The Job Search & Interviews

When you are ready to start looking for jobs there are a few places you can begin:

• online
• employment centres
• networks and connections

There are strategies you can use to search for jobs and see what positions are available. You will most likely use an online job search website and a keyword search (for example, chef) to describe the position you’re looking for. The website will probably have more search filters such as location, pay, how many hours you will work and related information is often available too. Once you find a job you are interested in, you will need to prepare your resume and cover letter. Then you can submit your application according to the instructions on the job posting.

A few helpful websites for jobs in BC include: Work BC, BC Jobs and Indeed. You can also search the websites of organizations and companies to see what job opportunities are available. Sometimes these positions may not be on the larger job search engines.

You can also contact someone you know at the place you want to work and ask them to meet up to have a conversation about their organization. That will show you are eager and ambitious to be involved with the organization. You can mention that you are currently seeking opportunities but, don’t be too aggressive. They may be able to tell you about upcoming positions, current opportunities or refer you to different places that are hiring.

If you apply for a job and the employer is interested in hiring you, they will invite you for an interview. The employer may want to talk to you in person, or over the phone or by video chat. At the interview, they will ask questions about your skills and background. Often you will have the opportunity to ask them questions about the job or organization. Make sure you are ready for the interview. You want to give your potential future employer a good first impression.

You can find a lot of examples of sample interview answers online. The following playlist includes answers to different questions, different tips for phone interviews, and more. You can click the icon with 3 lines at the top left corner of the video to see more videos in the playlist.

Interviews can be a very nerve wracking experience, which is totally normal! If you think your anxiety might keep you from doing interviews, see some tips on how to manage anxiety during those tough moments. But the best thing to always remember going in is to try to relax and just be you. Your potential employers are there to get to know you and how awesome you are!

Tips:

• Be prepared: Read the organization’s website, the job description and be prepared for questions. Be sure to bring a few print copies of your resume and cover letter. You will give a very good impression if you demonstrate you have prepared for the interview. Check out this resource to practice commonly asked interview questions.
• Create a good first impression: Show up at the interview 10-15 minutes early. Wear clothing that shows how you want your employer to see you. When you meet your interviewer(s), remember to make eye contact, act professionally and shake hands with your interviewer(s). It may seem strange but it is helpful to practice giving firm handshakes with family or friends.
• Ask questions: During the interview, ask questions about the job, the work environment and anything else you think is relevant. That will show you are eager to learn more about the job and assess if the job is a good fit for you.
• Thanks the interviewers: After the interview is over, be sure to thank your interviewers for the opportunity. It is a good idea send a follow-up email thanking the organization for their time and for considering your application.