There are many great things that come with becoming an adult. You can get your driver’s licence, you can get your own apartment, and, in general, obtain more freedom. However, money is what makes the world go round, so before you do any of these things, you will need a job.

Getting your first job may seem daunting, but by following these few tips, you can start your journey into gainful employment.

Work experience

If you have yet to reach the age to apply for a job, or you are looking to give yourself the extra edge, try work experience. Though it is unpaid work, the skills you learn will help you navigate into paid employment. Volunteering will allow you to learn new skills, and give back to your community.

Both of these can also help diversify your record when applying for college.

Know your limits

There is no shame in entry-level jobs. Everyone has to start somewhere. Work your way up to the bigger and higher-paying positions. Learn the basic skills and build upon them.

Network

The saying goes ‘it’s not what you know, but who you know’. This is true in many cases. While you may not need this to get a job at a usual first-job location (e.g. McDonalds), it is almost a necessity when trying to receive an office job. With the internet and social media continuing to gain in popularity and use, sites like LinkedIn can also help.

Resume

So you’ve got everything you need to put on your resume, but how do you bring it all together and present it? You can find many available templates by doing a quick internet search.

Some resume tips include double and triple checking your spelling and grammar, and using up-to-date information and contact details. With often dozens of applicants vying for a position, it can come down to simple mistakes that get your resume thrown in the bin.

Social media

These days, everyone has a social media account. We post anecdotes, photos, and, unfortunately, things that can quickly get you dismissed from whatever job you are applying for. Take some time to review your profile. Set your security to private. Be cautious about appearing on video and in photographs. Once something is posted on the internet, it is impossible to completely removed.

Interview

Dress to impress. Turning up for a job interview – no matter where it is – clad in ripped clothes and generally unkempt, will not work well in your favor. Maintain a tidy appearance. You need to sell yourself, so think carefully about your answers. Don’t be late, and bring an extra copy of your resume in case it is misplaced or can be used for reference.

If you don’t get the job, consider what you could have done better, and try again somewhere else. There’s always somewhere looking for workers, and the next one could be right for you.

 Brad Richardson, in addition to writing about job hunting, loves writing about video games almost as much as he loves playing them. Beginning with the original NES, Brad has been playing video games his entire life. He’s pictured here with his wife Emily.