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Careers for Young People

A step-by-step guide to looking for employment or training

For the latest news and events join us on facebook and twitter!

Search Careers for young people Warrington

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WARRINGTONBorough Council

Drop into Warrington Contact Centre Tel: 01925 442211Email: careersservice@warrington.gov.ukWebsite: www.careersforyoungpeople.co.uk

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ContentsStep 1: Where do I start? 5

Step 2: Applying 9

- CVs 9

- Letters of Application 17

- Application Forms 21

Step 3: Interviews 22

Unsure of what to do next? 26

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ForewordMany of the young people who come to us want information, advice or support to help them to secure a job or training opportunity.

We have created this booklet to give you step-by-step guidance.

We hope you find this guide useful and wish you every success in your job seeking journey.

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STEP 1: Where do I start?First, think about identifying the skills, qualities and experience you have developed and are able to offer to a potential employer. Write them down in a list.

The skills that you may have gained whilst working, volunteering on a project, via hobbies or interests, at school or within activities in your general life, are adaptable and are called transferrable skills.

Transferrable skills are valuable and could make you more employable. A close look at any job description or advertisement will reveal the key skills an employer is looking for.

Here are some examples of transferrable skills;

• Communication • Team working • Self-motivation • Punctuality • Problem solving • ICT skills • Organisational skills

You will need to include these in your Curriculum Vitae and application forms, try to make your examples relevant to the job you are applying for- ask yourself what skills do I think would be useful in this job?

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Next, start to carry out research into the job or training opportunities you would like to apply for. Look at job descriptions and person specifications and consider how your skills match what the employer is looking for.

Finding out moreWhen looking for a job or training opportunity there are many resources that can help, including:

• Websites • Newspapers and magazines • Careers advice and information centres • Speculative letters, approaching an employer without a job being advertised (i.e. do you have an opportunity), accompanied by a CV • Employment agencies • Shop windows • Job/careers events • Voluntary work • Posters and leaflets • Radio • Colleges

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InternetMost employers and training providers use the internet to advertise and recruit for their positions. Some organisations will require you toregister on their website and will keep your details for futurepositions which may arise and match your skills and experience.

Here are some websites that may help:

Apprenticeship and job search websites

www.apprenticeships.gov.ukwww.direct.gov.ukwww.indeed.co.ukwww.notgoingtouni.co.ukwww.warrington.gov.ukwww.1job.co.ukwww.totaljobs.co.ukwww.fish4jobs.co.ukwww.jobs.nhs.ukwww.cv-library.co.uk/jobswww.inretail.co.ukwww.carejobfinder.org www.reed.co.ukwww.nursingnetuk.comwww.allpolicejobs.co.uk www.monster.co.uk

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Voluntary and charity job search websites

www.charityjob.co.ukwww.do-it.org.ukwww.vso.org.ukwww.lattitude.org.uk

Employment agencies in Warrington

www.reed.co.ukwww.forrest-recruitment.co.ukwww.foresightrecruitment.co.ukwww.gap-personnel.comwww.hays.co.uk

Graduate job search websites

www.prospects.ac.ukwww.graduate-jobs.comwww.just4graduates.netwww.pareto.co.ukwww.thegraduate.co.ukwww.milkround.com

Other useful websites

www.careersforyoungpeople.co.ukhttps://nationalcareersservice.direct.gov.uk

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STEP 2: ApplyingWhen you have found a position you would like to apply for, you will usually be asked to provide one or more of these: • A curriculum vitae ( CV ) • A completed application form • Letters of application

An example of these documents can be seen on the following pages.

CVsThe purpose of a CV is to show an employer that you can do the job and to get you to an interview. It is a summary of your past work history, experiences and the skills you possess.

A CV is a professional ‘working’ document and can be updated according to the skills and experience that you build throughout your lifetime. It is worth spending time to get it right so that you make a good impression.

Useful Tips:

• Match your CV to the type of job you’re applying for • Keep it brief (usually a maximum of two pages) • Avoid using jargon and abbreviations • Always type using a clear font (e.g. Arial in size 12) • Always check spelling and grammar

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What to includeA CV is personal to you, with no set format, however it needs to sound and look formal. You should include the following information:

• Your Basic Details - name, address and contact details including mobile number and e-mail address. • A Personal Profile – a paragraph about yourself to capture the employers attention and make them want to read on and find out more about you.

