Finding A Job

I assume this is what most of you need to know most about. Where can I start? Firstly, let me tell you that finding work in America can be an unpleasant, tedious and often depressing task. However, when that 'dream' job does come along you will be so tired of looking for a job that you will be enthralled in ecstatic happiness.

Methods

1. Walking the streets!

The most tried and tested and probably the most successful method of finding a job when you arrive. You can call into any shop, hotel, office or employment agency and ask for an application form. These can usually be filled in on the spot and you should leave it back with your preprepared resumé.

You should dress semi-casual when doing this walkaround and only dress formal if you have a proper interview or if you have an appointment with an employment or 'temp' agency. The employer will be impressed by your dress sense if they remember you as nicely dressed the day you dropped in your resumé. Another tip is not to look for a job until you have already found accommodation. If you are doing the walk-in thing then you will need an address and a phone number for these guys to contact you at. As much as USIT like to push their Telekey No.'s usefulness, in the end it is no good for a resumé.

2. Before you go

A good idea if you can do it. However, unless you know someone over there who is going to give you a job there is no point in applying before you go over. Most companies whether they are a restaurant or a temp agency will want to interview you when you arrive, so you will not have the guarantee of a job until you get there.

Also, what if you don't like your destination? Hundreds of J1ers leave their original destination straight away either because of culture shock or simply because it is not what they wanted. Therefore, if you have done loads of research about a place before you go then at least stay there.

3. Over the phone

Whether this is before you go or when you get there nobody will give you a job over the phone. All they will do is to ask you to come in and fill out an application form or to fax or e-mail them your resumé. Only phone them to push the fact that they already have your resumé and that you were wondering if it has been processed. A good idea if you want to arrange an interview before you go is to use the medium of the Internet. Here you can send your resumé to them and tell them in a cover letter when you are coming and for how long etc and that you would like an interview when you arrive. If you are successful they may even help you with accommodation.

4. Sports!!

Believe it or nor playing sports has great advantages, especially if they are our native games. If you play Gaelic Football or Hurling and there is a club (or clubs) where you are going, then get involved. Not only will you get to have fun and practice your favourite sports but more than likely you will make contacts who will provide you with a job and help with accommodation.

Click here to find out more information on employment in:

• San Francisco
• Boston
• New York

Back to top