Jobs

Top 10 Tips
1. It may not always matter what subjects you're studying but your grades may be important. Some advanced level jobs ask for just as high grades as a university course.
2. Be flexible: be prepared to start off at junior level and don't rule out jobs that don't ask for A Level (or equivalent) qualifications. If the training is good, it could lead on to better things.
3. You often need GCSE A* - C Maths, English and sometimes Science. If you have equivalent qualifications check with the employer.
4. Look at Apprenticeships/Advanced Apprenticeships; these are jobs that pay a wage and they aren't just for 16 year olds. They can also lead to higher education. The way they are funded can change once you're about 19 so check with the company. Look out for vacancies on Apprenticeships.
5. Your skills will be just as important as your qualifications.
6. Prepare a CV but don't use the same one every time.
7. Lots of vacancies ask for previous experience. Talk about part-time jobs, work experience from school or volunteering.
8. Always talk about skills such as IT, communication, team work - these are important in most jobs.
9. Don't restrict yourself to big employers, most local companies are small or medium sized.
10. Show that you're willing to do further study - this will be important if you want to get on.

If you're worried about finding work, remember 2 things:
1. Even when times are hard, some employers will need to recruit - don't give up.
2. When there are fewer jobs around it's the people with qualifications and skills who cope best.

Where and ho to look:
• Job websites. Just search "jobs" into google (or look at the websites below) and you'll see there are many job finders out there where companies list their vacancies.
• If you're still in school or college, check the Connexions notice board for jobs.
• Use any family or friends who work; they may hear about vacancies before they're advertised.
• Don't wait for jobs to be advertised; send out speculative letters (asking about vacancies).

Newspapers
Your local paper usually has a job vacancies section.

Internet
These sites offer vacancies at all levels around the country:
• Jobs
• Monster Jobs
• Direct.Gov
• Fish 4 Jobs
• Job Centre Plus

Many organisations advertise vacancies on their own website e.g.
• Your local city council.
• NHS
• Local shopping malls.
• Universities.
• Supermarkets e.g. ASDA, Tesco.
• Shops e.g. FootLocker, New Look.