Examples of Personal Profiles: Try to grab the employer’s attention within the first couple of lines, as it is the first impression they have of you. Make sure it’s a true reflection of you as a person and your best qualities.

“I am a well organised person with an excellent time keeping record. I enjoy taking on new challenges and completing them to the best of my ability and can prioritise my work load to meet set targets and timed deadlines. I communicate well on all levels and work in a polite manner. Working as part of a team has developed my confidence, independence and experience of working with the public. I am looking for a position with a company who will support and encourage my development.”

“I am a hardworking individual who has shown this by setting goals and achieving them. I am looking for an opportunity to be able to develop my skills and knowledge, as I am determined, dedicated and work focused. I get along well with others; have a fun sense of humour which is needed when working with people, impartial and consider myself to be a good mediator. I enjoy helping and supporting others and have some practical experience of volunteering at preschool which also identifies that I can be trusted by others.”

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• Your Skills and Achievements – these can be listed in bullet point form and should demonstrate the skills and achievements you have gained from things you have done and what you can do, both in work and in your own time.

Look at the advert and the job description and identify the skills, achievements and experience needed by the employer. You might need to change the focus of your CV for each different type of job you apply for and include the most relevant skills you have which relate to the position.

Look at these two examples. Same person, different job:

It is important to use positive words and phrases on your CV, here are some examples to help you…

Accurate Determined Honest Participate StandardiseAccumulate Develop Identify Precise StructureAnalyse Distribute Implement Perceptive SupplyAscertain Efficient Improve Perform SurveyAssess Establish Inform Present TactfulAssign Examine Inspect Produce TalentedAudit Evaluate Inventive Propose Team workerAuthorise Forecast Motivated Reliable ThoughtfulBudget Focused Multi skilled Report TrustworthyCompile Fulfil Observant Review UnderstandingCo-ordinate Gather Organised Safeguard Creative Hardworking Patient Specify

Care Assistant

Using Physical StrengthListening skillsAbility to learn quicklyExcellent team playerWillingness to gain further qualifications

Retail Sales Assistant

Customer careHandling money/card transactionsAnswering queriesCompetent user of ICT packagesWillingness to gain further qualifications

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• Your Employment History – an employer will look closely at this section therefore it is important that you include all relevant information and be as accurate as possible.

What to include in this section • A list of your employment starting with your most recent employer to your first ever employer. Try to avoid leaving any unexplained gaps. • Any voluntary work, unpaid work or work experience. • Include start dates, end dates, months and years wherever possible. • Provide the employers/organisations name • The job title you had • Describe the main duties of your job and any successes whilst there. Show any promotion and progression in a job by separating the different roles.

Examples:

May 2010 – June 2012 Sales Assistant Rooster Tool Hire In this busy tool store, I was responsible for merchandising, stock control and working face to face with customers. I became extremely comfortable with using a PC based payment/stock control system, as well as resolving customer queries.

Nov 2000 – March 2003 Trainee Office Junior I undertook principal officer tasks including the maintenance of principal officer’s diary. I gained promotion and greater responsibility following completion of the NVQ Level 2.

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• Your Education and Qualifications – This section is important as it gives some evidence of the information provided in your personal profile and work history sections.

What to include in this section • You should start with your most recent qualification and work backwards. • Provide details of the schools you went to (from secondary onwards) including the town name. • Provide details of the qualification, subject, level and grade achieved, include the date as this may be checked! • If you have not gained a full qualification you can still list the modules received.

Example:

Sept 2012 - June 2013 Oxford Open Learning, GCSE Single Science (B) Home study

Sept 2010 – June 2011 Priestley College, A Level History (B) Warrington AS Level Music (B) AS Level English (C)

Sept 2006 – June 2010 Lymm High School, GCSE English (B) Warrington GCSE Maths (B) GCSE History (C) GCSE French (C) GCSE Dual Science (DD)

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• Any Work Related Qualifications/Training – list any relevant, professional training or certificates with dates and information of the training organisation or awarding body. Explain any abbreviations.

