Getting a Job

[Leather Husack]

Trying to get a job. Mainly just to have some extra cash while I'm going through college. Any tips?

[Sandstone]

What are you good at? Are you looking for an entry-level position or do you have skills that point you in another direction? Are you thinking you'd be working for yourself or would you be employed?

[Leather Husack]

Originally Posted by Sandstone

What are you good at? Are you looking for an entry-level position or do you have skills that point you in another direction? Are you thinking you'd be working for yourself or would you be employed?

I would be employed. I've got a few places in mind. PetSmart would be amazing considering I'm majoring in Biology. Especially since I'm just looking for a part time job. I was hoping for tips for how to act, how often I should call them, and just stuff like that.

[aelle]

Originally Posted by Leather Husack

I was hoping for tips for how to act, how often I should call them, and just stuff like that.

Act professional (clean, well shaven, well dressed, don't use any slang or sloppy vocabulary - pretty common sense) and enthusiastic. Especially for a job in the service industry, appearing happy and eager is important as it will be a solid part of your job.

I think for this type of jobs it's perfectly ok to walk into the places that appeal to you, ask if they're hiring, drop your resume and ask if you can interview on the spot. If they're not hiring, drop your resume with the manager anyway.

Then a week or so later, call to check on your application. Don't be pushy or demanding, remember they don't owe you anything. I like to make them comfortable by making a light joke and acknowledging that "it's a busy time of the year, I completely understand if you haven't had much time to review my application". I find it also puts us on equal footing - we all know what the rules and constraints of business are, we are all professionals here.

If they have no answer for you yet, ask if there is someone else you should follow up with, when you can call back or when you can expect to hear from them.
If they turn you down, stay pleasant and polite. They're just doing their job, too.

Then the best way to get better at it is to get out there and start trying! just print a few resumes and have a spreadsheet to keep track of all your applications, and get started.

[Curious cat]

Alot of companies these days have an online application process. I'd check the company's website for this.

When meeting a potential employer, make sure you are well groomed, reek with enthusiasm , and be personable (but be yourself as most will be able to see through an 'act').

They may not have a vacancy right now but if you make a good impression, it will pave the way for when something comes up in the future.