Need advice about getting a job...

newbie · #1 05-03-2001, 04:10 PM

Hey there!

I really want to get a job this summer, but the problem is...I will be applying for very competitive spots...at Starbucks and this luxury retirement home. The big problem is that I haven't had any previous experience job-wise...I've only volunteered. The applications want you to answer questions regarding your past jobs...and they want references, too.

Many people have told me that the managers will understand about my job-less past, since I'm only a teenager! However, I really want to work at these two places....how can I make my application stand out????!!!! (When I really don't have anything special to write on the application...) Just at my school alone tons of people are applying. Any advice? Thanks a bunch, I truly appreciate this!!!

This is so frustrating...I know that I have to start somewhere...but they always want someone who has had previous experience!!

[This message has been edited by newbie (edited May 03, 2001).]

dzrose93 · #2 05-03-2001, 04:13 PM

Hey Newbie,

Just go in and make the best impression possible. Wear a nice dress and take a copy of your work history with you (even if it's only volunteer work). Also, if you know anyone currently working in those places, ask them for a recommendation. If the person is a good worker, then the boss will be likely to listen to the person's advice when it comes to hiring a friend. GOOD LUCK!!! http://www.greekchat.com/forums/ubb/smile.gif

newbie · #3 05-03-2001, 04:19 PM

Hey DZRose, thanks! But isn't wearing a dress a bit "over-the-top" maybe for Starbucks?! I think we applicants are only supposed to drop our application in a box http://www.greekchat.com/forums/ubb/frown.gif, so I really cannot make a good impression, unless it's on the application itself!

BTW, did you ever get my last e-mail a couple of weeks ago?

newbie · #4 05-03-2001, 04:26 PM

Oh! Also, on the Starbucks application, it asks you to list previous work experience that would relate to the position for which you are applying. (I will be applying for Retail.)

Two summers ago, I volunteered from June-August in my local preschool...it was simply amazing! I worked with kids as an Assistant Teacher (unofficial title), and had fun taking care of them in general. So I don't know what to do! This has nothing to do with working Retail at Starbucks! Should I still list this, even though it has nothing to do with Retail??

BTW, I'm volunteering as a Childcare (Daycare) Assistant and Mentor this summer, too. http://www.greekchat.com/forums/ubb/biggrin.gif Kids are so fun!

[This message has been edited by newbie (edited May 03, 2001).]

dzrose93 · #5 05-03-2001, 04:49 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by newbie:
Hey DZRose, thanks! But isn't wearing a dress a bit "over-the-top" maybe for Starbucks?! I think we applicants are only supposed to drop our application in a box http://www.greekchat.com/forums/ubb/frown.gif, so I really cannot make a good impression, unless it's on the application itself!

BTW, did you ever get my last e-mail a couple of weeks ago?

Hey Newbie,

Trust me, wearing a dress is NOT over the top. As a college sophomore, I wore a suit to drop off my application at Cracker Barrel, of all places. The manager noticed me when I came in because of my appearance, and called me that very day for an interview.

As for your e-mail... I've responded to all the ones I've received from you, sweetie... Did you not get my last note?

Talk to you soon!
Carrie

newbie · #6 05-03-2001, 04:53 PM

DZRose, ahh those darned Net Connections at school!! Did you ever get that e-mail where I talked about the Sorority Fair which you presented at? I think I will just write a new one http://www.greekchat.com/forums/ubb/biggrin.gif.

Hmm..about Starbucks, how would the Manager notice me? What if he/she's not out there while I drop off my application? Should I even say anything when I drop off my application, besides "Hi" and a smile? I'm feeling very self-conscious! I usually have good people-skills, but now I'm very nervous! I've heard that Starbucks is THE place to work--great pay, awesome aura, nice employees. And I want that job so badly!! http://www.greekchat.com/forums/ubb/biggrin.gif

[This message has been edited by newbie (edited May 03, 2001).]

dzrose93 · #7 05-03-2001, 04:59 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by newbie:
DZRose, ahh those darned Net Connections at school!! Did you ever get that e-mail where I talked about the Sorority Fair which you presented at? I think I will just write a new one http://www.greekchat.com/forums/ubb/biggrin.gif.

Hmm..about Starbucks, how would the Manager notice me? What if he/she's not out there while I drop off my application? Should I even say anything when I drop off my application, besides "Hi" and a smile? I'm feeling very self-conscious! I usually have good people-skills, but now I'm very nervous! I've heard that Starbucks is THE place to work--great pay, awesome aura, nice employees. And I want that job so badly!! http://www.greekchat.com/forums/ubb/biggrin.gif

[This message has been edited by newbie (edited May 03, 2001).]