Example:

June 2012 First Aid at Work (3 day course) St. Johns Ambulance

March 2004 Computer Literacy and Learn Direct Information Technology (CLAIT)

July 2003 Reach and Counter Balance North Cheshire Training FLT Licences

August 2000 ASDAN Silver Award Warrington Youth Service

• Any Additional Information and Interests – Keeping this section brief and relevant to the job you are applying for, the details you might want to consider include:

• Full clean driving licence • A member of a local sports club • Personal interests e.g. Cooking, reading, playing chess, surfing the internet and going to the cinema on a regular basis.

• Relevant References – Don’t list referees. Referees should be people who can vouch for you; at least one of them needs to have known you in a work or educational capacity. Make sure you gain their permission before providing their details to the employer.

To support you with creating a CV, take a look at the following examples.

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Katie Bloggs115 Coronation RoadEast End, London, E45 6PLMobile: 07555 555455E-mail: KatieBloggs22@cfyp.co.uk

Personal ProfileA hardworking, self-motivated and committed individual with experience of working within the retail industry. Flexible to changing working patterns, with the ability to work in different environments and rise to new challenges.

Key Skills • Proven customer care skills • Team player with ability to work independently • Strong organisational skills with attention to detail • Good cash handling skills • Confident using IT systems

Employment HistoryJune 2012 – October 2014Sales Assistant Clark’s DancewearWorking in this busy dance shop my main role and responsibilities included; Receiving stock and distributing this according to customer orders and shop replenishment needs, cash handling and balancing of the tills, meeting individual and team sales targets.

Education and QualificationsJuly 2012 First Aid at Work St. Johns Ambulance

Sept 2007 – June 2012 St. Margaret’s High School, Essex GCSE passes Maths (C), IT (C), P.E (C), English (D), Science (D)

InterestsI am a member of a local reading group. I enjoy visiting the cinema, swimming and visiting friends and family.

ReferencesAvailable on request

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Russ Art10 Lake ViewBlackpool, FY3 2RRTel: 0115 555 666, Mobile: 07744 555888

ProfileA committed individual who is competent in carrying out a number of different practical tasks to a high standard. Hardworking, reliable and able to work in a team and under own initiative. Looking to build upon my skills and succeed in a new challenging role.

Key Skills • Excellent practical skills – ability to work with metal and wood • Confident working in all weathers • Quick to learn new tasks • Confident using IT systems including hand held scanners

EducationSept 2011 – June 2013 Construction Skills Ltd Level 2 Diploma in Construction skills with Warehouse operations

Sept 2006 – June 2011 Community high, Blackpool GCSE Design Tech (A), English (B), Maths (B), Science (B), French (C)Employment HistorySept 2013 – PresentTravis P via Construction Skills LtdWorking within a busy warehouse my responsibilities have included; order picking with a hand held scanner device, monitoring stock levels and loading pallets and adhering to health and safety regulations at all times.

Additional Information and InterestsFull clean driving licence Counter balance and FLT licences.I enjoy staying physically fit at the gym and enjoy socialising with friends.

References Available on request

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Letters of ApplicationThere are three types of letters which can be created to apply for a job, each with a different purpose;

• A letter of application - this is used when a job advert requests you to ‘apply in writing’. It should be in-depth and you should try to reflect upon the job description/ person specification, if these are available. • A covering letter – this is used when you would like to tell the employer something extra and highlight important information on your CV; it is sent with your CV. • A speculative letter – this is used when you are writing to companies to enquire if they have any positions available for you to apply for and to ask them if they can keep your details on record to contact you if any positions arise in the future.

Some useful tips when writing letters

• Before starting, read any information you have about the job • Type letters – unless told otherwise • Make a copy for yourself and keep with the advertisement • Keep a list of companies who you have written to • Do not expect to hear back straight away. They may keep your letter and contact you when there is a position. • When writing a speculative letter always make sure you include a telephone number (if you have one) so that you can be contacted easily.

To support you with creating a letter of application, take a look at the following examples.

