Best Way to Get a Job? (I'm 16)

[eggnawgkid]

What's the best way to get a job as a teenager? I don't really care what it is as long as I get payed. Basically I want a description of what I should do once I go into a store to get an application. What should I say, how nicely dressed should I be, how to show confidence that I am right for the job, who to ask about the job from, etc. I've asked my parents and they work in decent sized companies so they don't know anyone that works in a retail store or restaurant that could help me get a job.

Also, one my friends wants to get a job too and wants to go look for jobs with me. Do you think it would be beneficial or counter-productive if he were to come in the stores with me, getting an application as well? I don't know if the manager or whoever will see this as us not being confident enough to come in alone or what. Thanks for the help.

 

[TyTe`EyEs]

I've had 5 different jobs over the last 4 years. I always had a friend hook me up. It's easy to get a job when you know someone who works there. If you don't know anybody who can hook you up, just go to Burger King or something.

 

[TonyTheTigerOI]

When I had time to work I got a pair of slacks a dress shirt and a tie walked into every store in the mall told the manager:

"Hi, My name is Anthony <lastname>."
"Hey Im <kjhaga> what can I do for you?" <handshake>
"I am interested in working for <storename>"

Then they will either tell you to fill out an application or schedule an interview. Thank them for their time, ask to return the application at a later date.

If you can - typewrite the application. If not, use black pen and WRITE NEAT.

Show up to the interview with a resume. Dont lie - but exaggerate as much as u can explain.

Pick hte job with the highest pay and hottest co workers/costumers.

Later

 

[McKindley]

Getting a job isn't rocket science; you just go up and ask someone who works there if they are hiring. If they aren't you can still take an application (legally they have to give you one) but don't hold your breath.

Just because they don't have a hiring sign up doesn't mean they aren't looking. Lots of places don't put up the sign.

Ask when the manager who is in charge of hiring will be there next and ask what his/her name is. Drop by then and ask to talk to them by name and hand it to them. Lots of places will interview you on the spot. But don't get discouraged if they don't.

A lot of this is a numbers game, so drop off as many applications as you can, but only to places where you actually would not mind working (because you'll probably accept when they offer the job. You don't want to take a job at a place you don't want to work)

After you drop off enough applications its just a waiting game. Your application will sit around for a couple days or more before anyone that matters even reads it.

Don't show up with a friend (looks needy) do dress nice, but not in a suit or anything. Since you're 16 you can be pretty casual in the way you talk to these people. Just play it cool.

 

[eggnawgkid]

OK I'm definitely telling my friend that I'm not going with him. I had a feeling that it would probably have some negative effect.

I still need to know how I can appear confident to the employees. I'm a pretty shy person, but I've gotten MUCH better in the last year or so. I do still have some problems speaking with confidence though. I've actually gone into about 5 stores a few months ago and got an application but I didn't even get an interview because I think I seemed too scared or didn't talk enough. I've head that employers like enthusiastic people too but how can I do that without looking like I'm faking it. And as for the eye contact, whats a good amount? I'm getting better at holding eye contact with girls, but I'm thinking I shouldn't have as much in this situation?

One more thing for now. When I go in to ask if they're hiring, should I ask the cashier directly or should I ask them to get the hiring manager so I can ask them? Same with returning the application, should I give it to the cashier or get a hiring manager to give it to?

Sorry for all the questions, but I want to do this next set of job seeking correctly after my past failures. BTW thanks for all the help so far, I'm really getting a better idea of what I should do.

 

[shagnscoob]

im 16 years old, and ive already had 4 different jobs...

3 of them were through the city's youth services office, they have programs that allow teens to get jobs within the city

the 4th one i just got is at express clothes store. i got it because i was in there alot and i dressed well. the manager told me he wanted to give me a job, and to come back when i turned 16, and now im hired.

 

[McKindley]

You're thinking WAYYY too much about this dude. When you're sixteen getting a job isn't that hard (assuming you're applying at places where mostly high school kids work.)

Its a complete "just be yourself situation." You don't have to care what the employees really think about you, because the hiring manager is the only person who matters. And when you're working for minimum wage or a little more their standards aren't too high.

When you ask if they're hiring just ask the cashier. If they don't know they'll probably go ask (because mostly they wouldn't mind having a few more people around.)

 

[assassin]

dont worry man,

go in, get an application, and when you return it ask to talk to the manager. tell him you're very interested in working for "store" and if he's got positions open you're pretty much in. dress nice.

 

[clarinch]

Just some pointers (as being one who works for one of the most norotious managers in our town)

-Be polite. (employers dont want rude teenage rebels under them..unless you apply for hot topic..)

-Dress well. (Collared shirt, some nice pants. You want to be more formal than casual, but this wont be a black tie event)

-Be confident. (A bright smile, good eye contact, and eagarness to talk to your employer)

-Ask questions. (If you just say yes and nod your head, it's not going to impress anyone. Asking questions will show them you're enthusiastic and willing to learn what you need to)