Teen's first job offers vital learning

Eye contact, clear speech and body language are very important when applying for a job. Photo / David White

Employment search is challenging and teenagers face even tougher hurdles; fewer opportunities, no experience, lack of interview exposure, conflicting time commitments ...

But in addition to the financial motivation, the future benefits of work experience make the first step into the workforce worthwhile.

So what opportunities exist for teenagers? How can they acquire experience? What strategies can improve their chance of securing a first job? And how can young people enhance their value to employers?

Everyone has to start somewhere. Many advertised positions require experience, which is frustrating for teens still at school. But there are suitable entry level roles to target, many of which offer fantastic potential. Casual employment can extend into permanent career options. It is also an important introduction to the workforce, with early work experience adding to a young person's "offering", when applying for future opportunities.

Progressive Enterprises prides itself on providing development and career opportunities. Gillian Davie, human resources manager, points out that many of the company's senior executives first joined the company as part-time students.

Another business that encourages applications from young job-seekers is fashion retailer Cotton On.

National recruitment consultant Cindie Jacobs sees retail as a very realistic option for a first job. Casual employees gain valuable experience towards either internal progression, or as a foundation for future careers in other industries. Cotton On stores are all about atmosphere, with a positive attitude more important than previous experience, explains Jacobs.

"We love those 'newbies', because we can train them in the way we do things; they haven't picked up any bad habits. We want them to apply!"

What is the best approach?

Searching internet sites for suitable advertisements can be disheartening. An alternative strategy is to target industries of interest and identify businesses which are likely to offer part-time employment. Then research the preferred application method. Although some businesses prefer online applications, there is value in the personal approach.

Teenagers can start their career with Progressive by going into their local Countdown, Foodtown or Woolworths store, says Davie.

"The store will be able to advise whether there are any suitable vacancies right now."

Cotton On invites applications via its website, but Jacobs also encourages applicants to introduce themselves.

"Front up to a store - even if there are no immediate vacancies, we are opening new stores and always looking for staff."

The process can take time, as Laura Patterson, 16, discovered. It took four months from her online application to Cotton On to her invitation to a group interview. A further month passed before she heard she had been accepted for induction.

Jacobs acknowledges and regrets the frustration of such delays due, in part, to the numbers of new stores.

Patterson has enjoyed increasing responsibilities in her role with Cotton On and values the training she has received. She recommends to others that they be confident in themselves and if they want something, "get out and make it happen".

Teenager Logan Birch took the proactive approach in responding to an advertisement for a pizza chef. His attitude was realistic - knowing he lacked the experience to be a chef, his motivation stemmed from a flair inspired by his family's home-built pizza oven. In addition to his online application, he visited the restaurant.

His positive attitude impressed Prego's manager, Krishna Botica, who remembers Birch fronting up, confident and well presented.

"We hire on attitude and it is very helpful to meet the person. For positivity, Logan rated 10 out of 10."

Botica says "entry-level applicants need to be adaptable, have realistic expectations and be prepared to start at the bottom. However, for a young person interested in the hospitality industry, Prego offers good training systems and structure, with the opportunity to achieve unit standards to progress their career."

One month down the track the outcome is positive for Birch - a kitchen-hand opportunity, with the possibility of apprenticeship.

What do employers look for?

For entry-level roles, Progressive evaluates personal qualities, not necessarily previous experience. "We look for evidence that a candidate is committed, trustworthy, responsible and reliable," says Davie.

Stressing the importance of punctuality, presentation and a well-presented application, Davie says stand-out candidates demonstrate a positive attitude, confident communication skills and personal motivation to achieve their goals.

"They will have a record of reliability and be able to manage their time and commitments effectively."

Jacobs reminds applicants that Cotton On views all casual staff as potential managers. "We are interested in character, demonstrated through participation and contribution during our group interviews and through hobbies, attitude and lifestyle." Applicants must be able to provide reliable references, which could be from teachers, sports coaches or family friends.

Davie and Jacobs both stress flexibility as being to an applicant's advantage. Store managers need casuals who can be slotted into the roster. Jacobs gives preference to the student who says "I am happy for any hours" over the one whose shifts need to fit around other activities.

Future potential

Combined with qualifications and extra-curricular achievements, a proven work ethic provides a competitive edge in the market. Davie feels frustrated when she hears people say they've only worked in a supermarket, or only at McDonald's. Employers recognise the solid grounding in customer service gained in retail or hospitality and such experience adds value to future applications. Although your first job might be just a few hours a week, Davie recommends you take it seriously and give it your all. "You don't know where it might lead."

STRATEGIES FOR SUCCESS

* Identify your priorities.
* Be open to opportunities.
* Ensure your CV promotes your achievements.
* Demonstrate flexibility and enthusiasm.
* Be punctual.
* Explain why you want the job.
* Remember eye contact, clear speech, and body language.
* Express confidence in what you offer.
* Provide details of suitable referees.
* Follow up if you don't hear back.