Regular readers will know that I am compiling an e-book of stories and advice for school leavers and graduates to help them get their first job. 

I thought it would be a good idea to share some hints and tips as I went along so this is the first of a mini-series!

One approach to getting onto the job ladder is to

Take a temporary/part time/ casual job just to get started

I speak to so many people who are looking for their first job who say that they have no real idea of what they want to do in the future. A common approach is to see what is on offer at the time  and take a chance on something that seems interesting. Also this can help get round the “needs experience” part of a job advert.

To maximise the benefit of this it is a great idea to

1 Get feedback from your employer on your strengths. Most organisations have an performance appraisal system but as a temporary employee you may not be there at the time when the meetings take place. If you do not have formal meetings with your line manager – ask for one. This can be really daunting – but honestly, it is the best way to get a feel for how you are doing.

2 Ask for their help with developing  areas you could do with working on. If you show willing you may be surprised by what you employer will offer.

3  Keep a diary! Write notes of what you have been doing , how it felt, what was good about it, what was more tricky, what you would do differently next time. When it comes to producing a great CV when that job you really want comes up you will have loads of stuff to use which would be hard to remember otherwise.

4 You may have access to internal job ads when you are there – check them out. An employer who already knows you, what you do and how you do it should be only too happy to include you interviews ( assuming you have been doing well of course – see points 1 and 2!)

5 Leave on good terms when your contract is up and  keep in contact with someone there who can let you know if something else comes up.

6 Ask your line manager if they will give you a reference and get the contact details that they would like you to use.

Never undervalue temporary work. Many people I have spoken to got great opportunities directly from the start up jobs they took.

If you have been there and have any other advice – please share!