Learn Valuable Skills and Say "Thanks" to the Economy
There are some really good things coming out of the economic crisis in a "making lemonade out of lemons" sense. People are changing their behavior in way that will be good for everyone in the long run… if the new behaviors are sustained.
For example, households are saving more and paying off debt, rather than trying to keep up with their neighbors in consumption. While this change of behavior doesn't help revive the economy, once it does recover, families and individuals will be more financially secure, and possibly happier when finding themselves out of the consumption war.
This is also an opportunity for individuals to focus on their employment skills. With limited jobs, people with little or no experience in the job market will be wise to do everything they can to find a job.
Here are some skills for young people to practice and learn when job hunting. The better they acquire these skills, the better their chances for success:
• Presentation Skills
How do you look? It doesn't matter what the business is; even if you are only there to get an application, you must be in interview-worthy clothes. There is an excellent chance that the person who may be conducting the interview will either see you or hear about you. You must make a good impression any time a prospective employer sees or talks to you. That includes being well groomed.
• Communication Skills
How do you speak? Are you a mumbler? Practice answering common interview questions, such as "tell me about yourself" and "why do you want to work here." You must practice how you are going to answer the interview questions, always being honest with your answers. For some good, quick tips on answering common interview questions, here are some excellent, short videos available to watch.
Maintaining eye contact, firm handshakes and good posture are also ways people communicate subtle messages to people who are first meeting them.
This is the time to reach out to others. Networking is the number one way people find job leads. Make sure your family, friends, neighbors and teachers know you are looking for work. Leave no stone unturned. Be polite and appreciative for any leads they may provide. Write a thank you note when someone does help.
• Research and Preparation Skills
When you hear of a job opening, research the company before you apply. And most certainly, know what a business is about before you interview with them. You can research businesses by looking on the Internet or asking people in your community.
Get a map and mark geographic areas to cover while looking for a job. Focus on one small section each day or week. This will help you stay organized in your job search as well as focus your attention on the areas where you have access to transportation to and from work.
Looking for a good job in this market might be a little like searching for buried treasure. You need a good map. These basic skills will help point you in the right direction... and serve you well for the rest of your career. And what could be sweeter than that?
There are more articles to help guide people during the job search. Also, the Career Kids' website offers a full line of job search material on their website. This includes the DVD series: Get a Job! A Video Guide for Teens.
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