HOW TO FIND THE RIGHT JOB AND GET IT

Susan Jenssen is a job counsellor at Birmingham High School. She helps students decide what they want to study at university or to find a job when they finish school. Michael Brass interviewed Susan and asked her to share some advice with the readers.

Q: Hi Susan. You see a lot of students every year. What is your most important advice for them?

A: I believe that the most important thing is doing what you like. They need to look for the right job. People spend most of their time at work during the day, so it’s important that you like what you do and also the place you work at.

Q: What should people keep in mind when looking for a job?

A: They should think of their interests and skills. You may think that being a teacher is a great thing, but if you are not patient enough and if you don’t want to work indoors all the time, that won’t be the right job for you. Write down your skills and interests. Think about different jobs that may suit you. Talk to people who do those jobs. Visit their workplaces. You must have a very clear idea before you make a decision.

Q: Where should young people look for jobs?

A: There are many different ways, but I think the easiest is the internet. Every company has its own website and they can apply through those websites.

Q: They need to have their CVs ready, right?

A: Yes, certainly. The CV should include education, skills and work experience.

Q: And what about the interview?

A: That is the most difficult part. Most employers make their decisions in the first five minutes of the interview. It is very important to be there on time and look good. I don’t mean that they should put on a lot of make up or perfume but nobody would like to work with someone who isn’t prepared for an interview. They should try to stay relaxed because when you are too nervous, you may not be able to express your ideas or feelings clearly. They should try to convince the employer that they are the right person for that job.