Ready to enter the world of work
Are you ready to start working? If you’re keen to pick up your first job, we’ve got some tips and advice you might find handy.
Where to find work
Gone are the days of having to look through the newspaper – now there are tons of places you can find jobs.
Most popular is by searching online. There are handy sites like Seek and Indeed that lots of employers will list job openings with.
Lots of big employers (think places like McDonalds, Kmart, Woolworths, etc.) take applications directly through their websites. If you’re unsure, search them up and see what you can find, or talk to someone at your local store.
You might like to try asking your parents if they know anyone who might be looking for work. Word of mouth is still a great way to get your name out there.
And don’t forget the good old-fashioned way: see if your favourite store has a ‘help wanted’ sign in the window, or just head in and ask. Even if they don’t have any availabilities right now, they might keep your resume on file for future opportunities.
The interview
You applied, and now you’re up for an interview – score! But if it’s your first time, you might be a bit nervous.
Don’t panic. Just take a look at our top 5 interview tips.
Before your first day
The interview was a success, and you’ve got the job! Hooray!
Make sure you ask any important questions you need to before your first day. This could be things like:
- Where do I need to be on my first day?
- What time am I expected to start?
- Do I need to wear a uniform?
If you’re confused about anything, don’t be afraid to ask. It’s better to get clarification than to assume.
There are a few other important things you’ll need to get in order too, like:
- Your Tax File Number
- Bank account details for your pay
- Given any thought to superannuation?
Make sure you get enough sleep and eat well the night before so you’re ready to go for your first day.
The big day
It’s finally here – your first day at your brand-new job. It can be slightly nerve-wracking, but it’s also incredibly exciting at the same time. Here are some of our tips for your first day.
Relax! Nobody expects you to know everything straight away. Don’t pressure yourself to be perfect, and if you make mistakes, it’s okay – as long as you learn from them.
Ask lots of questions. Related to the above, there will probably be a lot you need to learn for your new job. So people are going to expect you to have questions, and be happy to answer them.
Be on time. Want a sure-fire way to make a good impression first thing? Show up on time – in fact, better even if you’re early!
Need some more guidance?
If you’re still feeling a bit unsure, that’s okay! We’ve gone around the office and had a chat with some friends, and gathered some advice about our first jobs (we all need to start somewhere, after all).
Lucy
Age at first job: 14
Jobs I had at school:
- KFC
- Waitress
- Babysitting
- Letterbox Dropper
Favourite Job at school? Letterbox dropper – because I could walk and be outside.
Lucy’s tip: start small and look for local opportunities – I started with ironing work shirts for a neighbour each week and built up from there.
Liz
Age at first job: 15
Jobs I had at school:
- Car washing, ironing & lawn mowing at home
- Delivery person
- Cleaner
- Office temp
Favourite Job at school: Cleaner – I enjoyed the work environment, there was always great banter and free food, and I got to walk away with excellent references.
Liz’s tip: don’t let first day nerves put you off! When you turn up on day two, you’ll be amazed how different you feel.
Sofie
Age at first job: 16
Jobs I had at school:
- Donut King
- Laundry
Favourite Job at school: working at Donut King – because I got free donuts!
Sofie’s tip: don’t be afraid to put your name out there and apply for a job, you might be surprised at the outcome.
Lukas (recent school leaver)
Age at first job: 15
Jobs I had at school:
- JayJays
- Babysitting
Favourite Job at school: JayJays – I had supportive co-workers and they were also great friends during and after work.
Lukas’ tip: mainly focus on your schoolwork, but try hard at work too so you get the most out of the experience.
Mercedes (recent school leaver)
Age at first job: 13
Jobs I had at school:
- Laserfun
- Angus & Coote
Favourite Job at school: Angus & Coote – I had an awesome manager! Having worked multiple jobs in high school really helped me build my confidence and identify my strengths and weaknesses.
Mercedes’ tip: time management is the key to balancing work and school.
Ryan (recent school leaver)
Age at first job: 16
Jobs I had at school:
- McDonald’s
Favourite (and only!) Job at school: McDonald’s – I learned how to take on multiple roles and it expanded my skill set.
Ryan’s tip: make sure you manage your time effectively, and make sure your studies are still your number one priority.
