How to get a job working for McDonald's

A job with McDonald's provides steady income with a reliable company and a way to get crucial entry-level experience with one of the world's most profitable companies. Is a job with McDonald's in your future?

Instructions

1. Consider whether a job with McDonald's is for you. People applying for restaurant crew need to be prepared to meet McDonald's high standards of customer service. McDonald's is looking for people who will be cheerful to its customers, able to work well with the restaurant team, and reliable.

   Think about what a McDonald's job can offer you. Young people have to start somewhere, and McDonald's will hire folks without work experience as long as they present themselves well, are willing to work hard and are honest.

   McDonald's is also a good place for retired people to earn some extra income. Part timers find McDonald's an attractive option since most restaurants are open 24 hours a day and have many positions to fill.

   For many people, McDonald's "crew" jobs is the first step in their career ladder. Jobs like this provide experience in the retail and food industries. You also will have a chance to earn a reference for your next job that you are hard working, reliable, and show up on time.

   McDonald's has a good reputation for offering promotion opportunities for people who work hard and most will allow workers as young as 18 to serve as shift managers.

   Realize that almost all McDonald's are owned by a franchise "owner" who has franchised the store from the company. Crew workers will probably interview with restaurant managers, not owners. If you are applying for a management job, you may interview with the owner. See the McDonald's job website for details on management jobs. In general, you will need restaurant and probably McDonald's experience to get these jobs.

2. Prepare for the interview. You should first ask the McDonald's where you want to apply for an application form. You also can review available McDonald's opportunities and apply for them online at the McDonald's jobs website. (See link at the end of this article.)

   Have someone proof read your application before your email it or drop it off.

   Prepare your self for the interview. Wild hairdos, excessive jewelry, face piercing (especially lip piercing) may hurt your chances. Also avoid revealing clothing and flip flops. Applicants for management jobs should wear at least business casual wear.

3. Win the interview. Meet with the restaurant representative to put your best foot forward. Be positive and explain how you want to join the McDonald's team and learn the business. Be prepared to discuss your background and how you are a reliable and hard working person. You might improve your chances of being hired by stating your willingness to work any shift and that you are available immediately.

   Management applicants should be prepared to discuss their management experience and why their background will work in the McDonald's system.

4. Follow-up if necessary. It you don't get the job right away, send a note to the interviewer thanking them for meeting with you and telling them that you look forward to hearing from them. You may be told that you'll get a call when there is an opening. If you are told this, thank the interviewer for considering you and tell them you look forward to hearing from them.

5. Work hard and thrive. This job is what you make of it. Work hard to single out yourself for better hours, better assignments, and promotions. Use the job to learn the restaurant business and build your resume. Also, enjoy working as part of your team!

Resources

• McDonald's job website