Employment means you plan to get a job right after high school as your main activity. Maybe you’re continuing the job you’ve been working or maybe you’re looking for a new job. In either case, getting a job right after high school means you will be doing a job full time, being paid for it, and are unlikely to be taking classes to expand your knowledge or build skills. Whatever you’re hoping to do, you still have some things to consider before you can enter the workforce full time.

How do I know it's right for me?

You’re ready to make some money and don’t want to be in classes for a while. Going right into the workforce is a chance to put some money in your pocket right away. Important things to consider: what is the starting salary or wage, what are the chances to get a raise, what are the chances to progress in the company, and will the company help with future school costs?

Average Salary: $38K

Time Commitment: Job dependent (start earning right away)

Focus Area Examples: Retail, food service, delivery driver, etc.

Pros: Earn money now! No debt, ability to build skills and experience

Cons: Lower starting salary and wage ceiling

First, determine what type of work you want to do. There are lots of options you can use to learn about what jobs are hiring. Start by considering your interests, skills, experiences through some of the resources below.

SEARCH YOUR INTERESTS

• Explore career options!

• Look up in-demand occupations to see which jobs are hiring right now.

Select “High School Diploma or Equivalent”

CONNECT IN PERSON

Talk with your Career Pathways Coordinator to learn more about different career options.

Once you find the type of work you want to do, then you can use any number of job search engines to find current open positions:

• Monster.com

• Indeed.com

• Simply Hired

Ask your Career Pathway Coordinator if they are aware of any open positions!

In most cases, you'll need to create a resume to apply to a job. You can make and export a resume in Xello under "About Me"!

Each job will have its own application. Sometimes you will fill it out directly with the company; sometimes you will fill it out through the website you are using to search.