Early in my job search career my aunt advised me on the art of asking for job applications and asking about employment opportunities. It may not seem like brain surgery but how you approach a prospective employer makes all the difference.

You must present yourself in the best light possible. I’ve seen young men and women enter a store and say “Hey, Is Yall Hiring.” My heart sinks in my chest and my ears burn because I know a stereotype has just been confirmed. It’s important for you to understand that first impressions are lasting, therefore cementing a positive or negative image in the minds of people for years to come.

1.) Never approach a potential employer with a due rag or scarf on your head.

2.) Proper English and introduction is a must

a. Hello, I’m (Enter name here). Is there a manger I can’t speak to about career opportunities?

3.) Make sure clothes are neat, ironed, not revealing or too baggy.

4.) Have all your past employment history, references and resume on hand in case they want to interview on the spot. (This also makes the process faster.)

5.) Don’t leave without a mangers name and saying “Nice to meet you, Have a nice day.”

6.) Follow up with a call at least 2 days later.

a. Ask the manger if he received your application

b. Ask for an expected review or interview date

Many teenagers carry the “I don’t care attitude” I’m guilty of having that attitude from 13-17 years old. I’m sure you’ve heard this before “If I knew then, what I know now.” I didn’t make my life any easier by walking around like somebody owed me something, I actually blocked many opportunities because who wants to help someone with a stank attitude.

Listen to the people that really care about your progression. I’m not talking about your girlfriend that’s always trying to get you to smoke a blunt after you’ve told her 100 times you don’t get high, or the boyfriend that tells you to come over when he knows you have an exam tomorrow. I’m talking about the people you don’t want to call because they are going to point you in the right direction. Sometime we just want to live life without worries or consequences but a REAL friend is going to say “Man that ain’t for you.” “You’re bigger than this fam.” I had people around me to correct me. They didn’t just say “Oh, that’s just how she is.” They recognized greatness in me but knew if I kept my attitude I wouldn’t flourish.

I know you have greatness inside you. How do I know? You weren’t born to blend in with the crowd, your DNA is unique and there isn’t another person like you. This doesn’t mean you belong on tv, radio, bossip.com, Vibe or on the cover of Essence but it does mean you should be the best possible version of yourself.

The Rise2Power Project
http://www.bgrise2power.com/