A GENERAL GUIDE FOR RECENT HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATES

by Darlene Zambruski, ResumeEdge.com Managing Editor, CPRW, SME

As you enter the job market for what may be the very first time, there are some key points to remember as to what employment opportunities you can expect, and how to maximize your chances within this field.

1. Employment prospects for recent high school graduates:

Generally speaking, high school graduates will be hired for entry-level vocational work (if appropriately skilled) such as auto repair and service-related positions whether that’s in administrative and clerical or as a food service worker at a local fast-food chain. Other opportunities lie in physically demanding work such as a warehouse loader.

2. Maximizing skills to get that first full-time position:

Clearly state on your resume any vocational skills learned during high school that are valued by employers. These would include:

A. Clerical or administrative skills
1. Typing (be certain to include wpm)
2. Data entry
3. 10-key by touch
4. Proficiency in computer software (list specific programs)

B. Trades
1. Auto Mechanics
2. Cooking
3. Sewing (and tailoring)

3. Minimizing Youth & Professional Inexperience:

Even before being called in for an interview, the best way to prove you have a mature attitude (despite your youth) and a professional demeanor is to submit a flawless, meticulously crafted resume.

Nothing shouts inexperience more than using personal pronouns in a resume (eg: “I” “my” “our” “we”). The same goes for putting an objective within the document (eg: “I’m looking for a position where I can earn good money and advance quickly.”). Seasoned professionals know that the hiring manager is always more interested in what the applicant can do for the company, rather than what the company can do to make the applicant happy.

By crafting an outstanding resume that is to-the-point and clearly states your employment skills as related to your goal, you’ll be telling the hiring manager that you are ready for that first full-time position.