Are you looking for a job in a retail store? Although many stores place “now hiring,” signs in their store windows, many are now turning to the internet and Craigslist to find qualified applicants. If you want to apply for retail jobs that you find listed on Craigslist, you must sell yourself. You will be one of many applicants. How can you increase your chances of finding a job in the retail industry?
Apply for a wide range of jobs. If your goal is to work in a clothing store, definitely apply for clothing store jobs, but look at others too. The retail industry encompasses a lot of ground. You can find a job at a hardware store, auto parts store, kids store, movie rental store, grocery store, and more. In fact, the list goes on and on. The more jobs you apply for, the more chances you have of actually landing one. To search for jobs on Craigslist, visit your state and city page. Then, use the search box on the left. Search with related keyword phrases, such as retail, cashier, stocker, customer service, management, or manager.
Use the method of contact outlined in Craigslist. The quickest way to ruin your chances of getting a retail job is to not follow directions. If job listing for a cashier at a local music store wants you to apply in-person at the provided address, do it. Don’t use the Craigslist system to send an email. They may not even be check their emails or you will be known as the applicant who couldn’t follow simple directions. This little step will go a long way in landing a job and making a good first impression.
Create and submit a resume. Many retail store jobs require nothing more than an application. You will still want to fill out your application, but do more. Also attach a professional resume. Resumes are nice because they go into more detail than traditional applications. Write your own resume with the help of free templates online or hire a writer. Showcase your job training, prior work experience, and skills. Since most applicants just fill out the required application, you can set yourself apart from the competition. You took an extra step that is good, but wasn’t required. This shows prospective employers that you are willing to go above and beyond.
The above mentioned steps are just a few of the many that you can take to improve your chances of landing a retail job advertised on Craigslist. Additional steps involve only applying for jobs you are qualified for, having a flexible work schedule, and dressing professional for your job interview.