Getting job ready

We all have to start somewhere

You may not have any or only a little formal work experience. Don’t let that hold you back. No matter how young or old you are the ‘University of Life’ often provides us with a wide range of skills, knowledge and experiences that employers value and may help you to get a job.

Don’t sell yourself short; remember that most entry level jobs in the Tasmanian State Service (TSS) don’t require or expect you to have lots of experience and employers are looking for skills that you can transfer into the job. Most employers are willing to train and support the right person. That ‘right person’ could be YOU if you can show that you are motivated, reliable, keen, willing to learn and really want to have a go.

Celebrate your ‘newness’. Sometimes people who have little or no formal work experience can bring refreshing and new ideas to a workplace.

You are never too young or too old

If you are a young Aboriginal person you may be able to bring unique qualities to the workplace and it is never too early to start thinking about your employment options. Often young Aboriginal people have had experiences that many older people in the wider community have not. Others may be committed to ‘making a difference’ in their Community and one way you can do this is to work in Government. Don’t forget to check out the Aboriginal School-based Traineeships that can provide valuable work experience in either industry or Government whilst you complete school.

Older Aboriginal job seekers can bring lots of lived experience, knowledge and skills to a job and to workplaces. These are often experiences, knowledge and skills that younger people may not have. The TSS recognises these experiences and is committed to building a diverse workforce which includes older employees.

Age is just a number and not that important in itself. What is important is focusing on your transferable skills and being able to recognise your own worth and highlight this in your job application.

As an older job seeker you may have many years of work experience that you can draw on or you may have none. If you don’t have any formal work experience think about and draw on the skills you have gained over your life.

For example; you may have been or are, a parent, carer, partner or volunteer. These roles require time management, priority setting, planning, and problem solving; all of which are highly sought after skills in most workplaces. Don’t underestimate yourself. Being able to recognise and celebrate the skills you have gained, either through formal work experience or in what we tend to consider as everyday roles and highlight these to support your job application.

Below are some service options for you to consider using during your journey to get 'work ready'.

For reading, writing and math support

Learning technology

Higher education and short courses

Aboriginal support services

Application assistance