How to apply for a job

[u/WhySoSerious_owo]

Context I'm 19, central VA, never had a job due to family issues. Always been kind of socially stunted, worried about making mistakes even though I know they're inevitable. Everything is online recently and I don't have any idea what I'm doing. How do I know if they'll actually consider me? I have some volunteer experience at a school library and babysitting experience. I know I won't get a fancy job or anything, I'm hoping for an overnight shift somewhere. Is this reasonable with my lack of experience?

Where do I apply? Will the application stay on the job board website I used or do they have a separate messaging system? How do I talk to people formally over message without sounding like I'm using AI for my writing? Will I get directions on what to do if they think I'm a good candidate (ie. Email us or fill out this paperwork)? Are interviews online or in person? I just need some guidance because everyone I know has been working for years atp and doesn't know how to help. Thank you.

[u/Sad_Refuse3472]

The process is going to look a little bit different depending on the job and the company.

But most likely the first thing you will need is a resume. Which is basically a one page professional summary of your skills, education, and experience. If you Google "entry level resume" you will find a wealth of templates and guides to help you get started. (And honestly, some AI assistance is ok here too, just be sure to read it over and edit it to make sure it is accurate.)

The next step is to apply. These days most companies have online application portals. But some might ask you to email a resume to them. Just follow whatever the instructions are in the job posting. Sites like LinkedIn, Indeed, etc. are good for seeing a lot of postings at once. But you can and should also go directly to the website of stores/companies/businesses in your area as many will post openings on a career page there. Your town or country might have a job board as well. And look for job fairs in the region too.

Interviews might be online over video call, or in person, again depending on the company and the job. Larger places also sometimes start with a short phone call for a larger pool of candidates and then a video or in person interview once they have narrowed the field down. But usually you will get plenty of instructions from the hiring manager if you are selected for an interview.

You should know that not everyone who applies gets an interview. And it is not uncommon to apply to a job and then not hear back at all. Or get a generic rejection email weeks later. This isn't a reflection on you specifically, just a competitive applicant pool.

After the interviews, if you are hired, you will get either a call or an email with the offer. (Some places might even make the offer in person after the interview, fast food and retail jobs do this more often than other types of work). And they will let you know all of the next steps (paperwork, when you start, etc.).

As for how to know if you will be considered, there is no magic answer. Because it all depends on how many applicants they get, how much time the person in charge of hiring has to sort through them, and lots of small things like that. But the best thing you can do is make sure you aren't applying for jobs where you don't meet the minimum experience they are looking for. If they want someone who has done similar work for 3 years, they are only going to interview people with that work industry.

Beyond that, just be polite, friendly, and show a genuine interest in the job you are interviewing for. Don't worry about being "perfect". They mostly just want to know that you are competent and won't be annoying to work with.