I'm having trouble finding a job, is there something I'm doing wrong?

Question

I'm 19 going on 20, I've only had two paying jobs; one which was a summer work program for youth, and the other working at a grocery store where I quit because of abuse. I fill out applications just about everywhere I see help wanted. I'm well groomed, polite, and punctual to interviews but I never get a second interview. In interviews I know I mess up with certain questions ("How would others describe you"?, "Give an instance where you've given exemplary customer service.", etc.), I just don't know how to answer these questions because I haven't had an experience that pertains to that or I can't speak for my friends. I also have trouble with references, I keep to myself, don't make many friends, and because I've only had two jobs (one where I can't expect a good reference) I don't have any co-workers or supervisors to vouch for me.

Answer 1

I think you DEFINITELY need to start doing some volunteer work in an area that interests you. This way you can get some work experience under your belt AND get a good letter of reference from someone. Employers understand that young people can't have had a lot of work experience, but volunteering is something that anyone can do.

If you are in school, visit the Career Services department and ask for a few lessons about interviewing techniques. Otherwise, practice some simulated interviews with a friend or family member that you trust. Tell that person to ask you challenging (but realistic) questions and practice answering them out loud. Once you've heard yourself say the words a few times it will be a lot more natural in an interview.

If you're really stuck, imagine the job interview as theatre and you're just playing the role of the confident, mature, intelligent potential employee for fifteen minutes. Act the way you imagine a professional would act. When you walk out the door you can worry all you want, but "on stage" during the interview you should be in character. Watch an episode of Law & Order before you go and imagine you're one of the lawyers going into court to present the case of why you should be hired!

PS - When you go fill out an application, make sure you bring a copy of your resume so you can submit them together. Also, bring your own pen and a clipboard so that you can sit or stand anywhere and fill out the paperwork on the spot. My old boss was really anal about this kind of thing, and if the candidate had to borrow a pen then the application went straight to the trash!

Answer 2

If you're interested in an office job at all, I suggest going through a temp agency. I'm horrible at interviews too, but working temp allowed me to get some experience and let the company see what a good worker I was so that they hired me.

Answer 3

Just be yourself

I been ask these questions once on an application before
1. what do you want to gain form working in this establishment?

2. Do you get mad easliy / can you take critism from people?

3. What / why are you intrested in this job?

Answer 4

1) go into an interview with confidence
2) make sure you have a resume and note your skills- even scrapbooking, CPR certifications, YMCA member- these things show you can be social
3) use former teachers as references, or family friends
4) don't limit yourself to certain jobs- try something new!

Good Luck!

Answer 5

The problem is that the economy is crappy right now. There are many people out of work so employeers can be picky about who they hire and who they do not.

Answer 6

Are you still in contact with any of your high school teachers? They always make a good reference!

Answer 7

know how you're going to answer the questions you'll possibly be asked before you go into the interview--practice what you're going to say
you can use your teachers or family friends as references

Answer 8

Work is also about beign sociable and being able to work with others. If you can't do that, it's very hard to find jobs that don't require interaction.