Written by Emmanuela Abbe Employment Counsellor
You've finally reached the end of the school year. Final tests are done, extra-credit assignments are in, and you are ready to take on the next adventure - job searching.
However, when you begin to look for that first entry-level position, you're met with passed deadlines, age restrictions, and the dread of feeling you've missed your opportunity.
While the job market is in a constant state of changing, from requirements to when is the perfect window of opportunity some aspects stay true. One of those is learning how to use your time wisely so you're ready when opportunity knocks.
Here are some ways you can turn it around
1. Exploring Opportunities
Research, research, research. You don’t know what you don’t know.
It is important to take the time to looking into the areas you are interested in. Whether it is doing research into your desired place of employment, mapping out a career path or for finding volunteering opportunities. Every piece of information you get helps you make better informed decisions.
2. Connecting with Supports
You don't have to navigate this alone.
Similar to resources at the Youth Employment Centre (YEC), there are other organizations and programs designed to help prepare for the workforce.
Luckily for you, you can use a bunch of them at the same time.
Organization | Age Range | Support Offered |
Youth Employment Centre | 15 – 24 | Resume and cover letter support, job search assistance interview prep, career planning, employer connections, workshop and training opportunities |
Youth Central | Youth & Young Adults | Volunteer opportunities, leadership development, community involvement and skill building experiences |
Calgary Bridge Foundation for Youth (CBFY) | 15 – 30 | Employment readiness for newcomer youth, career exploration, job search support, and interview preparation |
Goodwill Warehouse Academy | Young Adults | Employment training and work-readiness opportunities that help participants gain practical workplace skills |
Two Wheel View – GAP Program | Youth | Leadership, mentorship, personal development programming that support youth facing barriers |
Outward Bound Canada – Training Academy | Youth and Young Adults | Outdoor leadership, personal growth, confidence building, and employability skills development |
Between Friends | 18+ volunteer and employment opportunities | Inclusive recreation and leadership opportunities supporting individuals with disabilities while providing valuable work and volunteer experience |
3. Update your Resume & Cover Letter
These 2 documents are the employer's introduction to you and as we know first impressions are important.
Use this time to know what the standards are for your desired industry. Think about all that you have been involved in to showcase your skills and experience. Make sure your details are clearly highlighted, clear details and tailored.
4. Reflect and Set Goals
Setbacks can be frustrating but can also prove to be a great learning opportunity.
Reflect on your accomplishments - even the small ones. Little wins are just as rewarding as the big ones.
Being honest with yourself can keep you motivated and accountable. Write them out and be realistic with yourself. SMART is a great format to follow and plan out
S – Specific: define what you want to achieve and actions required
M – Measurable: identify how progress and success will be measured
A – Achievable/Attainable: Ensure the goal is realistic given your skills, time and resources
R – Relevant: Do the goals align with your short-term and long-term career goals
T – Time-bound: Set deadlines to create structure
Example
Within the next month, I will have connected with an employment support organization, completed and reviewed 3 targeted resumes and applied to 15 positions. I will track and follow up with my application to increase my chances of getting an interview.
Progress doesn't happen overnight. When you are feeling overwhelmed or down on yourself take a beat and tackle it on again. The right opportunity will find you at the right time.
A summer setback doesn't define your future. You are continuing to learn, seek support, and improve your process to achieve your goals so that when the opportunity arrives, you'll be ready.
References
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The City of Calgary Youth Employment Centre (YEC) provides free, in-person drop-in employment services for youth ages 15-24. We offer resume targeting, job search strategies, interview preparation, career planning, connections to employers who are hiring and more.
Visit the YEC for drop-in employment services.
Meet one on one with an Employment Counsellor for personalized support. No appointment needed.
Drop-in hours: calgary.ca/yec
Location: Alberta Trade Centre, 2nd floor, 315 10 Ave. SE, Calgary, Alberta, T2G 0W2
Contact us: 403-268-2490