Careers and Jobs

Getting your first job

Are you ready to start working? If you’re keen to pick up your first job, we’ve got some tips and advice you might find handy.

Where to find work

Gone are the days of having to look through the newspaper – now there are tons of places you can find jobs.

Most popular is by searching online. There are handy sites like Seek and Indeed that lots of employers will list job openings with.

Lots of big employers (think places like McDonalds, Kmart, Woolworths, etc.) take applications directly through their websites. If you’re unsure, search them up and see what you can find, or talk to someone at your local store.

You might like to try asking your parents if they know anyone who might be looking for work. Word of mouth is still a great way to get your name out there.

And don’t forget the good old-fashioned way: see if your favourite store has a ‘help wanted’ sign in the window, or just head in and ask. Even if they don’t have any availabilities right now, they might keep your resume on file for future opportunities.

The interview

You applied, and now you’re up for an interview – score! But if it’s your first time, you might be a bit nervous.

Don’t panic. Just take a look at our top 5 interview tips.

Before your first day

The interview was a success, and you’ve got the job! Hooray!

Make sure you ask any important questions you need to before your first day. This could be things like:

• Where do I need to be on my first day?
• What time am I expected to start?
• Do I need to wear a uniform?

If you’re confused about anything, don’t be afraid to ask. It’s better to get clarification than to assume.

There are a few other important things you’ll need to get in order too, like:

• Your Tax File Number
• Bank account details for your pay
• Given any thought to superannuation?

Make sure you get enough sleep and eat well the night before so you’re ready to go for your first day.

The big day

It’s finally here – your first day at your brand-new job. It can be slightly nerve-wracking, but it’s also incredibly exciting at the same time. Here are some of our tips for your first day.

Relax! Nobody expects you to know everything straight away. Don’t pressure yourself to be perfect, and if you make mistakes, it’s okay – as long as you learn from them.

Ask lots of questions. Related to the above, there will probably be a lot you need to learn for your new job. So people are going to expect you to have questions, and be happy to answer them.

Be on time. Want a sure-fire way to make a good impression first thing? Show up on time – in fact, better even if you’re early!