by Maggie Thomas

A young woman completing high school needs money for further education. A young man eagerly looks for an apprenticeship placement. Their friend wants first and last month’s rent to get off the streets. What do these youth have in common? They are all looking for work in a difficult economy where the odds are against them.

According to Statistics Canada, our overall unemployment rate peaked at 8% in 2010, but those between the ages of 15-24 faced a grimmer 14.8% rate. Why the difference? Young jobseekers face unique challenges. For many, a perceived lack of education or work experience is a concern. Some just need transportation to get to and from work. Still others struggle with legal and financial issues, low self-esteem, lack of social support, mental health challenges, a substance abuse history, homelessness or discrimination.

But, if you are young and looking for work, you can overcome these barriers. You have sought-after advantages that prospective employers need. For example, growing up in the information age, you are likely more comfortable with technology and can adapt well to rapid and frequent technological changes. With ready access to information and experience learning in formal and informal environments, you are able to learn new things quickly. And, your fresh, creative mind and desire to impress your first employer supports that innovative and intrapreneurial spirit sought by many employers.

When searching for work, start by building a solid resume that highlights your knowledge, skills and experience and helps you land an interview. Even recent graduates applying for their first job, have relevant skills and experience. Participation in organized sports and activities, doing special school projects, short-term jobs and volunteer activities all demonstrate transferable skills, knowledge and experience. Additional courses or training, recognitions, awards and achievements in school and in the community all highlight your desire to learn and pride in your work.

When looking for job leads, use a variety of techniques. As internet job search engines list jobs that attract a high number of applicants, combine this approach with face-to-face and social media networking (e.g. Facebook, LinkedIn) to tap into the hidden job market. When you do apply for that job lead, deliver your resume by hand so you can get a glimpse of the prospective employer’s workplace.

To get your foot in the door and gain valuable experience, be open to part-time positions, job sharing arrangements and working evening and weekend shifts. Employers want flexible employees to fill gaps in their work schedules.

As your first job search experience can be a struggle, contact a local employment agency for help. They offer free resume and job search support, youth-focused employment programs and access to the hidden job market.

With an open mind, perseverance and some help, you can overcome challenges and land a job with an employer interested in benefiting from a young, enthusiastic employee.

Maggie Thomas, an Employment Advisor at Lutherwood’s Kitchener office, counsels teens and adults looking for employment in Waterloo Region.