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So you want to get a job and you’ve found one that you’re interested in. The first step is usually to complete an application form and send in a CV. Once an employer has everyone’s applications and CVs they’ll look at them and choose who they want to interview. Sometimes there are so many applications that an employer can only spend a few seconds or minutes looking at them. To make it through yours really needs to stand out. Here are some tips to make the right first impression and get that job.

Your CV or résumé is really important.

Think of it like an advertisement about you. It tells people who you are, what you can do and why you’re right for a job. It’s your number one sales tool so it’s worth spending some time on.

Keep your CV simple and easy to read.

Type it and try to keep it to 1-3 pages long. Use headings and bullet points. List your certificates and qualifications but you don’t need to include copies. Don’t get carried away with fancy fonts and paper. An employer might want to make copies for other people. Just print it on clean white paper and staple the corner.

Include the important stuff.

Your CV should include your contact details, personal qualities, education and qualifications, your skills and achievements, your work experience and the details of two or three referees. They’re people like past employers and people in the community that can tell an employer more about you and your skills. Remember to ask them if it’s okay before you put their name down.

Don’t worry if you haven’t got any work experience.

Lots of young people don’t have any work experience and we all have to get that first job. Think about what you do have. Communication, food handling, computer, teamwork and customer service skills can all be learnt from activities you might be involved in. Do you do voluntary work or help out at your Marae? Have you fundraised for a team trip or designed invitations to a party or event? Are you involved in clubs or sports at school? It’s these kinds of things that can show your employer you have what they need.

Don’t forget the cover letter.

If you’re applying for a job with a CV it’s usually a good idea to write a one-page cover letter. Write a different one for each job and use your letter to convince them that you’re the right person and you can do the job. It’s your first chance to tell an employer why they should hire you. Don’t forget to say what job you’re applying for, include your contact details and thank them for looking at your application.

Make sure there are no mistakes.

Check everything and ask someone else to take a look as well. They can tell you if it’s clear and easy to understand. Spelling mistakes and typos don’t make a great impression.

Be patient and stick at it.

If you don’t hear back from someone or you don’t get an interview don’t worry. Just stick at it. There are lots of people looking for jobs and they might have more skills and experience than you. The right job will come along.

One last tip…

Don’t just look in the newspaper for jobs. You can look online at sites like www.seek.co.nz and www.workandincome.govt.nz, put up a notice in your community or approach employers and businesses yourself and ask them if they have any jobs going. One of the best ways to find a job is to tell the people you know, like your friends and family, that you’re looking and ask them if they know of anything. Lots of people find jobs that way.

If you want to know more Career Services has lots of information and tips on writing a CV, applying for jobs and getting ready for a job interview. Check out their helpful 'Do it now' topics.

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