Helping Youth Find a Job

Introduction

Section 1 - Know Your Interests and Skills

Knowing yourself can help you prepare for your job search.

• Will the Real "You" Please Step Forward? 
• How "Personable" Are You? 
• Your Interests = Your Career 
• What's Important to You? 
• Identify Your Skills 
• Find Your Hidden Skills 
• Identify Your Job-related Skills 

Section 2 - What Employers are Looking for

Common things that employers are looking for in a new employee.

• Eight Keys to Getting Hired 
• Skills an Employer Wants You to Have 
• Create Your Personal Skills Inventory 

Section 3 - Plan your Career - So What's Out There?

Where to look for jobs, and how to plan where you want to go.

• Get your Social Insurance Number (SIN) 
• Know What Kinds of Jobs to Consider 
• What Does the Job Involve? 
• Be your own Boss! 

Section 4 - Prepare your Marketing Tools to Help Sell Yourself

Learn ways to help sell yourself to public and private sector employers and how to apply for jobs.

• Write Your Résumé 
• Three Main Types of Résumés 
• Writing a Résumé for Government Work 
• Writing a Cover Letter 
• Filling out Application Forms 
• Applying On-Line 
• Prepare for a Job Interview - Be Your Best 
• What to do after the Interview 

Section 5 - Other Stuff you Should Know

Important information on Employment Insurance, the Canada Pension Plan, the GST Tax Credit and Canada Student Loans.

• Health and Safety 
• Employment Insurance 
• Canada Pension Plan 
• Applying for the GST/HST Credit 
• Information for Working Students 
• Canada Student Loans Program
  • Services offered by your local Service Canada Centre for Youth (SCCY) 

Introduction

Looking for a Job can help you learn:

• How to job hunt
• What your skills and talents are
• How to write a résumé and cover letter, how to prepare for an interview and how to apply for jobs
• Why you should continue to develop your knowledge, skills and abilities

Through a wide variety of youth employment programs and services, the Government of Canada supports young people between the ages of 15 and 30, in developing the skills, experience, knowledge, and creativity that will be the keys to success in this new and rapidly changing job market.

Looking for a Job can help you find a job, whether you want full-time, part-time, or summer employment. It can help you learn the what, where, and how-to of job hunting, and if you combine this knowledge with effort, dedication, time and patience, you will succeed.

Looking for a Job can help you learn about yourself. It offers practical exercises to help you discover your personality, skills, and talents (including ones you might not know are there), and shows you how to use this new knowledge to decide what kind of job you may be suited for. It also has a section on today's job market, and what employers are looking for. 

Looking for a Job also has information on how to apply, how to write a resume and cover letter, how to prepare for an interview, and what to do afterwards. Then, when you get the job, there are some important tips for your first day.

Looking for a Job will show you why it is important for you to continue to learn and develop your skills and abilities, even if you are out of school. And when you've landed that first important job, the skills and techniques you've learned won't go to waste. The knowledge you gain in your quest for a job, and throughout your work life, can help lead to a satisfying and rewarding career.

For (a) paper copy/copies of Looking for a Job, please contact:

Public Enquiries Centre
140 Promenade du Portage, Phase IV, Level 0
Gatineau, Quebec K1A 0J9
Fax: (819) 953-7260

This document is also available in alternative formats through InfoTouch. Call 1 866-386-9624 (toll-free) on a touch-tone phone. Requested documents are automatically produced in the format selected and mailed directly to the caller.

Looking for a Job (PDF version, '9,2' MB)

Section 1 - Know Your Interests and Skills

Answer the questions on the following page to help you understand how you feel about yourself.

Section 2 - What Employers are Looking for

Eight Keys To Getting Hired

Some employers use a list of skills and attributes called the Eight Keys to Employability to help them find the best applicants for a job. If you can show potential employers that you have what they are looking for, you'll increase your chances of being short-listed.

Here are examples of what could be written in a resume, or said in an interview, to demonstrate a job seeker's abilities under the Eight Keys. Write down the ones that apply to you, and think of a couple of examples of things you have done that show each one. Talk is cheap -it's better if you can back your statements up with examples.

1. Personal values:

Employers want workers who demonstrate a positive attitude and are motivated, honest and goal-oriented.

• "I have a positive attitude and I am willing to work hard to make the most of opportunities."
• "I react well to challenges."
• "I am willing to reach beyond personal limitations."

2. Problem-solving and decision-making skills:

• "I can accept additional responsibilities."
• "I can talk with others and resolve issues."
• "I can make decisions and can carry them out."

3. Ability to relate with other people:

• "I am friendly. I communicate well with people of all ages."
• "I can take initiative if I need to."
• "I work well with people in all levels of my team."

4. Communication skills:

• "I am a good listener."
• "I express myself clearly."
• "I am not afraid to ask for help when necessary."

5. Task-related skills:

• "I can complete my work on time."
• "I know how to care for tools and materials."
• "I follow directions and stick with tasks until they are finished."

6. Maturity:

• "I am reliable, dependable, and responsible."
• "I take pride in my work."
• "I put in the time and effort to do a good job."
• "I work well with little or no supervision."
• "I am willing to take courses or additional training in order to develop new job-related skills."

