How to get your first job after A-levels
A-Level Results Day is a huge milestone. For some, it means confirming a university place and preparing for the next few years of study. For others, it marks the beginning of something completely different: entering the world of work.
If you’ve decided university isn’t for you, your plans have changed after receiving your results, or you simply want to start earning and building experience, there are plenty of opportunities available.
Finding your first job can feel daunting when you don’t have years of experience behind you, but every career has to start somewhere. Here are some simple steps to help you get started.
Look at the skills you already have
When you’re applying for your first job, it’s easy to think you have “no experience”. In reality, employers aren’t only interested in previous job titles.
Think about the skills you’ve developed through school, college, part-time work, volunteering, hobbies, sports or extracurricular activities. Group projects can demonstrate teamwork, presentations can show communication skills and balancing your studies with other commitments can highlight organisation and time management.
Employers hiring people at the beginning of their careers will often be looking for attitude and potential as much as previous experience. Being reliable, willing to learn and enthusiastic can go a long way.
Build a CV that focuses on potential
Your first CV doesn’t need to be packed with previous jobs. Instead, keep it clear, concise and focused on what you can bring to an employer.
Include your education and qualifications, alongside any work experience, volunteering, clubs, societies or other responsibilities you’ve taken on. Highlight relevant skills and give examples where possible.
It’s also worth adapting your CV for different roles. Look at the skills mentioned in the job description and make sure your CV highlights the ones you have.
And before you send it anywhere, check it carefully. Spelling mistakes might seem small, but a polished CV can help create a strong first impression.
Don’t limit your search
Your first job doesn’t have to determine what you do for the rest of your career.
Temporary roles, apprenticeships, entry-level positions and short-term assignments can all help you gain experience, build confidence and discover what you enjoy.
You may also find opportunities in industries you hadn’t previously considered. From administration and customer service to logistics, manufacturing, engineering, driving and professional services, there are many different routes into employment.
Keeping an open mind could introduce you to a career you’d never thought about before.
Interview preparation
Getting invited to an interview is a great sign – it means the employer has already seen something they like.
Beforehand, spend some time researching the company and reading the job description again. Think about examples from school, college, work experience or your personal life that demonstrate skills such as teamwork, problem-solving, communication and organisation.
You don’t need to have an answer prepared for every possible question. Employers know you’re at the start of your career. Showing that you’ve prepared, asking thoughtful questions and demonstrating genuine enthusiasm can make a strong impression.
Make use of recruitment agencies
You don’t have to navigate your first job search alone.
Recruitment agencies can help match your skills and interests with suitable vacancies, explain what employers are looking for and support you through applications and interviews.
At Pertemps, our recruitment specialists work with employers across the UK and recruit for roles spanning a wide range of sectors and experience levels. For someone entering the workforce for the first time, having a recruiter in your corner can help you understand your options and identify opportunities you might otherwise have missed.
Results Day can come with a lot of pressure, particularly when everyone around you seems to be asking the same question: “What are you doing next?”
The important thing to remember is that there isn’t one correct route.
Ready to take that first step? Search the latest jobs with Pertemps and start exploring where your career could take you.
