Topshop application help!

sophie131

Hiya!
I am 17, I have worked in one place for a year now and it's a nightmare in there, not a great place to work.
I want to apply to some other places and my ideal job would be in Topshop, I know it's highly competitive to get a job there as so any people want them and it's easy for CV's to get lost amongst the others.
So, I was wondering, if I made my CV really unique (i'm talking bright paper) would this work for me or against me? I know one or two shops prefer you being creative but i'm not sure with Topshop.
One other thing as well, the place i'm working at the moment WON'T give references for your next job, is this normal? What should I put down otherwise!
Thanks for any help

dragonfly2008

I think they can refuse to give a reference. Just put on your application your previous employer won't give references under any circumstances, its not your problem, maybe even say you'll do a probationary period. Put someone thats known you for years on it instead.

As to putting your CV on bright pink paper or something , erm, it'll certainly stand out and may even benefit you. I suppose it depends on what the managers and that think, either 'i like their personality' or 'whats this joker doing sending a CV on pink paper'. Personally i'd stick to white.

Incisor

dragonfly2008 wrote: »

I think they can refuse to give a reference.

Might be wrong, but I think that they do have to at least confirm basic details of employment like dates.

londondulwich

Go back to school.

You have four A'Levels waiting and paid for.

If you like fashion take Art, business studies and media the fourth subject is optional.

Classes open in September and colleges benefit from funding per student, so you won't be turned down.

xcat_girlx

the best thing you can do is really stress you know about excellent customer service etc

also, go in and ask for an application form, most cv's never get looked at.

and if you get an interview, read up on fashion trends, they ask you to pick out an outfit and explain it.

be aware btw, that once you turn 18 they make you take out an Arcadia card (about 29% apr) to buy your staff discount on. SHOCKING!!!

jumpycheese1

Sending CVs on coloured paper, with colourful borders, fonts etc is a complete no no and you will get your CV straight on the reject pile before you can say 'reject'.

My advice is to go to your local college this week or early next week and see what's available. Most courses are practical such as beauty therapy, hairdressing, catering etc. You can pick up course guides from libraries. Plus as you are 17, you can attend these courses for free and get free transport (if you live further away than x miles from the college).

This is the ideal time of year to do some research, as in 2-3 weeks time, you can be a student! Also, make the use of free education. In a couple of years time, the same courses may cost £300+

xxlaurissaxx

For References just put references available on request, thats the standard for cv's and means you wont have to put them down. Im sure they have to give you one stating the time you have been there etc.
Good luck x

chuckley

dont expect a response.

horkstar

All employers are obligated by law to provide a 'full and accurate reference' for you. They maybe refusing because failure to provide a full and accurate reference can put them in hot water...i.e. if they say your amazing and have never had a disciplinary but in fact you have had many a disciplinary? Its their way of covering their own back because they know most people wont challenge it. If are that hard pressed for one then search some business law and you can quote it.

But as for working for topshop dont put you CV on coloured paper. They will think you have run out of paper and this is all you had left. If you want to go ahead you may get lucky but I would side against it. Topshop run recruitment coming upto christmas so now is the best time to apply, they can afford to be picky so research current trends, past trends, current topshop trends, know your clothes, dress fashionably to complement yourself i.e. dont go over board and try to make yourself stand out academically push things you have done, embelish things you have done...remember its all about selling yourself! good luck