So you’re in your mid-teens and the cost of your wants has begun to exceed your traditional five-dollar per week allowance. All of your friends are buying cars, clothes, computers, and loads of other things that spark your interest. What do you do? Unfortunately, if your parents aren’t willing to hand out a hundred dollars per week then it’s time for you to get a job, I know it’s a bit intimidating at first, but it’s one of those inevitable first steps into adulthood. You can run from the idea all you want. but eventually it will catch you. Do not fear for you’re in luck. This quick and easy guide will give you all the dos and don’ts of obtaining and keeping your first job.

The first thing you’ve got to do is go job-fishing. Search the newspaper’s classified section, talk to people with connections, and visit local businesses. It is your goal to acquire as many entry-level job applications as you can, whether or not you have faith in being hired at a particular location. Even if an employer doesn’t have a sign indicating that they are hiring, they will still be happy to give you an application. This process is called job-fishing because the more hooks, or applications, in the water, the greater your chance of getting a bite is.

Fill all of the applications out, making sure to keep similar information on each one. Take into consideration what employers want and make an attempt at fitting that criteria. This is a time to use neat handwriting and to present yourself as a clean cut, responsible individual. You want capture a business owner’s attention, appearing as someone whose greatest desire is to be an employee of their company. Just like a commercial on TV, you’re selling something; yourself. Double check all of the information, insuring every bit is accurate and honest. Avoid creasing the paper, although a single fold in the middle is acceptable. Because this your first job, you probably won’t need a resume, though it couldn’t hurt.

While you may think you’re a capable individual, don’t expect anything more than minimum wage when you first start. You’re mainly inexperienced and aren’t looked upon as something of great value. Just as with anything you work hard at though, it will eventually pay off, Prove you’re a responsible employee who plans on sticking around for a while and before you know it raises will be frequently thrown your way. Have patience.

Once you have completed the applications, it’s time to go for a drive. Make sure you have neat hair, clean teeth, an overall presentable appearance, and don’t forget the most important part: the applications. Remember that a first impression is vital, even if you’re simply handing someone a piece of paper. Make an attempt to smile and say thank you. At this point it doesn’t matter which job you believe you’re most likely to get. Your main goal is getting your name to employers. Upon the completion of this phase, return home and relax for a few days. Don’t expect any phone calls and don’t make any yourself. Give your candidates time to review your application and consider their options.

After about three or four days. call and/or visit every location you applied at. If this whole idea makes you nervous prepare by rehearsing in the mirror. Always remember not to mumble and to keep a clear, confident voice. Start with a greeting and request to speak with a manager. Give a quick introduction of yourself and cite the reason that you are calling or stopping by. Ask the employer if they had an opportunity to review your application. Make the conversation an enjoyable and memorable experience for the person you’re speaking with. If all goes well you should be offered an interview. You’ll be asked to set up a time and date that works best for the both of you. If your application hasn’t been looked at, allow a couple more days before another phone call or visit. Stay persistent and help your potential future boss how much you aspire to be an employee for his or her company. You’re bound to get a bite from somewhere. Thank the person for their time and say goodbye.

So now you’ve got at least one interview and you’re becoming slightly nervous. Don’t worry. It’s normal. Use this pent up energy to rehearse. Practice in the mirror, considering all possibilities and how you’ll react to them. Be able to answer questions like: Why do I want this job? Why will I make good employee? Don’t expect anything comparable to the SATS, but be prepared for some questions that tickle your brain a bit. Chances are the interviewer will understand that you are new to the employment scene. Just focus on selling yourself and making the employer want you more than other applicants. Make every effort to appear as a responsible, intelligent individual, who wants a job. On your big day, dress nice, but don’t overdress. There is no need to wear a tuxedo. Try to stay calm and casual. Have confidence in yourself and you’ll do fme. If things don’t work out with a particular location, don’t get discouraged. Work hard and you’ll get noticed.

Good Luck!