For any young person looking for work can be challenging, but for those facing homelessness, the barriers can feel overwhelming. Without a stable place to live, it’s harder to attend interviews, present professionally, or even find the right environment to complete online applications.
At EveryYouth, we believe every young person deserves the chance to build a secure and fulfilling future. Through our EveryYouth Employed programme, we’ve supported thousands of young people to overcome these obstacles, gain valuable skills, and take their first steps toward meaningful employment.
In this blog, we’re sharing five practical tips to help young people facing homelessness start their job search with confidence — from making the most of local support to building experience and showcasing the unique strengths that set you apart.
Local community centres and our network of youth organisations are there to provide you with the support you need. They offer a range of services to help young people facing homelessness navigate the job search, including job workshops, CV writing assistance, interview preparation, and connections to employment opportunities.
Employment opportunities are competitive, and dealing with homelessness can make the task at hand seem extremely overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be! Break it into smaller, more manageable steps, but set achievable daily or weekly targets. Tracking progress can help maintain your motivation and could be used to showcase your organisational skills when you have an interview. For example, you may want to apply for one job per day or change your CV design every two weeks. Remember to take regular breaks, too!
Remember, gaining work experience can be instrumental to securing employment. Be open and flexible to volunteering positions, internships, and part-time jobs. These experiences allow you to gain valuable skills, build a work history, and develop professional connections. They are stepping stones to your future career and can positively impact other areas of your life.
Focusing on your abilities and what you can bring to the table is crucial. Reflect on the skills and experience you have gained, even if it is not directly related to traditional employment. Having experience of homelessness can build resilience, problem-solving skills, and communication skills through working with different people. As mentioned earlier, volunteering and participating in community activities can showcase your dedication, teamwork, and reliability. These are all sought-after skills required when working in any industry.
One skill that you can certainly ace in the interview is confidence. It plays a crucial role in any job search. Remember, it’s okay to ask for help and guidance. Building relationships with individuals who can offer referrals or employment opportunities is important. You have the power to reach out and ask for support – you never know who might be willing to lend a helping hand.
Remember, your current situation doesn’t define your future potential. With determination and the right support, you can overcome barriers and succeed. Finding a job requires resilience and persistence. Utilise resources, focus on your strengths and take small steps toward your goals.
With the right support, you can overcome the challenges and secure sustainable employment.
