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As a result the content on this site may not reflect current Government policy.
All statutory guidance and legislation published on this site continues to reflect the current legal position unless indicated otherwise.
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Plan your job search

Finding a job is a job in itself. It's especially hard when unemployment is high. Get a head start by using these tips to help you plan your job search.

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Put some effort into looking for a job

If you need some practical help on how to look for a job, speak to your Connexions personal adviser. You should also:

  • use your personal networks - ask family, friends, neighbours etc.
  • look in local shop windows
  • look at the vacancies noticeboard in school or college
  • read the job pages in local newspapers and magazines
  • visit the websites of companies that you'd like to work for to see if they have any vacancies
  • use job search websites
  • make copies of your CV to give to local businesses when you're asking about jobs
  • write to companies that you'd like to work for asking if they have any opportunities available.

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Think about what makes you employable

Make sure that when you find something to apply for you can state clearly what you can offer an employer and that you can prove what you say. Use this website to check your employability and get tips on how to improve your chances of success in applications and interviews.

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Do the right kind of research

Find out as much as you can about what a company does, what an employer wants and what the job involves. Then work out how your interests, abilities, experiences and achievements match them. Remember that:

  • even if you're 16, you can't start a full-time job until after the last Friday in June in Year 11 - this is the official school leaving date and you can't work full time before then
  • different jobs pay different rates but, unless you're an Apprentice aged 19 or under, you're entitled to the national minimum wage for your age group -­ find out more at www.hmrc.gov.uk/nmw opens new window
  • job adverts quote gross pay - this is what you get before deductions. Your take home pay may be less as your employer may deduct National Insurance, income tax and voluntary contributions such as pension payments
  • the law stops you from doing some jobs - for example, you can't work in a bar during opening time unless the work you do is part of an approved training scheme. Under 18s can't do some jobs for health and safety reasons. Speak to your Connexions personal adviser to find out more
  • if you can't find a job you can use the September Guarantee. This entitles you to an offer of post-16 learning that meets your needs, and you'll get help to choose well.
Get more tips and information from the 'Work and careers opens new window' section of Directgov, the 'Work opens new window' section of Connexions Direct, and the 'Work and study opens new window' section of TheSite.org.

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What next?

Sort out what's important to you.

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