Work experience and finding a job
One of the biggest barriers for young people in getting a job is a lack of work experience. Many employers want to see some sort of work experience on your CV. Work experience can help you develop the key “employability skills” that employers look for.
What employers are looking for
Generally employers look for candidates with great communication skills, team work, problem solving and a strong work ethic as well as the skills you learn in education like English and maths, IT and subject specific – business, finance, marketing etc. To get ahead you need to think about how you can develop these skills and most importantly how you can show an employer you have what they are looking for.
Think about the things you already do – sports, drama, clubs, hobbies, part-time work what do you already do that helps you develop the skills for work.
Being in a sports team is a great way to show that you have team work skills, communication skills and that you can commit to things. What other skills do you have?
Hone your employability and job hunting skills. Barclays LifeSkills have a great range of interactive games and activities that will help you better understand how to be successful when applying for jobs and what employers are looking for. The CV help is a really good tool to make sure your CV is the best it can be.
Work experience
Find some form of work experience, you can do this from school, college or university or by yourself. Talk to people you know and ask them if they know anyone who can help you. Any type of work experience is useful even babysitting can build up your employability skills, such as timekeeping, responsibility and people skills. A part-time job as a waitress or a non-paid work experience placement can all help build your skills and CV.
Volunteering
If it’s difficult for you to find work experience consider volunteering. There are thousands of organisations you can volunteer with, you might be able to volunteer locally, nationally or internationally. It's great experience and can sometimes be a bit more flexible than a job, plus you can look for an opportunity that will help you prepare for the career you want.
Looking for work
Looking for work or even when you are in work can be a challenge, for many young people it really is a difficult step. Youth Employment UK is an organisation that is trying to tackle youth unemployment, its young members share their stories, tips and experiences and even use these to work with government and employers to tackle youth unemployment. Join them today and tap into their networks and expertise.
Having the right attitude and knowing how to get the help when you need it makes all the difference. Knowledge really is king, if you are savvy you will learn as much as you can about the world of work, develop a range of experiences and always be ready to take on opportunities. Keep yourself informed and inspired.