evidence of a strong work ethic.Get  a list of references.  Most employers will request three or four  references. People who can vouch for your work ethic and responsibility are fine to  use as a character reference  if you dont have employment references. You should ask several peoplewho might be willing to give you a  positive  recommendation, should they be contacted by a potential employer. Be prepared to furnish the names, job titles and contact information for your references.  If you havent held a formal job, consider asking families for whom you babysit or have done odd jobs, as well as teachers or coaches.  Inform  people  ahead  of  time  if you plan to list them as a reference so they wont be surprised if they get a call or email message from an employer.Check your voicemail.  You will need to list your phone number on the application, so be sure that the voicemail message on your cell is suitable for an employer to hear. Check messages regularly, so you dont miss any calls from employers. Also review this list of what not to do when youre applying for jobs, so you dont make a mistake that could cost you an interview or a job offer. If you take the time to prepare in advance of putting your applications in, the process will be much smoother  â€"  and youll speed up the process of getting hired for a new job.