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Job Seekers
Work. Having a job can make a real difference to your life.
So you’re keen to get a job and earn some money. It’s not always that easy, especially if you don’t have many skills and no experience. The knowledge and qualifications you get while you’re at school or in tertiary education give you a much better chance. Start by working out what job you want and then find out how to make it happen.
Work out the right job for you.
If you’re not sure what kind of job you’d like check out Pathfinder. It’s a free online tool you can use to work out what jobs might suit you. The KiwiCareers website has information on different jobs and industries, including more than 650 different job outlines. You can find out about the job skills and qualifications you’ll need as well as what you can expect to get paid.
Go to the KiwiCareers Pathfinder Tool.
Get free help and advice.
Once you’ve got a few options in mind it’s a good idea to talk to someone. They can help you find out what skills you have now and what skills and qualifications you need to get the kind of job you want. You can also visit a CareerCentre – there are 16 across NZ. They can give you lots of free advice and information as well as help you prepare a CV, search for a job and learn how to go for a job interview. Call 0800 109 901 to find out where the CareerCentre closest to you is.
If you live in Kawakawa, Kaitaia, Whangarei, Waitakere, Manukau, Hamilton, Rotorua, Gisborne, New Plymouth, Porirua, Hutt City or Upper Hutt you can get help and advice from your local Youth Transition Services. They can help you make a plan to get into a job or training when you leave school.
What about getting paid to learn?
You’re not dreaming - it’s true. If you’re 16 to 21 years old you can train as a Modern Apprentice and get qualified on the job. It’s a great way to start out working because from day one you’ll get paid and learn a trade. There are more than 30 different industries and jobs to choose from, like boat building, hospitality, tourism, horticulture and retail. And right now there are more than 7000 people doing it.
Find out more at the Modern Apprenticeships website.
Get some skills and experience.
The more skills and experience you have the more jobs you’ll have to choose from. If you’re a student in Year 11, 12 or 13 and your school is part of the Gateway programme, you might be able to get a job in your community while you’re still at school. It’s a great way to try working and get some experience before you decide to leave.
If you’re over 18, already left school, and you’re still looking for a job, call up your local Work and Income office. They can help you find a job or start training for one. Ask around your local community - some employers will be happy for you to help out for free to get some work experience. They may even offer you a job.
Did you know?
If you’re 16 or 17 you must be paid at least $8.20 an hour. Are you being paid enough and do you know your rights?
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If you love clothes you’ll want to know how Diane Andrell got a great job in fashion before she even left school.