Get Your First Job, Here's How

Are you tired of relying on Mom and Dad for spending money? Do you want some financial independence - to save for your first car or those coveted concert tickets? Did you recently move out on your own? Whatever your motivation, you want to get your first job. But you don't have any experience....or do you?

Maybe you aren't as inexperienced as you think. Did you ever babysit? Do volunteer work? Help out a parent at their job? Even if you answered no to all of the above, you can still get your first job.

Make sure you dress nicely. You don't have to wear a suit, but guys should be in a nice shirt and slacks, girls should do the same, or wear a skirt and top. Showing up in ripped jeans and a Fall Out Boy concert T is not your best option.

If you are applying for a fast-food or retail job, you will have to fill out an application. On that application, you will be asked some or all of the following:

• Your identifying information, including social security number, address, contact telephone number and school phone number. If you're hired, the employer will need this information for taxes and other paperwork.
• Questions about military service, grade-level and other personal information. Some will apply to you, some won't. As long as you answer honestly, you're fine. Do not lie and do not exaggerate. Both can keep you from getting hired, or get you fired if you're caught.
• Your available hours. If you are in school, make sure you allow time for homework and any after-school activities. Most fast-food or retail establishments will be flexible. However, if you can only work one hour a day, three days a week, don't expect them to be that flexible.
• Past work experience. If you have none, don't worry about it. For the time being, list volunteer work you have done. Or babysitting. The whole point is to show your level of maturity and responsibility

Hot tip: When you turn in the application, be sure to shake the person's hand firmly, look them in the eye and smile. This projects confidence and maturity. They will remember you.

If you are applying for an entry level position that is not fast-food or retail oriented, you will need a resume.

After you turn in your application or submit your resume, you then wait to be called for an interview. Some places might interview you right away. If that is the case, check out the inerview pages, for both men and women.

Other employers will call you in after they get a chance to review your application and verify some or all of the information. Remember what I said about not lying, right? This is why.

Congratulations, you've taken a huge first step toward your first job. Now, on to the interview!