7. Health and Safety habits:

• "I know about common health and safety rules."
• "I follow established workplace rules and guidelines."

8. Commitment to the job:

• "I am enthusiastic about my work and willing to learn."
• "I am always on time, and give consistent work and effort to the team."

Skills an Employer Wants You to Have

The Employability Skills Profile

You're sitting at an interview, and a boss, or personnel manager asks you "What do you think you can offer the company?" In other words, this means: "We have a job that we need to fill. Why should we choose you for this job?" This is your chance to market yourself and show the skills, abilities, and personal attributes that you can offer the organization.

The Conference Board of Canada created the following Employability Skills Profile to show what employers are looking for in an ideal employee. Take a look to see what key ingredients you can make shine through on your resume or at an interview.

Canadian employers are looking for an individual with:

• Fundamental Skills to ensure communication, thinking and learning abilities
• Personal management skills to ensure positive attitudes and behaviours
• Teamwork skills to ensure the ability to work with others

Fundamental Skills

Canadian employers need a person who can:

Communicate

• Understand and speak the language of the business.
• Know and understand any technical or professional terms.
• Listen to understand and learn.
• Read and understand written materials, including charts and graphs.

Think

• Think critically and act logically to evaluate situations, solve problems, and make decisions.
• Solve problems involving math, and use the results.
• Use technology, instruments, tools, and information systems effectively.
• Use and apply knowledge from a specialized field (e.g. skilled trades, technology, physical sciences, arts and social sciences).

Learn

• Continue to learn for life.
• Take courses to learn, and to upgrade skills.

Personal Management Skills

Canadian employers need a person who can demonstrate:

Positive Attitudes and Behaviours

• Self-esteem and confidence.
• Honesty, integrity, and personal values.
• A positive attitude toward learning, growth, and personal health.
• Initiative, energy, and persistence to get the job done.

Responsibility

• The ability to set goals and priorities in work and personal life.
• The ability to plan and manage time, money, and other resources to achieve goals.
• Accountability for actions taken.AdaptabilityA positive attitude toward change.
• Recognition of and respect for people's diversity and individual differences.
• The ability to identify and suggest new ideas to get the job done creatively.

Teamwork Skills

Canadian employers need a person who can:

Work with Others

• Understand and contribute to the organization's goals.
• Understand and work within the culture of the group.
• Plan and make decisions with others and support the outcomes.
• Respect the thoughts and opinions of others.
• Exercise "give and take" to achieve group results.
• Seek a team approach as appropriate.
• Lead when appropriate, mobilizing the group for high performance.

Visit the Conference Board of Canada's "Employability Skills 2000+" Web site.

Create Your Personal Skills Inventory

If you compare the qualities employers look for with your skills you listed earlier, what do you get? Do you have what it takes to be hired for the kind of job you want? Would you hire you? Think about how your skills, abilities, experiences, personal values and attitudes translate into skills you can market to possible employers.

Knowing your key selling points will come in handy whether you're writing your resume or a cover letter. Put together your own personal skills inventory and use it when you are writing a resume or preparing for an interview.

To get you started, here are examples of what you might want to tell an employer.

Personal Skills Inventory

How You Think and Communicate

If you:

Are good at talking on the phone...

Are a natural at telling jokes and stories...

Enjoy numbers and solving math problems...

Make or sew whatever you like, and friends  and relatives compliment your
work...

Are up on music and know every song on the charts...

You might want to tell an employer:

I communicate well. I am sociable and enjoy working with people.

I am self-assured and relate well to people. I enjoy speaking in public.

I have great math skills. I am precise and analytical.

I have excellent manual dexterity, fine motor skills, and an eye for detail.

I learn quickly and have a good memory.

How you act

If you:

Keep your promises and do what you say you will do...

Practice everyday at your favourite sport to be on the school team...

Always keep your room neat and never lose anything...

Care about people and are patient...

Can think of ten different ways of doing everything...

Were the first one on your block to skateboard, rollerblade, spike your hair...

Love to shop, and find the best sales wherever you go...

You might want to tell an employer:

I am reliable and take commitment seriously.

I am persistent, determined, motivated and goal-oriented.

I am orderly. I have strong organizational skills.

I am caring, sensitive and people-oriented.

I am creative and have the ability to solve problems and come up with innovative solutions.

I am flexible and adapt easily to new situations. I am comfortable with change.

I am resourceful and have great budgeting skills.

How You Work With Others

If you: 

Like leading group/school projects and playing team sports...

Are cool in tough situations when other people around you aren't...

Usually save the day when those around you are giving up...

You might want to tell an employer: 

I work well as a team member and can take a leadership role.

I am a good negotiator. I handle stress well and enjoy dealing with difficult situations.

I look for solutions, and I am persistent in getting the job done.

Write down your personal skills inventory and keep it handy for writing your resume or preparing for a job interview. Be confident in the knowledge that you have the right stuff for the job.

Section 3 - Plan your Career - So What's Out There?

Get your Social Insurance Number (SIN)

You need a Social Insurance Number (SIN) to work at most jobs in Canada. To get one, you must complete an application form, available at a Service Canada Centre or on the Internet at www.servicecanada.gc.ca.

