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Your first job: Tips for your CV, the interview and when you can start working

8 April 2019 | 3 min read

Getting your first job can be a daunting task. Here's some tips and advice on how to prepare your resume, what to do to prepare yourself for an interview and when you can actually start working. 

What age can I start work?

The answer is on the Fair work website.

Click the link. Pick your state. Find your answer. Easy!

The next thing you need to know is that your resume or CV is the first time an employer will get to know you. Here are some tips to help make yours stand out. 

1. Make sure it's relevant

Your potential employer wants to know if you're the right person for the job. So tell them all the things that make you the best person for the job. 

If it's your first job, highlight things like your grades, software skills, past work and any personal achievements like sporting groups you belong to. 

2. Keep it short and sweet

When you apply for a job, there's usually lots of other people also applying for that same job. Keep your resume or CV short and to the point. Include the essentials like why you are so good! 

Don't forget to get a friend, teacher or parent to read it and ensure it makes sense. 

3. Find someone who will talk about how good you are!

For every job role, you will need to include a reference. A reference is someone who can provide evidence or examples of your work ethic and what you're really like. 

Do you know a teacher, old boss or someone at a group you belong to that could talk about you? Approach them and ask if they would be your reference. 

You can list them as a referee or reference or get a referee statement to attach to your resume. Having a statement may increase your WOW factor! 

Applying is only the first part of securing your very first job. The next part is the interview and we want to make sure it's not as daunting as it may look at first. The best way to put aside the nerves is to be prepared. 

Here's your first job interview checklist: 

1. Before the interview

  • Go to the interview knowing as much as possible about the company

  • Think about how your skills and experience are relevant

  • Identify three or four things that will set you apart from other candidates

  • Make sure you get a good night's sleep so you are well-rested and focused

  • Arrive on time or early

  • Dress appropriately. You might want to leave the loud tie at home. 

2. During the interview

  • Be positive and confident

  • Listen carefully to any questions. If you don't understand the question, it's okay to ask for it to be repeated or clarified so you can answer correctly.
     
  • Avoid one-word responses. Elaborate on your answer and give examples and context. 

  • Remember to ask two or three questions at the end of the interview

3. After the interview 

  • Send over any presentations or documents you may have brought with you to the interview

  • Thank the interviewer and let them know it was great to meet them

  • If you are unsuccessful, ask for feedback on how you can improve for next time 

 

That's it! Do you have any other tips or tricks that you used before getting your very first job? Let us know on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram

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