Getting a job

[Jonluw]

Hiya escapists.
[sub]I figured you might be able to help me out here[/sub]

Here's the thing: I'm seventeen years old. My mom is telling me I really need to go get a part-time job, and quite frankly, I agree; I should have gotten one a long time ago. Trouble is, I have no idea how you do this. My mom says to just go to a few random stores and ask if they need some part-time help; but I feel sort of weird just going in, asking for a job, when the store does not advertise any open positions. Is this how people normally get part-time jobs? Any help is appreciated.

So basically: Have you had/do you have a part time job? If so, how did you apply for it?

 

[sms_117b]

I've got all my jobs exactly how your mum suggested.

Some places require a CV others a CV and an application form, never really liked the later.

 

[The Salty Vulcan]

Hiya escapists.
[sub]I figured you might be able to help me out here[/sub]

Here's the thing: I'm seventeen years old. My mom is telling me I really need to go get a part-time job, and quite frankly, I agree; I should have gotten one a long time ago. Trouble is, I have no idea how you do this. My mom says to just go to a few random stores and ask if they need some part-time help; but I feel sort of weird just going in, asking for a job, when the store does not advertise any open positions. Is this how people normally get part-time jobs? Any help is appreciated.

So basically: Have you had/do you have a part time job? If so, how did you apply for it?

Ok. You got any friends who have jobs? If so, ask them if there are any opening and ask them to put a good word in. When it comes to jobs it ALL about Networking. As the old adage goes: It's not what you know, it's who you know.

 

[EmzOLV]

Since I've been in employment for goodness knows how many years I can only really relate with my first job. I was absolutely desperate to work somewhere awesome, and my mum suggested the same thing - go in and ask.

As I live in the middle of nowhere as such, I did the next best thing - I sent letters to EVERY music instument shop within a 10 mile radius with a copy of my skills (I had no other previous job so it wasn't a complete CV) and out of the 18 I wrote to, only one phoned me saying they had something going.

I went in for my interview which was more of a discussion - ironically we had a car accident on the way there, my mum drove into this rising bollard and as we were 5 yards from the shop it was way embarrassing. Then we sat there having warm drinks and trying to calm down.

Anyway, got the job. Was there for two years every weekend. Most amazing thing ever.

So I definitely think being upfront about it and just asking is good - a lot of shops may be considering extra work but haven't got round to advertising it yet, or don't have the time. My ex got a job in a bar by just walking in and asking for one.

 

[tharglet]

Most large stores will have a preprinted application form you can take home and fill in - and you usually get an initial yes/no response fairly quickly, however they do tend to hang onto good applications if there are no vacancies currently (my main retail job I got a few months after applying as they expanded the store and needed staff).

If it's a small store, they're probably used to random teenagers walking in and asking about part-time work, so I wouldn't feel too bad about it. Worst they'll say is no.

It can be a nerve-wracking thing going in and asking, but try to ask confidently, so you set a good impression, just in case it has any influence. (Large stores this is unlikely, as the apps often go to HR to be processed).

With the application forms themselves, I suggest you have someone proof-read it for you, to ensure you haven't missed anything or made any mistakes. Also make sure you write in your best handwriting so you won't get defaulted to a "no" pile.

 

[Stollos]

I literally walked into the store, asked for the manager, and asked if they were hiring. Had my CV on hand in case they were, if not, thanked them for their time and left. Did this at 4 stores, with 2 yes's and 2 no's. They said they'd get back to me, so now i'm waiting for solid declines/acceptances before I go anywhere else.

Me: "Hi, can I have a word with your manager if they're not busy?"
Counter person: "Sure one sec"
Me:"Hi my name is [insert your name here] and i'm looking for part time work. Are you hiring?"
Manager: "Yes/No/Maybe"

Ok. You got any friends who have jobs? If so, ask them if there are any opening and ask them to put a good word in. When it comes to jobs it ALL about Networking. As the old adage goes: It's not what you know, it's who you know

Also this.

 

[Jonluw]

Hiya escapists.
[sub]I figured you might be able to help me out here[/sub]

Here's the thing: I'm seventeen years old. My mom is telling me I really need to go get a part-time job, and quite frankly, I agree; I should have gotten one a long time ago. Trouble is, I have no idea how you do this. My mom says to just go to a few random stores and ask if they need some part-time help; but I feel sort of weird just going in, asking for a job, when the store does not advertise any open positions. Is this how people normally get part-time jobs? Any help is appreciated.

So basically: Have you had/do you have a part time job? If so, how did you apply for it?

