Finding an employer
Not all jobs are advertised in the local paper.
When I make up a search list, who should I include?
-
Try friends and family who may be in business and are able to tell you of vacancies available where they work or elsewhere.
-
Centrelink Employment Services - 13 28 50
-
Job Network providers - 13 62 68
-
Try TAFE and private training organisations as they employ job placement officers who are aware of vacancies in the community.
-
Australian Apprenticeships Centres - 13 38 73. They have contact with employers and may also know of apprenticeship or traineeship opportunities.
-
Group Training Organisations - 1800 819 747
-
Job advertisement websites such as Seek, Career One, Smart Jobs (for apprenticeships/traineeships within Queensland Government).
-
Local businesses in the industry you wish to pursue.
-
The old favourite - local and state-wide newspapers.
Do I need a resume?
Yes. A resume tells potential employers about your education and employment history, interests, associations and referees (people who will vouch for your character). Most employers will expect you to have a resume. It should be short, to the point, and well presented. Ask friends, family or a job network representative to help you prepare one.
Is it okay to 'drop in' on employers?
People looking for work frequently visit workplaces to enquire about vacant positions. You will need to make a good impression:
-
Be neatly presented.
-
Prepare what you want to say - why you are interested in that trade or workplace is a good start.
-
Leave the employer with a reliable contact number and a copy of your resume.
If the employer you visit has no work, he/she may be able to recommend another business where work may be available.
What do I do if the job requires a written application?
Some employers request a written application to assess your suitability for the job. Read the position advertisement carefully and highlight specific qualities the employer wants. You may also need to obtain a position description if this is mentioned in the advertisement.
Answer every point, and include the reasons why you believe you have the training or experience to do the job. Use examples of what you have done to support your statements.
The employer wants me to come in for an interview...
As with the 'drop in', make sure you dress well and are prepared for questions about your interests, skills and experience. Look the interviewer in the eye when you speak, listen carefully, and if you don't understand a question, ask for more information to assist you to understand what they want. Think of questions you want to ask about the job and mention these at the end of the interview.
What if I don't get the job?
If you do not get the job after attending an interview, contact the employer to find out how you performed and what suggestions they can give to increase your chances of employment with the next employer you approach. Ask if they would keep you in mind for other vacancies, including temporary and part-time work.
Luck sometimes is being in the right place at the right time. Even if you are in the right place, you have to convince the employer that you are right person for the job. This is where the work you put into how you present yourself to the employer will get you the job.