Job Search Tips for Youth & Young Adults

By Paige Marley, Employment and Training Consultant, Youth and Young Adults

Looking for a job can be tough, especially if you don’t know where to start! The following tips can be used to make your job search a little bit easier.

Prepare Before you Search

Make sure you have a résumé that’s up to date and includes any work experience you may have. This can include things like paid and unpaid work experience, volunteering, internships, apprenticeships, special projects, and/or relevant coursework. For an added bonus, try to incorporate key words and phrases directly from the job posting that you’re applying to. You should also have at least 3 references available to include in the job application, should it ask. Do not put your reference information on your résumé, if you need to have it written down, create a separate reference page.

Begin your Search

Knowing where to look for jobs is key. You can use job search engines, company websites, job fairs, social media, networking opportunities, and your community connections to find job openings. Some examples of job search engines are Indeed, LinkedIn, Monster Jobs, Snagajob, and more. While applying for jobs on these search engines is a fine option, always check to see if the position is posted directly on the company’s website first and apply there if you can. You can also check your local county government job board, Maryland Workforce Exchange, and the Frederick County Workforce Services website for job postings. You can find job fair information on our website, through social media, and posted on physical job boards around the community (such as in libraries, schools, and the workforce services office).

Start to Apply

When applying for jobs, make sure you read the application prompts and questions thoroughly, and ensure you’re completing everything accurately and truthfully. In addition to completing the job application, always upload your résumé if there’s an option to. Consider completing and uploading a cover letter as well, especially if it’s for a position you have a special interest in. And lastly, keep applying! There’s no harm in applying and interviewing for multiple jobs, it’s important to find a position that’s a good fit for your values and skills.

Hopefully these tips can help you in some way! If you’d like any additional support in your job search journey, please visit our website or come into our office – we have tons of resources and are here to help.