Improving your chances of employment after school

For every job that is advertised, the employer will have a specific person in mind. They will have considered what the chosen employee will bring to the role and workplace, which qualities the chosen employee will have and even which qualifications they will hold. Continue reading for our top tips on how to improve your chances of employment after school.

Work hard and get good grades

Knuckling down and achieving your very best is a great start, whether you are hoping to impress college admissions or looking to bag that dream job after school. You don’t have to get the best grades, but showing that you are dedicated, determined and hard-working means a lot to a potential employer. The ability to demonstrate that you will spend time working towards an end goal and that you do have the patience to work independently is a great thing to be able to do. Your grades will be looked at for a majority of roles. Even if you haven’t achieved exactly what you hoped to, there is the option to re-sit examinations and if you have reasons for this, don’t be afraid to explain them in an interview situation or even at the application stage.

Perfect your application and resume

Ensuring that you meet the person specification for a job is vital. Your applications and resumes allow you to explain how you do that and give specific examples of things you have achieved at school and during part time employment, which prove that. Ask a friend or family member to read through your resume, application and personal statement to ensure that it is free from spelling and grammatical errors. Sometimes, employers see these as an immediate reason for throwing an application in the trash. It is also advisable to have a standard personal statement prepared. However, this must be personalized for each job application you make. For example, if you are applying for a job in a hardware store, make it specific to that role.

Network

If you are hoping to secure a job in digital media, for example, networking with the right people could really help your prospects. There is an array of opportunities, from breakfast meets to evening catch-ups. Research what is happening in your area and be prepared to sell yourself. Even if you do this while you are still in school, you may be able to land yourself a summer job or internship. This would show the industry what you have to offer and will certainly help your desire to be an asset to that area in the long run.

Digital footprint

Many employers now search for potential employees online. Ensure that your social media profiles are locked down and secure. Furthermore, be sure that you do not have any unsavory images of yourself on anyone else’s profile or stories about you floating around. Conduct your own Google search of your name and see what it uncovers. Having your own blog could help positive things about yourself to be seen top of the search results and this is another great way of showcasing your career aspirations and positive qualities.