Before the Great Recession, there were plenty of summer job opportunities for college students. Now summer jobs are scarce, which places quite a bit of financial strain on college kids who are trying to save up for next school year’s expenses. If you’re a college student who’s struggling to find a paying gig this summer, here are some things you can do to improve your chances of landing a job:
1. Pick the right strategy before you apply
Applying to work at an office in person is practically unheard of these days, and going to an office to drop off your résumé could actually hurt your chances of landing a job. So, send your résumé and cover letter via email if you want to improve your chances of getting a position as a file clerk or administrative assistant. On the other hand, it’s still customary to apply to most retail and food service jobs in person. In fact, you’re a lot more likely to get a call back from a restaurant or clothing store if you personally deliver your application to a hiring manager.
2. Let your previous employers know you’re looking for work
It’s a good idea to call up all of your previous employers and let them know you’re looking for a job. It’s easier to get hired if an employer already knows you and what you’re able to contribute to a work environment. Your previous employers may not necessarily be looking to fill any positions, but they may be able to refer you to someone who is looking to hire. Additionally, you might get lucky and be able to work for one of your previous employers again. Contacting your former bosses is definitely worth a shot.
3. Ask for help from friends and family
Ask any career counselor, and they’ll tell you that networking is the most effective job search tactic. So, call up your family and friends and ask them if they know of any positions that are going to be opening up. You might have to take a job as a receptionist at your mom’s office, but doing so will be better than not having any job at all. It’s a tough job market. So, asking for help from your loved ones just makes sense.
4. Sign up with a temp agency
Temp agencies are ideal for summer job seekers because temp recruiters know about a lot of positions that aren’t advertised. They have partnerships with companies who are looking for seasonal and short-term work, and they can definitely help you get your foot in the door. If you do decide to sign up with a temp agency, make sure you call the agency’s recruiters at least once a week until they find you a job. They usually give the first position that comes up to someone who regularly stays in contact with them.
The key to being a successful job seeker in a down economy is persistence. So, make looking for a summer job your full-time job until you find something, and don’t give up. Landing a job is difficult, but it’s certainly not impossible!
How do you search for a summer job?
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Guest Author Bio: Angelita Williams works as a freelance blogger covering hot topics in online education news and college lifestyle. Feel free to contact her at angelita.williams7@gmail.com.
These are all really great pointers! In addition I also think college students should try to find something that speaks to their interests. You have more fun working if you are doing something you are passionate about. I combined my love of teaching and technology and found a summer camp that catered to such, iD Tech Camps. It was fun, rewarding, and in the end I enhanced my skills in both technology and teaching
http://momayes.blogspot.com/2012/06/do-it-yourself-souvenir.html
Nice summer job search tips!!! Very comprehensive guide! Reading your blog makes me want to try everything according to your points. I’m glad Google brought me here. Thank you