Helping your teenager with the job application process

Most major chain stores and franchises have an online application process where your teenager can register interest or search and apply for a specific job. Even if there aren’t any jobs currently available they can still apply and it will be kept on file for anywhere from 6 weeks to 3 months depending on the company.

The steps generally involve filling in an online form with personal details, uploading a resume, answering questions about themselves and multiple choice situational questions. A couple of employers also include a career/personal preferences assessment too. All of this can take some time so allow about half an hour per online application plus preparation time for resume.

Having an up to date email address that is checked regularly is really important and this is often the first way that the employer will contact new applicants and advise of next steps or outcomes.

For those employers that do not have an online process or application form, dropping in a resume face to face is a great way to go. A 2-3 page resume is about right, set out well and on nice paper – or maybe even help your teenager choose paper with borders or decorations that reflects their personality.

Dress and personal presentation, as well as a clear voice, smile and eye contact are all important for the task of handing out the resume. Think about the time of the day, how busy the store or employer might be and what would be a convenient time to drop in.

Your teenager needs to be ready for the next step – the email, call or SMS text to advise of an interview – make sure their voice mail message is appropriate and clear.

For the interview, again, personal presentation is important, they need to take a copy of their resume and ask what other information the employer would like to see.

Evidence of their skills, talents and experiences can be captured online and added to using electronic tools such as Skillsbook for a skills profile and Mahara which is an e-portfolio where examples of work, projects, school results and other information can be stored.