Finding a Job

Getting your first job can be a scary prospect.

You might be worried about finding the best opportunity, or you might just want a job as quickly as possible.

Whether you want to take your time and pick carefully, or just get earning as fast as you can, there is lots of help available.

If you are under 18 (or under 25, if you have learning difficulties or disabilities) you can get help from Connexions.

Look for vacancies

Though some people start by deciding what sort of job they want, other of people start by looking for vacancies.

You can find job vacancies by looking on local noticeboards or High Street windows, in your local paper and at Job Clubs and Job Centres.

You can also find jobs, apprenticeships and other vacancies online:

• Connexions Opportunities Search
• Apprenticeship Vacancy Matching Service
• Jobseekers on Direct Gov
• This is Oxfordshire Jobs

Other ways to find jobs include asking friends and relatives, looking for vacancies on the websites of local companies and organisations, looking for training courses or work placements, or even volunteering.

Job-seeking skills

It is often said that looking for a job is a job in itself! You do need some skills to look for a job. But Connexions can provide you with information and support on everything you need. You can talk to an adviser or download these worksheets:

• Finding Job Vacancies
• Telephoning about a job
• Applying in Writing
• Writing a covering letter
• Preparing your CV
• Some example CVs
• Filling in Application forms
• Practice Application form
• Going for an interview
• Taking selection tests
• Getting training

There are also some simpler worksheets for younger job-seekers.

• writing a c.v.
• filling out application forms
• attending interviews
• telephoning about a job
• writing a covering letter

Clicking on these links will open Connexions worksheets on each topic.

Crucial: You may be able to claim Job Seekers Allowance to help support yourself financially while you look for work. See the benefits page for more details

Experience

I started looking for a part-time job by walking around town centre to see the different shops and enquire if there were any vacancies. One shop gave me an application form and I filled it with a lot of detail as I thought it was a good way to stand out from other applicants. I was given an interview shortly afterwards. I dressed smartly and brought a notebook which had a few questions in it for example the pay and the uniform. I also brought my Record of Achievement because I could show them certificates and photos from my hobbies. I tried to be confident and not give one-word answers or look at the floor but at the interviewer. A week later I was offered the Job. – Hannah Wolf, 16, Witney

Links

These websites will help you find information advice and guidance around careers and choices online:

• Connexions Opportunities
  Jobs suitable for young people in Oxfordshire
• Apprenticeship Vacancy Matching Service
  Find an apprenticeship to suit you
• Jobseekers on Direct Gov
  Job Vacancies from the Job Centre

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