Throughout GCSE results week, we’ve been bringing you just some of the many career opportunities available for school leavers in our city.

This week, we’ve put the spotlight on careers in construction, hospitality, NHS and housing associations. Today, to mark GCSE Results Day, we’re providing some guidance on what your next steps could be and some useful tips for writing CVs and applications, and how to prepare for job interviews.

For further support, Everton in the Community's 'New Futures' programme is currently recruiting for 16 to 24-year-olds not in employment, education or training. Participants will be provided with one to one support, information, advice and guidance in order to progress into jobs, education or training opportunities in their chosen industry. 

Email Yolande.Walsh@Evertonfc.com or call 07875 097453 to find out more and how to sign up.

Where To Look?

There’s a whole host of popular job searching websites you can use, but it’s also recommended that you look on specific employers' websites for vacancies if you have a particular business you’d like to work for in mind. In some cases, approaching an employer even when there’s no opportunities advertised can put you in a better position, as it shows you are really keen.

Many local councils advertise job vacancies on their website – so don’t forget to look on your local council’s page. There’s also a wide range of recruitment agencies recruiting for different sectors who you can register with. Sometimes they are for temporary positions which can give you that foot in the door for a permanent role in the company. If not, temporary positions can still give you transferable skills when looking for a permanent role elsewhere.

Work Experience

If you haven’t already completed any relevant work experience, don’t be afraid to ask an employer if they have any work experience opportunities available. This will give you a real feel for the job you are interested in and can open up many opportunities to you. If you make a good impression during your work placement, you could be considered for any current or future opportunities. The employer will already know that you are reliable, a good team player and time keeper and that you already have an understanding of their business and how they operate. You can also add this to your CV and use the employer as a reference.

Apprenticeships And Traineeships

As an individual we’re always learning, no matter our age and ability. Traineeships and apprenticeships are the best way to develop and learn to get you ready for work.

A traineeship is a course with work experience that gets you ready for work or an apprenticeship. It can last up to six months.

An apprenticeship provides an individual with work experience, a workplace mentor, skills in the industry and a qualification to evidence your skills and experience.

Writing A CV

To apply for any vacancy, whether or not the role you’re applying for requires an application, creating your own CV is always a good place to start.

Make sure you include your full name, address and contact numbers, your education and qualifications and any work experience whether it’s relevant or not. Employers also like to know who you are so create a short personal profile and names and contact details for two referees or add 'References on request'. It’s important to keep it to a maximum of two pages.

Preparing For An Interview

Interviews are a daunting process for everybody, but preparation will help reduce your anxiety and avoid unnecessary stress. Get to know the company, check their website, social media pages etc to help you feel more confident as you’ll almost always be asked about what you know about the business.

Make sure you know exactly where you are going and who you should ask for on the day, and remember the person interviewing you is human and has been in your situation so don’t worry too much.

You’ll almost always be asked if you have any questions, so make sure you know what to ask. Here are a few questions for you to consider:

“How many other people are there in the team?”
“What would my day-to-day responsibilities be?”
“What are the promotion prospects?”
“When can I expect to hear from you?”

Above all, make sure you try to relax, be yourself, and stay calm – almost everybody has been in your position at some point in their lives. Good luck! 

This guide was created by the Employability team at Everton in the Community.