The best thing to do is to ask to speak to a manager when you drop off your application. Just introduce yourself, and tell the manager how interested you are in working at the place. Ask how many positions are open, what shifts are available, and let him/her know that you will be very flexible as far as hours go. Act mature and professional (you're wonderful at both!) and you'll do just fine.

If the manager is not available when you visit, then call within 2-3 days of when you drop off the application. Tell the manager that you are just calling to make sure that he/she received your information and ask when a decision will be made. Tell them that you will be available for an in-person interview at their convenience. http://www.greekchat.com/forums/ubb/biggrin.gif You'll do beautifully, I'm sure!

newbie · #8 05-03-2001, 05:08 PM

Thanks so much for your advice, Carrie, I feel a whole lot better!!!! http://www.greekchat.com/forums/ubb/biggrin.gif I'm just a big scaredy-cat when it comes to taking initiative!! http://www.greekchat.com/forums/ubb/frown.gif I wish I didn't have that problem! http://www.greekchat.com/forums/ubb/smile.gif

Quote:

Originally posted by dzrose93:
Tell the manager that you are just calling to make sure that he/she received your information and ask when a decision will be made. Tell them that you will be available for an in-person interview at their convenience.

I was wondering if it would be considered "pushy" to ask for when a decision would be made? Forgive me for all these questions, I'm just so anxious and I haven't been through the Job-Hunting Search before!!

[This message has been edited by newbie (edited May 03, 2001).]

dzrose93 · #9 05-03-2001, 05:16 PM

That's okay, newbie. I understand your uneasiness! I used to be very shy during interviews... To answer your question, no, it wouldn't be too forward to ask when a decision would be made. It's really a very smart question. The reason is that, in case you have applied for a job elsewhere, then you won't wait around for the Starbucks job and miss out on another one if there is no chance of getting a position at Starbucks. Does that make sense? You can also mention to the manager that you have put in applications elsewhere, but that you are really interested in Starbucks. That will show the manager that you may be offered another position elsewhere, and might get him to hurry up and interview you for Starbucks to keep from possibly losing you to another company. Understand? Sorry if I'm a little confusing today! http://www.greekchat.com/forums/ubb/biggrin.gif

dzrose93 · #10 05-03-2001, 05:17 PM

By the way, I just sent you an e-mail to see if it's working! http://www.greekchat.com/forums/ubb/smile.gif

newbie · #11 05-03-2001, 05:23 PM

Thanks DZRose!! Hehe, that's very funny, http://www.greekchat.com/forums/ubb/biggrin.gif, I just sent you an e-mail and yours popped up!! http://www.greekchat.com/forums/ubb/biggrin.gif

Yes, I clearly understand now http://www.greekchat.com/forums/ubb/biggrin.gif. That is very good advice! I'm wondering how I would phrase the question as politely as possible? How about, "I'm also wondering if you could tell me when you will reach your decision?" I want to sound as confident as possible, yet as polite as can be. However, I'm far from feeling confident about this job-thing! I'm always very scared in the beginning of Interviews, but after a few minutes, I really open up. http://www.greekchat.com/forums/ubb/biggrin.gif

bucutie02 · #12 05-03-2001, 10:05 PM

Hi Newbie!
First of all i would like to say that DZRose is giving you excellent advice. My friend used to work at Starbucks for about two years. He loved it because it pays more than your average job and they have benefits as well. I know you probably have insurance through your parents but i think its great for those who dont. He also said they give you a raise every so often- although i dont know if you would get a raise if its only for the summer. Of course, you might be an exception http://www.greekchat.com/forums/ubb/biggrin.gif

Anyway, did you say that you wanted to apply for Retail in Starbucks?? I didnt understand that part. I wish you the best of luck- i am sure you will get it! http://www.greekchat.com/forums/ubb/smile.gif

Theta-cutie · #13 05-08-2001, 07:38 PM

Hey sweetie,

Did you end up getting your resume in yet? I will call you again tonight...

Bucutie, yes, Newbie does want to apply for a Retail position at Starbucks http://www.greekchat.com/forums/ubb/smile.gif.

newbie · #14 05-10-2001, 03:18 PM

Hey Bucutie and Caitlin!

Bucutie, yes, I will apply for Retail http://www.greekchat.com/forums/ubb/biggrin.gif. I really really hope that I get the job!@!!! *fingers crossed* Your friend is so lucky! http://www.greekchat.com/forums/ubb/biggrin.gif The "minimum wage" at Starbucks is 8.25/hour!

Caitlin--no, I haven't gotten in the resume yet http://www.greekchat.com/forums/ubb/frown.gif. As yuou know, I have been swamped with schoolwk and have been sick. http://www.greekchat.com/forums/ubb/frown.gif http://www.greekchat.com/forums/ubb/frown.gif