Finding Your First Job
The one issue that comes up over and over again when you are looking for your first job is that you must show potential employers you have experience. Okay, how can you get experience if you are a full-time student? Everyone who works with animals got their start volunteering. They eagerly cleaned cages. No job was beneath them. Happiness came from being around animals. Learning came from keenly observing those with jobs. Over time, even as a volunteer, experience happened.
So to make finding your first job easier, think of it as the second job you will have. The first will be volunteering while you are in high school, college, grad school, or trade school. Each volunteer job should be considered a real job — one with full responsibilities. Volunteers have been fired if they don't do the work. Volunteers have also been promoted to paying jobs when they open up.
You just heard about a job opening at a place you really want to work. Apply, of course, but don't stop there and wait for the phone to ring. Apply to as many places as possible, even if that means you will have to relocate or take a part-time job to start. The more places you contact about work, the better your chances of finding full-time employment.
You can also think of your first full-time job as a stepping stone to your next career. Even if you just plan on working at a particular place for a year or two, make a good impression. Pitch in and ask to take on more responsibility. You will be an asset to the institution, and more important, you will become a valued worker — one who will be considered if a higher position opens up.
Even if you are lucky enough to think of your first job as perfect, chances are that a few years on the job may bring new needs and desires. You might consider moving up or moving to another company, or you might relocate to another state. As you move from one job to another, be sure to hold on to important contacts. Those contacts can be great references.
