If you are searching for your first job or even an entry level position in a new career you should be aware of all the assistance that you can obtain to help you on you way. In most cases Youth are anyone between 15-30 as far as many Government programs are concerned but it does vary. You need to check out all avenues. In some cases being registered with a program can give you an edge with an employer. These can help the employer with training costs and wage costs. Obtaining work through a cooperative for instance may happen only because the employer is getting subsidized. Many employers find it difficult to afford to hire although they really need the help. Remember its not just the $8 per hour that the employer has to pay for, they have extra % to pay out for Employment Insurance, Canada Pension Plan, Worker Compensation Plan, and other Insurance and benefits. Below we have given you some websites to check out for more information. Also make sure you look in A.S.P. Employment B.C.'s Job Solutions section in the job banks page for employers that are looking for entry-level applicants. Don't forget that by volunteering can give you experience as well as help you see first hand whether you like working in a certain industry.
You can get a good idea of what a job will entail from looking at job descriptions and details in the career development section. Both in this section for youth, as well as in the employment solutions-job hunter section of this site. This will give you a good indication of what you will expect to do and what skills you will require to do it. Most people sell themselves short as to what they are capable of doing, just because the job posting says it requires a certain level of education for a position if you know you can do it apply. Sometimes experience and or knowledge is just what the employer is looking for. As long as you are willing to learn and work hard you may have a shot at the position. Many Employers nowadays are looking for dedication and motivation and a willingness to work hard and learn! However some positions do require that you have certain qualifications, Make sure that you read the job posting thoroughly and research the job descriptions so you are not wasting your time and the employers in applying for something that you are not able to do.
The following sites are for you to look at the workplace as a general indication of areas you should be aware of before embarking on employment. The more information and knowledge you have the better chance you have of getting that interview and getting the job!
www.youth.gc.ca
- Details and information on Federal Government youth programs
youth.hrdc-drhc.gc.ca
- Info on Student Summer Job Program
