Get Ready Centre

Applying for jobs can be a daunting task, especially if you’re doing it for the first time. This page is designed to help you navigate the application process with ease!

How to write a resume

A resume is a one page document that summarises your education, experience, skills, and achievements. It’s the first impression you make on potential employers, so it’s important to make it clear, concise, and relevant.

Contact Information

Start by writing your full name, phone number, and email address at the top of your resume.

Objective

Write a one-sentence statement about your career goals or the type of job you are looking for.

Education

Include the name of your high school and your expected graduation date.

Experience

List any jobs, volunteer work, or leadership roles you have had. If you don't have job experience, focus on leadership roles from high school. Include the title of your role (like team captain or club president), the name of the organisation, and the dates you were involved. Briefly describe what you did in each role.

Skills

List any skills you have that are relevant to the job you are applying for. This can include both technical skills (like knowing how to use certain software) and soft skills (like being good at communicating or working in a team).

Projects

If you have worked on any projects, either at school or on your own, include a brief description of each one. Mention what you did and what you achieved.

Awards and Certifications

List any school awards or certifications you have received. Include the name of the award or certification and the organisation that gave it to you.

References

Ask teachers, coaches, or other trusted adults who know you well if they would be willing to be references for you. Include their name, relationship to you, and contact information (phone number or email).

Emailing your job application

A cover letter is a one-page document you send with your resume when applying for a job. It introduces you to the employer and explains why you are interested in the job and why you are a good fit. A good cover letter can help your stand out from other applicants by highlighting your skills, experiences, and enthusiasm for the role.

When applying via email, it's a good idea to write your cover letter in the body of the email. This approach allows you to introduce yourself directly to the hiring team and make a strong first impression.

Below is a template to help you craft your email.

Dear [Hiring Manager's Name] / [Company Name] Team,

I am writing to apply for the [Job Title] position at [Company Name]. I am excited about this opportunity because [briefly explain why you are interested in the job].

I am currently a student at [Your High School], where I have developed skills in [mention relevant skills]. I have experience in [mention and relevant experiences, such as volunteer work, school projects, or leadership roles]. For example, as [mention a specific role or project], I [describe what you did and achieved].

I believe I am a strong candidate for this position because [explain why you are a good fit for the job]. I am very enthusiastic about the possibility of joining your team and contributing to [Company Name].

I have attached my resume for your review. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss my application further. Thank you for considering my application.

Kind Regards,

[Your Name}

Introduce yourself

Address the letter to the Hiring Manager or [Company Name] Team, and the state the job you are applying for and why it excites you.

Your background

Mention that you are a student and highlight relevant skills you have developed.

Experience

Include any relevant experiences, such as volunteer work, school projects, or leadership roles, with a specific examples of what you did and achieved.

Fit for the position

Explain why you believe you are a strong candidate for the job and how you can contribute to the company.

Closing

Mention that you have attached your resume, express enthusiasm for discussing your application further, and thank the Hiring Manager for considering your application.

Putting it all together!

Finding the right job for you

The Jobs Notice Board is here to make your job search easy and effective. You can find job opportunities that match your interests and career goals. Employers post a variety of job listings, and you can use the search function to find positions based on keywords and location.

The platform is designed to work smoothly on all devices, so you can search for jobs anytime, anywhere. When you find a job you want to apply for, you can send your resume directly to the employer's email or website URL provided in the listing. This makes the application process straightforward and efficient.

Applying with confidence

Research shows that many people, especially women, hesitate to apply for jobs unless they meet all qualifications. Don't let this discourage you. Job descriptions often list the ideal candidate, but yu don't need to meet every requirement to apply.

Don't let imposter syndrome hold you back. Even if you don't meet every qualification, your unique experiences, skills, and enthusiasm can make you a great fit. Employers value initiative and a willingness to learn, so go ahead and apply for positions that excite you, even if you don't check every box.

Use the Jobs Notice Board to find opportunities that match your interests and goals. Search using keywords and location to narrow down your options.

Craft a strong application by including your resume and well-written cover letter in the body of your email to make a strong first impression.

Apply confidently by highlighting your unique strengths and explaining why you're passionate about the role.

Follow up on your applications to show your enthusiasm and determination. A polite follow-up email can make a difference in getting noticed.