You must also provide an original primary document that indicates your identity and status in Canada.

The fastest way to get your SIN is to submit your application at a local Service Canada Centre. It is also convenient because you do not have to part with your documents. To find the local office nearest you, call 1 800 O-Canada (1 800 622-6232) or visit the Service Canada website.

As long as you have completed your application and included the necessary documents, you should receive your card in the mail within three weeks.

Using your SIN

Your Social Insurance Number is private and personal. Your employer will need to know your SIN so that deductions can be paid to the Government on your behalf. Always keep it private, like a PIN number on a bank or credit card, and never borrow someone's SIN to get a job or lend yours.

Know What Kinds of Jobs to Consider

There are five main areas where young people with little or no work experience can often find that important first job:

What Does the Job Involve?

There are a lot of ways you can find out what's involved in a job. One way is to talk to someone who does the job (this is called networking). This can be as informal as talking to a friend, or as formal as phoning someone you've heard of in the field you're interested in and making an appointment to speak to them.

Once you decide what kind of position you are looking for you need to find this job. The Where are the Jobs? section recommends:

• Networking 
• Job postings 
• Other Avenues 

Another way is to use Labour Market Information (LMI). Labour Market Information can help you find out:

• What a person in a certain job does (occupational profiles).
• The range of pay rates for different occupations.
• The levels and kinds of education needed for different jobs.
• What areas of the economy are expanding.
• Which companies are hiring in the industry that interests you.

The National Occupational Classification (NOC) is a system used to describe jobs found in the Canadian labour market. There are over 500 general descriptions. Main duties, education and training requirements, and potential employers are described in each of these descriptions.

The NOC is a great resource for anyone looking for assistance on writing their resume, in understanding the requirements for a job, or planning their career path.

Other places to get job information:

• Use the occupational profiles and other resources available at your local library, school, Service Canada Centre (SCC), band office, or friendship centre.
• Talk to a librarian. Job information can be found in business directories, annual reports, articles and other information available at the public library.
• Some companies have reports, brochures, or promotional material available to the general public.
• Surf the company's Web site. If you don't have access to the Internet, your local school, library, or band office might be able to help.

So, What's Out There?

Now you're ready to take the next step in your job search - see what kinds of jobs are out there.

Labour Market Information has the facts, figures and trends about the world of work in Canada. It is produced both by governments and by private sector organizations. LMI can give you information on different occupations, wages, standards and qualifications.

Labour Market Information and the Internet

The Internet is a good source of up-to-date labour market information in your area, and across the country. There are a number of good places to start including the Job Futures Web site.

Job Futures provides employment facts and information about trends in today's labour market - where people find work, educational requirements, earnings, self-employ-ment, part-time employment, and much more. Job Futures lets you look ahead to see how labour market conditions and job prospects will change over the coming years.

Note: If you don't have access to the Internet, or find labour market information a bit of a mystery, talk to career counsellors at your local Service Canada Centre (SCC) or Service Canada Centre for Youth (SCCY). If you are still in school, your guidance counsellor or your academic advisor can help.

Here are some other sites that you can look at for information on the labour market:

• Human Resources and Social Development's Labour Market Information site 
• Job Bank 
• Jobs, Workers, Training and Careers 
• Canadian Careers 
• Aboriginal Canada Portal 
• Aboriginal Business Canada 

Where are the Jobs?

Networking

One of your most important job search tools is your personal job search network. To find out about a job, or get an idea where to look, talk to the people around you - your friends, family members, neighbours, and teachers. Let them know that you are looking for a job.

Networking can be anything from an informal chat with a neighbour or friend, to a more formal meeting with a person in a job you are interested in. These contacts can help you get a start in researching the training, skills and education you'll need for the job or career you want!

Remember! Networking is not asking for a job. It's a fact-finding mission. Talk about your interest in the field, ask how the person got started, what advice they would give, and if they know any companies that are hiring. If your contact wants to interview you, or offers you a job, then of course you may accept!

Here are some questions you might want to ask your contact:

• How did you get this job?
• What kind of schooling and experience did you have?
• Do you have any advice for someone trying to get into this field?
• Do you know of any companies that are hiring people?
• Can you suggest any volunteer organizations where I could develop my skills and gain work experience?
• Can I contact you again?

Job Postings

You can find job postings in a wide variety of places. These range from the Internet, to local student offices, from bulletin boards at your local high school, college or university, to job fairs arranged by local businesses or even in classified ads in community newspapers. The most important thing is to have a solid sense of what's out there?both in terms of jobs, and in terms of places, and people that can help you.

On-Line

• Job Bank is the Government of Canada's electronic listing of jobs provided by employers from everywhere across Canada. It contains thousands of job opportunities that you can sift through by title, availability, and time of posting.
• Jobs Open to the Public is located on the Public Service Commission's Web site. It provides listings of federal public service jobs across Canada in a wide range of categories. You can search the inventory by field, or by region. This site also offers links to information on Post-Secondary Recruitment, the Federal Student Work Experience Program and the Co-op/Internship Program.
• Workopolis.com features a listing of jobs organized by sector, including IT, engineering, education, finance, sales and many more. You can also browse through the job postings by region, date or through an employer directory.
• Monster.ca allows you to search over 25,000 Canadian jobs by province, region, sector or key words. You can create your own account that will allow you to apply on-line, post your résumé and receive notification when relevant jobs appear on the site.
• Jobboom.com offers thousands of jobs every day along with employment news and career management advice. Job opportunities are listed by sector, including multi-media, IT, engineering, accounting, administrative support and customer service. Check out the Get Advice! section for information on managing your career.

