What parents should tell their kids about starting a career

Looking for a first job is a daunting endeavour. As a parent, there are ways you can help your kids manage the stress of the process but also set them up for success from day one. Here's how to get started.

It's about attitude. When you're just starting out, you're not going to have a lot of experience or industry knowledge, so you need to rely on attitude. Employers look for problem solvers and employees with a commitment to hard work. When writing a resume or preparing for an interview, encourage your kids to think about times when they've demonstrated their can-do attitude to use as examples.

Encourage networking. According to research conducted by Food and Beverage Ontario, 79 per cent of Ontario residents say the best way to learn more about an industry is to talk to someone who works in the sector. As your kids start to think about jobs and careers, encourage them to get to know people who work in the industry. Think about your own network — your extended family, neighbours, colleagues and others you can introduce them to — or suggest that they do some research about a company and ask for an information interview.

Think about your personal brand. Doing a good job is not just about learning the trade or the industry, it is also about how you act on the job. Being positive, polite, on time and inquisitive is critical to getting hired and getting ahead.

Think outside the box. While an interest in graphic design might naturally lead to an advertising agency or an interest in finance to an accounting firm, companies in many other sectors also need those skills. Encourage your kids to expand their job search, scoping out growing industries like food and beverage processing, healthcare and technology which all have roles for designers, marketers, accountants, engineers, computer scientists and more. Find more information online at tasteyourfuture.ca.