You may be getting to an age where you want to enter the workforce in full-time or part-time employment, either to start off your career or for a job to provide you with some extra income. The world of paid employment can be very rewarding, educational and a great way to make friends. But as a young person in the workforce, and also as someone who has CF, it is worth considering a few things to ensure you are getting the most out of your work experience.
Things to consider when looking for a job
- Is the working environment suitable? For example, is there dust/poor air quality, exposure to chemicals, the risk of cross infection or damp conditions.
- Is the job flexible? Having the choice to work from home, take time off when unwell or work part time could help manage your health better.
- What’s the sick leave policy like? Will you be able to take time off for medical appointments, treatments or recovery?
- Consider your energy levels. Will the job be physically demanding?
Finding a job that suits you
- Think of what type of work you would like to do and what you are capable of doing, physically and mentally. Think of what your interests are; could any of these be related to a particular job?
- Think about businesses in your local area which are easy to get to by public transport (if you aren’t driving yet or it will be tricky for mum or dad to drive you to work).
- Do you have any family or friends who may be able to offer you a job? It’s very common to find work through someone you know, and may be helpful if they already have an understanding of CF.
- Do some work experience or voluntary work at a few places to build up your resume. There are many clubs or not-for-profit organisations who are very happy to have volunteers.
- Sign up with a job agency. A job agencies can assist you to find a job which suits your needs. They can source employment placements, traineeships, work experience placements, on-the-job training and mentoring.
Tips for Writing Job Applications
Writing a resume
- Not all jobs you apply for will require a resume but it is handy to have one just in case, and it also maps out what your current skills and work experiences are.
- You can find examples of resumes or resume templates on the internet, or ask a few people you know if you can have a look at their resumes for ideas.
- Even if you haven’t had a formal job, there may be many things you have done at home and at high school which can count as work experience such as baby sitting, working on group projects at school and computer and organisation skills.
- Make sure you proofread your resume and also ask someone to check it over to pick up any typos.
Approaching businesses for work
- As well as looking online for jobs such as Seek or Career One, you can approach companies in person, too. Being persistent can often pay off.
- Often when looking for work you will have to put out many many job applications and you may receive a few knockbacks. This can be quite disheartening, but if you keep persisting you will eventually succeed.
Tips for Job Interviews
There is no doubt that job interviews can be scary!! Even adults who have been to many job interviews still find them daunting. The employer is seeking the best person for the job who will also “fit” in with their work environment.
- Dress the part: It is extremely important that you dress smartly for a job interview as it lets the employer know you are serious about the job.
- Be prepared: Find out what you can about the position and the company in advance. It will be more impressive to the employer if you have done this.
- Appear confident: It is completely normal to feel nervous during a job interview, but if you can, try and control your body language and mannerisms as much as possible. Practice doing a mock interview with someone in your family before your scheduled interview.
- Be yourself: Even though you may be nervous it is best to be genuine and honest during interviews. Employers can often tell if a person is not being honest. There is nothing wrong with making things sound extra great (this is marketing yourself!) but if you really don’t know the answer to a question, it is best to be honest.
Starting Work
Disclosing you have CF
It’s up to you to decide who you want to share information about your health with. Some people applying for jobs choose not to disclose a health condition with prospective employers, others may choose to do so. There are some situations where people have a legal responsibility to reveal a health condition, especially if it could put you or someone else at risk (mentally or physically), or when it could impact your ability to do the job required.
Regardless of whether or not you disclose CF during a job interview, many people believe it’s helpful for employers to be aware of a health condition. It can mean they’ll be more flexible with working hours and understanding of time off for hospital appointments or ill-health.
Fair Work Ombudsman
When you join the workforce in Australia, there are basic entitlements that you should be aware of.
The Fair Work Ombudsman is a government agency who protect and enforce the workplace rights and entitlements of employees. Their role includes helping employees, employers and the community to understand and comply with the Australian workplace laws.