Ok. You got any friends who have jobs? If so, ask them if there are any opening and ask them to put a good word in. When it comes to jobs it ALL about Networking. As the old adage goes: It's not what you know, it's who you know.

I do know this girl who works part-time at a nearby grocery store; but I'd feel really weird going in there asking for a job. Particularly since they already have her as a part-time employee...

 

[Fridge]

Hiya escapists.
[sub]I figured you might be able to help me out here[/sub]

Here's the thing: I'm seventeen years old. My mom is telling me I really need to go get a part-time job, and quite frankly, I agree; I should have gotten one a long time ago. Trouble is, I have no idea how you do this. My mom says to just go to a few random stores and ask if they need some part-time help; but I feel sort of weird just going in, asking for a job, when the store does not advertise any open positions. Is this how people normally get part-time jobs? Any help is appreciated.

So basically: Have you had/do you have a part time job? If so, how did you apply for it?

A good trick is to write a speculative letter to them, it looks professional and shows you don't want to waste their time. Also any response you get will allow you to keep track of who you've tried.

 

[Kurokami]

Hiya escapists.
[sub]I figured you might be able to help me out here[/sub]

Here's the thing: I'm seventeen years old. My mom is telling me I really need to go get a part-time job, and quite frankly, I agree; I should have gotten one a long time ago. Trouble is, I have no idea how you do this. My mom says to just go to a few random stores and ask if they need some part-time help; but I feel sort of weird just going in, asking for a job, when the store does not advertise any open positions. Is this how people normally get part-time jobs? Any help is appreciated.

So basically: Have you had/do you have a part time job? If so, how did you apply for it?

Just make a CV and hand it in, ask them if they have any positions available, its nearly Christmas so you should be in luck.

 

[Jonluw]

A good trick is to write a speculative letter to them, it looks professional and shows you don't want to waste their time. Also any response you get will allow you to keep track of who you've tried.

I don't really know what a speculative letter is, but from what I gather from Google, I think that might be a bit above my level. I'm just looking for a part-time job at a grocery store or something like that.

Just make a CV and hand it in, ask them if they have any positions available, its nearly Christmas so you should be in luck.

Since it's nearly christmas, I suppose I might have better luck in a videogame store or something similiar than in a grocery store...

I do have a CV, I'm afraid it's shit though. I keep wondering whether I should include my basic Ju jitsu training and musical skills in it...

Incidentally, and completely unrelated: I am actually trying to watch Kurokami these days.

 

[Keava]

My first part time job i got by asking around. My second i got from reading the Job section in local newspaper, third was from internet job advertisements. Plenty of ways to find a place that seeks new workers. You just need to want to do it.

 

[Kejui]

There's absolutely nothing "weird" about walking into a store and asking if they have any open positions.

Actually, this is the smartest thing to do. Jobs, especially those that are frequently the most part-time oriented (e.g., McDonald's, Wal-mart, the local convenience store, clothing places, etc.) are the ones that have higher employee turnover rates. If a person just quit, they may not have had time, or the will, to put up a sign, yet. Then, you get in there, ask, and they say, "Why, yes, we have a position available."

This is exactly how I got a part-time job at RadioShack some years ago.

My cousin also got me a temporary job at a grocery store when I was home from college over summer break.

So, nothing should stop you from just asking or being referred...just go do it.

 

[Ramin 123]

Hiya escapists.
[sub]I figured you might be able to help me out here[/sub]

Here's the thing: I'm seventeen years old. My mom is telling me I really need to go get a part-time job, and quite frankly, I agree; I should have gotten one a long time ago. Trouble is, I have no idea how you do this. My mom says to just go to a few random stores and ask if they need some part-time help; but I feel sort of weird just going in, asking for a job, when the store does not advertise any open positions. Is this how people normally get part-time jobs? Any help is appreciated.

So basically: Have you had/do you have a part time job? If so, how did you apply for it?

Ok. You got any friends who have jobs? If so, ask them if there are any opening and ask them to put a good word in. When it comes to jobs it ALL about Networking. As the old adage goes: It's not what you know, it's who you know.

I do know this girl who works part-time at a nearby grocery store; but I'd feel really weird going in there asking for a job. Particularly since they already have her as a part-time employee...

No offence but just grow a pair and ask them...jeez they're not going to do you in for inquiring about a job.

 

[Jonluw]

Hiya escapists.
[sub]I figured you might be able to help me out here[/sub]

Here's the thing: I'm seventeen years old. My mom is telling me I really need to go get a part-time job, and quite frankly, I agree; I should have gotten one a long time ago. Trouble is, I have no idea how you do this. My mom says to just go to a few random stores and ask if they need some part-time help; but I feel sort of weird just going in, asking for a job, when the store does not advertise any open positions. Is this how people normally get part-time jobs? Any help is appreciated.

