[Amarose]

So, I'm an introvert trying to find a job in an extrovert world, and it's nowhere near easy (I just got rejected from an online application because my answers didn't match what they wanted). Does anyone have any job hunting tips? I've been searching for jobs, and I'm getting a lot of pressure from my family to find one.

[Sayonara]

Oh man do I hear you here. I too, find job hunting hard for the exact same reason.

I'm not sure what type of job you are looking for, but if it's an online application, it's probably service related, right? If not, just ignore the first part. xP

Those online applications are bogus, just bullshit your way through them, click almost any answer that involves teamwork, shows a liking for people, and shows your respect for authority and the law.

Interview wise, first general rule is to be confident, and know your abilities, tell the potential employer what it is that you can offer towards the job.

If you get the dreaded "tell me about yourself" question, just give them a quick and brief summary of what you are doing right now for schooling, what your goals are, etc. Try and stay away from details that are personal rather than professional.

Good luck. :)

[Amarose]

@Sayonara Thank you for the reply :) I tried showing more teamwork oriented stuff for one of the applications, it didn't quite work, but I'll keep that in mind for other applications.

I'm really just trying to find a job to be able to pay for the things I need to pay for, as long as it's not fast food or walmart I'm good, I guess it's like customer service, sales, such like that as I don't have a degree yet.

Thanks for the advice on the "tell me about yourself" stuff, I would have probably been stumped at what to tell them, so I'll try to remember your advice :)

[WindowLicker]

I find that introverts are everywhere from grocery stores, book stores, music stores, art supply stores, to cash register jobs.. where they can help find people what they need vs. feeding the energetic atmostphere of say a club. When I walk into a place I'm applying at I look around, see what type of attitude and machismo you need to work there and I match that. You really gotta bull shit your way in an interview, let them see that you understand and respect the chain of command. Be alert and imitate them to a degree. Also have a good reason for why you want to work there, such explain how it fits into your big picture goal. They really go for that. If you ever wanted to become a business owner, you could say that your interest in this particular establishment is that you've noticed that they've been in business for quite sometime and that in this economy they must be doing something right, and the way they practice business is probably something you could learn from. Let them know you're a responsive person, and a hard worker, and you have goals. Look them in the eye, have good hygene, and your nails MUST look presentable. Follow up with them after a couple of days to a week, and act as if you're ready to start training, but if they say no thank and wish them a good day. A good attitude could land you a second chance, and is a necessity in any business. ALSO THIS IS THE MOST IMPORTANT... request an interview with the manager on the spot and if they're busy request one later in the day when it slows down or the next day, be persistent. One more thing, go when they're slow. I can't tell you how many apps got lost because people came when we were slammed. Consideration is key.
Works every time!!!!!!

[zynthaxx]

First of all, no matter your personality or preferences, show that you're prepared to actually work. A person with a positive attitude to learning how to do his or her job and who's willing to break a sweat will get employed.

[dejavu]

Lie on the online applications. I mean, on the questionnaires, not on the other stuff. Say whatever you think they want to hear, like that you're good at teamwork and that people would describe you as outgoing. That will get your application to go through, so you can hopefully get an interview, and that's where you show them what you've got to offer. Jobs need all types and while social butterflies might have an easier time, introverts (and shy people) have a lot to offer too.

If possible, try applying to jobs that won't demand that you interact overly much with people. That might be best to start out with. Don't underestimate yourself, though.

[The Hungry One]

I always hate the interviews. I find I do best on them when I'm pretending to be extroverted and friendly, though, so that is what I do.

[Extraverted Delusion]

Those online applications are bogus, just bullshit your way through them, click almost any answer that involves teamwork, shows a liking for people, and shows your respect for authority and the law.

Every time I have applied for a job this has been the one question that destroys my soul each and every time. Authority is one of my biggest peeves, I cannot trust anyone else with decisions. I'm something out of an SJ's nightmare.

[Sayonara]

Every time I have applied for a job this has been the one question that destroys my soul each and every time.

*laughing* You wording for this sentiment just made my day. I don't know why.

Seriously though, I'm kind of the same way. My motto has always been: So long as it gets done, and doesn't hurt the company or customers in any way, who gives a crap. Unfortunately those in authority rarely if ever feel that way. It's all about control.

[Amarose]

Thank you all for the responses, unfortunately the search is still on though. Hopefully I will be able to find something soon.