What are your interests? What is the best career for you? Not sure where to start looking?

Complete a career survey

A career survey helps you identify the type of work that would best suit your values, interests and skills. It can help you to explore career pathways and help you make informed career choices. Go to myfuture.edu.au and complete your career profile.

Explore careers and get qualified

When you have some potential careers to explore, conduct research on the skills and qualifications you need to enter that industry and occupation. You can visit company websites or social media pages or go to one of the following sites.

Ask an expert

Find someone who works in the industry to help you understand more about the job. The Gladstone Careers Expo is a good place to get in touch with an expert in the field, or you could try your senior school coordinator or guidance counsellor.

Try work experience in the field

A great way to learn more about the industry and occupation is to try work experience. Chat to your senior school coordinator today about work experience placements.

Get work ready

All young people need a set of behavioural employability skills that will prepare you for both employment and further learning. These can include collaboration and teamwork, communication – verbal and written, problem solving, creative thinking, reliability, adaptability, and motivation.

Employability skills may be developed through work experience, paid employment, sports, hobbies and community volunteering. Check out the Careers Insights section of myfuture.edu.au for interesting articles.

Update your resume and get prepared for the interview

Always keep your resume updated with current employability skills, experience, and qualifications. Check out My Future for resume tips and information to make your resume stand out from the crowd.

Prepare for your interview in advance:

Turn up for your interview focused, presentable and prepared
Research the company and the role – expect to be asked questions that relate to the role
Do your best to communicate clearly – this includes being aware of your body language
Be professional and answer all questions appropriately
Don’t talk negatively about previous employers – keep it above the line
Take a deep breathe and relax – we all get nervous before an interview and preparation will help you relax your nerves

Download this Interview Skills Checklist to keep you on track and visit the Careers Insight section of My Future for job interview tips.

Keep a positive outlook

It is important that you look after yourself, stay positive and focused on the outcome. You may face setbacks along the way and these will help build your character and resilience.

There are many resources you can tap into to give you support and help you on your journey.

Generation Success – Australian Government Youth Employment Initiative
Headspace – 07 4903 1921 – National Youth Mental Health Foundation
Kids Helpline – 1800 55 1800 – support and counselling for young people
Youth Beyond Blue – 1300 22 4636 – support and resources on a range of mental health issues for young people
PCYC Gladstone – 07 4972 3122 – youth development initiatives in the Gladstone region
Healthier. Happier – Queensland Government health initiative
Black Dog Institute – tips for positive psychology
Lifeline – 13 11 14 – Crisis Support and Suicide Prevention
CQ Community Mentoring and Support Services – disability and mental health support services. Contact 0438065539 or cqcommsupp1@gmail.com.
Advanced Personnel Management – 4972 2611 – disability employment services.

If you are a youth community services provider and would like to be added to this list, please email admin@eqipgladstone.com.au