Off-Line

• Visit the Events Calendar section to find out more about events in your community, such as Job fairs.
• Go to a job search workshop. Not only will you gain useful information, you may develop useful contacts for your personal network. To find out if there are any in your area, ask at your local Service Canada Centre, or Service Canada Centre for Youth.
• Check job boards located on college or university campuses.
• Check out the bulletin boards in community centres, grocery stores, and libraries.
• Sign up with an employment agency. While some only find placements for professionals, others may have an "odd-job squad" or casual labour network.
• Check out the classified ads in your local newspaper. Follow up by phone, letter, or e-mail.

Other Avenues

Consider Volunteering

There are plenty of organizations who need young, enthusiastic volunteers to help them achieve their objectives. Although most of these jobs are unpaid, they pay off in the experience you will get. The work you do as a volunteer is real work, and can go on your resume. For information on volunteering initiatives across Canada check out the Volunteer Canada Web site.

Educational Networks

Be your own Boss!

So you don't think working for someone else is right for you. In fact, you have an idea for a business and want to be your own boss - independent and in charge. Sounds great, but being an entrepreneur is more than just starting a small business. It's a way of life. As a first step, consider the following points:

You're more likely to be happy and successful in your own business if you are:

• driven to be independent;
• able to set and achieve goals;
• flexible and adaptable;
• willing to work hard;
• confident in your ability to succeed;
• self-disciplined, with leadership abilities and organizational skills; and
• confident you can make decisions and take calculated risks.

If you've agreed with most of the above, really look at the job you want to do, and what it will involve now, and in the future. Consider these important points:

• Has my idea been tried before? How successful was it?
• Do I know enough about this type of venture to build a business? If not, am I willing and able to learn?
• Do I want to put in the kind of hours it will take to:
  • prepare a business plan?
  • find, train and supervise employees?
  • research and establish my supply network?
  • deal with insurance companies and local laws?
  • get a business and GST number, and keep business records?

The Government of Canada offers a number of programs and services designed to help young entrepreneurs under its Youth Employment Programs. For more information, consult Youth Link, an online tool designed to help you make the transition into the labour market.

There are a number of federal, provincial, and private sector organizations that can also help you get started on the path to self-employment. For more information on starting your own business, check out these Web sites:

• Service Canada Centre and Service Canada Centres for Youth.
• Canada Business at www.canadabusiness.ca.
• Business Development Bank of Canada at www.bdc.ca. Click on the Young Entrepreneur link on the left sidebar to find information on the Young Entrepreneur Program, the Covision Start-up Financing Program, and Consulting Group Solutions.
• Canadian Foundation for Economic Education at www.cfee.org. Select CFEE Resources to order a copy of their interactive CD-ROM called Planning for Success on-line.

Section 4 - Prepare your Marketing Tools to Help Sell Yourself

Write Your Résumé

So you know your interests and skills, you've decided where to look for work, and now you need the tools to get the job. A résumé tailored to fit the job you are applying for is one of the most important tools that you need in order to get an interview. Your résumé gives an employer a quick, general idea of who you are, what qualifications you have and why you want the job.

As you will see, most résumés include information under headings like Personal Information, Job Goal, Related Skills, Education, Work Experience, Duties, Additional Experience, Interests/Activities, References. Here's what each section should cover:

Personal Information

• Name - your full name, typed in title case. (Skip the nickname).
• Address - your address, written out in full, without abbreviations. In fact, it's better to avoid abbreviations anywhere in your résumé.
• Telephone - your home phone number with area code, and a contact number for messages if you don't have an answering machine.

Job Goal

In one sentence, describe your job goal. This tells the employer exactly what type of work you're looking for. Try to link your job goal to the job you're applying for.

Related Skills

List the special abilities and skills that relate to the job you're applying for. They can be from paid or unpaid work, volunteer experience and even hobbies. Hint: If you're having trouble identifying all the skills you have, look back at the section on Identifying your job-related skills. You likely have more skills than you think - even if you've never worked at a job like the one you're applying for.

Education

List your education, starting with the most recent diploma or training course and working backwards. Include the name and city or town of each school you attended (secondary and beyond), the type of programs, your areas of interest and the years you completed. Certificates or diplomas should also be listed, including those for mini courses like a computer or software course, first-aid, small engine repair, or any other training that might be useful to the job you want.

Work Experience

List the companies you worked for, with cities and provinces, and the dates (month, year) you worked for each job or volunteer position.

Duties

Outline the type of duties you carried out, starting from the one that took most of your time, or involved the most responsibility. Provide no more than 5 duties for each job.

Additional Experience

Use this section to include such things as the languages you speak, software programs you know, and other abilities that relate to the job. If there is a lot of information, break it into separate sections with specific headings. The point is to get everything into your resume that shows why you are the right person for the job.

