by Roshni D’Souza, North Tower Advisor
Summer may seem far away, but it’s approaching much quicker than you think. Deadlines for many job applications are also happening soon, something that a lot of students don’t figure out until it is too late. Many employers who hire students for the summer are already recruiting and will have hired the students they need by March. Applying for a hundred summer jobs right now doesn’t seem very fun, but it is also not fun to be applying for positions that have already been filled.
Here are a few tips for getting a great summer job:
1. Best way to get a job: Through other people!
The most common way people will get a job is by knowing employer or employee, or being referred. Most jobs aren’t advertised, and the best way to look for a job is by asking friends and family if they know anyone who is hiring.
2. Best type of application: The one that isn’t just a carbon copy
Spending more time on each job application is important. Don’t just hand in a resume that you’ve sent to a hundred other employers. Take the time to tailor each resume and cover letter to the job. Good applications will always be better than the generic brand.
3. Best time to move on: Now! Your summer job does matter.
You may be tempted to return to the job you held in high school, but it is important to expand your horizons and push yourself towards new experiences. Summer jobs are a good way to figure out if an industry is right for you and a good way to prove to employers after graduation that you’re interested and ready to work for their field.
Avoid sites like Craigslist and Workopolis. Instead apply where you are interested. Science World, the Aquarium, the Art Gallery. You can apply anywhere, and even if they are not hiring ask them to keep your resume on file. Or you can try these websites as well (Its where I got my summer job)
Job Bank – http://www.jobbank.gc.ca
Job Bank is the largest Web-based network of job postings available to Canadians. Search for the jobs collected and posted daily across Canada
Young Canada Works – http://www.pch.gc.ca/special/jct-ycw/index-eng.cfm
For students and recent graduates of high school, college and university. Summer jobs and internships. Wage subsidies are available for eligible employers.
Job Postings – http://www.jobpostings.ca/
For graduating students. Summer internships. Bilingual jobs. Employers who have programs for students with disabilities.
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