Skip to main content
Graduation, Pathways, and Careers » Preparing for a Job

Preparing for a Job

Job Search
 

Stage One: Prepare A Resume And Cover Letter

Whether your child is looking for a full-time, part-time or summer job they will need a:
 
  • Social Insurance Number
  • Young Worker Readiness Certificate
  • Resume & Cover Letter
 
Stage One: Prepare A Resume And Cover Letter Whether your child is looking for a full-time, part-time or summer job they will need a: Social Insurance Number Young Worker Readiness Certificate Resume & Cover Letter
 

What is a Social Insurance Number (SIN)?

A SIN number is a nine digit number that you need to work in Canada or to have access to government programs and benefits. The fastest way to apply for a SIN number is to submit an application at a local Service Canada Centre. To locate the office nearest to you, call 1 800 O-Canada (1-800-622-6232) or visit https://www.canada.ca/en/employment-social-development/services/sin/apply.html. Documentation indicating identity and status in Canada will be needed in the application process.
 

What is a Young Worker Readiness Certificate?

Effective March 31, 2010 all 14 and 15 year old workers are required to complete the Young Worker Readiness Certificate Course (YWRCC) and obtain a Certificate of Completion. These young workers must also provide their employer with: proof of age; written consent from parent/guardian; and copy of certificate. More information is available at: https://www.saskatchewan.ca/business/hire-train-and-manage-employees/youth-in-the-workplace/take-the-young-worker-readiness-certificate-course#how-to-take-the-course
 

What is a Resume?

A resume is a short, easy to read document that you give to potential employers in order to be invited for an interview. Your resume outlines your skills, education, work and volunteer experience and allows employers to quickly see how you can contribute to their workplace.
 

Writing A Resume

What should you tell employers about yourself? A resume is a short, point-form document that you give to employers to tell them about your experience, education and skills. Employers will expect you to have one. Don’t worry! There are lots of experiences, skills and interest areas that you can put on your resume, even if you do not have a lot of work experience. Some helpful tips for resume preparation are given below and at http://www.youth.gc.ca/eng/topics/jobs/resume.shtml.
 

What is a Cover Letter?

A cover letter is a short, well-written letter that accompanies your resume. The purpose of a cover letter is to introduce yourself and to get an employer to read your resume. A cover letter should be tailored for each position or company that you are interested in. There are a number of ways to write a cover letter but three paragraphs is a good length. The following cover letter outline from Service Canada provides excellent information about what a cover letter should include and is typed in an appropriate format.
 

Other Cover Letter Tips:

  • Use simple, direct language and correct grammar.
  • Proofread carefully.
  • Email, mail or hand-deliver your cover letter and resume. Make sure to keep a copy for your files
    and the date that it was sent.
  • Allow plenty of time for delivery.
  • More cover letter samples can be found at: http://www.youth.gc.ca/eng/topics/jobs/cover.shtml.

Stage Two: Conduct A Job Search

Searching for a job is a challenge. Refer to your resume and closely examine your skills and abilities. List the types of jobs that you would like and are qualified to do.
 
There are five main areas where young people with little or no work experience can often find their first job:
 
  1.  Hospitality – hotel worker, restaurant worker, tour guide, casino worker, etc.
  2. Office Work – word processing operator, receptionist, clerk, etc.
  3. Labour – construction worker, warehouse worker, gardener, landscaper, etc.
  4.  Retail – grocery clerk, department store clerk, cashier, etc.
  5.  Recreation – camp counsellor, special events worker, pool attendant, babysitter, etc.

Where to look for job openings?

  • Network - Tell everyone you know that you are looking for a job. Seventy-five to 80 per cent
    of all job openings are never advertised and are filled through personal networking.
  • Job Postings - Jobs are posted in a wide variety of places: on the Internet, bulletin boards at
    your local high school, college or university and in classified ads in community newspapers.
 
Online Job Banks:
 
 

What is a Job Application?

Many employers will consider your resume and cover letter to be the job application. However, some businesses
have a standard job application form that they want completed by everyone applying for work.
 
Job Application Tips:
 
  • Read the entire application first and follow directions carefully.
  • Ask for two copies. You can fill one out in pencil first before doing a final copy in pen.  Your first copy can then be kept as a record.
  • If possible, take the application home to complete. That way you can take your time and ensure accuracy.
  • Use your resume for reference.
  • Answer every question. If a question does not apply to you, put N/A in the space.N/A means “not applicable”.
  • Be honest.
  • Sign and date the application.
  • Attach a copy of your resume and cover letter.

​Stage Three: Prepare For A Job Interview

Preparing for a job interview is important. Don’t be nervous - the more prepared you are, the more confident you will be during the interview.

Job Interview Preparation Tips:
  • Write down the exact time and location of the interview. Know how to get to the interview and how long it will take you.
  • Write down the names and titles of the people interviewing you. Phone and find out their names. Don’t rely on memory, it may fail you.
  • Research the actual job duties and responsibilities. Then, as you practise your answers to possible interview questions, relate your skills and accomplishments to the required job duties.
  • Research the company – Look in newsletters, the library, research online, or ask people in the business.
  • Research possible interview questions and practice again and again with someone who can give you feedback.
  • Prepare your own questions to ask the interviewer(s). Asking questions shows a genuine interest in the company and the position.
  • Arrive early and alone. If you are kept waiting, do not let it make you nervous.
  • Dress appropriately. Do not chew gum. Be neat, clean and well-groomed.  First impressions are important.
  • Take the following items with you to the interview:
    • writing paper
    • extra copies of your resume
    • copies of your reference list and letters of recommendation if you have any
    • a portfolio
  • Do not linger when the interview is over. Smile, shake hands, thank the interviewer(s) for their time and leave.
  • Follow up with a thank you letter, restating your interest and call in a few days or weeks to inquire if the position has been filled.
Stage 3