Interests/Activities

Briefly outline a few of your interests and activities that demonstrate something about you. Be sure to mention achievements or awards you may have received. If you have volunteer experience that is relevant to the job, make sure you put it in, transferable skills are important.

References

References are not included in your résumé, but you should have them ready. Think carefully about who can act as references, and ask them if it's okay before you give their names. Type the names, addresses, and phone numbers of up to three references on a separate piece of paper, which matches your resume.

Keep your reference list as up-to-date as possible, so that you will be fresh in the minds of the people on it. If you can, give your reference an idea of the type of job you are applying for, and whenever possible, let them know when you think an employer will be calling them, so they can be available and will have some time to think about what to say.

Who can you ask to be a reference?

• Someone from your school (teacher, guidance counsellor, coach)
• Someone you've worked for (summer, part- or full-time employer)
• Someone you've worked for on a casual basis (babysitting, shovelling snow, delivering papers)
• Someone you've helped (as a volunteer or as a friend)
• Someone whose opinion is respected (elder, minister, community leader)

A concise, well-organized résumé, and a current set of references form a set of tools to help set you well on your way to your career. For more information on résumés, visit your local Service Canada Centre or your local Service Canada Centre for Youth (SCCY).

Three Main Types of Résumés

There are three main ways to organize the information on your résumé: chronological, functional and a combination. Each type serves a certain purpose. How do you know which one is best?

Writing a Résumé for Government Work

10 Things NOT to Put in Your Résumé
Employers' Pet Peeves About Résumés
Tips for an Awesome Résumé

A government job might be right for you. The Public Service Commission of Canada (PSC), which is responsible for recruiting people into the federal public service, offers all types of experience. These can range from office clerks to farm workers, and from administrative assistants to zoologists.

The Public Service Commission has offices in every region of Canada which provide listings of jobs open to the public. The PSC also offers employment opportunities under the categories of Post-Secondary Recruitment, Information Technology Recruitment, Federal Student Work Experience Program (FSWEP) and Co-op/Internship programs.

Check out the PSC Web site to find out more about these programs, and for the office nearest you, click on the link to PSC offices in the menu bar at the top of the page, or look in the blue pages of your phone book.

The PSC and other federal departments and agencies review job applications to find candidates who have education, skills and experience important to the job. The candidates whose applications match the job poster are contacted to arrange a written test or interview. Your résumé, when properly written, can provide the hiring department/agency with a snapshot of how your skills and experience can help it meet its objectives.

While you may have the necessary qualifications and experience for a particular position, you have to prove that you meet all of the job requirements by making a clear connection between the proposed job and your previous experience, skills and abilities.

The more you know about the duties and skills required for the job - and organize your résumé around these points - the more effective a marketing tool your résumé will be. Read the job posting carefully, and the detailed description of job requirements in the on-line Statement of Qualifications. These requirements are usually listed under such headings as: education, official language proficiency, experience, knowledge, skills/abilities, personal suitability, conditions of work and professional or occupational certification. Remember? if you are interviewed, you will also be asked questions on what you have done.

10 Things NOT to Put in Your Résumé:

• How much you want ($)
• Why you're changing jobs, or why you left a previous one
• Social Insurance Number
• Addresses of former employers
• Your age
• Marital status
• Whether you have children, or are pregnant
• Height, weight
• Health status or disabilities
• "Race and/or Religion" (if it's important for the job, it should be in the cover letter)

Employers' Pet Peeves Include Résumés That:

• More than two pages long
• Poor quality paper or coloured paper
• Typing mistakes or hand-written corrections
• Listing odd jobs that aren't related to what you're applying for
• Repeated information, repeated information, repeated information? you get it!
• Inflated or boastful claims
• Fancy pictures or charts
• A wrinkled or dirty resume, or a poor photocopy

Tips for an Awesome Résumé:

• Type your résumé on a computer or typewriter. Use good quality, white or off-white, letter-size (8 1/2 x 11 inch) paper.
• Make sure your résumé is easy to scan. This means that it's in a clear, legible font (Arial 12 point), and that you have left space between lines and paragraphs.
• Choose your words carefully. Your résumé represents you to an employer.
• Keep it short. Employers get a lot of replies to ads, and may not read a résumé that is messy or too long.
• Make sure it's accurate. People will check.
• Proofread to catch mistakes, fix them, and print a new, clean copy.
• Make sure your personal information is correct and current.
• Don't sign or date your résumé.
• Always send a cover letter with your résumé.
• Make your pages 'breathe' by using wide margins - 1 1/2 inches on either side is good. It's easier to read.

Mock poster of a federal job open to the public.

Mock résumé written for a federal public service job.

Mock statement of qualifications for a federal job open to the public.

Writing a Cover Letter

Cover Letter - Helpful Hints

What is a cover letter? It's your first real contact with a person who may become your employer. It's your chance to show an employer what qualifications you have for the job. A concise, well-written cover letter with the right information will make a good first impression.

It pays to take time to learn about the company or organization you are applying to. If your cover letter is tailored to the company and job, you'll show the employer that you can be a good fit.

There are any number of ways to write cover letters. Here are three samples that show how to follow up on an ad in a newspaper, a phone call you made to an organization, or for an unadvertised job.

