Top tips for school leavers

Are you in your final year of high school? Looking to make the next decision that will determine your future?

While the labour market is constantly growing and high school students looking to further their education in order to land a job as well as earn more, the choice of studying a particular degree and building working experience will contribute to determining how 'employable' you may be.

If you’re interested in getting work right after high school but aren't looking to commit to a full-time degree, it’s important to consider your options and start preparing early. You may be wondering what are some of your alternative options to build employable skills and enter the workforce at an early stage in your life.

To help you out, we break down the top ways you can land a job without commiting to a full-time degree.

1. Studying a VET course can improve your job search process

You may have considered other options of study besides university and want to build your credentials early on as soon as you complete your high school studies. Did you know that Upskilled offers a range of courses in business, community services and IT? Generally courses can be completed within 12 months and your studies can be done online, meaning you can fit in your other commitments. 

If you’re looking for a flexible and practical way of learning, a VET course may suit you better than a university degree. Even if you’re halfway through your course, you can still add this to your resume and impress potential employers that you’re working towards a related qualification.

2. Timing is key

It’s typical that high schoolers tend to work jobs in the retail or hospitality industry because of the wide opportunities available for young people. Unfortunately, the retail industry has been hit with a decline in sales during Christmas time, meaning there’s less jobs available and competition is fierce.

Timing is everything when it comes to your job search so if you’re looking for work, particularly in the retail sector, you need to start applying for jobs as early as August. Even then, it’s important to start submitting job applications as soon as possible, since it can give you the advantage of securing a role before finishing your HSC studies.

It also means you can get a headstart in training and start saving funds to meet your financial goals - whether that means to travel around the world or moving out of home. The best strategy you can ever implement is to start looking for work when competition is low, so have the urgency to look for work now rather than later.

3. Create your own future

One day you’ll wake up and your high school days will be over before you know it. With the mixture of excitement and sadness that come with graduation, finding a job is something all young people have to do at some point in their lives.

While the real world seems scary, you’ll appreciate all the personal growth you get from this experience when you find a job. The satisfaction of being able to earn your own money without having to rely on your parents is a milestone toward independence, so don’t lose hope if your job search isn’t going so well.

By following the tips above, you can improve your experience when looking for work and remember that it takes time and patience to secure a role. With a positive attitude, any challenges you face can be overcome.

Ready to start your career?

As mentioned, Upskilled offers plenty of courses that can help you land a job in your area of interest.

If you’re wondering whether to begin training, Upskilled has a wide variety of courses you can do online, from Business to Workplace Health & Safety , to Technology Bootcamps and everything in-between. The best part is that they’re online, flexibly delivered to suit your personal and professional needs. Enquire today, and start training in the industry of your choice.

Call Upskilled on 1300 009 924 and speak to one of their friendly education consultants who can guide you on all the courses offered, so that you can choose one that aligns with your career plans for the future. 

Editor's note: This article was originally published in July 2019. Content has been revamped and updated for accuracy and comprehensiveness.