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Example of a letter of application 10 Lake View Blackpool FY3 2RR Mr. A.Smith The company name The company address Postcode

Dear Mr Smith,

I would like to apply for the job as a Warehouse Operative, which was advertised in the Warrington Echo on Friday 25th December.

For the past 12 months I have been working part time in a family run warehouse, whilst also attending college 1 day per week to gain the Level 2 Diploma in Construction skills, which I have successfully achieved.

The responsibilities I had whilst working in the warehouse include: • Order picking whilst using a hand held scanner device • Loading and unloading of pallets using a Fork lift truck. • Monitoring of stock levels

I have thoroughly enjoyed working in this environment and feel the skills I have gained would be an asset to the performance of your company.

I am available for interview at any time and could start work immediately.

Please find enclosed a copy of my CV for more information.

I look forward to hearing from you.

Yours Sincerely

YOUR NAME

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Example of a covering letter 10 Lake View Blackpool FY3 2RR Mr. A.Smith The company name The company address Postcode

Dear Mr Smith,

Re: Warehouse Operative REF: WA1/2AN

I would like to apply for the above positon which was advertised in the Warrington Echo and I enclose my CV as requested.

I have recently completed my Level 2 Diploma in Construction skills and I am very interested in now securing a career within the warehouse and distribution industry.

I have had some experience working within a warehouse and am competent in most duties associated with this job role.

I am available at any time for interview and I look forward to hearing from you soon.

Yours sincerely

YOUR NAME

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Example of a speculative letter 10 Lake View Blackpool FY3 2RR TEL: 07744 555888 The Personnel Manager The company name The company address London Postcode

Dear Sir/Madam

I write to ask if you are likely to have any positions available in the near future for a warehouse operative. If not, please keep my letter on file in case any positons do arise.

I am 19 and I am currently working in a warehouse where I have successfully completed the Level 2 Diploma in Construction skills with Warehouse Operations. I am very keen to continue to develop my skills and will embrace any future qualification opportunities. I work effectively in a team and on my own, with full FLT and counterbalance licences and experience of loading and unloading pallets.

I am hardworking, reliable and very enthusiastic with a positive work ethos. I am sure you would find me to be a valuable member of your company.

Please do not hesitate to contact me if you would like further information.

I look forward to hearing from you.

Yours faithfully YOUR NAME

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Application FormsAn application form is designed to make sure all applicants are supplying the same type of information and allows employers to select suitable candidates to invite to interview. They are used by a number of companies who will request either a written or electronic copy.

When attempting to complete application forms make sure that; • You have read all the information which is presented with it • You make a photocopy and only once you are happy with your contents, complete the original • The application form is completed in the correct format – some will ask for black ink and capital letters or ask that an electronic copy be typed and e-mailed • That you check the closing date and send it back in plenty of time • You check your spelling, punctuation and grammar – ask a member of staff, friend or family member to double check • Don’t leave any questions blank – state N/A (not applicable) or No/None. By leaving a question blank it could be mistaken that you have not looked at it

Application forms do vary and will sometimes ask for more information other than your basic details, work history, education and qualifications.

There will always be a section asking you to ‘provide an explanation of why you would be suitable for the position and what skills you can bring’. When answering this section make sure you provide relevant examples and relate to the job description whilst meeting the personal specification criteria.

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STEP 3:

InterviewsCongratulations! Getting invited to an interview means you have been successful in the first part of the recruitment process – you have made a good impression and the employer would like to know more about you.

Now it is time to prepare for your interview.

Here are a few things to consider and start to think about planning before your interview.

• First Impressions – Chose your outfit the day before, make sure it is smart, clean and tidy. It is better to be overdressed than underdressed. • Your Journey – Consider travelling to the company before your interview day to find out how long the journey will take you and to make sure you are going to the correct place. Use a route planner or alternatively contact your local bus/train station for information. • Research – Find out as much as you can about the company e.g. any recent projects or awards, the history and how the company was established. You could use the internet, visit the company and the library. • Re-visit your application form and familiarise yourself with the job description and person specification. • Think about the types of questions that you might be asked and the questions you might want to ask them.

Remember: as much as they are interviewing you, you too are also considering if you want to work for this company and if your own needs will be met.

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To support you to prepare for your interview, take a look at the following questions you might be asked or want to ask.

