Employment application and reference question?

Question

I recently turned 16 and have been searching for employment, I have a few questions so please bear with me as I apologize in advance. I have no prior work history so I must suggest close friends as references. Is this alright, or will they even follow up on references since I have no work history? Also, will they check with references after receiving an application or after an interview is conducted? Will references make or break my chances of getting hired? Are there anyways of increasing my chances of employment, other than the obvious? Lastly will hiring managers even view my submitted online application? I'm only applying to fast food chains, retail stores, and grocery stores. I'm sorry again if this is too long but I'm just new to the application process and a little nervous.

Answer 1

Using friends as a reference is fine, but if you have any professional references (even a priest, community manager, etc), that would be better. The key with references is that you need to make sure they are trusted and are comfortable speaking about you on the phone and answering questions (some people may be friends but they may not like speaking with people they do not know). References are usually checked prior to an interview being held, but that is not always the case. Hiring managers usually do NOT see your online application until someone in recruitment/ HR has screened the applications received and sent the preferred ones to him/her. If your online efforts don't result in interviews, the next best step is to actually go to the businesses when you can and fill out the application in person. Hope this helps and best wishes to you with your job search.

Answer 2

Your references should not be other kids your age, they really should be adults. You could ask a teacher, coach at school who knows you well if you can put them down, but never put down someone or their information with out the permission.



References will be called after you are interviewed IF they are interested in you.



You have to remember that these employers get tons of applications a day, so you have a 50/50 chance of having your application reviewed. Your best bet, especially at your age is to go in and try to apply. You might also check out movie theaters, YMCA, non-chain businesses, do you know what I mean.

Answer 3

Don't use friends or relatives. Use teachers, and pastor or youth workers if you belong to a church.



They usually don't check references until after an interview where they are seriously considering hiring you.