Actually this is my second part-time job I've had. And I am only 18 this 2016. Idk anywhere else but in Malaysia you normally shouldn't. Technically you need to at least be done with SPM first that is. I had a story back when I did my first part time job and how I was accidentally hired and what not. I ain't gonna babble bout that unfortunately. But I will be talking bout tips and suggestions I could think of if you decided to work part-time at any place.

Tip #1
LOOK FOR THE HIRING SIGNAGE

Logically, ppl would put up that sign for a reason - they need workers. Those places are most likely to hire you rather than when you randomly go into shops and got turned away simply bcos they don't need anyone. If you are able to give your details and stuff, before it's too late to regret ASK HOW MUCH THE PAY REALLY IS. Especially when you are planning to earn the best and highest salary you can get, plan ahead so ask right away. It's your right to know and your decision in the end. Don't regret later on after you are hired.

Tip #2
INTERVIEW

Different places have different procedures. Keep that in mind. The places that I hv worked at both are F&B (Food & Beverages) so I honestly have no idea how retail stores work. Even so, pls note that I am only writing down what I hv experienced with these 2 jobs that I ever got myself through. In both cases, my interview is already a greenlight for me as I could tell. The interview really is nothing much. They just wanna see if you seem to be a capable person or nah. But tbh first impression doesn't matter much at places like this. Simply because they just needed someone who can do work. If you desperately want that job, just do well and be confident on your interview. As long as you answer what is being asked, that should be good enough.

Prepare yourself beforehand on what more do you want to know about the job. Interview is the time you can ask whatever you need to know right before you start working there. For example, what to wear on your first day, how much is the salary per hour, when is the cut-off date for the salary, is the EPF and/or SOCSO covered by the company, the meal allowance, shift time, any breaks while on shift, how many work days per week or any other sort of queries JUST SHOOT. Think and reflect back if it suits you. If nothing much concerns you then go ahead to your first day of work.

Tip #3
FIRST DAY

There is normally a lot of adapting to do on the first day. Familiarise yourself with what the products there are is essential. Not knowing what you sell to the customers are an embarrassment. If you need to, keep a pen and notebook with you at all times. It really helps me on my first day as there were TONS of new things I needed to know. Your brain will forget all those stuff by the night itself so with a notebook jotted down you can recap whatever there is to keep your mind fresh onto your second day!

Tip #4
Ask, ask and always ASK.

This is something I caught myself lacking of doing because I am always naturally too confident with my instincts. If you are unsure, logic sometimes can't confirm things so ask your supervisor or seniors for confirmation. Never be too shy to take the right step.

Tip #5
MISTAKES

Everybody makes mistakes, right? However when you worked for almost a month already, you are expected not to be making the silliest mistake possible obviously. So, while you are still the new kid it's the BEST time to make as many mistakes as you can. And learn not to repeat them anymore ofc. Well most of the time you don't really intend to make one, so it definitely will happen eventually just wait for it.

Tip #6
IN TIME

This relates very much to first impression. Which is to be early. Personally, I am working in KLCC and I lived in PJ. I know it'll take me more than half an hour of travel time so I always leave my house earlier than I could've. Get on your boss' good side on the early stages. Early birds catches the worm, right? Let's just say your boss is the worm in this case. Try not to be late... In most cases people don't really care whatever the story behind it, your presence matters more so excuses don't really work. But if you happened to be unlucky for once in your life, then tell the most believable story and ensure that it won't happen again (with God's will it won't). Boys are usually a sad case as I've experience guys being more irresponsible in matters like this but I am just averagely speaking so no offence to anyone.

Tip #7
SLEEP

Lack of sleep leads to inefficient work. Especially when you know you are tired af yet you still avoid sleeping for other things, DON'T. I've been there done that. It is definitely not the wisest choice. Get that 8 hours of sleep if you can. Or however long is needed by your body, you know it best. Wake up and sleeping early is a good habit you should be doing. The time to sleep for youngsters is 10pm and waking up at 6am is the best. Make it a practice then turn it into a habit. Your life would be less stressful, trust me. But I understand that if you started working your shift time may vary.

As for me, I normally start work at 7am and since I live quiet a distance I will usually wake up at 4.30am and leave house at 6am. Therefore I aim to sleep at 9pm every night. This is in my case as I work for opening shift. Adjust your timing and plan well, think of your body and experiment with it. Your body will adapt to the situation normally after a week of that routine so give it some time. Don't rush the process but don't give up too fast as well. Failing without trying is the saddest part of learning so BE STRONG.

Dropping by,
Melynn.