Popular interview questions you may be asked:

Why did you apply for this job?

Can you tell me what you know about our company?

Tell me a little about yourself?

Where do you see yourself in 5 years’ time?

What is your greatest experience or achievement?

What is your greatest strength?

What skills do you think you could bring to this role?

Can you provide me an example of where you have provided excellent customer service, what did you do and what was the end result?

It is essential YOU ask at least 1 or 2 questions at interview, here are some examples you could use:

Please can you describe to me a typical week/day in this position?

Is this a new position?

What training opportunities are available in the role?

What are the prospects for promotion?

If I am offered the job how soon would you like me to start?

When can I expect to hear from you?

What key projects has your organisation been involved in within the last six months?

I am particularly interested in …….. would there be…

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To summarise, here is a list of things to do and not to do at interview:

10 Interview Do’s• Make sure you read any instructions you are provided with before the interview• Dress smartly and prepare your outfit the night before• Arrive early and come prepared e.g. bring portfolio, CV, application form, exam results• Turn off your mobile phone• Enter the room confidently, smile and shake hands• Try to maintain eye contact with the person or people you are talking to• Answer questions as fully as you can, avoid just saying ‘yes’ or ‘no’• If you do not understand a question ask for it to be explained in a different way• Speak clearly• Get feedback on how you did at your interview, whether you are successful or not

10 Interview Dont’s• Arrive late• Sit down until the interviewer asks you to• Fidget or slouch in the chair or do anything that makes you look uninterested• Be negative or talk about your weaknesses• Lie or be too enthusiastic• Be unprepared for typical interview questions• Ask about salary or holidays unless they ask you first• Act as though you would take any job or are desperate for employment• Let your nerves show too much, a few nerves can affect how you come across at interview• Swear or argue with the people interviewing you

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Other types of interviews • Telephone interviews – Some employers will decide to carry out an initial interview via telephone. Be prepared for this when contacting employers by having your CV easily accessible.

• Group interviews – You may be invited along with other applicants to this type of interview. The employer is looking to see how well you work as part of a team. Be prepared to take an active part in any discussions, take the lead without being too overly confident or bossy and put your ideas forward.

• Assessments – These assessments can be as short as 30 minutes or as long as 2 days. They are designed to find out how much knowledge and understanding you have of the job role.

• Aptitude tests – These tests are designed to measure your abilities in problem solving, following instructions, literacy, numeracy or diagrams.

• Personality tests – There are no right or wrong answers to these questions, you will be asked questions about your thoughts, feelings and how you would behave in certain situations. The answers you provide will allow the employer to establish if you are the right person who fits the job.

• Skills tests - Employers will ask you to take part in a task as part of the interview process, this might involve a typing test or a task involving Excel spreadsheets. The purpose of this test is to find out your knowledge and understanding of the tasks involved in the job.

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Unsure of what to do next?Deciding on your future career can be difficult on your own. Careers for Young People can offer you information and advice about your options.

Depending on your age, Careers for Young People can provide careers guidance or signpost you to other services available.

There are many services and tools available to support you with your decisions including:

Careers for Young PeopleA free confidential service.Call: 01925 442211 or visit: www.careersforyoungpeople.co.uk Follow us on Twitter @careersforyp or search for us on Facebook - Careers for young people Warrington

KudosAn online programme designed to allow young people to explore their own career ideas based upon answering questions about their own interests and educational inspirations.For more information speak with the staff from the Careers for Young People service.

National Careers ServiceA national service offering advice, information and careers guidance to help people make informed decisions on learning, training and work opportunities.0800 100 900 https://nationalcareersservice.direct.gov.uk

UCASApplications can be made to higher education via this central applications website. www.ucas.com

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Careers for Young People can help you to;

• Enhance your job search experience

• Find the right course or job for you

• Write a CV or job application

• Decide on the right career choice to reach your full potential

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Careers for Young People

For the latest news and events join us on facebook and twitter!

Search Careers for young people Warrington

@careersforyp

WARRINGTONBorough Council

Drop into Warrington Contact Centre Tel: 01925 442211Email: careersservice@warrington.gov.ukWebsite: www.careersforyoungpeople.co.uk