How to... Get a job!

Times are hard, we all know that! So it's always nice to have a part time job to buy those bits we keep having to nag our parents for- for example I spend my money on clothes, makeup and going out with my friends.

To get a job you have to have a fabby CV. A CV is a list of your achievements, hobbies, skills and interests as well as references. To make a CV pop you have to stand out from the crowd. My main achievement outside of school is fundraising and going traveling in India with my friends, so I always write what that taught me- leadership, teamwork, social skills etc...

To get noticed you must hand your CV out personally rather than getting your Mum to hand them out or emailing them to the employer. It shows initiative and the fact you are dedicated to getting a job! Always ask for the manager, assistant manager or supervisor and give your CV to them rather than the grumpy sales assistant, as you may well be replacing them! I would advise looking at independent businesses as they are often overlooked in the job market, and aren't as fussy when it comes to experience. My manager employs young people as she realises it's hard for young people to get jobs in today's economy, which is the attitude many independent business owners have!

The timing of your CV-handing out mission is crucial. I got my job straight after A-Level results day, which is the 14th August this year (ahhhhhh!!!). I say this as many students will be off to another city, perhaps the other end of the country, so will be leaving thier job open to new applicants. Good thinking eh!

If you're lucky enough to get an interview or trial shift, research the company and look at model answers. Here is a common list of interview questions:

1. Tell me about yourself.
Don't be boring and say "I'm Jess, 18 years old blah blah blah" be funny- "I'm an 18 year old who has an obsession with lipstick and netflix". This will make you stick in the interviewers mind, which is always a good thing!

2. What do you know about *business name*
Depending on where you have applied, this will vary. Just make sure you know three key points about the business so you can reel them off instantly- but don't sound monotonous!

3. Describe your current situation.
That doesn't mean "well I'm sat in a back office" is means (for example) "I've just finished my GCSEs/A-Levels and I'm currently having a nice summer relaxing before starting College/Uni and looking for a part time job to help me save for the future".

4. How would your reference describe you?
My reference would describe me as a right gobby mare with a sassy attitude, but I wouldn't say that. I would say my reference would describe me as confident, vocal and headstrong. Sounds much better doesn't it?