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To find a job, look at websites like: https://www.monster.com, https://www.indeed.com, https://www.careerbuilder.com, and https://www.workintexas.com. You can also visit or call places where you think you would like to work and ask if they are accepting applications. Many places require you to complete an online application. Whenever you visit a place about a job, remember to dress neatly because first impressions are very important. The PAL program or your local transition center can help you prepare to be a good employee and look for a job. Look online for tips about interviewing for a job. A great way to gain experience for jobs is to volunteer with a group that interests you, like a charity, hospital, or church. By volunteering, you will get valuable experience, help your community, and get potential job references.
Once you apply for a job: it is important to follow up with the businesses where you applied—following up shows interest, is very professional, and could set you apart from others who apply. Some employers will want to contact a reference, which is someone who knows you well. References should not be friends or family members. Good references might be your CASA, a foster parent, a former employer, or a teacher. Be sure to ask someone if they are willing to be a reference before you give the employer their name, phone number, or email address.
Remember that having a phone number where you can receive calls and messages with a professional-sounding voicemail message is very important when you apply for jobs so employers can reach you. Be sure your voicemail is turned on and you regularly check messages and return calls.
If you don’t have a cell phone or it is turned off because you can’t pay the bill, you can try to get a free phone with voice minutes, texting, and possibly data from the federal Lifeline program. Find more information about Lifeline here. If you can’t get a free phone, consider getting a basic, low-cost cell phone plan without data.
You should make sure you have a professional email address that you can access regularly to use for online applications and to follow up with potential employers. You can find information about low-cost internet options here.
When you are hired for a job: you will need to show your employer your Texas DPS issued identification card or driver license, birth certificate, and your Social Security card, so be sure to have those documents. But keep your birth certificate and Social Security card in a safe place at home until you are notified you are hired and need to go in to complete paperwork.