Follow this format to write a cover letter in response to an ad.

Follow this format to write a cover letter that follows up on a call to an employer.

Follow this format to write a cover letter for an unadvertised job.

Cover Letter - Helpful Hints

• Refer to the job that you are interested in. If there is a competition number, write it down.
• Address your letter to the appropriate contact person, either the employer or a human resources officer. Use their name and title, and double-check the spelling.
• If the ad doesn't supply a contact, phone and get the right name. And never assume a person is male or female based on a first name - check it out.
• Refer to how you heard about the job, i.e. job posting, newspaper article, or from someone in your network of contacts.
• Refer to what the company does, and how your skills, abilities and experience can be a valuable addition to their team.
• Make sure the employer knows what action to take - will you call the employer or should the employer call you, and when?
• Provide your name, phone number and address.
• Keep your letter to one page. Type or print it out on good quality, 8 1/2 x 11 inch paper.
• Proofread your letter, and ask someone else to read it as well. Correct the errors, and print a clean copy.
• E-mail, mail or hand-deliver your cover letter and resume. Keep a copy for your files, and note the date that it was sent out.
  • Allow plenty of time for delivery. Don't wait until the last day before a deadline.

Filling out Application Forms

When you apply for a job, you will be asked to fill in some kind of application form. Make sure you read the whole document first and follow directions carefully. Make sure you provide your Social Insurance Number (SIN) if you are asked for it. Print or write as neatly as you can, using a black or a blue pen or marker. If you make a mess of the application, ask for a new one, and start again.

Answer every question. Write 'N/A' (not applicable) if a question doesn't apply to you. Include all your paid and unpaid work in the "Work Experience" section. Be honest. Remember that you will have to sign your name to the information you provide.

When you are finished, sign and date the application, and attach it to your cover letter and resume. If you are in an SCC or SCCY, hand it in to an employment officer. If you are replying to an ad, or a job poster, mail or hand-deliver it to the employer a couple of days before the job poster closes.

Follow Your Application Trail

Okay, so you've made the move and applied for the job. What's next? You can't just sit and wait for the phone to ring - you have to keep your journey moving. Here's what you can do:

• If you have a phone number and contact name, call to confirm that your application was received. Remember to be polite and professional.
  • Apply for other jobs - you never know what you might be offered!

Applying On-Line

Chances are you'll eventually apply for a job using a computer. Many governments and companies, both large and small, accept applications on-line. Some will have an on-line format similar to a written application form, or series of questions to be answered. Be prepared before you start - have your your SIN, résumé, cover letter and other self-marketing tools handy for reference.

If you apply on-line, you will probably be asked to submit your résumé electronically. In some cases you can send it as a regular attachment (e.g., saved in Word, WordPerfect or other software). However, some employers will want you to submit it by pasting it into an application form (in ASCII text). It is a good idea to have your cover letter first, then your résumé - the same way you would if you were actually mailing out the package. If you want to find out more about sending electronic résumés, check out the Canadian Careers Website.

For more on how to apply on-line, visit the Government of Canada's Jobs, Workers, Training and Careers Web site at www.jobsetc.ca.

Sample Information package to respond to a Service Canada database job posting

If you have visited your local SCC or SCCY you will probably have seen job posters from local employers. We have put together a sample poster, a cover letter and a résumé to give you an idea of how to apply to a job request posted through Service Canada.

Mock poster from the SCCY database.

Sample cover letter for a job posted on the Service Canada Database.

Sample résumé for a job posted on the Service Canada database.
 

Prepare for a Job Interview - Be Your Best

Your time has finally come! You've been called for an interview. Now what? Don't sweat it! Prepare yourself to win. You know you're ready for the job...now you have to convince the employer!

Getting ready is a big part of your interview. You will likely, and you should, spend more time preparing yourself than you will in the interview. Preparing includes getting to know more about the company and the job, and being able to explain how and why you're the best person to hire. To help you study, be sure you have a Statement of Qualifications, or a basic job description. If you do not have one from when you first applied for the job, be sure to ask the person who is arranging your interview for a copy.

Preparing for the Interview... Know the Job, and the Organization

When you wrote your résumé, you did some research about the company and the job. Review it now. Answer these questions in your research:

• What does the employer or company do?
• What's involved in the position you're applying for?
• What qualifications do you need for the position?
• What skills might the employer be looking for?
• Who are the customers or clients?
• What kind of reputation does the employer have?

You'll be more comfortable in the interview if you know a bit about the company and the position you're applying for.

Think Ahead - Pre-Planning is Essential

When you are called, confirm the interview time! Ask if there will be any test or written assignment you will be asked to do. Find out how many people will be there.

Plan and rehearse your answers to the questions you expect to be asked. Memorize the training, skills and experience you have, and be ready to answer questions on what you did, and how you did it.

Choose your clothes a day or two ahead, and make sure they're neat and clean.

Be on time. Find out ahead of time where you're going and how long it will take to get there. Drive or travel the route a day or two ahead, at the same time of day as you will on the day of the interview. Confirm how often the buses run. Have a back-up plan.

Set aside at least an hour for the interview.

Survive the Interview - and Win!

