Chapter 21: Getting a Job

Qualifying for a Job

As you search for a job, you will learn more about the various qualities employers look for in employees.
Businesses and nonprofits provide different products and services.
They need all kinds of workers to perform different tasks.

Different jobs require different qualifications, or the education, skills, and work experience needed to do a particular job.
Employability skills are basic skills that you need to get a job, keep a job, and do well at a job.
For most jobs, employers want applicants to have at least a high school diploma.
Almost all jobs require basic skills like reading, doing basic math, communicating, and having basic computer skills.
Many employers want workers who have some work experience.
Skills are important, but employers also seek certain character traits in potential employees.
- Employers value hard work, honesty, dependability, and an ability to finish tasks.
Body language often says more about you than spoken or written words.
- Your body language, or nonverbal communication, includes your posture, eye contact, facial expressions, and gestures.
Employers might check school records to see how a potential employee performs
Extracurricular activities are activities that you do besides schoolwork.
- They indicate extra effort and interests on your part, as well as possible leadership ability.

One of the first steps in finding a job is to prepare a résumé.
- A résumé is a summary of your skills, education, and work experience.
- A chronological résumé lists your achievements in time order.
  - It has five parts: the heading, the job objective, a skills summary, work experience, and education.
  - The job objective is a statement about the type of job you want.

You should always include a cover letter with your résumé.
- A cover letter tells the employer about you and why you are applying for a job.
A job application form is a printed sheet with blank spaces that you fill in to apply for a job.
When you apply for a job, you might be asked to take a test to see if you have the required skills.

After you have found a job opening, filled out an application, and sent your cover letter and résumé, an employer may call you for an interview.
A job interview is a formal face-to-face discussion between an employer and a potential employee.
- Before your interview you should research the job, be on time, wear appropriate clothes, ask questions, and ask about the next steps.
- Follow up after the interview by calling or writing a letter thanking the interviewer.
- In the letter, restate your objective and describe how your skills and experiences are well-suited to the job.