Tips for getting a job when your 17?

To any employer, job tips for getting hired. Doing it wrong?

• Are there any employers out there that can lend me some tips on landing a job? I know the typical routine, but its not working! Am I doing something wrong? I go to almost ANY store or business and ask for an application, then fill it out on the spot and turn it in. I've asked for managers and some have asked my number but NEVER call. I've even bugged some of them, but still nothing! I'm looking for either a full-time job or another part time. I am currently working part time at a retail store and not making enough to live on. A full-time position would be ideal for me going to school; realistically I can't even attend school with my current wages. I'm not looking for anything special, I only have a high school diploma. I have trouble on my applications when I have to give my work history. I worked for a full-time retail outlet for two years and got fired for putting my hands on another associate. It was provoked but policy is policy; It wasn't a physical fight. But I absolutely learned from the situation. I certainly feel a lot of anguish, I was rapidly moving up in the company and now have to start over. I got a long with all the associates, with the exception of one. My current part time job I've worked for, I've been with for two years. I've received no promotions, no options for full time employment. And I've been told I probably won't for a very long time. I've looked for work off and on. I have good references, two of them being former supervisors. How can I stick out? How can I land a better job? I've tried calling and bugging various employers. I've tried to talk to managers. But honestly feel like I'm missing something. Two other associates at my current work found way better jobs, so its frustrating that I can't. And it's even more frustrating when they take my number and NEVER call! What gives? I have a very adaptable personality, and can work and catch on in any environment. I also have leadership qualities and take on tasks without being asked. But it's hard to promote myself through a general paper application, that doesn't accept resumes! Any tips or advice would be greatly appreciated! Thanks in advance!

• Answer:

  You know the "drill" but the "drill" won't get you hired. Networking will get you hired. What this means? Contact EVERYONE you know (family, friends, teachers, former employers, etc) and ask (call them on the phone, no texting or email) if they know of a job for you. If they say "yes" and tell you about it, follow up. If they say "no", which is most likely going to happen. Ask them if they know of anyone who may. When you get a name, CALL and say "Hello, Mr. Brown, Susan Jones suggested I contact you about a potential job." Again, most likely you will get a "sorry, not at this time", so you ask them if they know someone who might be able to help you. You only need ONE job, if you are looking for entry level work, it won't take long to find a job. - you do have to grow a thick skin because their is a lot of rejection this way. Most jobs are never posted, so if you will be competing with fewer people this way. And it's always better to find a job via a referral. - this strategy will always work when looking for a job. I know you are young now but even 20 years from now, it will work. Good luck