• What to Wear to an Interview 
• What to Take to the Interview 
• How to Act at the Interview 
• Quick Tips for the Interview 

What to Wear to an Interview

What you wear can be as important as what you say. Make sure your clothes are neat and clean (and ironed, if they are meant to be!). Don't turn up rumpled and untidy. Try to find out how people dress at the place you want to work, and dress the same or slightly better. Skip the perfume, cologne, or aftershave. You want to smell clean and nice, but not overpower the interviewer - or worse, upset someone with allergies.

What to Take to the Interview

Carry a folder or envelope containing:

• A copy of your resume for each interviewer (This is why you asked ahead how many people would be present);
• Copies of your reference list;
• Paper and a pen, so you can jot down the interviewer's name, the time of any future interview, or other information you might need later; and
• Copies of letters of recommendation, if you have any.

You're On Your Way

You're at your job interview. Stay relaxed and make a good impression. Here are some suggestions to help you make sure this step of your journey gets off on the right foot.

• Greet the interviewer or panel members. Introduce yourself, and shake hands firmly, without crushing anyone's fingers. Smile. A sincere smile will help to put you, and the interviewer, at ease. Stand until you're invited to sit down.
• Let the employer or panel members take the lead and set the tone. Make eye contact, and answer the questions in a firm, clear, confident voice. Relax and sit naturally, but don't slouch in your chair or lean on the interviewer's desk. Be prepared to tell the interviewer more about your education, training and skills, work experience, and the personality traits that make you right for the job.
• It's okay to ask for more explanation if you don't understand a question. In fact, it's better to clarify if you are unsure than answer inappropriately. Keep a positive attitude.
• At some point in the interview, you will be asked if you have any questions. This is where your research and preparation pays off. Have a couple of questions prepared that show you are interested and informed about the company, or ask for more detailed information about the position you're applying for.

What to do after the Interview

• You didn't get a call back. 
• You got an offer! 
• You've got the job! Now what? 

It's over! You've had your interview and now you're waiting to hear how it went. So what can you do in the meantime? First, write a thank-you letter to the interviewers thanking them for their time, restating your interest in the job, and subtly reminding them of your qualifications. This gives you yet another opportunity to sell yourself and make a good impression. If possible, mail it the same day as your interview.

Then sit back and go over the interview in your mind. Consider what you feel worked and what didn't. What would you say or do differently the next time? This will help you learn from each interview experience.

If the employer is supposed to call you on a certain day, be home to take the call. If you aren't called at the specified time, you make a follow-up call. If you have agreed to call the employer back, be sure to do it on the agreed-upon day.

If you did not make any arrangements, and you haven't heard from the employer in about two weeks, call to find out the status of the hiring process. If you find out you didn't get the job, you are allowed to politely ask why. "Can you tell me what would have made me a better candidate for the position?" Ask if the employer knows of any other job openings in your line of work. Always thank the employer/ personnel manager for considering you. Be professional and polite. Even if you don't get this job, you never know when the employer may be hiring again.

So you didn't get a call back.

It's not the end of the road - it's just another turn in your path. Don't give up - get going! Remember you're still on the hunt. An unsuccessful interview is a chance to learn, and will bring you that much closer to a successful one.

Here's what you can do:

• Don't give up - keep looking. Finding a job takes time.
• Remember that applying for jobs and being interviewed are skills that improve with practice. Use your experience to improve those skills.
• Don't take it personally. Not getting a job is not necessarily a reflection on you. Many factors weigh into an employer's decision. It's like a marathon - you might have been up against a world-class runner!
• Politely ask the employer if you can discuss your interview, and how you might do better the next time.
• Review your cover letter and resume. Polish your interview skills by practicing with a friend or by getting out there and applying.
• Keep a positive outlook. Continue to network.
• Explore other options. Don't rule out volunteering or job shadowing as a good way to make connections and get some experience in the workplace.

So you got an offer!

Congratulations! You've got a job offer! Be enthusiastic and thank the caller for the opportunity. Let them know you are looking forward to being part of their team.

The next step is to discuss the terms and conditions of the job. This may be a factor in whether or not you will accept. Confirm things like:

• When you start
• How much your salary will be
• What you'll be doing
• What hours you'll be working (including shifts and overtime)
• What are the benefits and vacation (if the job's full-time)
• What health and safety considerations you should know about
• What special equipment or clothing you might need
• When, where, and to whom to report on your first day
• If orientation or training will be provided

If you have any concerns, share them with someone whose opinion you respect before committing yourself.

You've got the job! Now what?

It's your first day on the job and, your journey has just begun! This is just the first in a series of jobs that will make up your career. Remember, you're just starting out. Be prepared to do your best, and you will learn and grow in the job. Don't let 'first day jitters' get you. Start out on the right foot:

• Be on time (that means 5 to 10 minutes early!).
• Find out who your supervisor is.
• Be polite and courteous.
• Be attentive. Watch for clues how to act and speak appropriately.
• Find out exactly when and where you will take your breaks.
• Take only the allotted time for breaks, or a minute or two less - don't come back a few minutes late.
  • Find out where to keep your lunch and other personal items.

