Getting a Job

Getting a first job has never been more difficult. School leavers and graduates face strong competition for every role. They need to be able to promote themselves effectively, to navigate their way through the labyrinth of online forms and tests, and to make good contacts with people who can inform and support them with their job search.

All job applicants need to produce a good curriculum vitae (CV), which provides them with an opportunity to sell themselves to employers. They also need to prepare themselves for filling in online application forms, taking online tests and going for face-to-face interviews. None of this comes naturally or easily and all school-leavers will need some form of help to enter the world of work.

The big message from employers is ‘get ahead of the game’. Apply early and make sure someone reads your application as a ‘critical friend’ to iron out any errors or highlight any gaps. Getting work experience in some form or other is a useful starting point. Schools can link to the Education and Employer Taskforce website for advice, contacts and useful tips on developing good quality work experience programmes and links with Speakers for Schools.