5 Top Tips to Land Your First Job After School

Are you nervous about what comes after school?

Finishing school is a huge milestone. It's exciting, but it's completely normal to feel nervous about what comes next. As you step into the adult world and start thinking about work, you might be asking yourself, "How do I get my first job after school?"

The truth is, almost everyone feels that way.

But don't let that put you off. Your first job isn't about knowing everything already – it's about showing that you're willing to learn, work hard and bring a positive attitude. The right employer will be patient, see your potential and give you the support and training you need to grow.

1. Create a Simple but Strong CV

For a first job, a one-page CV is usually enough. Include information about your education, any work experience you may have, and achievements such Duke of Edinburgh Award, sporting accomplishments or other successes you're proud of.

A common concern is, ‘What if I have no work experience?’

Don't worry. Everyone starts somewhere. Think about your hobbies, volunteering, clubs, sports teams or responsibilities you've had at school. These can all demonstrate valuable qualities and transferable skills that employers look for.

It's also worth remembering that not every employer expects a CV for entry-level roles. At Mitchells & Butlers, many of our opportunities are designed to be accessible to people starting their careers. We're often more interested in getting to know you as a person than reading a long list of experience.

2. Apply for Jobs that Help you Build your Experience

Most employers understand that school leavers won't have years of experience behind them. What they're really looking for is someone with a positive attitude, a strong work ethic and a willingness to learn.

Entry-level jobs are designed to help you develop the valuable skills needed for progression while gaining real workplace experience. A career in hospitality is a great place to begin your working journey because you'll improve your teamwork and communication skills, and learn how to provide excellent guest service.

Whether you're welcoming guests through the door, serving food and drinks or supporting your team behind the scenes, you'll be developing skills that will benefit you throughout your career.

Companies like Mitchells & Butlers offer opportunities specifically designed for people at the start of their working lives. From day one, you'll receive training, support and development to help you succeed. Apprenticeships are also available, giving people the opportunity to build new skills, gain qualifications and progress their careers. And who knows where your first job may take you.

3. Prepare for your Interview

Once you've applied for a role, you may be invited to an interview. This is your opportunity to show an employer who you are and why you'd be a great addition to their team.

A little preparation can make a big difference. Think about why you'd like the job, what appeals to you about working at that pub or restaurant and what strengths you'd bring to the role. Research the business beforehand and prepare a few questions of your own. This shows you're engaged and genuinely interested.

Giving a great impression is essential, so arrive early, be smartly dressed and remember to be honest in your answers and smile, maintaining good eye contact! It is important to note that you are effectively interviewing the employer too, whilst they learn about you, you’re learning about them too. Ask yourself whether it's somewhere you can see yourself learning, growing and building your future.

It's important to remember that interviews aren't tests of how much experience you have. Employers hiring for first-job opportunities are often more interested in your behaviours and attitude than a list of skills.

Think about examples of times you've worked as part of a team, helped others, shown commitment or overcome a challenge. These examples could come from school, sports, volunteering, hobbies or everyday life.

4. Showing the right attitude

For employers, future potential can be more important than experience, so highlighting your willingness to learn, your enthusiasm, willingness to listen and reliability will make you stand out. Remember many people will apply for the same job, and the company will pick the person who is best fit, so you must showcase the best version of yourself.

In a hospitality career your personality is just as important as your skills because you will be working closely with guests and be part of a team. This is an industry built around people, so personality matters!

5. Don't give up!

If you receive a rejection, please don't let it knock your confidence. Rejection happens to everyone at some point, and there are often many reasons why another candidate may have been chosen.

It is important than you continue to apply for jobs. Every application, interview and conversation is helping you gain experience and learn more about what employers are looking for. The feedback you receive can be incredibly valuable and will help you grow.

When applying for jobs as a school leaver, remember that persistence pays off and the right opportunity will come along. If you're asking yourself, "Why can't I get my first job?", don't lose confidence.

As Winston Churchill famously said:

"Success is the ability to go from failure to failure without losing your enthusiasm."

Your first job might be the start of something much bigger than you imagine. With the right support around you, you could build new skills, make lifelong connections and create a career you're truly proud of!

After all, every great journey starts somewhere. And yours could start today.