Section 5 - Other Stuff you Should Know

Health and Safety

Work smart, work safe! Make sure you, and those around you, can do your jobs and not get hurt. No one else can look out for your safety as well as you can. If you are asked to do something at work that isn't safe, remember, you have the right to refuse.

By law, employers must:

• provide a safe and healthful workplace;
• train employees to be aware of potential dangers and make sure that, when required, employees are certified with safety training;
• correct someone who is completing a task in a way that is not safe, and correct unsafe conditions;
• ensure that personal protective equipment is available; and
• report and investigate all accidents and incidents.

As an employee, you must:

• know and obey all health and safety regulations;
• protect yourself, your co-workers, and members of the public who may be affected by your actions;
• report unsafe acts and unsafe conditions to your employer;
• use personal protective gear as required by the employer; and
• report any accident or illness right away to your employer.

Never take for granted that your employer knows and meets all the health and safety standards. Ask questions, pay attention to health and safety within your workplace, and don't be afraid to speak-up and make suggestions for changes. Although it may be daunting to question an employer about a safety issue, no job is worth risking your life. A good employer will want to know if you suspect a dangerous situation. Any employer who would question your rights to a safe work environment is not worth working for, no matter what the rate of pay.

Employment Insurance

A portion of your earnings is deducted from your pay-cheque for Employment Insurance (EI). (Under the Employment Insurance Act, your employer has to make these deductions.)

Employment Insurance provides temporary income to people who have lost their jobs through no fault of their own, and helps unemployed people get back to work. To receive EI benefits, you must: be unemployed; have worked at least 420 to 700 insurable hours (or more in some circumstances) in the last 52 weeks; and have paid into the Employment Insurance program.

Canada Pension Plan

Working Canadians over the age of 18 pay into the Canada Pension Plan (CPP), or the Quebec Pension Plan (QPP) if they work in Quebec. You and your employer each pay half of the contributions. Again, your portion is deducted from your paycheque. If you're self-employed, you pay both portions.

CPP has been set up to provide eligible contributors with three different kinds of benefits:

• Disability benefits: income if you become disabled.
• Retirement pension: income you receive from the Government of Canada as early as age 60.
• Survivor benefits: income for your spouse or your common-law partner, and dependent children if you die.
• If you're a full-time student between the ages of 18 and 25, and one of your parents dies or starts receiving a CPP disability benefit, you may be eligible for benefits too.

Applying for the GST/HST Credit

You may be eligible for the GST/HST credit if you are 19 years of age or older, or if you are a parent or are married or living common law.

To apply for the credit, file an income tax and benefit return, even if you have no income to report. Check the 'Yes" box in the GST/HST credit application area on page one of your return.

The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) makes the GST/HST credit payments four times a year in July, October, January and April.

Information for Working Students

Students and Taxes

Taxes, deductions, credits, payments... get the straight goods on taxation in guides published by the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) and in the brochure entitled Students and Income Tax. This brochure deals with several topics, including:

• filing income tax returns;
• claiming or transferring education-related costs and tuition fees;
• applying for the goods and services tax/harmonized sales tax (GST/HST) credit;
• paying interest on student loans; and claiming moving expenses.

You can get a copy of this publication by calling the CRA at 1-800-959-2221 or visiting your local tax service office.

Canada Student Loans Program

Want to go back to school?

The Canada Student Loans Program can help you plan and finance your post-secondary education. Whether you're studying full-time or part-time, you may be eligible for a loan or a Canada Study Grant. Here's how it can help:

• Check out CanLearn at www.canlearn.ca for information that can help you make informed decisions about planning and financing your post-secondary education.
• Full- and Part-time Canada Student Loans are available to eligible students seeking a post-secondary education, as well as non-repayable Canada Study Grants for women in certain doctoral studies, persons with permanent disabilities, students with dependents, and high-need part-time students.
• While in full-time studies, you are not required to pay interest on Canada Student Loans.
• You are not required to make any payments on your loan until six months after you have completed your studies.
• A tax credit is available for the interest paid on your student loan each year.
• If you're having trouble repaying your loan, the Government of Canada has a number of options which you may be eligible for such as, revising the repayment terms of your loan, Interest Relief, and Debt Reduction in Repayment.

Services offered by your local Service Canada Centre for Youth (SCCY)

SCCYs are not just for people in school. They are a source of employment opportunities for all youth, and are great because they often feature entry-level positions and short-term opportunities that can sometimes turn into permanent ones. Most SCCYs have a casual work registry, so you can earn some money while you're still looking. Here are some of the services they offer:

Employment Assistance: To help job seekers identify job possibilities, set goals and learn job-search skills.

• Workshops on a variety of topics: Provide basic information on how to conduct a job search, create resumes and prepare for job interviews.
• Job Information Centres: Notice boards or automated Job Banks listing local job openings.
• Computers with Internet access: To help you search and apply for jobs on-line.
• Summer Employment Opportunities: Your local SCCY offers a wide variety of services that can help you find a summer job and information on various federal and provincial job programs. Most SCCYs are open from May to August.
• Useful Publications: Publications such as the on-line YouthLink tool contains lots of useful information on the wide variety of programs, services and organizations that are out there to help you in your job search. This publication provides you with brief descriptions and vital contact information such as telephone numbers, mailing addresses, Web site and e-mail addresses.