our blog
High schoolers – here’s how to land your first job
Posted On November 26, 2025
Landing your first job as a high schooler isn’t always easy – but with the right approach, you can stand out!
Nail your job application:
✨ Keep your CV clean and simple – highlight your education and extracurricular activities
✨ Follow instructions – if the job ad asks for a cover letter, make sure you include one (templates online can help get you started)
✨ Record a professional voicemail – employers will notice; first impressions count
✨ Make sure your email address is professional; if not, create a new one. Employers do not want to email “billybonkers” or “sassychick02”
✨ Audit your socials – employers often check them, so set accounts to private or ensure your posts reflect you positively
Follow up
Most employers will ask for your job application to be emailed to them, and it pays to follow this first step.
Show you are motivated by following up if you haven’t received a response. You can either pop into the business in person, make a phone call, or send an email. Let them know you are very interested in the position and ask if you can provide any further information or meet at a time convenient for them.
Don’t know what career path to take?
PN Personnel can help. We have an assessment which evaluates your interest in a range of careers and is a great tool for school leavers who want a bit more certainty about what career or job pathway to take. Named the Horizons assessment, it can be completed online and will detail your key vocational interests and work needs.
We offer a discount to students, you can learn more here https://www.pnpersonnel.co.nz/career-advice-and-assessments
Flexibility counts
Our Recruitment Manager, Cushla Brasell, has been coaching job seekers for over 20 years. Her tip: Be flexible.
The more open you are to different days and hours, the easier it is for employers to offer you a role. Limiting your availability can seriously reduce your chances.
Get your foot in the door
Be realistic about your first job opportunities - your first job may not be your ideal role. However, once you have secured work, you build experience, demonstrate your commitment, and show a positive work ethic, which in turn will make future jobs easier to secure.
Christine McAdam
Constantly providing an exceptional level of service and professionalism in all aspects of her work, Christine takes a genuine interest in whom she works with and is committed to achieving success.
Give Christine a call to discuss options around what you want to achieve in your career and she will endeavour to achieve that 'win-win solution' that's right for you.
Phone 06 280 2400 Mobile 021 0269 3619 Email