So basically: Have you had/do you have a part time job? If so, how did you apply for it?

Ok. You got any friends who have jobs? If so, ask them if there are any opening and ask them to put a good word in. When it comes to jobs it ALL about Networking. As the old adage goes: It's not what you know, it's who you know.

I do know this girl who works part-time at a nearby grocery store; but I'd feel really weird going in there asking for a job. Particularly since they already have her as a part-time employee...

No offence but just grow a pair and ask them...jeez they're not going to do you in for inquiring about a job.

I know I ought to. I guess I'd just feel really awkward hanging around this girl at work. I'll try other places before that store, that's for sure.

 

[Sampsa]

I don't know if my job at grocery store counts as part-time job since my working hours are minumun of 15 hours per week, but I've done 40 hours in a week.

I got this job by spotting an ad in Internet and filled out from and got called into a preinterviw with 600 other (big market chain). The one shop manager called me, we had nice chat in backrooms of the store and I got the job.

My previous job as a rental worker came to me also via Internet. Before that I was doing summer jobs in places I had connections. Writing a CV is a must (tells about your motivation), but according to my experience your work history goes over your grades.

Strolling around and asking is fine but also use Internet. Here in Finland we have many headhunter / recruitment firms that do the hiring for other firms mostly via Internet.

 

[Cxizent]

Hiya escapists.
[sub]I figured you might be able to help me out here[/sub]

Here's the thing: I'm seventeen years old. My mom is telling me I really need to go get a part-time job, and quite frankly, I agree; I should have gotten one a long time ago. Trouble is, I have no idea how you do this. My mom says to just go to a few random stores and ask if they need some part-time help; but I feel sort of weird just going in, asking for a job, when the store does not advertise any open positions. Is this how people normally get part-time jobs? Any help is appreciated.

So basically: Have you had/do you have a part time job? If so, how did you apply for it?

Ok. You got any friends who have jobs? If so, ask them if there are any opening and ask them to put a good word in. When it comes to jobs it ALL about Networking. As the old adage goes: It's not what you know, it's who you know.

This guy's got it.

Also, plaster local stores/fast food joints/etc with your resume. Remember with your resume, quality is all very well and good, but quantity is very important too. Print off fifty copies and leave one with every possible place in your local mall/city centre/etc.

 

[Kurokami]

Just make a CV and hand it in, ask them if they have any positions available, its nearly Christmas so you should be in luck.

Since it's nearly christmas, I suppose I might have better luck in a videogame store or something similiar than in a grocery store...

I do have a CV, I'm afraid it's shit though. I keep wondering whether I should include my basic Ju jitsu training and musical skills in it...

Incidentally, and completely unrelated: I am actually trying to watch Kurokami these days.

Yeah, include it. Shows you can follow instructions, work dilligently and can operate in a social environment, blah blah blah.

Worst case scenario work at a McDonalds or something, its not great but its something to put on your CV for work experience next time you go job searching.

And sorry to dissapoint, I actually came up with this name before I heard about the anime, I've no real idea what its about but I plan on watching it too sometime. =]

 

[runnernda]

That's exactly what you do. Go in and ask if they have any openings. Even if they don't, ask for an application and fill it out. A lot of places keep applications on file, and they may have an opening in the future.

Good luck!

 

[The Salty Vulcan]

Hiya escapists.
[sub]I figured you might be able to help me out here[/sub]

Here's the thing: I'm seventeen years old. My mom is telling me I really need to go get a part-time job, and quite frankly, I agree; I should have gotten one a long time ago. Trouble is, I have no idea how you do this. My mom says to just go to a few random stores and ask if they need some part-time help; but I feel sort of weird just going in, asking for a job, when the store does not advertise any open positions. Is this how people normally get part-time jobs? Any help is appreciated.

So basically: Have you had/do you have a part time job? If so, how did you apply for it?

Ok. You got any friends who have jobs? If so, ask them if there are any opening and ask them to put a good word in. When it comes to jobs it ALL about Networking. As the old adage goes: It's not what you know, it's who you know.

I do know this girl who works part-time at a nearby grocery store; but I'd feel really weird going in there asking for a job. Particularly since they already have her as a part-time employee...

Even so, the best thing to do would be to ask. Think of it from the employers perspective: You have no real experience so whose going to say that your a good choice? At least with a good word, he can get some idea of what your like and if it's from a trusted employee thats only going to help your case.