the knowZone :: How2

how2 . . . get a job

As you begin to think about life after school, a little Research and Planning can go a long way - starting you down the road to a happier experience. Now, I'm not saying that you have to make decisions now that will affect the rest of your life. Or that you can't change jobs/careers. But a little bit of research and planning will help a great deal. Trust me on this one. Even if you are looking for a minimum wage job, think about what might make you happy. Do you love being outside? Do you want to work around lots of people? We've listed many useful links that can help you get started. Stay and browse a while.

If you have the time and the resources, some of the better jobs require some Training. Here's a useful tip: Take any computer course you can. The more you know, the better off you will be. Most good jobs require some level of computer expertise. There are free classes at the James V. Brown Library and CareerLink.

First impressions matter! Make sure you have a good Resume. Cover letters are important too. Spend some time getting this right and you will be happy you did. Most of the "find a job" websites offer helpful tips and good examples. [Monster CareerBuilder HotJobs]

There is no way around it. You will fill out many, many Applications. We've provided a group of local online applications here. Don't forget to fill out your "work papers". Then start clicking away.

McDonald's Burger KingWendy'sSubway KFC Denny's Taco Bell Arby's Quiznos

Pizza Hut Domino's Papa John's . . fastfood.com

TGI Friday's Ruby Tuesday's Red Lobster Olive Garden Perkins Hoss's

Charlie Brown's Bonanza/Ponderosa . . . . . .

Sheetz UniMart Turkey Hill . . .

. . . . . . . .

Giant Wegman's Weis Market . . .

Wal-Mart Kmart or Sears Lycoming Mall Target . . .

Dollar Tree Family Dollar Dollar GeneralT J Maxx . . . . .

Staples OfficeDepot RadioShack Best Buy Circuit City .

Verizon Sprint . . . . . .

Manor Care Susquehanna Health Geisinger . . .

Blockbuster Rite Aid Dunkin' Donuts Starbucks Dairy Queen

Faxon Lanes . . . . . . .

FritoLay Wire Rope West Pharmaceuticals Primus Tech Wasserott's Shop-Vac Textron

. . . . . . . .

Once you start Interviewing, you will start to get a feel for the kinds of questions that will be asked. It may sound like a waste of time, but go on an interview for a job you don't really want. Practice, practice, practice. Here are a list of questions that you should have answers to:

why should we hire you?

what uniquely qualifies you for this position over the next guy?

what is your greatest strength and weakness?

tell me about a very difficult situation you faced in a previous job - and how did you handle it?

The "find a job" websites offer helpful tips and good examples in this area as well. [Monster CareerBuilder HotJobs]

Expectations on day 1 may be a little different than you are used to. You are a "professional" now - not a summer part-timer. Talk to other coworkers. Talk to your boss. It's better to ask than to not know what is expected of you. Salaries...

Other things to consider after you land a job [if you want to keep it and/or get ahead] are work ethics, the hours you put in, benefits, childcare and much more. Remember, your future is in YOUR hands. If you want to be a good worker, be a good worker. Don't expect things to fall into your lap. As they say, just shut up and DO IT!

Other Helpful Resources

Focus Central PA
Workforce Information. Central Pennsylvania’s skilled workforce is ready to be a part of your business success. Our labor force prides itself on a strong work ethic that is sought after by many national and international companies. Innovation and entrepreneurship characterize the spirit of many businesses operating in Central Pennsylvania.

Guide to the Business of Babysitting
Everything you need to know about being a successful babysitter is available on this site, from planning play activities to great business practices.

SnagAJob.com
"Want to find part-time jobs for the spring? Ready to start looking for summer jobs? The traditional methods of job searching have been replaced. SnagAJob.com is now your source for finding part-time and seasonal jobs."

blogger says...

q: What was the biggest difference between your job(s) before graduation and your first job after graduation?

a: ...coming soon

things to know...

EMPLOYMENT AGENCIES

Ashford 2401 Reach Rd Williamsport 570-601-1337
DePasquale 454 Pine St 570-326-1736
HATS How About Temps 25 West Third St 570-323-9443
Kelly 460 Market St 570-327-8226
Keystone 948 Broad St, Montoursville 570-368-5520
Labor Ready 339 West Fourth St 570-323-3625
Manpower 1000 Commerce Park Dr 570-321-6688
OneSource 999 Loyalsock Ave Montoursville 570-368-5000
Spherion 334 Hughes St 570-320-9750

EMPLOYMENT SERVICES & COUNSELING

CareerLink 145 West Third St 570-601-5465
Office of Vocational Rehabilitation 570-327-3600
PA College of Technology (New Choices /New Options) 570-327-4502
SCORE (Service Corps of Retiree Executives) 570-322-3720

ONLINE RESOURCES

WilliamsportHelpWanted
SunGazette
craigslist
Monster
Yahoo Hot Jobs
CareerBuilder

when, where, tips & tricks

minimum wage: $6.25/hr

unemployment rate: 5.9%